Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has welcomed the arrest of a man linked to the kidnapping and death of a four-month-old baby as well as the alleged rape of the baby’s mother in Diepsloot.
Last week, police launched a manhunt for the man following the alleged rape of a 43-year-old woman and the murder of her baby.
The body of the baby was discovered in a shallow grave.
“The arrest is an important step in ensuring that this tragic matter is brought before the courts and that those responsible are held accountable in accordance with the law.
“We trust that the criminal justice system will be allowed to take its course and that the family will ultimately find some measure of justice,” Lesufi said in a statement on Sunday.
The man, an alleged pastor, will join two others in the dock facing charges related to the incident.
READ | Gauteng Premier condemns death of baby and alleged rape of mother
In the same statement, the Provincial Government called on law enforcement to ensure that the investigation is “conducted diligently and that all relevant evidence is presented before the courts”.
“We further urge members of the public to allow the legal process to unfold without speculation or the circulation of unverified information.
“The Premier reiterates that the protection of children must remain a collective priority. Government, families, communities, religious institutions and civil society must work together to ensure that every child grows up in an environment where their safety, dignity and fundamental rights are respected and protected,” the statement read.
The 36-year-old man is expected to appear before the Atteridgeville Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 12 October 2026. – SAnews.gov.za
