After a protracted manhunt, Limpopo police have detained an 18-year-old father who brutally killed his 5-month-old son during a domestic argument.
The horrific incident unfolded at Jimmy Jones village on Tuesday morning, October 7, around 07:40. Following an intense investigation by local detectives, the suspect was traced and arrested later that night at around 22:00.
Provincial police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said the child’s mother had rushed to the Malamulele Police Station to report a domestic violence case after she was allegedly assaulted by her boyfriend, who is also the baby’s father and who, according to reports, had previously assaulted the infant multiple times.
“While reporting the incident, she informed police that the suspect had also physically assaulted their baby several times. Fearing for her safety, the woman fled from the house, leaving the child behind with the suspect.”
Ledwaba said police officers accompanied the distraught mother back to her home, where they were met with a horrifying scene. The lifeless body of the five-month-old baby was found lying on the floor. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) were called to the scene but could only confirm that the infant had died.
He further stated that by the time police arrived, the suspect had already fled the scene. Initial investigations showed that the baby had sustained multiple injuries to the head and face, suggesting he was viciously assaulted before succumbing to his wounds.
Ledwaba confirmed that the suspect has been charged with murder and is set to appear at the Malamulele Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, October 9.
Meanwhile, Limpopo Provincial Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe condemned the horrific incident, describing it as a heartbreaking act of violence that no child should ever endure. She further commended the detectives for their swift and dedicated efforts that led to the suspect’s arrest within hours of the crime.
The Star
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