No DNA match from Iyapha’s body

THE male DNA found on four-yearold Iyapha Yamile’s body did not match the two men accused of her rape and murder, the Khayelitsha Magistrate’s Court heard this week.

Iyapha went missing while playing outside her aunt’s home in Town Two, Khayelitsha a month ago. Her body was found in a plastic bag a day later. She had been raped and her body mutilated.

DNA results showed a male DNA specimen on the little girl’s underwear and on her lower body but Thabiso Mtshanguta and Thabo Titus, previously accused of the crimes, were set free.

National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson Eric Ntabazalila said investigation into the DNA found on the toddler’s body was ongoing but the two had to be set free as there was no evidence linking them to the crime.

Human rights organisation Social Justice Coalition has called for police accountability. “We call on the South African Police Service to investigate the matter thoroughly and deploy experienced detectives, the organisation said yesterday.

The SJC will hold a march to Lingelethu West Police Station today. – Staff Reporter