Cape Town – A suspect has been arrested for kidnapping and murder following the discovery of his three-year-old stepchild’s body in Tongaat, KwaZulu-Natal.
The tragedy unfolded on 26 December when the suspect allegedly kidnapped the toddler after assaulting the child’s seven-year-old sibling with a panga, leaving the older sibling critically injured.
A large-scale search operation involving various law enforcement and rescue teams led to the suspect’s apprehension.
“The little boy was reported missing after his 7-year-old brother had been viciously assaulted by their stepfather with what is believed to have been a panga, which left him in a critical condition.
Tongaat – body of missing 3-year-old recovered https://t.co/eX3ibMExc9 #ArriveAlive @IPSSRescue
— Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) December 27, 2024
“The search was called off mid-morning, after information came through that the suspect had been arrested, and had agreed to lead SAPS to the body of the little boy.
“Sadly, he was found around 2 pm on Friday. His body was recovered and handed over to SAPS,” a statement said.
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli condemned the “heinous crime”, praised law enforcement for their swift response, and called for the harshest punishment for the suspect.
“The killing of this innocent child is a crime beyond comprehension, and the pain inflicted upon the family and community is immeasurable.
“We call upon the law to ensure that the perpetrator faces the full might of justice. Such heinous acts must not go unpunished,” The Citizen quoted Ntuli as saying.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
