More than six months have passed since the heartbreaking death of three-year-old Lethabo Prince Litabe, and no arrests have yet been made. The toddler’s body was discovered on November 17, 2024, wrapped in a black plastic bag and left in the yard of a home in Makeleketla, a township in Winburg, Free State.
Local police are now appealing to the public for any information that could assist in bringing the perpetrator to justice. According to Free State police spokesperson Stephen Thakeng, Lethabo was reported missing by his older brother on the day before his body was found. Despite initial search efforts, authorities called off the search later that same day after no trace of the child was found.
The following morning, a local resident made the chilling discovery and immediately alerted authorities. “Upon arrival, police discovered the body of a child wrapped in a black plastic bag. Emergency services declared the toddler deceased on the scene,” Thakeng stated. The toddler’s uncle later confirmed the child’s identity as Lethabo Prince Litabe.
Police have not disclosed further details surrounding the cause of death or any potential suspects, but investigations remain ongoing. Community members have expressed shock and sadness over the brutal incident, with many calling for justice and increased safety measures for children in the area.
Authorities are urging anyone with information that could assist in the case to come forward. Winburg detective services can be contacted at 082 466 7678 or Crime Stop at 08600 10111. Community cooperation, they emphasize, could play a vital role in solving this tragic case.
In a separate but equally devastating incident, a 33-year-old man from the North West province has been arrested and charged with three counts of murder after allegedly killing his parents and sister. The suspect, Olebogeng Kale, appeared in court near Taung on Monday, May 12, 2025, and was remanded in custody until his next court appearance scheduled for May 25.
The brutal attack occurred inside the family’s home in Shaleng village on Friday. Kale allegedly struck his father, 74-year-old Mosimanegape Kale, on the head with a knobkerrie, before turning on his mother, 68-year-old Phodisho Kale, and his 27-year-old sister, Bonolo Kale. Emergency services were called but found all three victims dead at the scene.
Police, with assistance from local residents, tracked down and arrested Kale the following morning. North West Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Sello Kwena expressed gratitude to the community for their swift response. “The police will work hard to ensure successful prosecution,” he said.
Both cases highlight a growing concern about violent crimes affecting families and young children in South Africa. Communities and law enforcement are calling for more collaborative efforts to ensure justice and protect the vulnerable.