Inquest opened after decomposed body is found in Colville

THE KIMBERLEY police have opened an inquest after the body of a man in an advanced stage of decomposition was found among the reeds in Colville on Saturday morning.

A community member discovered the body while collecting wood near the shanties in Margaret Street on November 15 at around 9am. 

Residents believe the body may have been there for about two months.

SAPS Northern Cape spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Thabo Litabe said the police were informed about the incident by a passer-by. 

"The identity of the man is unknown. The time, the cause and the circumstances surrounding his death are also not known," said Litabe.

He added that no foul play was suspected at this stage.

"A thorough investigation will be undertaken into his death. Anyone with information about who the deceased is and what may have transpired at the scene is asked to contact the police on 08600 10111 or the MySAPS app. All the information received will be treated with confidentiality," Litabe said.