Local reports have shown that police in South Africa have arrested a 51-year-old man, Ben Mokoni, in connection with the kidnapping and murder of his ex-girlfriend’s 7-year-old daughter, Keitumetse Tumelo.

The suspect’s apprehension came after the seven-year-old girl’s half-naked body was found with visible head injuries in the bushes at Letlhabile, Potchestroom, on Thursday, 24 June 2021.

Police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Amanda Funan, said Tumelo was last seen alighting from a taxi on Tuesday, 22 June 2021.

However, she did not arrive home and her mother, with the assistance of neighbours, searched everywhere, but the search did not yield results.

Consequently, the young girl’s mother reported the matter to the police who registered a missing person enquiry on Tuesday night.

Thorough police investigations led to the questioning and subsequent arrest of Keitumetse’s mother’s ex-boyfriend after being linked to the crime.

Lieutenant Funan said as part of the investigation, a post-mortem will be conducted to determine the cause of the young girl’s death.

“An additional rape charge might be added to the charges after post-mortem results. Investigation into the matter continues,” Funan added.

Meanwhile, the suspect is expected to appear in the Brits Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 29 June 2021, due to a Covid-19 case that was reported at court, he could not appear on Friday, 25 June 2021.

The Provincial Commissioner of North West, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, condemned the incident and conveyed condolences to the family. He instructed Letlhabile Detectives to ensure that the suspect’s bail application is opposed.

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