The Hout Bay Community Policing Forum (CPF) has once again urged the community to refrain from speculation and the sharing of unverified information, following the discovery of a female body in the Seaview area of Hangberg earlier this week.

The three accused, who were arrested in connection with Tuesday’s incident and charged with murder, appeared before the Wynberg Magistrate’s Court on Friday.

The accused have been remanded in custody for a period of seven days, and the matter has been postponed to next Friday for further proceedings.

While the identity of the deceased has not been confirmed, speculation has emerged that the body may belong to a 17-year-old who disappeared on Valentine’s Day.

DNA testing is currently underway to determine if the remains are those of the missing teen.

In response to the emotional impact of this incident, the Hout Bay CPF has confirmed that it has facilitated debriefing sessions with Community Cohesion and residents of Seaview, particularly those residing in the flats who were directly affected by the discovery.

“The CPF wishes to express its sincere appreciation to the residents of Seaview who assisted on the day the body was discovered and who responsibly highlighted the urgent need for trauma debriefing and psychosocial support for affected residents,” added Roscoe Jacobs, Deputy Chairperson, Hout Bay CPF

Jacobs says the CPF remains committed to working closely with the South African Police Service, community structures, and support organisations to promote safety, healing, and cohesion within the community.

“This tragedy has deeply affected our community, but it has also shown the strength of collective responsibility. – We will continue to lead with compassion, accountability, and an unwavering commitment to community safety,” added Jacobs

READ MORE: Murder Probe in Hout Bay Yields Arrests