HARRISMITH — Police in Harrismith have launched a manhunt for a primary suspect following the alleged double murder of two young brothers on a local farm. Authorities have arrested and detained a 31-year-old man in connection with the case, though he is not the alleged perpetrator.
The incident occurred on Wednesday, 24 June 2026, at approximately 14:15 at Toekoms Farm, located outside Harrismith. The victims, 14-year-old Thabiso Lakaje and his 9-year-old brother Reanetswe Lakaje, were allegedly attacked and severely assaulted by a known suspect for reasons that remain unknown.
A security guard discovered the boys near the door of their home with their hands and mouths bound with cloth and immediately notified the farm manager. The elder brother, Thabiso, was found deceased at the scene. His younger brother, Reanetswe, was rushed to a local hospital but later succumbed to his injuries.
The boys’ mother was at work during the time of the assault and was informed of the incident afterward. The motive behind the double murder remains unknown, and police investigations are ongoing.
The 31-year-old man currently in custody was detained after he was allegedly found in possession of blood-stained trousers belonging to one of the victims. Police confirmed he is being questioned but is not the primary suspect responsible for the attack. Efforts to locate the actual wanted suspect are continuing.