Lesufi condemns murder of four-month-old baby in Atteridgeville

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has expressed his outrage over the heinous kidnapping and murder of a four-month-old infant, as well as the rape of the mother, which occurred in Atteridgeville. Lesufi condemned the brutal act, stating that it has devastated the family and the entire community, leaving no parent to bear such unbearable trauma. His administration pledged their full support to the ongoing police investigation into the incident, which took place on Wednesday.

Lesufi emphasized that those responsible for this cruel and senseless crime must face the full force of the law, urging anyone with information to promptly report it to the police. He further stated that such brutal attacks on women and children only reinforce the province's resolve to ensure that criminals are held accountable.

The 43-year-old mother had ventured to the Hennops River near R511 Road, accompanied by her pastor and the pastor's wife, for a ritual. Upon arrival, the pastor's wife stayed with the baby while the pastor and the woman proceeded towards the river. Allegedly, the woman was then raped and tied up before managing to escape and seek help at a nearby construction site.

Police later confirmed that the pastor's wife pointed out a shallow grave where the baby was buried. A manhunt has been initiated for the pastor, who remains at large.