The son of 64-year-old nurse Morudi Frank Phetla is currently in the hospital after fainting when he heard the news of his father’s death.
Phetla’s body was discovered under the Mabintana Bridge in Jane Furse on Tuesday, showing signs of head injuries. His family, especially his wife and four sons, is in shock and mourning.
Limpopo Nurse Found Dead Under Mabintana Bridge
Kidnappers abducted Morudi Frank Phetla on Saturday, March 16, at around 7 p.m., just outside his home in Zamane Section, Jane Furse. Police found his vehicle idling with its headlights on, but they could not find him. On Monday, at 6:30 a.m., a shepherd found his body near the Mabintana Bridge. The family, guided by residents who saw a social media post, made their way to the site.
“People shared a post about a man under the bridge, and we went there to see if it was Phetla,” Joseph, Phetla’s brother, explained. While they were on their way, a passerby called the police. Authorities then called forensic pathologists to the scene.
Family Devastated by Tragic News
The third son fainted upon hearing of his father’s death and paramedics rushed him to Jane Furse Hospital. “The death of his father was devastating for him, and all of us in the family. He remains in the hospital after fainting,” said Joseph Phetla, the victim’s 62-year-old brother.
Joseph described his brother as someone who loved peace and avoided conflict. “He loved peace at all times,” Joseph said, recalling his brother’s peaceful nature.
At St. Rita’s Hospital in Glen Cowie, the family identified Phetla’s body. The forensic pathologist informed them that Phetla’s clothes and shoes were missing.
“The loss of our brother deeply hurts us,” Joseph said. We can’t understand how anyone could do such a cruel thing,” Joseph said. He described Phetla as a caring, peaceful man who valued offering and receiving advice.
Investigation Underway in Kidnapping and Murder Case
The family hopes the police will identify the culprits and bring them to justice. Phetla had planned to retire in December.
Lt. Colonel Thakeng confirmed that an investigation is underway for both kidnapping and murder, though authorities have not yet identified the motive. He urged anyone with information to contact Detective Sergeant Vusimuzi Mohlala at 082 479 2828 or Crime Stop at 08600 10111. The family plans to bury Phetla on Saturday, March 29.
