Johannesburg,South Africa

Police in Mopani District have launched manhunt for a male suspect which brutally murdered a 18-months-old baby boy and attempted murder for his wife and mother-in-law,that incident happened on Saturday in Ritavi.

According to police statement,the police at Ritavi in Mopani district have launched massive manhunt for a male suspect who allegedly brutally killed a 18-months-old baby boy,attempted to kill his wife and mother-in-law by allegedly hacking them with an axe,while they attended a ceremony at their neighbours on Saturday,14 September 2024,at Lusaka village in Ritavi policing precinct,at around 19:00.

Police said according to preliminary information,the suspect arrived at the ceremony and started to attack his mother in law,aged 57,who was holding a baby boy at her back.The baby is the woman's grandson.The suspect then attacked her twice at the back with an axe and injured both the baby and the elderly woman.He then proceeded to his wife,aged 34,and hacked her on the forehead with the axe,and thereafter fled the scene.

The statement added that police were notified together with emergency medical services personnel.The victims were transported to the local hospital,but unfortunately,succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.The female victims were admitted with serious injuries.

Police opened cases of murder,attempted murder and assault GBH.

According to police,the motive behind the incident is currently unknown however,domestic violence related issues cannot be ruled out.

The Provincial Commissioner of Limpopo police,Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe,has strongly condemned the incident in which an innocent child lost his life.

"Situations like this leave us feeling very disappointed because we address gender based violence and domestic violence issues on a daily basis.I'm pleading with you couples in relationships to seek professional help in time,when you experience marital and relationship issues,"said Lieutenant General Hadebe.

Police appeal to the anyone with information that can lead to the apprehension of the suspect to contact investigating officer Warrant Officer Jonas Shikwambana on 082 319 9699 or Crime Stop number 08600 10111 or the nearest Police Station or use MySAPS App.