A 24-year-old Mpumalanga man charged with the murder of his toddler niece made his first appearance in court on Tuesday.
Petros Makua appeared in the KwaMhlanga Magistrate’s Court, and the case was postponed for a formal bail application in seven days.
Police said Makua was arrested after a toddler was brought to a local hospital on Sunday evening, February 1, 2026, where she was declared dead on arrival.
Police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Jabu Ndubane says officers were alerted by the hospital at about 8.20 pm.
“Police received a call from a local hospital, reporting that a child had been brought in by family members and was certified dead on arrival,” Ndubane said.
Investigators allege that the child was attacked at a residence in Phola Park, KwaMhlanga, while she was playing outside with two other young children.
The suspect is alleged to have fled the scene after the attack.
“The injured child was rushed to the hospital, where she later succumbed to her injuries,” Ndubane said.
On Monday, February 2, the suspect handed himself over to police and was formally charged with murder.
He appeared in court on Tuesday, February 3, 2026.
“The case was postponed to February 12, 2026, for a formal bail application,” Ndubane confirmed.
The Acting Provincial Commissioner of SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, condemned the incident and extended condolences to the family.
“It is shocking to learn that an innocent child was brutally murdered by a family member. We will ensure that the law takes its course,” said Major General Mkhwanazi.
The investigation continues.
IOL News
Wendy Dondolo
iol.co.za
