The suspected kidnapper: Mercy Tsoko
By Kopano Dibakwane
The case of child abduction levelled against two female Zimbabwean nationals, who allegedly pretended to be caregivers, was postponed to 10 January for a formal bail application following their second appearance at the Kriel Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday 3 January.
The suspects, identified as Grace Gumbo(26) and Mercy Tsoko(28), are accused of abducting a four-months old baby girl at Thubelihle in Kriel on Thursday 28 December 2023. They were reportedly arrested on 1 January, whereby it was revealed that they are allegedly linked to three other child abduction incidents.
According a report by Mpumalanga SAPS(South African Police Service) spokesperson, Brigadier Selvy Mohlala, community members alerted the police about two women who were roaming around the area of Ogies with three babies(two baby girls and one baby boy). The babies aged between eight months and 3 years old, are believed to have been abducted at Springs and Marblehall, respectively.
” The two were reportedly cornered in one of the shacks in Ogies. The suspects were charged with abduction as well as contravention of the Immigration Act of South Africa. Police cannot rule out the possibility of adding more charges against them as the investigation continues,” said Mohlala.
The suspects will reportedly remain in custody until their next court appearance.
