Mother and sangoma arrested after missing toddler Kutlwano found in shallow grave

As South Africa marks Child Protection Week, a heartbreaking development has shaken the Bekkersdal community.

Police have uncovered the remains of a child, believed to be two-year-old Kutlwano Shalaba, who was reported missing in November 2024. The body was found in a shallow grave along Waterpan Road near the R28 in Bekkersdal.

Kutlwano was initially reported missing by her mother. However, as investigations progressed, it was revealed that the mother herself was involved in her daughter’s disappearance. She was arrested and remains in custody, with bail denied. In a shocking twist, a second suspect, a man believed to be a traditional healer (sangoma), was arrested on 29 May 2025. During questioning, he led the police to the grave where the child’s remains were found. A DNA analysis is now underway to confirm the identity.

Both the mother and the sangoma are expected to appear in the Vanderbijlpark Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 2 June 2025, facing charges of murder and human trafficking.

As the nation reflects on the importance of protecting children, this case serves as a painful reminder of how vulnerable they can be – even at the hands of those meant to care for them.