Police suspect Tiffany Meek (31), the mother of 11-year-old Jayden-Lee Meek who was found murdered in Fleurhof, Johannesburg, in May, attempted to stage the scene to mislead authorities about the circumstances surrounding his death. She appeared in court on Monday following her arrest last week.
Meek faces charges of murder, obstructing the administration of justice, crimen injuria, and attempting to defeat the administration of justice, the National Prosecuting Authority confirmed in a statement.
‘Jayden-Lee was failed’
Community members gathered outside the court ahead of Meek’s appearance, expressing anger and heartbreak over the boy’s death.
Jayden-Lee’s bruised body was discovered on the staircase outside his family’s home in Fleurhof, Roodepoort, just hours after he was reported missing. At the time, Meek claimed he disappeared after being dropped off that afternoon by his school transport.
“The fact that Jayden-Lee Meek’s body was found warm the next morning tells me he was in that flat, hoping and calling on those who were meant to protect him to break down those doors. We failed him,” said Member of Parliament Dereleen James in an interview with eNCA.
Crime scene allegedly staged
Investigators believe Jayden-Lee returned home from school on the day he went missing and was allegedly killed inside the apartment.
Gauteng Police Commissioner, Dr Polly Boshielo, praised the investigative team’s efforts despite public criticism over the time it took to make an arrest.
“This was not an easy case. We received a lot of backlash over our response and the time it took to ensure a breakthrough, but this type of case required our detectives to conduct a thorough investigation and build a case that can stand up in court,” she said.
Boshielo added that more arrests could not be ruled out as the investigation into Jayden-Lee’s murder continues.
“It is rather unfortunate that Jayden was killed and found in the very space where he should have been safe and secure,” she said.
Meek remains in custody and is expected to appear in court again on 18 July for her bail application.
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