Hlonolofatso Mokoena (10) had been reported missing on Thursday (9/1) and his body was found with multiple stab wounds on Friday (10/1).

“The motive behind the murder is not yet known and investigations into the case are continuing,” said Free State police spokesperson Mmako Mophiring. “Moekona was last seen on Thursday (9/1) playing in the street with other children, he was wearing a grey t-shirt, a blue pair of jeans, and brown Soviet sandals.”

Two suspects aged 18 and 20 were arrested on Friday (10/1) the same day the body was discovered.

Meanwhile, two suspects aged 27 and 40 will appear in the Taung Magistrate’s Court after the body of a girl (16) was found in a shallow grave in a village 50 km outside of Vryburg. 

An exhumation process was started on Saturday (11/1) which led to the discovery of a body wrapped with a blanket and positively identified by a family member (uncle) as that of Boingotlo Makaota (16).

“The prime suspect (40) in the case was arrested after he was handed over to the police by his brother on Saturday evening (11/1),” said North West police spokesperson Sabata Mokgwabone. “Police were informed of a possible murder on Friday night (10/1) when a man reported that he heard a woman crying from a neighbour’s place on Thursday (9/1).”

On Friday morning (10/1) the neighbour and a friend were seen pushing a wheelbarrow with something hidden inside. 

A search operation was conducted and the body was found in the shallow grave with visible wounds to the head and bruises to the thighs and legs, said Mokgwabone.

‘Concern over the rising violence against women and children’

Free State Social Development MEC Mathabo Leeto expressed deep concern over the rising violence against women, children, and the elderly in the province. 

“Our elderly, women, and children must feel safe in their homes and neighbourhoods. It is only through united action we can bring an end to these heinous crimes.” 

OFM News/Zenande Mpame mvh