By Timothy Sale

A Kokstad couple accused in connection with the death of a four-year-old boy is expected back in court on Thursday as the community continues to seek answers about the child’s disappearance.

The 43-year-old stepfather faces a murder charge after allegedly assaulting the boy in December over a missing USB. According to allegations, the child was not seen again after the incident.

His 27-year-old mother is facing a charge of failing to report her son missing. She has been granted bail, while the stepfather remains behind bars.

The case only came to light after concerned community members alerted authorities that the young boy had vanished.

For many residents, the case is particularly heartbreaking because it involves a child who should have been safe in the care of the adults closest to him.

Detectives from the Kokstad Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit are investigating the matter.

Police have also linked the accused stepfather to a separate murder case in Harding.

As the couple returns to court, the case is expected to bring renewed attention to the tragic circumstances surrounding the young boy’s disappearance and alleged murder, while investigators continue their work to uncover the full truth.