Heartbreaking Incident: Neighbour accused of murdering two-year-old girl set to appear in court
In a heartbreaking incident that shook the community, Penina Sambo is set to appear in the Heidelberg Magistrates Court on Thursday, May 9th, facing charges of kidnapping and strangulation of a two-year-old Melokuhle Ngwenya. The harrowing events unfolded on April 3rd after an alleged altercation between Melokuhle’s mother, Zandi Ngwenya (23), from Ratanda, and Sambo, who unlawfully entered their home through a window.
In the midst of the confrontation, Sambo reportedly fled the scene by jumping out of the window, leaving behind a distraught Zandi. Initially denying any involvement in Melokuhle’s disappearance when confronted by Zandi, Sambo’s claims were shattered when the lifeless body of the toddler was discovered five hours later, concealed in a dustbin. The devastating find led to Sambo’s subsequent arrest following an extensive police search aided by sniffer dogs.
Amidst the ongoing investigation, distressing details of the case emerged during intensive questioning by the police. Overwhelmed by grief and outrage, the community’s anger boiled over, resulting in the vandalism of Sambo’s residence.
Sambo made a preliminary court appearance on April 8th, where Lieutenant-Colonel Mavela Masondo confirmed the filing of a murder charge against her.
