Police are searching for the owner of a property in Naledi, Soweto, after officers discovered two buckets containing suspected human organs and a hijacked National Department of Health vehicle that was allegedly being stripped for parts.

The discovery was made on Thursday evening during a Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) crime prevention operation after officers received a tip-off about suspicious activity at a house on Nape Street.When officers arrived, they found the property's gate open and entered the premises after receiving no response at the front door.Inside, a man informed them that the vehicle in the garage belonged to the homeowner.A search of the garage uncovered a white Volkswagen Caddy registered to the National Department of Health.Police confirmed through verification that the vehicle had previously been reported as hijacked and was already being dismantled.Officers continued searching the property and located another suspect hiding in the backyard.

During a further inspection of the yard, they discovered two buckets containing what are believed to be human organs, reportedly including hearts and lungs.

Both suspects were arrested and taken to Naledi Police Station, where they face charges relating to possession of a hijacked vehicle and possession of human organs.Authorities have not yet confirmed where the organs came from or whether they are connected to a criminal investigation or a medical facility.

The South African Police Service and the JMPD are continuing their investigation to establish the origin of the organs, identify any additional offences and locate the property's owner.The JMPD also praised the officers involved for their alertness and professionalism during the operation.