The boy’s grandmother reportedly witnessed a violent encounter on Thursday (29/1), said Free State police spokesperson W/O Mmako Mophiring. She told police the father used a wooden stick to assault the child.

When she tried to intervene, the father claimed he had the right to do as he pleased with his son. This was the last time the boy was seen alive.

On Sunday (1/2), the search for the child ended in a local residence. A community member entered the house at approximately 10:40 and noticed the bedroom was dark and cluttered with clothing. 

The six-year-old was found under a bed by a community member after disappearing for a few days. Photo: Freepik

After using a cellphone light to inspect the area, the witness found the child’s body under a bed.

Police and emergency medical teams arrived at the scene shortly after the discovery. Paramedics confirmed the child was dead and noted bruises on the body. 

The police immediately took the father into custody at the house and opened a murder investigation to determine the exact cause of death.

Bongani Moses Ndimande has been missing since 31 December. Photo: SAPS

In a separate matter, Mangaung police request the public’s help in reuniting Bongani Moses Ndimande, 28, with his family. He was last seen on 31 December at around 09:15 in a local vegetable market in Dark City, Mangaung.

At the time of his disappearance, he was wearing a T-shirt and trousers but no shoes. His brother, who last saw him, cannot remember the colours of the clothing.

Anyone with information on his whereabouts is requested to contact Lt. Col. Kelaotswe Lebodi on 082 527 6348.

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