Baby Eden kidnapping trial continues in July

Part of Eden Laird’s kidnapping trial ran from May 9 to 18 in Palm Ridge Magistrate’s Court.

The five suspects involved in the kidnapping when Eden was 13 months old re-appeared in court.

Cleopatra Manjankozi (domestic worker), Kholwani Nyathi, Amos Moyo, Maduna Nonkanyiso and Nelisini Gabela are facing charges of schedule six kidnapping and blackmail.

Eden’s mother, Bronwyn, testified for the State on May 17 and 18. She must still go through a cross-examination.
The trial will continue from July 18 to 22. All five suspects will remain in custody.

The disappearance of Eden was reported on May 2, 2018. The suspects demanded an R6-million ransom for the baby’s safe return.

Police set up a sting operation, which led to Eden being found in Windmill Park near Boksburg during that weekend and he was safely home with his parents on May 5. The suspects’ first court appearance was on May 7, 2018.

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