Mbabane, 28 May 2025 — Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla has condemned the brutal killing of a five-year-old boy, saying the country is facing a disturbing and calculated wave of violence targeting children.
Government issued a strong statement following news of the boy’s death, calling the spate of kidnappings and killings of minors across Eswatini a coordinated and deeply troubling trend that cannot be allowed to continue.
The child’s murder is the latest in a string of violent crimes against children that have left families shattered and communities gripped by fear. Authorities say this rising pattern suggests the involvement of cold, premeditated actions by individuals bent on causing harm to the most vulnerable members of society.
“This cannot go on,” said Dladla. “These are our children — the future of this beautiful kingdom.” She called the killings not only evil but an assault on the values Emaswati hold dear, where every child is regarded as the responsibility of the entire community.
The government has called for a united national response to stop the violence. Parents, teachers, neighbours and children themselves are being urged to play a role in protecting young lives by remaining vigilant and reporting any suspicious activity. Community involvement is being described as essential in the fight against child-related crimes.
Police have increased their presence and say they are on heightened alert. The public is urged to immediately report anything unusual to the REPS emergency hotline 999 or the child helpline 116, operated by the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office.
The Deputy Prime Minister called on all citizens to recommit to creating safe environments for children — at home, in schools and in public spaces — where they can grow free from violence and fear.
“No child should ever have their life cut short for any reason,” she said.
Discussion about this post