“Woman who murdered child in suitcase was a trusted neighbour,” family says

The family of kidnapped and murdered Soweto toddler, Keeya Mbulawa, say they’re shocked that she was almost taken by someone she regarded as her aunt.

The four-year-old died in hospital in January after being stuffed in a suitcase with her hands and feet tied. Her mouth was covered allegedly after being drugged by her neighbour.

It’s alleged that 34-year-old Nonhle Matsebula lured Keeya into the suitcase with sweets, while playing hide and seek with the local children.

The child’s mother first noticed she had gone missing, growing increasingly suspicious of Matsebula who seemed reluctant to assist with search efforts.

A bolt driver had similarly raised the alarm after noticing how heavy the suspect’s suitcase was as she attempted to flee with the toddler inside.

The suspect spent several weeks on the run before being spotted by a community member.

Speaking to YNews, the family’s spokesperson, Miller Moela, says while they’re relieved to know that Mbulawa’s alleged killer is no longer on the run, it’s a bitter sweet moment.

Matsebula returns to court in April.

She faces premeditated murder and kidnapping charges. Written by Naomi Kobbie