A deep sense of grief and outrage has descended upon the quiet rural community of Centane, Eastern Cape, following the heartbreaking death of 12-year-old Lithaliyanda Ntoni. The young girl was reported missing on Thursday, June 26, 2025, and found lifeless early Friday morning, June 27, near her home.
Lithaliyanda’s sudden death has devastated her family, friends, and neighbors, who are struggling to comprehend the loss of a bright and gentle soul.
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Disappearance and Heartbreaking Discovery
Lithaliyanda’s disappearance began when she failed to return home after running a simple errand on Thursday afternoon. As the hours passed, fear and panic spread among her family and the wider community. Despite the cold winter night, family members, neighbors, and community leaders searched tirelessly, hoping for her safe return.
Tragically, their worst fears were realized when her lifeless body was found in the early hours of Friday morning, not far from her home.
Murder Investigation Underway
Police, led by the Centane Police Department and supported by the Eastern Cape Provincial Commissioner’s Office, quickly launched a full-scale murder investigation.
According to police spokesperson Colonel Priscilla Naidu, initial evidence suggests that Lithaliyanda may have been attacked before her death. A detailed forensic examination is underway to determine the exact cause and circumstances of her tragic passing.
“This is a deeply disturbing and heartbreaking case,” said Colonel Naidu during a press briefing. “We urge anyone with information to come forward to help us bring those responsible to justice.”
Heartfelt Tributes from Teachers and Community
Lithaliyanda was remembered as a kind, joyful, and hardworking student. Her teacher, Mrs. Thebeka Moyo, described her as a “gentle soul with endless potential,” adding tearfully, “It’s unimaginable that someone so full of life and promise could be taken from us this way. We are shattered.”
Lithaliyanda’s mother, overcome with grief, was unable to speak to the media. A family spokesperson shared, “We just want answers. We want to know who did this to our child and why. No parent should ever have to endure this pain. We pray for swift justice.”
Community Gathers to Honor Lithaliyanda
The Centane community has come together to honor Lithaliyanda’s memory. Vigils have been held, with neighbors lighting candles, placing flowers, and leaving handwritten messages at the site where her body was found.
A memorial service is planned to celebrate her life, support the grieving family, and unite the community in prayer for justice and healing.
Calls for Action Against Gender-Based Violence
Local leaders and activists have condemned the violence and called for urgent action to protect children in rural areas.
“We are tired of burying our children,” said local activist Sizway Natambela. “This is not just about one tragedy; it’s about the everyday dangers our children face. We demand safer communities, stronger security measures, and swift justice.”
Renewed Focus on Child Protection
The tragic death of Lithaliyanda has brought renewed attention to the vulnerability of children in rural and under-resourced communities. Child rights organizations and human rights advocates are calling for improved child protection services, stronger community safety initiatives, and better education on personal safety for children.
“This case must not be forgotten,” emphasized a spokesperson for a local child protection organization. “It should serve as a catalyst for meaningful change and concrete action to keep our children safe.”
Conclusion: Honoring Lithaliyanda’s Memory
As the investigation continues, Centane stands united in grief and in hope. While answers are still being sought, Lithaliyanda Ntoni will be remembered not as a victim, but as a vibrant, loving child whose life was cruelly cut short.
Her gentle nature, radiant smile, and joyful spirit will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, teachers, and the entire community. The pain of her loss resonates deeply, but her memory will inspire ongoing efforts to fight for justice and to protect other children from similar fates.
How You Can Help
Anyone with information related to this case is urgently encouraged to contact local authorities. All tips will be treated with the utmost confidentiality and sensitivity.
Contact your local police department or Crime Stop at 08600 10111.