Easter weekend in Bloemfontein: 19-year-old stabbed to death, body burnt beyond recognition, gang stabbing

The crime scene where the body of a 19-year-old male was found with multiple stab wounds. Picture: supplied The South African Police Services (Saps) in Bloemfontein, Free State, are investigating three separate violent incidents reported within less than 24 hours, which include two brutal murders and a gang-related stabbing. ​Police spokesperson Sergeant Mahlomola Kareli said the first incident to be reported is when someone discovered a body in Ferreira Hill.

“On Saturday, 4 April 2026, at approximately 12:19, police were dispatched to Ferreira Hill, situated near the South Park Cemetery,” he said. “A member of the public, who had visited the area for prayer, alerted authorities after discovering a body.” Upon arrival, police found the charred remains of an unknown male inside a hole previously excavated by contractors. It appears a tyre was used to set the body alight, he said.

“Male, estimated to be between 20 and 25 years old,” added Kareli. “The body is burned beyond recognition; next of kin have not yet been identified and no arrests have been made yet.​ “Anyone who may have information regarding this incident or a missing person matching this description is urged to contact Kagisanong detective standby number 082 465 5945.” Kareli said the second incident was shortly after midnight on Sunday when they found paramedics treating a 26-year-old man with a severe stab wound to his back. “On Sunday, 5 April 2026, at approximately 01:00, police responded to a scene in Ella Street, Willows,” he said.

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“Emergency medical services were already on-site, treating a 26-year-old male with a severe stab wound to his back.” The man was transported to a local hospital in a critical but stable condition. Kareli added that preliminary investigations suggest the attack stems from a long-standing feud between members of two rival gangs, reportedly dating back to their high school years.

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