Johannesburg – A wave of grief and disbelief has swept through a South African community following the alleged murder of a two-year-old boy. A 22-year-old Zimbabwean national is accused of slitting the toddler's throat in a dispute purportedly over a mere R20. The incident occurred on April 8th, leaving the community reeling and demanding answers.
The young victim, Siyanda Ndlovu (also known as Gwabavu), was laid to rest on Sunday. Tensions were high as family and friends gathered to say their final goodbyes. The accused claims that the boy's mother owed him R20 and had been delaying payment. However, those close to the family strongly refute this, insisting that no such debt existed.
The deceased's father has expressed his frustration with the ongoing investigation, stating that he is yet to receive any substantial feedback from the investigating officer. "I tried to contact the investigating officer over the issue and he promised to come back to me," he said, highlighting the family's desperate need for information and closure.
Moreboys Munetsi, a close relative of the family, has been providing support and assistance during this incredibly difficult time. Munetsi, who is also a director at Greathope Funeral Services, confirmed the details of the tragedy and vowed to help the family seek justice.
"The boy was killed by a Zimbabwean national, and we buried him on Sunday," Munetsi stated. "Seventy percent of his neck was cut, and the accused claimed that he committed the offence since he is owed R20 by the mother of the deceased. The one who killed him is 22 years old and says he killed him because his mother borrowed R20 from him.," he explained. Munetsi then added, "But the mother denied owing him any money."
Recognising the immense burden faced by the grieving family, Greathope Funeral Services offered their services free of charge. "It's a very painful experience to bury a two-year-old child," Munetsi expressed, his voice heavy with sorrow. "The little child couldn't defend himself, how can one be possessed by the spirit of slitting a throat with a knife."
Munetsi added, "What I am only asking for is that we pray for this lady who lost a child because she is really struggling with the situation."
Munetsi has also pledged to provide legal assistance to the family should they wish to pursue the case further. "No one wants to bury their two-year-old child. She wants justice for her child. If they want legal support, I will be there for them to get justice in the case," he affirmed. He also acknowledged the need for emotional support and counselling for the family as they navigate this devastating loss. "I have realised that the family also needs counselling. We have to work to find ways for justice over the issue," he said.
Doubts surrounding the accused's motive have been raised, with Munetsi suggesting that the R20 debt may not be the true reason for the crime. "From what we observed, the accused is lying," Munetsi stated. "He lied that he killed the deceased over a debt his mother owed him. There are a lot of discrepancies in this case because no pictures were taken from the scene." Despite the pursuit of justice, Munetsi emphasised the importance of maintaining peace and unity within the community. "We need justice for this case, but after all, we will continue to preach the gospel of peace and love," he concluded.
The investigation into this horrific crime is ongoing. Authorities are working to uncover the truth behind the toddler's death and ensure that justice is served.
