Limpopo ‘child snatcher’ arrested, toddler still missing
The police are still looking for a 19-month-old toddler who was kidnapped almost two week ago
LIMPOPO – A 30-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the kidnapping of a 19-month-old toddler almost two weeks ago.
A manhunt for the accused was launched after he is alleged to have kidnapped the toddler from his mother following a domestic-related argument at Shawela Village, block 23 on 3 February. According to an earlier report the toddler’s mother had visited the accused whom she allegedly met through social media. An argument apparently erupted and when she decided to return home and walked to a local bus stop it is understood he followed her and snatched the child from her and disappeared into nearby bushes.
A case of kidnapping was opened and the accused was arrested on Sunday at around 14:30 during a joint extensive search operation conducted by the members of Giyani Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) and Crime Intelligence Unit. The toddler is still missing and police investigations into her whereabouts are still ongoing, confirmed Police Spokesperson, Brig Motlafela Mojapelo in a statement on Sunday.
The accused will appear in the Giyani Magistrate’s Court today on a charge of kidnapping, Mojapelo added.
The police further urged anyone with information that can assist in the search for the missing child, to urgently contact Capt Shilenge at 060 339 1420 or 082 451 7179. Alternatively they can contact the 24-hour Crime Stop number at 0860010111 or their nearest police station.
4 February
Limpopo toddler snatched from mother during argument
LIMPOPO – Police are looking for 3o-year-old Moses Romeu to help in the investigation of a kidnapping incident where a 19-month-old toddler was snatched in Giyani yesterday (Monday, 3 February).
It is alleged that the toddler’s mother visited the suspect at a location in Shawela village, block 23 and after an argument between them, he took the child from her and ran into nearby bushes.
The police were alerted and a case of kidnapping was opened. A search operation for the toddler was also activated and is still underway according to Police Spokesperson, Col Moatshe Ngoepe.
The police call upon the Romeu to avail himself at any police station as it is believed can assist in the investigation.
They also urge anyone with information that can lead to the apprehension of the suspect or that can assist the police in locating the kidnapped child, to contact Capt Shilenge at 060 339 1420 or 082 451 7179. Alternatively they can also contact the 24-hour Crime Stop number at 0860010111 or their nearest police station.
