Byline: Nonjabuliso Nhlambo
17 March 2026
Police in Embalenhle have arrested a 34-year-old woman in connection with the murder of a 10-year-old boy, following a disturbing incident that occurred on 16 March 2026 at Azania Extension 22, Embalenhle.
The victim, identified as Junior Nhlakaniphi Hlungwane (10), was found in an open field near Marikana, Azania, with multiple serious injuries, including stab wounds to the neck and abdomen, as well as bruising to the neck.
He was declared deceased at the scene by emergency medical personnel.
According to the deceased’s father, both he and the stepmother of the child went to the clinic during the day, together with the child.
He left the stepmother and the child at the clinic while he went to look for some documents that were needed at the clinic.
On his arrival at the clinic, the child and his mother were no longer there, and he was informed that they had left.
He went back home only to find the mother alone.
The stepmother, who happened to be his wedded wife, told him she did not know where the child was.
As the day went by, he realized the child was not coming back and decided to confront his wife.
The wife later decided to go to the veld to pray, and when she went back home, she was running, struggling to breathe, and decided to keep quiet and just sit.
The father took action to inform the community members, and they were joined by the Private Security Company to go search, leading to the tragic discovery of the child’s body a few meters from the riverbank.
The father was still in shock and disbelief at the whole incident, especially because he knew that his wife loved his son and she did everything for him.
The child’s mother was said to be in Standerton, and the father was legally granted custody.
Members of the SAPS, together with forensic experts, attended the scene and processed it.
Embalenhle Police Spokesperson, Sgt Busi Mthethwa, confirmed the arrest and said, “Through preliminary investigations, police were able to arrest a female suspect (34), who is currently in custody.
The suspect is expected to appear before the Evander Magistrate’s Court soon on a charge of murder, while the motive for the attack remains under investigation.
Police have urged anyone with additional information that may assist in the investigation to come forward and contact the Investigating Officer, Sgt Rammutla, on 079 410 7360, or report anonymously through the Crime Stop number 08600 10111, or the Mysaps app.
The South African Police Service has strongly condemned this senseless act of violence against a child and continues to prioritise crimes against women and children in line with the National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide.
Community members are urged to remain calm and allow the law to take its course, while parents and guardians are encouraged to ensure the safety and supervision of children at all times.”
