Eastern Cape mom arrested after travelling 30km with toddler's body in suitcase

AN EASTERN Cape mother charged with the horrific death of her toddler is expected to make her first appearance in the Mbizana Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday. 

The 32-year-old woman was arrested on Monday, May 19, 2025, by police in connection with the death of her three-year-old daughter. 

Provincial police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Majola Nkohli, said the woman is alleged to have travelled with her child's corpse in a suitcase. 

“It is alleged that the suspect placed the child’s body in a suitcase and transported it via taxi from Mzamba to the Mbizana Police Station, covering a distance of approximately 30 kilometres, where she then reported the death,” Nkohli said. 

According to police records, the mother left her daughter alone at home in Mzamba on Sunday, May 18, while she went to visit her boyfriend. 

She returned the following day (Monday) and claimed to have found the toddler unresponsive near the door. 

“Instead of seeking immediate medical or police assistance, she allegedly concealed the body in a suitcase and travelled to Mbizana. She was subsequently arrested after presenting the suitcase at the police station.  The suspect is scheduled to appear before the Mbizana Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, May 21, 2025,” Nkohli said. 

The mother faces charges of child neglect, defeating the ends of justice, and culpable homicide.