VANDERBIJLPARK, GAUTENG – The court denied bail to Keneilwe Shalaba, a 32-year-old woman accused of selling her two-year-old son for R75,000. The Vanderbijlpark Magistrates’ Court delivered the ruling on Friday, rejecting her plea for release.
Mother Accused of Selling Toddler
Authorities arrested Shalaba on November 19, 2024, after uncovering false kidnapping claims. Investigators revealed that she allegedly sold her son, Kutloano Shalaba, to unidentified individuals on November 10. Three days later, she reported a fake kidnapping, claiming unknown men had taken the child in a vehicle.
Gauteng National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Lumka Mahanjana confirmed that the investigation exposed her deception. “The woman later admitted to fabricating the story,” Mahanjana said. “She has remained in custody since her arrest.”
Search for Missing Boy Continues
Police have yet to locate the missing child. Officers continue searching for Kutloano while urging the public to provide information.
Bail Application Rejected
During her bail application, Shalaba argued that she was a first-time offender and had cooperated with law enforcement. She also claimed poor medical treatment in custody as she was nine months pregnant. Furthermore, she stated that remaining in custody prevented her from caring for her other children.
However, state prosecutor Cornelle Grobler opposed her release. “She contacted a state witness, showing she might interfere with investigations,” Grobler argued. “Her children could also be at risk of suffering the same fate as the missing child.”
Court Rules Against Release
Magistrate Michael Tlale dismissed her application, stating that her pregnancy and partial medical attention did not justify bail. “Her circumstances are not exceptional enough to warrant release. Granting bail is not in the interest of justice,” Tlale ruled.
Case Postponed for Further Investigation
The court postponed the case to April 7, 2025, for further investigations. Authorities continue efforts to locate Kutloano as Shalaba remains in custody.
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