The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Eastern Cape is investigating a tragic case following the discovery of the body of a three-year-old boy, who was reported missing on 03 March 2026.
According to the investigation thus far, the young boy was allegedly taken from his home in Ebhongweni Location, KuGompo, on Monday.
His mother filed a missing person report at the police station the following afternoon.
EC SAPS Spokesperson Brigadier Nobunti Gantana said an extensive search operation was immediately launched by SAPS members.
“During the course of the preliminary investigation, information was received pointing to a possible suspect. Following consultation with the Prosecutor, a case of Kidnapping and Defeating the Ends of Justice was formally opened.
“The matter was scheduled for its first court appearance on 09 March 2026; however, the docket was not enrolled on that date as investigations were still active and ongoing,” said Gantana.
Gantana said on Tuesday, the search efforts intensified.
“A multidisciplinary team comprising members of the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit, the K9 Unit, and the Eastern Cape Human Rights and Missing Persons Unit (working on behalf of the National Prosecuting Authority) continued the search in the area. Tragically, the body of the young boy was recovered from a dam approximately one kilometre from his home.
“The scene was processed by forensic experts, and the body has since been transported to a state mortuary for a post-mortem examination to determine the exact cause of death. The investigation is ongoing, with statements being gathered regarding circumstantial evidence obtained,” Gantana said.
She said that a charge of murder will be added to the charge sheet, or alternatively, an inquest docket will be opened, depending on the evidence presented and the direction from the prosecuting authority.