Mlungisi Dlodlo, accused of brutally assaulting a three-year-old girl in Lion Park, appeared in Randburg Magistrate Court on 12 September 2025 for his first hearing. The accused, a Zimbabwean national, who opted for a state-provided lawyer, did not even apply for bail, and he was remanded in custody pending further investigation.
During the hearing, the court noted that blood and DNA results are still pending, and the victim’s statement was initially missing. The judge confirmed the child’s age as 2 years and 10 months, which caused the grandmother to faint in court due to emotional distress. She was assisted by community members and court staff.
The court instructed SAPS to compile all offenses within seven days and expedite the bloodwork and DNA results. The next court appearance is scheduled for 7 November 2025.
Community Mobilization
Community members present at the court expressed outrage at the case. A memorandum documenting the community’s concerns was submitted to the court, and a petition is being registered via Change.org. Physical signature books will also circulate in the community to show widespread demand for justice.
Community Leader Speaks
Katlego Makie Abigail Segole (KMA Segole), district leader of Hope In Every Community (HIEC), has been supporting the family through media attention, therapy, and court support. She explained:
“Our organization was contacted to organize therapy and court support for the family, and to bring media attention to the case. We urge anyone who witnessed or has information about other offenses to come forward so they can be documented and justice can be served.”
Segole also clarified ongoing investigations regarding rumors that the suspect may have a prior murder case in Masvingo, Zimbabwe. Information has been sent to friends in the neighborhood, and if verified, it will be forwarded to Interpol.
The suspect remains in SAPS custody as authorities work to ensure all legal processes are completed fairly and expeditiously.