Limpopo police investigate death of toddler in Botlokwa
Police are appealing for information as they probe the circumstances surrounding the death of a young child in Limpopo.
LIMPOPO – Limpopo police have launched an intensive investigation following the death of a two-year-old boy from Maphosa Village in the Botlokwa policing area.
According to police spokespersons, the child was taken to Ga-Makgato Clinic last Saturday (May 30) after reportedly experiencing severe abdominal pain and diarrhoea. Due to the seriousness of his condition, he was transferred to Botlokwa Hospital for further medical treatment.
The child died shortly after arriving at the hospital.
Police said medical examinations allegedly revealed indications that the child may have been sexually assaulted. The exact cause of death remains under investigation and will be determined through further forensic processes, including a post-mortem examination.
The matter was reported to police by hospital personnel on Monday (June 1), and a murder case was subsequently opened for investigation.
No arrests have been made and the suspect, or suspects, remain unknown at this stage.
Limpopo provincial commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe described the incident as deeply disturbing and called on members of the public to assist investigators.
“This is a deeply disturbing and heartbreaking incident involving an innocent and vulnerable child. We strongly condemn this senseless act and have mobilised our investigative resources to ensure that the perpetrator is swiftly identified, traced and brought to justice. We appeal to community members who may have information that could assist the investigation to come forward,” said Hadebe.
Police investigations are continuing.
