Missing Mpumalanga man’s body found in a manhole

Police in Mpumalanga are investigating the death of a 74-year-old man whose body was discovered in a manhole on Friday. Ernest Ranchmann, a resident of Watervalsbank farm in Leslie, was reported missing on November 1.

Provincial police spokesperson Captain Magonseni Nkosi confirmed that Ranchmann’s body was found the morning of November 3.

“Authorities were informed after cow herders noticed a smell coming from a manhole,” Nkosi said.

In addition to the body, a handgun with live ammunition and a spent cartridge case were found at the scene. “According to information, a handgun with live ammunition and one spent cartridge case was also found,” Nkosi added.

Ranchmann had been reported missing after his family was unable to reach him on his birthday. “His family made several calls to him to wish him a happy birthday with no success.

The matter was reported to the police. They went to his house at the farm, and upon arrival, they found the door open. His valuables, including his vehicle and cellphone, were found in the house,” police stated at the time.

The circumstances surrounding Ranchmann’s death remain under investigation. “Circumstances surrounding his mysterious death are subject to investigation,” Nkosi concluded.

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