Police have arrested suspects linked to the killing of 5-year-old Ditebogo Phalane. Ditebogo was killed during a hijacking last week Friday in Soshanguve.

Two Suspects Arrested in Tragic Murder of Five-Year-Old Ditebogo Phalane in Soshanguve

In a heart-wrenching turn of events, two suspects have been apprehended in connection with the tragic murder of five-year-old Ditebogo Phalane in Soshanguve, located to the north of Pretoria.

The incident occurred last Friday when a bullet tragically struck the young boy as his father fell victim to a hijacking. Little Ditebogo, filled with excitement, had rushed out to greet his father upon his return home, only to meet a horrifying fate.

Police authorities swiftly responded to the heinous crime by deploying a stabilisation team to the area, aiming to bring solace and justice to the grieving community.

Aunt Struggles to Cope with the Loss

Kgomotso Phalane, the distraught aunt of the deceased five-year-old, expressed her profound struggle in coming to terms with the loss. Describing Ditebogo as a cherished son figure in her life, she reminisced about his vibrant personality and innocent joys. “Junior was just a happy child, who loved to play and dance to amapiano music.

We’re going to remember him as he was very talkative,” she shared. Reflecting on his aspirations, she revealed his dream of becoming a lawyer, underscoring his intelligence and promising future.

Calls for Justice Echo Amidst Grief

Amidst the anguish, calls for justice reverberate throughout the mourning community. Phalane emphasized the family’s unwavering determination to seek justice for Ditebogo, ensuring that his memory remains a beacon of hope and advocacy against senseless violence. Police Minister Bheki Cele, accompanied by senior officials of the South African Police Service (SAPS), personally assured the Phalane family of swift action against the perpetrators. Cele, in a visit to the grieving family, reiterated the government’s commitment to combatting crime and vowed to apprehend those responsible for Ditebogo’s untimely demise.

Civil Society Demands Action

Meanwhile, civil society organizations like Not In My Name have amplified their calls for tangible action against crime, particularly in vulnerable township communities. Themba Masango, Secretary-General of Not In My Name, underscored the urgent need for increased visible policing, drawing parallels to the stringent measures implemented during the COVID-19 lockdowns. Masango emphasized the necessity of proactive policing in areas like Soshanguve, advocating for sustained patrols and community engagement to deter criminal activities.

As the nation mourns the loss of young Ditebogo Phalane, the collective outcry for justice grows louder, urging authorities to swiftly deliver accountability and restore a sense of security to grieving families and communities.