Police questioned a suspect, 31, on Thursday (25/6) after he was allegedly found in possession of blood-stained trousers belonging to one of the two boys, 9 and 14. The suspect is not the alleged perpetrator, and the search continues.

On Wednesday, the brothers, Reanetswe and Thabiso Lakaje, were allegedly attacked and severely assaulted by a known suspect on the farm for reasons that remain unclear.

The two boys were later discovered near the doorway of their home by a security guard. Both their hands and mouths were bound with a cloth. The security guard alerted the farm manager, prompting an emergency response.

“Police are continuing with efforts to locate the wanted suspect believed to be responsible for the attack,” said Free State police spokesperson WO Mmako Mophiring.

“The motive behind the double murder is currently unknown, and police investigations are continuing.”

Emergency services were called to the scene. The elder brother, Thabiso, was found deceased upon discovery. Reanetswe was still alive at the time and was rushed to a nearby hospital.

Despite efforts by medical personnel, he later succumbed to his injuries. Their mother was at work during the incident and was informed afterwards.

More than two-thirds of child murder victims in South Africa are killed by someone they know, such as a parent, relative, or neighbour. Tragically, the greatest threat to many children comes from the very people they should trust, according to Action Society.

The Crime Against Children series shows that while adult-murder rates fluctuate sharply, the rate of child murders has remained stubbornly constant over the past decade. Between 2015/16 and 2019/20, South Africa recorded between 700 and a thousand child-murder victims per year, translating to a rate of about five murders per 100,000 children.

A Stats SA analysis revealed firearms, knives, and blunt instruments were the leading weapons used, and that most child murders occurred within the home or immediate community.

Police have urged members of the community to assist in locating the suspect. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Harrismith Detectives’ commander, Lt. Col. Mpholo, on 082 854 7542, or call Crime Stop on 08600 10111.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame sm

• Have a news tip to share? Phone or whatsapp the OFM News Hotline: 066 487 1427.