Man arrested for allegedly killing toddler, assaulting seven-year-old

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A 39-year-old man has been arrested for the murder of a toddler and assault of a seven-year-old at a farm in oThongathi, KwaZulu-Natal, reports eNCA on 28 December.

The man, believed to be the stepfather of the two siblings, allegedly seriously injured his older stepson on Thursday, 26 December. He then reportedly kidnapped the younger child before the toddler was tragically found dead on Friday, 27 December.

TODDLER AND SEVEN-YEAR-OLD ATTACKED IN OTHONGATHI

A community in Upper oThongathi has been left reeling after the attack on two young children recently. This led to one of them losing their life. The North Coast Courier reported on 26 December that the seven-year-old sustained serious injuries. He was injured on his head and neck after allegedly being assaulted by a relative.

Speaking to the SABC, spokesperson for IPSS Search and Rescue, Samantha Myrick, said: “The child was found in a critical condition after reportedly being assaulted by their stepfather. The child was stabilised by IPSS Medical Rescue Advanced Life Support and transported to a nearby facility for further care.”

TODDLER FOUND DEAD

A widespread search took place in the surrounding areas after the younger sibling went missing after the assault. The Umhlali SAPS K9 unit, IPSS Search and Rescue and community members scoured the area in search for the missing child.

Myrick added: “The stepfather then disappeared with the three-year-old child. Umhlali SAPS K9 Search & Rescue, IPSS Search & Rescue and local community members are currently on scene, searching the area for the missing child.”

The toddler was later found dead about 150 meters metres from where he disappeared, reported eNCA on 27 December.

MAN FACES FOUR CHARGES

The man who allegedly killed the toddler and assaulted his sibling is facing four charges. He is being charged with kidnapping, murder, attempted murder and malicious damage to property.