Police in Hluthi are on the trail of a local man believed to be behind a harrowing case involving the kidnapping and murder of a child.
The suspect, identified as Michael Hlatshwako of Tibondzeni area, has sparked a full-scale manhunt led by the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS), with officers in the Shiselweni region closing in after gathering what they describe as “strong leads.”
The case has gripped the rural town of Hluthi, with residents shaken by the gravity of the alleged crime. Authorities confirmed that Hlatshwako is the main person of interest, and efforts to trace him have intensified in recent days. 
Shiselweni’s Regional Crime Branch Officer (RCBO), Mr. Vusie Junior Dlamini, is coordinating the search. Members of the public who may have seen Hlatshwako or have any relevant information are being urged to act without delay.
Residents can reach out directly to Mr. Dlamini on 7606 7447 or Hluthi Desk Officer, Sergeant D. Zwane, on 7608 6531. Police emergency lines—999, 9999, or 112—are also available, and tip-offs can be sent via WhatsApp to 7999 1000.
Authorities have assured the public that all information provided will be handled with strict confidentiality.
