In a case that has captured the attention of many, Lungile Mbonambi, a 35-year-old nanny, appeared for the second time this week at the Durban Magistrates Court, facing serious allegations of kidnapping her employer's child. The proceedings bring to light complex dynamics surrounding trust, responsibility, and the legal system as both the prosecution and defence present their arguments.
Mbonambi was apprehended on the morning of 28 September 2025, in Empangeni, where she had allegedly fled with the child in tow to visit her boyfriend. The events leading up to her arrest have sparked a community dialogue on safety and the roles caregivers play in the lives of families.
During her first court appearance on 29 September, State Prosecutor Menzi Sikhakhane characterised Mbonambi as a flight risk due to the substantial distance from her home in Mandeni to Empangeni. He raised concerns over the ongoing investigation into this sensitive matter, requesting that the case be adjourned for further address verification. Mbonambi confirmed her mother's residence in Chesterville during this session.
In the latest court proceedings, Mbonambi's attorney, Miss Salona Maharaj, presented her recollection of the events. Mbonambi asserted that her actions were not intended to be malicious; she described the trip with the child as part of her usual errands around Durban. She maintained cooperation with authorities, stating that she did not resist when the police arrived.
The investigating officer, Musawenkosi Dlamini, provided crucial details, noting that the child's mother was alerted by her son on 27 September, who discovered both the nanny and child missing. After initial attempts to locate Mbonambi proved unsuccessful, the mother reported the alleged kidnapping to the South African Police Service (SAPS).
While dissenting views arose during the bail application, Dlamini suggested Mbonambi could be considered for bail under stringent conditions, including weekly reporting to SAPS. However, Sikhakhane countered, citing the nature of Mbonambi's behaviour before her arrest as grounds to deny bail. He stressed that it was not Mbonambi who notified the complainant about her location, but rather through social media and a relative of her boyfriend.
Sikhakhane requested an adjournment until 6 November 2025 for the Regional Court's decision, pending further interviews with the victim's mother and brother. Magistrate Vahedid subsequently agreed, underscoring the necessity of comprehensive investigation amidst ongoing developments.
Mbonambi's case raises pressing questions about the trust placed in caregivers, and the legal boundaries that govern such relationships. As the community watches closely, the forthcoming court date will undoubtedly reveal more about the circumstances surrounding this troubling case.
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