- The search for 66-year-old Dhananjaya Naidoo ended tragically when his body was discovered in Newlands Forest.
- The circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear, with an inquest and post-mortem pending.
- Police continue to investigate the incident, urging anyone with information to come forward.
The search for 66-year-old Dhananjaya Naidoo, who went missing on Saturday 16 November, came to a tragic end.
His body was discovered on the contour path in Newlands Forest on Wednesday 20 November, according to Claremont police.
Spokesperson Sgt Wesley Twigg confirmed the discovery. “The body of the missing person was found yesterday in Newlands Forest. An inquest docket has been opened, and a post-mortem will be conducted to determine the cause of death.”
Naidoo was last seen leaving his Claremont home to go for a walk in the Newlands Forest area. His vehicle was found in the forest earlier this week, prompting an extensive search involving police, rescue teams and volunteers.
“At the time of his disappearance, Naidoo was wearing blue jeans, a blue checked shirt and grey cap,” Twigg said in an earlier appeal for public assistance.
Police had urged anyone with information to come forward, with Detective Sgt Donovan Mckenna leading the investigation.
The discovery has brought closure to a harrowing search, but questions remain about the circumstances surrounding Naidoo’s death.
“The investigation is ongoing and further details will be available only after the post-mortem results are received,” Twigg added.
Community members have expressed their condolences to Naidoo’s family.
Police continue to urge the public to report any information that could assist investigations via Crime Stop on 08600 10111, the MySAPS app or directly to investigating officers.
