KZN SAPS offer R50 000 reward for missing boy - IOL

KwaZulu-Natal police have offered a R50 000 reward for information leading to the whereabouts of three-year-old Banele Mshubi from the Marikana informal settlement in Harding.

Banele disappeared in December 2025 and his mother was subsequently arrested for failing to report the missing child in time.

It is alleged Banele was assaulted after an alleged confrontation involving his mother and stepfather, leaving his family and the Kokstad community desperate for answers.

But the circumstances preceding his disappearance have placed the spotlight firmly on those closest to him.

According to allegations forming part of the police investigation, Banele was allegedly severely assaulted by his stepfather after allegedly being accused of losing a USB (universal serial bus) device.

His mother has since been released on bail after appearing at the Kokstad Magistrate Court, reportedly because she is pregnant, but faces allegations relating to the delayed reporting of her son's disappearance.

Police were allegedly informed only weeks after Banele went missing.

KwaZulu-Natal police have now escalated the search by offering R50 000 for information that could help investigators establish what happened to the child and locate him.

The investigation is centred, among other areas, on the Marikana informal settlement, where Banele lived.

His stepfather remains in custody as investigations continue.

Police have also indicated that he is allegedly linked to a separate murder case in Harding, a development that adds another disturbing dimension to the investigation.

Police have confirmed that they received allegations that Banele had been severely assaulted by his mother's boyfriend, who is also his stepfather, after an alleged dispute involving a missing USB device.

However, the whereabouts of Banele remain unknown.

There is no confirmed account of what happened to the child after his disappearance.

Banele's case has unfolded against the backdrop of two other devastating cases that have left Kokstad residents traumatised.

Lathitha Mtolo, 7, disappeared before her remains and clothing were eventually discovered.

Ndalo Jona, 7, was also reported missing before his body was found abandoned near the Mzintlamva River.

The three cases have fuelled growing fears among residents over the safety of children in the area and intensified demands for more decisive action from law-enforcement authorities.

The anguish has been compounded by a wider climate of violence, including allegations of brutal killings of women by people known to them and an incident which almost escalated to vigilantism.

Sunday Tribune submitted detailed questions to Colonel Robert Netshiunda regarding the separate Harding murder case allegedly involving Banele's stepfather, including its current status and the circumstances surrounding the alleged offence.

No response had been received at the time of publication.

Police are appealing to anyone with information that could help solve the mystery surrounding Banele's disappearance to come forward.

Anyone with information can contact Detective Vincent on 082 334 8610.