A three-week search for missing three-year-old Lethukuthula Celimpilo Mzimela ended in tragedy this afternoon when his body was discovered in a field near the Steenkoolspruit between Forestdale and Peacevale.

The child went missing on October 10 from near the Sibongile hostel complex, triggering an extensive search-and-rescue operation involving police from several stations, the Glencoe K9 Unit, search-and-rescue personnel, security companies, community members and an Endumeni Municipality drone specialist.

According to police officers at the scene, a passer-by alerted the South African Police Service (SAPS) after discovering a body lying in the field.

Onlookers gather on the footbridge after Glencoe K9 Unit members retrieved the boy’s decomposed remains.

Photo: Terry Worley

Members of the Glencoe K9 Unit and other police units responded, with K9 members retrieving the child’s remains.

The area near the footbridge over the Steenkoolspruit has been cordoned off.

The circumstances surrounding Lethukuthula’s disappearance while he was reportedly playing with his siblings, as well as the cause of his death, will be investigated by police.

The discovery brings a heartbreaking end to the search for the young boy, whose disappearance had drawn a concerted response from law enforcement agencies and the local community.