A 32-year-old mother from the Eastern Cape was detained when she brought her 3-year-old daughter’s body in a bag to the Mbizana police station on Monday.
According to police spokesperson Warrant Officer Majola Nkohli, charges against the woman include culpable homicide, child negligence, and defeating the objectives of justice.
Nkohli said the woman allegedly left the child unattended at home on Sunday while she went to see her boyfriend. When she came home the next day, she stated she discovered the child unconscious close to the door.
Took a taxi with body in a suitcase
According to the allegations, the suspect put the child’s body in a suitcase. She then took a 30km taxi ride from Mzamba to the Mbizana police station, where she reported the death.
“Instead of seeking immediate medical or police assistance, she allegedly concealed the body in a suitcase and travelled to Mbizana,” said Nkohli.
“She was subsequently arrested after presenting the suitcase at the police station. The suspect is scheduled to appear before the Mbizana Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, 21 May 2025. She is facing charges of culpable homicide, child neglect and defeating the ends of justice,” Nkohli added.
Couple die in chopper crash
In a separate incident, a couple, Quinton Steyn, 39, and Lizette Steyn ,38, tragically lost their lives in a light aircraft crash near Botshabelo Airfield in Middelburg on Sunday.
According to the police, the couple was reportedly travelling from Nelspruit to Middelburg, where they resided.
Police were summoned to the scene, along with other relevant stakeholders. Upon arrival, the aircraft was still on fire, and the two victims were burned beyond recognition.
“At this stage, the cause of the crash is not yet known. Crashed Aviation Agencies were contacted. An investigation is underway to determine the circumstances that led to the tragic incident,” said Lieutenant Colonel Jabu Ndubane.
