SIPHELELE NKETO

IT has been over a week since Lathitha Mtolo (7) was reported missing in Marikana, Kokstad.

The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Kokstad has expressed concern over the disappearance and called for accountability and justice.

Mtolo was last seen on February 26 after she left home to play and never returned.

Search operations intensified, from the community to the local authorities.

Bradwyn Marnce, the Harry Gwala district PR councillor for the DA, said the disappearance of the little girl brought trauma to her family, community and neighbours.

He called for full transparency to restore public trust and condemned all acts of violence and crimes against women and children.

“Kidnapping is a heinous offence that traumatises families and communities. We cannot continue business as usual while children go missing. We demand justice for Lathitha Mtolo and accountability for all involved,” he stated.

The DA demanded a clear update from the police on the status of the investigation, clarity from the NPA about reasons for the suspect’s release and assurance that all leads, including any arising from the suspect’s confession or implicated accomplices, are being thoroughly pursued.

The party also called for an urgent multi-party and multi-stakeholder dialogue involving political parties, civil society, police and the NPA to address the broader scourge of crime and violence against women and children in the community.
“Now more than ever, political parties and authorities must put aside differences and work together to confront the growing crisis of violence in our society. Procedural failures, investigative shortcomings, or lack of coordination cannot be allowed to undermine justice for victims,” concluded Marnce.