Woman accused of selling toddler pleads for bail, citing pregnancy

VANDERBIJLPARK - A woman from Boipatong, accused of selling her two-year-old son, Kutlwano Shalaba, to unknown men in November last year has pleaded with the Vanderbijlpark Magistrate’s Court to grant her bail, citing her pregnancy with twins and poor prison conditions. Keneiwe Shalaba, facing charges of human trafficking, conspiracy to commit robbery, and making a false police statement, told the court she intends to plead not guilty. She revealed that she discovered her pregnancy while seeking medical attention in prison. During her bail hearing on Monday, Shalaba denied selling her son but admitted she did not know his whereabouts at the time of her arrest, causing murmurs in court. She argued that her other two children, now in relatives' care, were not receiving proper support. She pleaded that she needs to provide for her children and that their needs are not being met. The court is yet to decide on her bail application. The hearing continues.