The 41-year-old man accused of killing his 22-month-old baby has been referred for mental evaluation by Protea Magistrate Court after he blamed his religion for the killing.

Magistrate David Mhango said Oscar Makhaza of Jabulani, Soweto, will be evaluated over a week until his next appearance next month. "We are sending you for a mental inquiry to check if you are fine. During this time you will be kept at Jabulani Police Station," Mhango said.

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Makhaza was arrested for the brutal murder of the baby on Saturday. This was only three days after he had reported the toddler missing to local police. He claimed the baby had disappeared with a woman whom he had paid for sex in the past.

Makhaza faces charges of premeditated murder and defeating the ends of justice.

Mhango asked him if he was aware what he was charged with. He responded by saying: "I have been charged with murder. I killed my son. I slit his throat with a knife. That is what my religion wanted."