In the rural village of **Morutji**, part of the Bolobedu area in the Mopani District of Limpopo, a deeply disturbing incident has left the community reeling. On Tuesday, 11 November, the body of 42-year-old mechanic **Isaya Maphalle** was discovered in a shallow grave in his own yard.
According to reports, Maphalle had been missing since 31 October. His remains were found wrapped in a maize-meal sack and buried on his property. The horror of the crime is heightened by the fact that his body was found mutilated: the lower body was missing, and his head was separated from his upper body.
His sister, Maggie, voiced the anguish of the family:
> “We are heartbroken. The police say the case is serious because he was brutally murdered.”
Another family member described him as “a kind and loving man who always helped everyone in the community.”
The community of Morutji Village is also in shock. Residents say they have never witnessed such a gruesome crime in their area. One local, Oupa Sebola, remarked:
> “It’s the first time we’ve witnessed something like this. We knew the victim very well. He was a good man.”
The family is struggling to move forward with funeral arrangements because critical body parts are missing, making it impossible for them to bury him in peace. Meanwhile, forensic teams and police were at the scene on 11 November carrying out an exhumation.
At the time of reporting, the provincial police had yet to provide detailed comments on the investigation. A spokesperson confirmed that inquiries had been received and said a statement would follow.
The family and villagers are now calling for justice and accountability. They demand that the perpetrators be identified and brought to book so that the community can begin to heal. The violent nature of the killing has reinforced fears and raised concerns about safety and violence in the region.
This horrendous crime highlights the urgent need for vigilance, community support, and a swift law-enforcement response. The loss of Isaya Maphalle — a valued mechanic, neighbour and friend — has left a deep wound in his village, and his loved ones are now waiting for answers.
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