Police in Bulawayo have launched an investigation following the discovery of the body of an unidentified man found dead near a railway line over the weekend, with authorities appealing for public assistance in identifying the victim.
The man, believed to be between 20 and 25 years old, was found with both legs crushed, lying next to the rail track approximately 300 metres from the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) Diesel Shed in the city’s western suburbs.
According to police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Nomalanga Msebele, the body was discovered around 10:50 am on Saturday, by a 37-year-old train driver from Pelandaba West who was en route from the NRZ Diesel Shed to Bulawayo Main Station.
“As the train approached a curve near the shed, the driver noticed two pairs of shoes, one white, one black, lying near the track and immediately brought the train to a stop,” said Assistant Inspector Msebele.
Upon closer inspection, the driver found the lifeless body of a young man lying on the right-hand side of the rail line, just 2.5 metres away. Police say both of the victim’s legs had been crushed, possibly by an earlier passing train.
The deceased was wearing a black jacket, green sweater, green T-shirt, grey jeans and a black belt. He is described as light in complexion.
The body was taken to United Bulawayo Hospitals (UBH) for a post-mortem examination as investigations continue.
Assistant Inspector Msebele urged members of the public to come forward if they are missing a relative matching the description.
“Anyone with information that may assist in identifying the deceased is encouraged to contact their nearest police station or visit UBH,” she said.