Olorato Mongale
By Nkosana Khumalo
In a significant development in the ongoing investigation into the murder of 30-year-old journalism student Olorato Mongale, the South African Police Service (SAPS) has arrested the parents of one of the primary suspects. The father, identified as the owner of the white VW Polo believed to have been used in the crime, and the mother, accused of tipping off their son about impending police action, were taken into custody. This tip-off allegedly enabled the suspect to evade arrest on Wednesday evening in Inanda, KwaZulu-Natal.
Background of the Case
Olorato Mongale, a postgraduate student at the University of the Witwatersrand, was reported missing after going on a date with a man she had recently met at a mall in Bloemfontein. She had shared her location with friends and expressed excitement about the meeting. Her body was later discovered in an open field in Lombardy West, Johannesburg. CCTV footage showed her leaving her residence and entering a white VW Polo with fake registration plates.
Suspects and Criminal History
The SAPS has identified three suspects in connection with Mongale’s murder:
- Philangenkosi Sibongokuhle Makhanya
- Bongani Mthimkhulu
- Fezile Ngubane
Makhanya and Mthimkhulu were previously arrested on 20 April 2025 for kidnapping and robbing a woman in Brakpan. They were released on bail on 26 April 2025. Investigations suggest that the same white VW Polo was used in both the Brakpan incident and Mongale’s murder.
Vehicle Seizure and Forensic Evidence
A multidisciplinary team led by the SAPS Anti-Kidnapping Task Team located the white VW Polo at a panel beater workshop in Phoenix, Durban. Forensic analysis revealed traces of blood inside the vehicle. An elderly man, believed to be the owner of the car, was arrested. The investigation also led officers to a lodge in Kew, Johannesburg, where two suspects had booked a room, and subsequently to a residence in KwaMashu, Durban.
Public Appeal and Ongoing Manhunt
The SAPS has released photographs of the three suspects and is urging the public to assist in locating them. They are considered dangerous, and citizens are advised not to approach them. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Brigadier Nama at +27 (82) 778-9035.
Community Response and Memorial Services
The murder of Olorato Mongale has sparked national outrage and renewed calls to address gender-based violence in South Africa. A candlelight vigil was held in Lombardy West, where her body was found, attended by family, friends, and community members. Family spokesperson Criselda Kananda described Mongale as a “bubbly” and “kind” individual, emphasizing the profound loss felt by those who knew her.
Further memorial services are scheduled as follows:
- Memorial Service: Thursday, 29 May 2025, at 12:00, Mahube Tumelo Hall, 24 Ben Jones Street, Hamilton, Bloemfontein.
- Prayer Service: Friday, 30 May 2025, at 18:00, 6 Mons Street, Bayswater, Bloemfontein.
- Funeral Service: Sunday, 1 June 2025, from 08:00 to 11:00, City Hall, 5 President Brand Street, Bloemfontein.
- Burial: Sunday, 1 June 2025, at 12:00, Bainsvlei Private Cemetery.
Call to Action
The Mongale family and community leaders are calling on the government and society at large to take a stand against gender-based violence. They emphasize the need for systemic change to protect women and ensure justice for victims like Olorato.
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