Brutal Murder of 23-Month-Old Toddler Shocks Community in South Africa
Residents of Vereeniging, Gauteng Province, South Africa, are reeling in shock and grief following the brutal murder of a 23-month-old toddler. The horrifying incident took place on Friday, January 12, 2024, at the Old Vereeniging Hospital, also known as 21.
Grandmother Paulina Mahlangu (53) described the gruesome scene, revealing that the toddler, identified as Retshidisitswe Mahlangu, was found with a knife still lodged in her head, and her stomach had been mercilessly cut open.
Paulina, who was at work at the time, explained that her daughter, Nthabiseng Mahlangu (25), had left Retshidisitswe in the care of a friend while she ran errands.
“Nthabiseng usually leaves her child with her friend when she goes out. However, on that fateful day, she was surprised to find her friend in town. When she asked about the whereabouts of the kids, her friend claimed to have left them behind,” Paulina shared.
According to Paulina, Nthabiseng rushed back to the hospital and discovered that her beloved child was missing. A frantic search ensued, and tragically, Retshidisitswe’s lifeless body was found near vacant rooms on the hospital premises.
Overwhelmed with grief, Paulina expressed her frustration, stating, “We have so many unanswered questions. Even if the person responsible for this heinous act is caught, it will never bring back my granddaughter.”
The devastated family is hopeful that justice will prevail in this heart-wrenching case. Police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo confirmed the incident, revealing that a murder case has been launched, and investigations are underway.
Lieutenant Colonel Masondo appealed to the public for any information that could assist in identifying and apprehending the suspects involved in this brutal crime.
.