ZAMDELA – A heartless incident has left the community of Zamdela in shock following the arrest of a 40-year-old father accused of murdering his toddler.
The suspect is alleged to have poisoned his one-year-old son, Dolophini Milani, by lacing his food with poison on November 11 last year.
Information at our disposal reveals that the child later died, which led to an investigation that uncovered disturbing allegations.
Following the investigation, the father of the toddler was arrested on December 23, during which he allegedly confessed to the crime.
Further allegations suggest that the child was covered under five insurance policies, which the suspect reportedly claimed before her burial.
The accused appeared before the Sasolburg Magistrate’s Court, where the case was postponed to February 24 for further investigation, and remains in custody.
Outside the court, emotions ran high as members of the EFF and community members picketed in support of the child’s mother.
Protesters held placards reading “Justice for Milani Dolophini, killed by her own father.”
Speaking to Ster, EFF Metsimaholo Local Municipality chairperson and MMC for Public Safety, Lefa Nhlapo, said the party felt compelled to stand with the grieving family.
“The EFF has been very vocal on child protection and gender-based violence. Our presence here is to sympathise with the family during this extremely painful time,” Nhlapo said.
He added that the allegations surrounding the insurance policies point to a calculated act.
“From the information received from the mother, it appears that this murder was planned.”
“Our stance is clear that the perpetrator should not be granted bail and must face a sentence as painful as his actions,” he said.
Nhlapo confirmed that the EFF would continue attending court proceedings when the matter resumes in February.
“On issues of child protection and gender-based violence, we emphasise community awareness and decisive government action. Communities must report suspicious behaviour and support victims,” he added.
Meanwhile, Fezile Dabi District police spokesperson Sergeant Josephine Rani confirmed that a murder case has been opened.
“A case of murder is being investigated after a one-year-old boy was allegedly murdered by his father, aged 40. The suspect was arrested and appeared before the Sasolburg Magistrate’s Court. The case has been postponed for further investigation,” Rani said.
