Father and stepmother accused of killing 8-year-old daughter in Polokwane

A tragic incident unfolded in the village of Mogaung, located in the Sekhukhune District of Polokwana, as an 8-year-old girl fell victim to alleged fatal abuse at the hands of her own parents.

The South African Police Service (Saps) released a media statement on Thursday, announcing the arrest of a couple, aged 31 and 35, in connection with this heinous crime.

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According to police spokesperson, Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, preliminary information suggests that the young girl had been residing with her stepmother and biological father. However, the environment she was subjected to was anything but nurturing.

Abuse and neglect

Reports indicate that concerned members of the community, living in close proximity to the couple’s residence, had become aware of the distressing conditions under which the child was forced to live, which mainly entailed hours of abuse and neglect.

Ledwabe said on Wednesday, 24 May 2023, one of the family’s neighbours confronted the family.

“This confrontation revealed a disturbing truth — intelligence gathered from the incident indicated that the child had suffered severe injuries as a result of the physical assaults inflicted upon her,” Ledwabe said.

Acting swiftly, community members rallied together, seeking immediate medical assistance for the girl. An ambulance was promptly dispatched to transport her to the nearest hospital.

“Tragically, despite the best efforts of medical professionals, the young girl succumbed to her injuries, leaving the community and law enforcement authorities in a state of profound grief and shock,” he said.

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Charged with murder

As the investigation unfolds, Ledwabe confirmed that they have charged the accused with murder, along with two counts of contravening the Immigration Act.

The alleged perpetrators, now in custody, are scheduled to appear before the Nebo Magistrates’ Court on Friday, 26 May, 2023.

Meanwhile, in the Free State, the High Courts sentenced 24-year-old Thabang Patrick Lehahla to 27 years and six months direct imprisonment for the murder of his girlfriend, Tshepiso Innocentia Molupe (20), and their unborn child.

The Fezile Dabi District commissioner, Major General Moses Makubo, welcomed the sentence stating: “Gender Based Violence is a social injustice. We condemn the killing of innocent women and children”.