Patriotic Alliance leader Gayton McKenzie is offering an R250 000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the individuals responsible for the tragic murder of five-year-old Ditebogo Phalane.

The young boy’s life was tragically ended in Soshanguve, Tshwane, on Friday, 10 May, during a violent hijacking incident involving his father.

The family of Ditebogo is heartbroken.  

Also read: Family of boy killed in Pretoria hijacking is heartbroken

Family spokesperson Gift Makoti said the tragedy had struck their family in the most unimaginable way. 

“Ditebogo was hijacked in Soshanguve Block UU and his Toyota Hilux bakkie was stolen. Even more devastatingly, his 5-year-old son Ditebogo Junior was shot during the incident and tragically lost his life.” 

He said as a family they are heartbroken and appeal to anyone with information to come forward to assist the authorities in their investigation.

Five-year-old Ditebogo Junior just became a big brother the past week. 

“They just welcomed their third child this week, a baby girl.

“We thank the community for their support during this difficult time.” 

Police said no arrests had been made yet. 

According to police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo, the hijacking happened around 22:00. 

“It is reported that the father was arriving home at approximately 22:30, driving a white Toyota bakkie, when the child went out to welcome him home.” 

Masondo said an unconfirmed number of armed suspects allegedly hijacked the father of his bakkie and shot the five-year-old boy who later died in hospital. 

“The boy was taken to hospital, where he was certified dead on arrival.” 

Police are on the lookout for suspects. 

“The lookout is underway for the suspects, and police have opened a case of murder and hijacking for investigation.” 

Police are appealing to anyone who might have information that can help in the investigation or assist in the apprehension of the suspects to please call the nearest police station or call crime stop on 08600 10111. 

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