#JusticeForSam: Four arrested over body found in boot of burnt car

Four people have been arrested after a man’s body, believed to be Sam Mbatha, was found in the boot of a burnt car in Ikageng Section, Klipgat.

“The burnt vehicle was found at a soccer field in Ikageng Section, Klipgat on Thursday, 17 June 2021, at approximately 07:00.”

IT WAS CONFIRMED THAT THE BURNT VEHICLE WAS OWNED BY SAM

Police confirmed that the car’s ownership was traced to marketing and communications professional Sam Mbatha.

Mbatha has been missing since Thursday, 10 June 2021. 

“Unfortunately the body was burned beyond recognition, which means they will have to wait for DNA testing to confirm the identity of the victim.

“Police will have to wait before officially declaring Mbatha to be the victim.”

Initial police investigations led the police team to a house in Phutha Section, Klipgat on Monday, 21 June 2021.

“The house was searched and in one of the bedrooms, the team found bloodstains on the floor, under and on top of a bed as well as on the carpet.

According to Kgomotso Sepeng, speaking on behalf of Sam’s family, four people have been arrested. 

ALSO READ: #JusticeForSam: Two in court over body found in boot of burnt car

“Four suspects have been arrested. On the 13th of August 2021 three of the accused were granted bail of R500 each while the fourth suspect, who is the main suspect, is still behind bars as he abandoned his bail application.” 

Sepeng said the next court date is on the 2 Sept 2021 at the Ga-Rankuwa Magistrate’s Court.

“On behalf of Sam Junior Mbatha’s family we would like to thank the SAPS for their continued efforts regarding Sam’s case and not forgetting the support from friends and the public.” 

Sepeng added that evidence gathered by the police, including statements from the suspect, indicates that Sam Junior Mbatha was murdered and placed in the boot of his car, which was subsequently set alight. 

The family still awaits DNA results from the SAPS forensics department in order to proceed with necessary arrangements and to finalize this process.

“We would like to encourage and request friends, the LGBTQI community, the general public and media houses to join and support us in advocating and calling for Justice for our beloved Sam. 

“Please continue to keep Sam’s family and friends in your thoughts and prayers. 

“Thank you, and we hope Justice will be served with no exceptions, not only for Sam but for each life denied to live as the fullness of themselves. 

“We hope that you will continue to fight and declare that Queer Lives Matters.”