Grandparents of missing Limpopo toddler arrested for negligence
Police have arrested the grandparents of missing Omphile Sethole, 2, on negligence charges while the search intensifies for the toddler who vanished in May.
LIMPOPO – The grandparents of missing two-year-old Omphile Sethole have been arrested in connection with alleged child negligence as police continue searching for the toddler who disappeared from her home in Ga-Mabuela village earlier this month.
Police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said members of the Mokopane Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit arrested the pair, aged 52 and 55, on Friday, May 15.
Court appearance
The suspects are expected to appear before the Mahwelereng Magistrate’s Court on Monday, May 18.
Provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe welcomed the arrests and said investigators remain committed to finding the missing child.
How Omphile disappeared
Omphile disappeared during the early hours of Saturday, May 2, from her home under the Tinmyne policing area.
Police initially opened cases of housebreaking and kidnapping after the child’s grandmother reportedly discovered her missing at about 06:00, with a window in the room left open.
At the time of her disappearance, Omphile was wearing a pink jersey and black tights.
Investigation intensifies
Ledwaba confirmed that the child is still missing and that investigations have since been transferred to the Mokopane FCS Unit as efforts intensify.
“We have assembled experienced investigators from the Mokopane FCS Unit who are working around the clock to trace the missing child and establish all circumstances surrounding her disappearance. We remain committed to ensuring that those responsible are brought to book,” said Hadebe.
Hadebe also urged members of the public not to spread misinformation about the case and appealed to communities to continue assisting police with credible information.
How to help
Anyone with information about Omphile Sethole’s whereabouts has been urged to contact the Mokopane FCS investigating officer, Warrant Officer Chuene Selolo, on 082 469 2594, Crime Stop on 08600 10111, the nearest police station, or to share information anonymously through the MySAPSApp.
Police investigations are continuing.
