Six arrested in connection with Roodepan double murder

The Roodepan police have made a significant breakthrough in an inquest investigation, when they arrested six suspects in connection with the discovery of two human bodies in a pit near the Midlands Water Purification Station in Roodepan, Kimberley.

Last month, it was reported that a search-and-rescue operation involving SAPS and Sol Plaatje emergency services recovered two unidentified bodies from a water-filled pit.

Cattle herders reportedly discovered the remains, which were severely decomposed, with one head found detached. Authorities drained the pit to recover the bodies. An inquest docket was been opened, and DNA tests were conducted to establish identity and gender.

Due to their advanced state of decomposition, the identities and genders of the deceased could not be immediately established.

According to preliminary police investigations, it appears that the alleged incident occurred during the Easter weekend in April 2025.

Preliminary reports suggest that a group of foreign nationals, reportedly employed as shepherds in the Lethabo Park communal farming area near Roodepan, allegedly accused the two victims of stock theft. The suspects are believed to have assaulted the victims to death before dumping their bodies in the pit.

The six suspects, aged between 20 and 40 years old, have been charged with murder and are scheduled to appear in the Kimberley Magistrate’s Court on August 14, 2025. Police investigations are ongoing, with the Roodepan SAPS working diligently to gather more evidence and piece together the circumstances surrounding the alleged crime.

Police investigations continue.