The grandmother, 52, of missing two-year-old Omphile Sethole, who was allegedly snatched from her bed in the early hours of Saturday, May 2, has been arrested alongside the child’s grandfather, 55, for alleged child negligence.
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The pair was arrested on Friday, May 15, 2026.
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They were arrested by members of the Mokopane Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit.
The disappearance of Omphile has shocked communities across the country.
The case occurred in Ga-Mabuela village in Mapela, Mokopane, Limpopo.
It has been two weeks since Omphile disappeared, and the family continues to hold out hope for her safe return.
Limpopo police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said the grandmother reportedly woke at about 2am to use the bathroom, taking Omphile with her before returning to bed.
Limpopo police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said the grandmother reportedly woke at about 2am to use the bathroom, taking Omphile with her before returning to bed.
When she woke again at about 6am, the toddler was missing and a window in the room was open.
Family members and neighbours immediately launched a search, but the child could not be found.
The matter was reported to Tinmyne police station, and a large-scale search operation was initiated for both the missing child and the unknown suspect.
Ledwaba confirmed the arrests and said the pair is expected to appear before the Mahwelereng Magistrate’s Court on Monday, May 18, 2026.
The case has since been transferred to the Mokopane FCS Unit as investigations continue.
Police initially opened cases of housebreaking at residential premises and kidnapping after the child was discovered missing.
At the time of her disappearance, Omphile was wearing a pink jersey and black tights.
“Police confirm that the child is still missing and that investigations aimed at locating her remain ongoing,” Ledwaba said.
Limpopo police commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe has welcomed the arrests, describing them as part of ongoing efforts to advance the investigation.
Hadebe also urged the public to cooperate with police and warned against the spread of misinformation.
“We have assembled experienced investigators from the Mokopane FCS Unit who are working around the clock to trace the missing child and establish all circumstances surrounding her disappearance. We remain committed to ensuring that those responsible are brought to book,” she said.
She appealed to communities to continue providing credible information that may assist in locating Omphile safely. Police said investigations are continuing.
Omphile’s father, Khutso Bradley Mabuela, 26, previously described the incident as unprecedented in their community.
“This has never happened before here. It has taken everyone by surprise.”
He said his daughter is a cheerful, sociable child who attends creche.
“Omphile is a bubbly little girl. She loves people and is not afraid of anyone,” he previously told IOL News.
Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Omphile Sethole is urged to contact the Mokopane FCS investigating officer, Warrant Officer Chuene Selolo, on 082 469 2594, Crime Stop on 08600 10111, the nearest police station, or submit information anonymously via the MySAPSApp.
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