Winburg – Police in the Free State have launched a murder investigation after the body of a four-year-old boy was discovered with multiple injuries at a cemetery near Phahameng location in Winburg.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) said officers were called to the Valkop cemetery on Friday, 21 August 2026, following reports of a possible murder.
“On arrival at the cemetery in Valkop, police were alerted to the motionless body of a child,” SAPS said in a statement.
The child was found by members of the community with multiple injuries to his head and body.
“A black t-shirt was found lying next to him,” police said.
The victim was identified as Rethabile Lefa Jafta, who was four years old. He was declared dead at the scene and positively identified by his next of kin.
Police said Rethabile had been reported missing a day before his body was discovered, prompting an immediate search for him.
“A search was immediately launched to determine circumstances leading to his disappearance,” SAPS said.
The circumstances surrounding the boy’s death remain unclear, and police have not yet established a motive for the alleged murder.
“The motive for the murder is unclear at this stage,” SAPS said.
No arrests have been made and investigations are continuing as detectives work to establish what happened to the child and identify those responsible.
Police have appealed to anyone who may have information that could assist the investigation or lead to the arrest of a suspect to come forward.
Detective Sergeant Liezel Van der Westhuizen of the Winburg Detectives can be contacted on 082 466 7678.
Information can also be provided anonymously to the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111 or through the MySAPS App, police said.
SAPS urged members of the public with information to assist investigators in bringing those responsible for the child’s death to justice.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
