A distressing turn of events unfolded as a 6-year-old girl, reported missing on Wednesday, was tragically found dead, concealed beneath a bed in NU 13 Inyibiba near Mdantsane in the Eastern Cape.
The provincial police spokesperson, Colonel Priscilla Naidu, provided insight into the incident, revealing that the child had been missing since Wednesday. On Thursday, around 20:30, the police were called to a house in the same area where the community had initiated a search for the child based on received information.
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Upon arrival, the police faced hostility from the community. With backup support, they entered the premises, discovering a severely injured naked male outside who later succumbed to his injuries. During a house search, the lifeless body of the 6-year-old was uncovered under the bed, wrapped in plastic.
Naidu stated that there are suspicions of the victim being sexually assaulted, and a post-mortem examination will be conducted. The police are treating the incident as two cases of murder.
Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Nomthetheleli Mene expressed deep sadness at this tragic occurrence, especially during the country’s observance of the 16 Days of Activism against violence towards women and children.
Mene emphasized the importance of vigilance and education in protecting children from sexual predators. While acknowledging heightened emotions, she underscored that vigilantism is not a solution. Mene called for communities to collaborate in addressing the root causes of such heinous acts and extended heartfelt condolences to the family of the innocent victim.