Free State – The bodies of two men who went missing during a hunting trip in Qwaqwa earlier this month have been recovered from Sephokong Mountain following an extensive search-and-rescue operation.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) identified the men as 38-year-old Sello Khala and 22-year-old Lefa Nale, both from Lusaka Village in Qwaqwa.
The two went missing on Sunday, 9 August 2026, after setting out on a hunting trip at Hatsoanyana Farm with friends.
According to SAPS, the group became separated while crossing Sephokong Mountain because of dense mist and difficult weather conditions. One of their companions managed to find his way home, but Khala and Nale did not return.
“The two victims went missing on Sunday, 9 August 2026, after embarking on a hunting trip at Hatsoanyana Farm alongside friends,” police said.
Following reports from the men’s families, a multi-disciplinary search operation was launched.
On Friday, 14 August, at about 12:30, search teams located Khala’s body on the mountain.
“Undeterred by the difficult terrain, the Search and Rescue team continued their relentless operations,” SAPS said.
The body of Nale was eventually found on Monday, 24 August, bringing the search for both missing men to an end.
“On Monday, 24 August 2026, team members successfully located the body of the second victim, 22-year-old Lefa Nale (Fana Nale),” police said.
Both families have formally identified the deceased.
SAPS said post-mortem examinations would be conducted to establish the exact cause of death.
Police are appealing to anyone with information that could assist the investigation to contact Phuthaditjhaba Detective Service Warrant Officer Mathibela on 082 554 3461.
Information can also be reported to Crime Stop on 08600 10111, while anonymous tip-offs can be submitted through the MySAPS App.
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Picture: Facebook / SAPS
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
