A couple was arrested in Pacaltsdorp in George in the Western Cape yesterday shortly after nine-year-old boy was declared dead by paramedics. The incident happened in Jakaranda Street yesterday.

Southern Cape police spokesperson Sergeant Chris Spies says that on arrival to the scene, police found the victim already in an ambulance.

“He had multiple bruises over his body, head and legs. Paramedics declared the boy dead on scene. The mother (31) and stepfather (32) of the boy were later arrested on a charge of murder,” says Spies.

The suspects will remain in police custody and will appear in court soon.

Circumstances surrounding the killing is a subject of an ongoing police investigation. An autopsy to determine the cause of death is expected to be conducted during the week.