Heidedal police have opened an inquest and launched a thorough investigation after the body of a deceased female was discovered in a dilapidated building on Thursday afternoon. The grim find was made by two children playing in the area.

According to police reports, the incident occurred at approximately 15:00. The two children were playing next to a former nightclub when they noticed what appeared to be a human body floating in the building's flooded basement. They immediately alerted nearby adults, who subsequently contacted the Heidedal police.

Due to the challenging and hazardous conditions at the scene, the Bloemfontein Diving and Rescue Unit was dispatched to assist in the recovery of the remains. The body, which was in an advanced state of decomposition, was discovered to be decapitated, consisting only of a torso and legs. It was found partially submerged in the water.

The victim was clothed in multi-coloured leggings. A single Soviet sneaker was found on her left foot.

Police are currently making efforts to drain the water from the building in an attempt to locate the missing upper part of the body, including the head, which is crucial for identification.