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Vanderbijlpark, South Africa – A chilling moment unfolded at the Vanderbijlpark Magistrate’s Court when Sebokwana Khoanyane, a traditional healer (sangoma) accused of the murder of 2-year-old Kutlwano Shalaba, attempted to plead guilty — stunning a packed courtroom.
The shocking admission came unexpectedly during his first court appearance. However, the magistrate was forced to halt the plea, reminding Khoanyane that it was not the appropriate stage of proceedings and that he still needed legal representation.
Mother Also in the Dock
Khoanyane appeared alongside Kutlwano’s mother, who is accused of assisting in the toddler’s gruesome killing and helping to bury the boy in a shallow grave.
Both suspects were arrested last week. During interrogation, Khoanyane led police to a site near the R28 in Bekkersdal, where human remains believed to be Kutlwano’s were discovered — buried in a shallow grave along the West Rand.
A Community in Horror
The case has shocked the nation, sparking outrage and grief as details of the brutal murder emerge. Kutlwano, an innocent child, is believed to have been killed under ritualistic or spiritual pretenses, though police have not yet confirmed the motive.
“This is beyond heartbreaking,” said a community member outside the courthouse. “No child deserves such a fate — especially not at the hands of those meant to protect them.”
Case Postponed
The matter has been postponed to Thursday, giving Khoanyane time to secure legal counsel. Both accused remain in custody.
As the investigation continues, South Africans await justice for little Kutlwano — a life tragically cut short in one of the country’s most disturbing recent child murder cases.
