An advocacy group in South Africa is mourning the tragic death of 11-year-old Boitumelo Ranyamatsane, who was allegedly r*ped and murd3red by her 50-year-old neighbor.
Boitumelo’s lifeless body was discovered on December 29, 2024, on railway tracks in Bohlokong, Free State. According to reports, the suspect had allegedly summoned the girl to his home under the pretense of asking her to buy cigarettes.
The young girl was laid to rest on January 5, 2025. Journalist reports on January 7 identified the suspect as Dingani Mbhele, who was arrested following the discovery of her body.
“It is alleged that Boitumelo was r*ped and murd3red by her neighbor, who strangled and brutally killed her. She was found with an open wound on her neck,” the advocacy group stated. “We are heartbroken over the loss of such a beautiful soul, and our thoughts are with her family. Fly high, little sister.”
Meanwhile, the suspect appeared before the Bethlehem Magistrate court on Thursday, 02 January 2025, facing a charge of murder.
The Free State Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Baile Motswenyane, has sent her condolences to the family for their loss and assured them that justice will prevail.
“The crimes against children won’t be tolerated,” Motswenyane said.
