A SANGOMA from Lesotho and a Mzansi mother face accusations of the horrific killing of a two-year-old baby girl.

Authorities have described the incident as a case of premeditated murder and human trafficking.

Sebokoana Khounyana (50), a traditional healer, appeared briefly in the Vanderbijlpark Magistrates Court on Monday, 2 June.

The mother of the kid, Kuneuwe Portia Shalaba (32), who was arrested earlier, has now had an additional charge of murder added to her existing charges of human trafficking, conspiracy to commit robbery, and making a false statement to police.

They are facing premeditated murder and human trafficking charges.

According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the case stems from a disturbing incident that occurred on 10 November 2024 when Kuneuwe allegedly took her kid, Kutlwano Shalaba, to the sangoma and asked him to kill her.

NPA Gauteng regional spokeswoman Lumka Mahanjana said the mum was unhappy with the kid’s gender and had been hiding from her family the fact that the baby was a girl.

It’s alleged that the mum poisoned the toddler.

Mahanjana said once the kid had died, the two suspects reportedly buried her in a shallow grave in the Waterpan area, attempting to cover up the crime.

The alleged crime came to light following a police investigation, which led to Sebokoana’s arrest on 29 May 2025.

During interrogation, he is said to have confessed and pointed out the location of the baby’s grave.

The matter was postponed to Thursday, 5 June, to allow Sebokoana to get legal representation.

The state has indicated its intention to oppose his release on bail.

Kuneuwe has already been denied bail in earlier proceedings.