Woman allegedly murders 10-year-old stepson in eMbalenhle
He was found with multiple serious injuries, including stab wounds to the neck and abdomen as well as bruising to the neck, in an open field near Marikana, Azania Section in Extension 22, eMbalenhle.
The eMbalenhle Police arrested a 34-year-old woman for the murder of her 10-year-old stepson yesterday (March 16).
The victim was found with multiple serious injuries, including stab wounds to the neck and abdomen as well as bruising to the neck, in an open field near Marikana, Azania Section in Extension 22, eMbalenhle.
He was declared dead on the scene by emergency medical personnel. According to the police, the suspect, believed to be the boy’s stepmother, had taken the child to an open field earlier in the day under the pretext of going to pray there.
She later returned and reported the child missing. The community immediately began searching for the boy. The search operation was also supported by a private security company. This operation led to the discovery of the boy’s body a few meters away from the river bank.
The police and forensic experts attended the scene and through preliminary investigations, the police were able to arrest the stepmother who is currently in custody.
She is expected to appear before the Evander Magistrate’s Court soon on a charge of murder, while the motive for the attack remains under investigation.
The police urged anyone with additional information that can help in the investigation to come forward and contact the investigating officer, Sergeant Rammutla, at 079 410 7360, or report anonymously through the Crime Stop number 08600 10111, or Mysaps app.
Sergeant Busisiwe Mthethwa, spokesperson for eMbalenhle Police, said the SAPS has strongly condemned this senseless act of violence against a child and continues to prioritise crimes against women and children in line with the national strategic plan on gender-based violence.
The police urged the community to remain calm and allow the law to take its course, while parents and guardians are encouraged to ensure the safety and supervision of children at all times.
This story was amended to remove the victim’s name and photo until such time that the stepmother appears in court.
