Mourners gathered today to bid a tearful farewell to five-year-old Ditebogo Phalane Jr, whose life was tragically cut short in a botched hijacking incident.
The funeral service, held at a community hall in Soshanguve, was attended by top officials from the South African Police Service (SAPS), including National Police Minister Bheki Cele, who is expected to address the gathering.
[WATCH] The hearse of little Ditebogo Phalane has arrived at the Kopanong Hall in Soshanguve.
5-year-old Ditebogo was shot and killed when his father was hijacked last week.#KayaNews #DitebogoPhalane KS. pic.twitter.com/xmIKNiHFvp
— Kaya 959 News (@KayaNews) May 17, 2024
Ditebogo Phalane lost his life on the evening of May 10 when he ran out to greet his father. According to police reports, armed suspects hijacked the father’s Toyota bakkie, and in the ensuing chaos, young Ditebogo was shot. Despite efforts to save him, he later succumbed to his injuries in the hospital.
In a significant development, two suspects have been apprehended in connection with the incident. The vehicle used during the hijacking has been seized, along with a car jamming device, a firearm, and a stolen vehicle found in the suspects’ possession.
The community of Soshanguve has come out in their numbers to stand alongside the distraught Phalane family and they bid farewell to their son, Ditebogo Phalane Jnr. #DitebogoPhalane @POWER987News pic.twitter.com/l0kIYcHbq4
— Nkosi Malinga-Mnisi (@MnisiNkosikhona) May 17, 2024
Ditebogo Phalane’s teachers fondly remember him as a bright and inquisitive child who embraced challenges. His love for music and dancing brought joy to those around him.
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In an emotional obituary, he is described as a loving light in the lives of all who knew him. He leaves behind grieving parents and two siblings.
The suspects are scheduled to appear in the Pretoria North Magistrate’s Court on Friday, where justice will begin to unfold.
Good morning, today we are at Kopang hall in #Soshanguve for the funeral service of 5-year-old #Ditebogo Junior Phalane.
Jnr was shot and killed while his father was being hijacked last Friday. @SowetanLIVE pic.twitter.com/qU3ex2YdgU
— ❤The journalist ❤ (@Moloi_Herman1) May 17, 2024
Ditebogo’s obituary painted a vivid picture of a young individual whose presence was a source of joy and inspiration.
Described as loving and bright, Phalane’s enthusiasm for music and dancing resonated with many, making him a cherished member of his community. His teachers and peers remembered him fondly, reflecting on his infectious energy and the positive influence he had on those around him.
The community’s response to Phalane’s death has been one of profound grief, coupled with an outpouring of support for his family.
The EFF’s Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi hails Ditebogo Phalane Snr for being a present father and being with his son till the last moment. #DitebogoPhalane @POWER987News pic.twitter.com/UR3nkCHqmH
— Nkosi Malinga-Mnisi (@MnisiNkosikhona) May 17, 2024
Vigils and gatherings have been held, providing spaces for collective mourning and reflection. The tragic event has also sparked broader discussions about safety and the protection of the youth in Soshanguve, prompting calls for increased vigilance and community-driven initiatives aimed at fostering a safer environment.
Amidst the sorrow, there has been a palpable sense of unity, with neighbours and local organizations rallying to offer both emotional and practical support to Phalane’s family.
[WATCH] It’s praise and worship at the funeral service of Ditebogo Phalane Junior currently underway in Soshanguve.#KayaNews #DitebogoPhalaneJunior #crime #hijacking KS. pic.twitter.com/P2AfuYWOdO
— Kaya 959 News (@KayaNews) May 17, 2024
