Police has escalated its investigation into a shocking child disappearance case after the body of two-year-old Kutlwano Shalaba was discovered in Bekkersdal, west of Gauteng, last Thursday. What began as a kidnapping investigation in November 2024 has now evolved into a premeditated murder probe involving the child’s own mother and a local sangoma.
According to SAPS, the toddler’s body was found following a tip-off by a traditional healer, or sangoma, who admitted to Police that he played a role in the child’s disappearance. The boy had been missing for over six months after being reported kidnapped by his mother in Vanderbijlpark, prompting a national outcry.
Police Reveal Financial Motive Behind Child’s Disappearance
Police investigations have uncovered disturbing new evidence suggesting a financial transaction was involved in the case. It was revealed that a sum of R75,000 was deposited into the bank account of Keneilwe Shalaba, the mother of the child, on the same day the boy vanished.
The revelation has added a sinister layer to the case, as Police now believe the child may have been sold for ritualistic purposes, allegedly arranged between the mother and the sangoma, Sebokoane Khoanyana.
Further analysis of call records showed multiple communications between Shalaba and Khoanyana in the days leading up to the child’s disappearance. This led investigators to bring the sangoma in for questioning, during which he admitted involvement and eventually led Police to the shallow grave in Bekkersdal where the child’s body was discovered.
Both suspects, Keneilwe Shalaba and Sebokoane Khoanyana, have now been formally charged with human trafficking and premeditated murder. They appeared in the Vanderbijlpark Magistrates Court on Monday. The Police, working closely with the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), are treating the case with the utmost seriousness due to the brutal nature of the crime and its implications for child protection.
NPA spokesperson Lummka Mahanjana confirmed the developments, stating, “We just recovered the body of the baby, and a postmortem is still going to be conducted. We also intend to investigate further what was done to the body after death.”
The matter has been postponed to 5 June 2025 to allow Khoanyana time to obtain legal representation. Both accused remain in custody, with the Police opposing any attempt at bail.
As part of the ongoing investigation, the Police have ordered a full DNA analysis to confirm the identity of the body. Although the sangoma led authorities to the remains, formal identification is crucial for the legal process. A postmortem examination is also being conducted to determine the exact cause of death and whether the child endured any form of abuse prior to dying.
“This is one of the most disturbing cases we’ve seen in recent years,” said a senior Police officer involved in the investigation. “We are determined to uncover the full truth of what happened and ensure that all those responsible face the full force of the law.”
The case has sparked outrage among South Africans, especially with increasing concerns about ritual killings and the trafficking of minors. Social media has erupted with calls for justice, and several child advocacy groups have pledged to monitor the case closely.
Meanwhile, the Police are appealing to the public for any additional information that might aid the investigation. Authorities suspect other individuals may be linked to the trafficking ring that facilitated the boy’s sale and death.
“We urge anyone who has knowledge of similar cases or suspicious activities to come forward,” said the SAPS spokesperson. “Your information could be vital in preventing another tragedy like this.”
This heartbreaking case has once again highlighted the importance of child protection laws, community vigilance, and Police responsiveness. SAPS has reiterated its commitment to cracking down on all forms of child trafficking, abuse, and exploitation.
“Children must be protected at all costs. No parent or guardian has the right to violate the innocence and dignity of a child,” said a representative from the Police Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit (FCS), which is now assisting with the investigation.
Police have launched a premeditated murder investigation after the body of 2-year-old Kutlwano Shalaba was found in Bekkersdal. His mother and a sangoma face trafficking and murder charges.
Source- EWN
