Police in Delmas, Mpumalanga, have launched a manhunt after a seven-year-
old girl was found murdered in Delpark Extension 2 on Wednesday morning.
According to provincial police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Jabu
Ndubane, the child, identified as Thandolwethu Mahlangu, was reported
missing on Tuesday by her mother, Ayanda Ngwenyama.
“The mother told police that her daughter had gone to her father’s house on
Monday evening, 10 November 2025, and never returned home,” said
Ndubane.
Members of the community joined the search throughout the night, but they
could not find the girl. Ndubane said that the following morning, Ngwenyama
received a text message from an unknown number demanding R30,000,
allegedly owed by the child’s father, in exchange for the child’s safety.
Police opened a missing person inquiry and tried to trace the cellphone
number used by the kidnappers to the Botleng area.
“Loan sharks in the vicinity were brought in for questioning, and several
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addresses linked to the investigation were visited, but there was no success,”
said Ndubane.
On Wednesday morning, a neighbour cleaning his yard discovered the child's
body, noticing small legs protruding from rubble behind a shack.
“All relevant authorities were immediately informed and attended the
scene,” said Ndubane.
The suspects remain at large, and a murder case has been opened. Police are
appealing to anyone with information to contact the branch commander,
Lieutenant Colonel Victor Dibakoane, at 079 268 0040, or call Crime Stop on
08600 10111. Information can also be submitted via the MySAPS App, and
callers may remain anonymous Instagram · Twitter
