The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Kokstad expresses grave concern over the disappearance of 7-year-old Lathitha Mtolo from Marikana, Kokstad, who went missing on 26 February 2026.
Lathitha, a Grade two learner, reportedly left her home around 16:00 to visit a friend and never returned. Her disappearance has traumatised the community, with family, neighbours, and authorities conducting extensive search efforts.
We are alarmed that a 34-year-old suspect, who appeared in the Kokstad Magistrate’s Court on charges of kidnapping and human trafficking, was released, reportedly due to concerns that his confession may have been obtained under duress.
The DA respects constitutional rights and due process and strongly assert that the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) should leave no stone unturned to make sure those involved face the full might of the law.
The DA calls for:
• A clear and transparent update from the South African Police Service on the status of the investigation.
• Clarification from the National Prosecuting Authority on the reasons for the suspect’s release and the safeguards in place to ensure the investigation continues without compromise.
• Assurance that all leads, including any arising from the suspect’s confession or implicated accomplices, are being thoroughly pursued.
• An urgent multi-party and multi-stakeholder dialogue involving political parties, civil society, SAPS, and the NPA to address the broader scourge of crime and violence against women and children in our community.
The DA notes that the Mayor of Greater Kokstad Municipality, Cllr Lwanda Madikizela, together with Kokstad SAPS Station Commander Col. Ralph Ruiters, provided a public briefing yesterday, on developments in the missing person inquiry. We welcome this update and call for full transparency to restore public trust.
The DA strongly condemns all acts of violence and crimes against women and children. Kidnapping is a heinous offence that traumatises families and communities. We cannot continue with business as usual while children go missing. We demand justice for Lathitha Mtolo and accountability for all involved.