Police in Mpumalanga have arrested a 21-year-old man for the alleged kidnapping, rape and murder of a7-year-old girl in Charl Cilliers on Sunday.
According to police, officers received a report of a missing child, prompting an immediate search operation involving multiple SAPS units.
The search team included Crime Intelligence, K9 units and detectives and was supported by private security officers, farmers and members of the local Community Police Forum.
During the search operation, the child’s clothing was discovered dumped near a mealie field, raising concerns among investigators.
Further investigation led to the arrest of the suspect, who later directed police to the mealie field where the body of the missing child was found.
The suspect is expected to appear before the Secunda Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday.
The Acting Provincial Commissioner of SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, strongly condemned the crime and urged forensic experts and investigators to gather all necessary evidence to ensure a successful prosecution.
Police also commended the collaboration between officers, farmers, private security personnel and community members that led to the swift arrest of the suspect.
Authorities say crimes against women and children remain a top priority for law enforcement in Mpumalanga.
Investigations are continuing.