The lifeless body of 2-year-old boy, Neo Refemetswe Tlhame of Extension 3, Blydeville outside Lichtenburg, South Africa, was found in a shallow grave on Tuesday, July 5, 2022.
The boy was last seen on May 24, 2022 with his grandparents and was reported missing a few days later.
Northwest Police spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Amanda Funani, who confirmed the development in a statement on Thursday, July 7, said the boy’s 22-year-old uncle was arrested on Wednesday for his murder.
“According to the information received, the police were called by Neo’s mother after seeing a suspicious grave by the river. The grave was excavated and the young Neo’s decomposed body was identified with the clothes he was wearing on the day of his disappearance,” the statement said.
“Neo disappeared on Tuesday, May 24, 2022, while he was with his grandparents. However, Noe’s disappearance was discovered by his mother when she went to get him after work. After the fruitless search by the community members and Neo’s family, a missing persons investigation was opened for investigation.
“The police also participated in the search, but Neo was never found. The suspect is expected to appear in court in Lichtenburg on Friday, July 8, 2022 for murder.”
The Provincial Commissioner of North West, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena congratulated the Lichtenburg detectives on the quick response that led to the arrest of the suspect.
Lieutenant General Kwena said that the police take crimes against children and women very seriously and that this arrest proves that those who commit such crimes will not be allowed to roam freely in the province.
