Pregnant Mother Accused of Selling Her Child for R75,000

A 33-year-old woman, Keneiwe Shalaba, is facing serious allegations of selling her two-year-old son, Kutlwano. The mother reported her son missing on November 13, 2024. Court records reveal that she received a sum of R75,000 in her bank account on the same day she reported the child missing.

Shalaba has been charged with human trafficking, conspiracy to commit a crime, and providing false information to law enforcement. This was confirmed by the investigating officer, Sergeant George Motloung, who stated that Shalaba admitted to receiving the deposit during her statement.

During her bail hearing, Shalaba, who is in the final stages of pregnancy with twins, pleaded for release, citing poor prison conditions that could negatively affect her health.

However, Sgt. Motloung strongly opposed the request, raising concerns about the safety of her unborn children. He argued that Shalaba posed a risk to minors, stating, “The applicant is a threat to children. She is expecting twins… If granted bail, there is a possibility that even the unborn children could face a similar fate to the missing two-year-old.” He further emphasized the risk of witness interference, mentioning that she had previously tried to persuade someone to give misleading information to authorities.

The court has yet to deliver a ruling on her bail application, while the investigation into Kutlwano’s disappearance remains ongoing.