This follows a shocking incident in Kuruman, Northern Cape province, where three bodies were stolen from a mortuary earlier this week. Two men reportedly assaulted a security guard at the funeral parlour, blindfolded and tied him up, before making off with the bodies.

FIRA Chairperson Johan Rousseau expressed deep concern over the lack of formal support for funeral homes and grieving families in such distressing circumstances. "This is a tragic situation, and our thoughts are with the families affected in Kuruman," he said. "While the SA Police Services have set up a task team for the investigation, we have provided them with all the necessary information to assist with their inquiries."

Rousseau further highlighted the need for urgent reform, stressing that there is no official institution or government authority to assist funeral parlours outside of police involvement. "Unfortunately, there is no dedicated support function for the funeral industry, especially for the families affected," he explained.

--CahnenlAfrica--