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Parts of a foetus have been found at a sewer pump station in Klapmuts.

Municipal workers made the initial discovery on Saturday morning while working in the area. Western Cape police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Malcolm Pojie says that when police arrived on the scene, they found other parts of the foetus.

Pojie confirmed that an inquest docket has been opened for further investigation.

“Klapmuts SAPS registered an inquest case for further investigation following the discovery of what is believed to be parts of a foetus by municipal personnel on duty at the Klapmuts Sewage Station on Saturday, 12 July 2025 at about 08:30.”

The SAPS Forensic Pathology Services is now analysing the body parts found “to determine [the] possible origin”, explained Pojie.

According rural communities’ activist, Billy Claasen, it appears that the body of the foetus was separated from the head and neck.

“This is one gruesome deed from someone sick out there and the Police needs to do a thorough investigation into this,” said Claasen.

The spokesperson for the Stellenbosch Municipality, Stuart Grobbelaar, says the local government is shocked by the incident.

According to Grobbelaar, the incident was reported by two municipal workers and a security guard on duty at the time.

“The Municipality is deeply shocked and horrified by this senseless and heartbreaking incident.”

He added that trauma counselling and support services have been arranged for affected staff. He further urged the public to assist police.

“We urge anyone with information that may assist the investigation to please come forward and contact the SAPS.”

The call for assistance was reiterated by police, who appeal to anyone with relevant information to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111. Investigations are ongoing.