Hammanskraal Man Denied Bail After Brutal Murder Of Toddler And Parents With A Spade

The Temba Magistrate’s Court in Hammanskraal has refused bail to 37-year-old Romeo Moshe Shibambu from Suurman, who stands accused of brutally killing a three-year-old boy and his parents using a spade.

Shibambu faces three counts of murder, two counts of attempted murder, and one count of malicious property damage, according to National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Lumka Mahanjana.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Both Pilots Confirmed Dead After Aircraft Found Missing In KwaZulu-Natal

Mahanjana detailed that on 28 September 2025, Shibambu’s sister visited his home and noticed a garden spade nearby. When she asked about it, he chillingly responded that he “felt like fighting” and would “win the fight.”

Moments later, he allegedly attacked her with the spade, forcing her to flee for her life.

Toddler and Parents Killed in Horrific Attack In Hammanskraal

Two days after the first incident, Shibambu was reportedly seen carrying the same spade while heading to a local shop to demand R350 from the shop owner. On his way, he came across children playing at a neighbour’s house and allegedly launched a violent attack on three-year-old Kelebogile Neo Gift Baloyi.

Tragically, the toddler died from the severe injuries sustained. As panic ensued, Kelebogile’s mother, 33-year-old Rose Baloyi, tried to intervene and seek help but was struck and fatally wounded. Her husband, Sibusiso Langatshe Baloyi, rushed to defend his family but also lost his life in the brutal assault.

A taxi driver who attempted to help was also attacked and injured. Mahanjana said Shibambu allegedly fled in the taxi, dragging the driver until the vehicle stopped. Residents managed to apprehend him shortly afterward, leading to his arrest. The injured driver received medical attention for his wounds.

Court Denies Bail Amid Concerns Over Public Safety

During his court appearance, Shibambu represented himself and applied for bail, claiming he needed time to prepare for his trial.

However, prosecutor Sharon Nkandimeng opposed the application, citing evidence from Constable Phalane of the Serious and Violent Crime Unit.

“Constable Phalane testified that the accused was a flight risk and a danger to both the community and himself, as he had allegedly expressed that he wanted to commit suicide because his job was done,” said Mahanjana.

The Magistrate ruled that releasing Shibambu would not be in the interests of justice, given the severity of the crimes and the circumstances surrounding the case. The matter has been postponed to 27 November 2025 for further investigation.

---

For More, Follow SurgeZirc SA On  Facebook, X,  Instagram and Bluesky