Johannesburg – Police in KwaZulu-Natal have offered a R50 000 reward for information that could help establish what happened to three-year-old Banele Mshubi, who has been missing since December 2025.
Banele was last seen in the Marikana area of Kokstad and was only reported missing on 4 January 2026, according to the South African Police Service (SAPS).
Police investigations resulted in the arrest of the toddler’s 27-year-old mother, who is accused of failing to report her child missing.
According to SAPS, the mother told investigators that her 43-year-old boyfriend had assaulted Banele over a missing USB.
“She claimed that the stepfather assaulted the child to death but was not sure of where he buried the body,” police said.
The 43-year-old stepfather was subsequently arrested and charged with murder.
Both suspects appeared in the Kokstad Magistrate’s Court. The mother was released on bail, while the stepfather was remanded in custody for further investigation.
Police said the stepfather is also linked to another murder case in Harding.
Banele’s body has not been recovered.
SAPS said the R50 000 reward was being offered to anyone who could provide credible information leading to the recovery of the child’s remains.
“Police are offering the R50 000 reward to any person who can provide credible information, which may lead to the recovery of Banele’s remains,” SAPS said.
Anyone with information is urged to contact investigating officer Detective Constable Vincent on 082 334 8610 or the SAPS Crime Stop line on 08600 10111.
Police are continuing with investigations into the circumstances surrounding Banele’s disappearance and alleged death.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
