Mpumalanga Community Shaken by Alleged Kidnapping of Infant by Bogus Caregivers

In a distressing development that has gripped the community of Kriel in Mpumalanga, a four-month-old baby girl named Lalicia Magumbu has been reportedly kidnapped by two women under the guise of being caregivers. The police in Mpumalanga are now appealing to the public for any leads that could assist in the safe return of the child and the apprehension of the suspects involved in this harrowing case.

On December 28, the life of an unsuspecting mother from Thubelihle Township was turned upside down when two women approached her with an offer of goodwill. Posing as charitable individuals, they promised to donate food parcels specifically designed for the baby's needs. The criminals then used the pretense of mandatory immunization to convince the mother to allow them to take baby Lalicia to a local clinic — a journey from which they would not return.

Brigadier Selvy Mohlala, police spokesperson, detailed that the baby was last seen wearing a pink babygrow, a fact that may aid in identifying her if spotted by members of the public. As the investigation intensifies, authorities are disseminating the contact numbers of the Kriel police station, urging any individual with pertinent information about the case to come forward.

The incident in Kriel has emerged in close proximity to another grievous act in Tshidzini village, where on Christmas Day a 15-year-old girl was allegedly raped and kidnapped, an event that has prompted the Limpopo police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, to reinforce the directive of prioritizing the safety and well-being of women, children, and vulnerable groups.

Both cases have cast a shadow over the festive period, a time typically associated with joy and togetherness, highlighting a dire need for public vigilance and stronger community safety measures. The police have reiterated that any information can be a crucial piece in solving these cases and are encouraging individuals to utilize platforms such as Crime Stop and the MySAPSApp to report anonymous tips that could lead to a breakthrough.

As the search continues, the police and community hold onto hope for Lalicia’s safe return and justice for the families affected by these tragedies. The story serves as a stark reminder of the dangers present in society and the importance of safeguarding the most vulnerable.