Five suspects have been arrested in connection with the disappearance of journalist Aserie Ndlovu and his partner Zodwa Mdhluli after stolen property and vehicle parts linked to the couple were recovered.

Pretoria Rekord reports that police held a meeting today with the families of Mdhluli and Ndlovu.

Police brief families

“We have gathered here this morning to provide a progress report on the kidnapping and hijacking case that has been registered in the case of missing journalist, Ndlovu and his partner, Mdhluli. We have briefed both families on where we are in terms of our investigation and what we have uncovered thus far.”

Charges and arrests

Police stated that five suspects have been arrested and are facing the following charges: Kidnapping, carjacking, house robbery, possession of suspected stolen property, possession of a suspected stolen motor vehicle, and drug possession.

“All five suspects were traced to different villages in KwaMhlanga and all are South African nationals.

“Police have so far recovered and seized two VW Citi Golfs that were allegedly fitted with parts suspected to belong to the victim, Ndlovu’s vehicle.

“Home appliances that were allegedly stolen from the couple’s home have also been recovered. These include a fridge, stove, microwave, blankets and other items.”

In a video supplied by national police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, Deputy Police Minister Polly Boshielo was seen speaking to family members.

Timeline of disappearance

Ndlovu, a National Press Club committee member, was reported missing on February 18, while his partner Mdhluli was reported missing a few days later on February 24.

Ndlovu’s brother, Sifiso, told the Sowetan that the cameras at Denlyn Mall in Mamelodi showed Ndlovu leaving after work.

He worked in Mamelodi, east of Pretoria, but lived in KwaMhlanga, Mpumalanga.

What happened to him after that remains unclear.

The details surrounding Mdhluli’s disappearance are also unknown. The family has granted the police permission to access the couple’s phone records.

Investigation ongoing

“Investigations are continuing and all possible leads are being followed where we are still searching for the missing couple. With the resources and capacity deployed, we are hopeful that we will soon get to the bottom of the motive and the whereabouts of the missing couple.”

Court appearances

Police said three suspects have already appeared in the KwaMhlanga Magistrates’ Court on charges of possession of suspected stolen property and kidnapping.

“The other two suspects are expected to appear today and will be joined by the three suspects who appeared on Tuesday. One suspect is a minor child of 17 years old and is currently released into the care of his parents.”

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