Two arrested after body of missing 10-year-old boy found dumped near graveyard
THE COMMUNITY of Bohlokong, near Bethlehem in the Free State, is reeling in shock after the discovery of a missing 10-year-old boy’s body near the Bakenpark graveyard. The police have arrested two suspects, aged 18 and 20, in connection with the brutal killing.
The young victim, Hlonolofatso Mokoena, was last seen on the morning of Thursday, January 9, playing in the street with friends. He was wearing a grey T-shirt, blue jeans, and brown Soviet sandals when he disappeared. His family reported him missing after he failed to return home.
A desperate search ended in heartbreak when his body was found with multiple stab wounds near the cemetery.
Free State police spokesperson Warrant Officer Mmako Mophiring confirmed that a case of murder has been opened and investigations are ongoing.
“The motive behind the murder is not yet known,” Mophiring said.
The two suspects, both from Bohlokong, were arrested following swift police action. They are expected to appear in the Bethlehem Magistrate’s Court on Monday, January 13, facing charges of murder.
As the investigation continues, the community remains in mourning, grappling with the senseless loss of a young life.
