DURBAN – The body of a 10-year-old missing boy was found in a shallow grave at a relative’s home on Christmas Day.
Police spokesperson Colonel Thembeka Mbele said 10-year-old Ayabulela Abongwe Kubheka from Nyezane area had disappeared on December 15, 2021, at 7pm, while in the care of his grandmother who had left him in bed, so she could warm up a meal.
However, when she returned to her grandson, he was nowhere to be found and she reported him missing at Amangwe Police Station for investigation.
Mbele said it is alleged that at 6am on December 25, 2021, Ayabulela’s uncle was outside when a dog was seen with a human leg in its mouth. He later spotted the dogs digging in the neighbour’s yard and went to investigate.
“Upon investigating, he discovered a shallow grave and called the nearby community members to assist him to dig up the grave. They found the body of Ayabulela and called the police,” Mbele said.
“The 32-year-old neighbour who was also a relative, attempted to escape but was apprehended by the community. The suspect allegedly told the community that he killed the boy by choking him because he needed his body to protect his house from being bewitched by people. He dug a shallow grave in his yard and buried him.”
Mbele said the man was arrested and appeared before the Estcourt Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday on charges of murder.
He was remanded into police custody until January 6, 2022, for further investigation.
“The community is applauded for not taking the law into their own hands by attacking the suspect and informing the police. People who continue to commit vigilantism will face the might of the law,” Mbele said.
Daily News