The grandmother, 52, of missing two‑year‑old Omphile Sethole has been arrested alongside the child’s grandfather, 55, in connection with alleged child negligence following the toddler’s disappearance from her bed in the early hours of Saturday, May 2. The pair were arrested on Friday, May 15, 2026, by officers from the Mokopane Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit in Limpopo.
Circumstances of the disappearance
The case occurred in Ga‑Mabuela village in Mapela, Mokopane, where Omphile was allegedly snatched from her bed. Police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said the grandmother reportedly woke at about 2 a.m. to use the bathroom and took Omphile with her before returning to bed. When she woke again around 6 a.m., the toddler was gone and a window in the room was open. Family members and neighbours immediately launched a search, but Omphile could not be found.
Police response and arrests
The matter was reported to Tinmyne police station and triggered a large‑scale search operation for both the missing child and the suspected abductor. The case has since been transferred to the Mokopane FCS Unit, and police initially opened cases of housebreaking at residential premises and kidnapping. The grandmother and grandfather are expected to appear before the Mahwelereng Magistrate’s Court on Monday, May 18, 2026.
Appeal for cooperation
Limpopo police commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe welcomed the arrests as part of ongoing efforts to advance the investigation and urged the public to cooperate while avoiding the spread of misinformation. Police have confirmed that Omphile is still missing, that investigations continue, and that experienced FCS investigators are working around the clock to trace her and establish all circumstances surrounding her disappearance, with the aim of holding those responsible accountable.
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.