CAPE TOWN - The town of Ladismith in the Little Karoo region is reeling in shock after the charred remains of seven-year-old Shitino van Wyngaard were discovered on Tuesday morning.
The boy’s body, burned beyond recognition, was found in a shallow grave on the Hartmansleegte farm in Hoeko at about 11am.
Following a 72-hour activation plan by Ladismith police, a 16-year-old boy has been arrested in connection with the murder.
The teenager is expected to appear at the Ladismith Magistrate’s Court on Friday.
According to Southern Cape police spokesperson Captain Malcolm Pojie, a tip-off, that was followed by officials, led to the boy’s remains being found on the farm.
Ladismith police opened a murder case for further investigation.
“The station commander of Ladismith, Lt Col Kriel led a multidisciplinary team during the two day’s investigation. Around the clock investigation, spearheaded by the station commander, ensured that sufficient evidence and witness statements could be obtained that linked a 16-year-old suspect to the death of the 7-year-old. Subsequently, the boy was arrested and is currently awaiting assessment by a social worker,” said Pojie.
He said a DNA test and an autopsy would be performed on the body to determine the possible cause of death.
Anyone with information regarding the incident can anonymously contact Ladismith police or the investigating officer Clinton Crawley on 028 551 8144 or Crime Stop at 08600 10111.
Read more in Friday’s edition of the Cape Times.