Police in Winburg have opened an investigation after the body of a missing four-year-old boy was found on 21 August at a cemetery close to the Phahameng township in Valkop.
Discovery and identification
Members of the community discovered the lifeless body of Rethabile Lefa Jafta at about 09:37 on Friday and alerted authorities. Investigating officers found the child with multiple injuries to his head and body. A black T-shirt was located lying next to him. Emergency personnel declared the boy dead at the scene, and he was positively identified by next of kin.
Missing-person search and ongoing probe
The child had been reported missing the previous day, 20 August, prompting a search by family members and the community. Police said the motive for what is being treated as an alleged murder remains unknown. As of the latest update, no arrests have been made and investigations are continuing.
- Discovery: 21 August, cemetery near Phahameng township, Valkop — body found at 09:37
- Missing report: 20 August — family and community search conducted
- Status: Investigations ongoing; no arrests so far
How police are asking the public to help
Free State police have appealed to anyone with information that could assist the investigation to come forward. The investigating officer is Detective Sergeant Liezel van der Westhuizen of the Winburg police detective branch and can be reached on 082 466 7678.
Members of the public may also provide anonymous information to Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or via the MySAPS App. Police emphasised the importance of any small detail that might help establish the circumstances surrounding the child’s disappearance and death.
Local impact and community response
The discovery of a young child’s body in a cemetery has unsettled residents in Phahameng and surrounding areas. Local searches and community-led efforts to find the boy on Thursday did not locate him; the subsequent discovery on Friday has prompted concern about child safety in the area.
In cases of violent crimes involving children, police investigations typically include securing the scene, conducting post-mortem and forensic examinations, interviewing family members and potential witnesses, and reviewing any available CCTV or mobile-phone records in the area. Authorities will also examine timelines and leads provided by the community.
Practical information for the public
If you live in or around Winburg and noticed unusual activity between 20 and 21 August — such as unfamiliar vehicles, people loitering near the cemetery, or anyone carrying a child — you are urged to contact the investigating officer or Crime Stop. Preserving evidence and sharing information promptly can be critical to solving cases involving young victims.
| Key detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Victim | Rethabile Lefa Jafta, aged four |
| Location found | Cemetery near Phahameng township, Valkop |
| Date found | 21 August |
| Reported missing | 20 August |
| Investigating officer | Detective Sergeant Liezel van der Westhuizen — 082 466 7678 |
| Anonymous tip line | Crime Stop — 08600 10111; MySAPS App |
What comes next
Police will continue forensic and witness enquiries as they work to establish a motive and identify those responsible. Given the gravity of the case, investigators may also seek assistance from specialised units if forensic or intelligence work requires additional resources.
Anyone with relevant information is urged to contact the Winburg detective branch without delay. Timely public cooperation often proves decisive in progressing criminal investigations, particularly those involving children.
Further updates will be released by the Free State police as the investigation develops.
