Police in Delmas have launched a manhunt after the body of a seven-year-old girl, identified as Thandolwethu Mahlangu, was found murdered on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, in Delpark Extension 2, Delmas in Mpumalanga.
According to police reports, Thandolwethu’s mother, Ayanda Ngwenyama, reported her missing on 11 November, a day after she disappeared. The child was last seen on November 10, around 6pm, allegedly on her way to visit her father’s house but never returned home.
Concerned community members joined the search that night but were unable to find her. The following morning, Ngwenyama reportedly received a text message from an unknown number demanding R30 000, claiming the money was owed by the child’s father, in exchange for her safe return.
Police opened a missing person inquiry and activated all relevant role players. Investigations led them to the Botleng area, where the cellphone number used by the alleged kidnappers was traced. Several loan sharks were brought in for questioning, and multiple properties were visited, but no arrests were made.
On Wednesday morning around 7.30am, Thandolwethu’s body was discovered by a neighbour cleaning his yard. It is revealed that he noticed small legs protruding from underneath rubble behind a shack and alerted the authorities.
The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General Dr. Zeph Mkhwanazi, has condemned the brutal killing and activated a 72-hour plan to track down the perpetrators.
“People have lost their sense of humanity. How can anyone kill an innocent young girl who had her whole future ahead of her? We will not rest until the suspects are behind bars,” said Mkhwanazi.
It is reported that a murder case has since been opened, and the suspects remain unknown. Police are urging anyone with information to contact Lieutenant Colonel Victor Dibakoane at 079 268 0040, or call Crime Stop on 08600 10111.
The Saturday Star