Read more
The three suspects are expected to appear in court this week.
Public Order Police (POPs) members at the Tshwane Police Training Academy on 15 June 2024. Picture: Gallo Images/Frennie Shivambu
Three additional suspects have been arrested in connection with the disappearance of journalist Sibusiso Aserie Ndlovu and his partner, Zodwa Precious Mdhuli.
They were apprehended in the early hours of Tuesday morning, according to the South African Police Service (Saps).
This follows a public alert issued over the weekend, in which authorities asked for assistance in locating Thato David Madisha and Sello “Skhalo” Uoane.
The police have now confirmed the arrests of Madisha and Uoane.
The two men, aged 24 and 43 respectively, were found at a hideout in Nokaneng near Rust De Winter, along with a third unidentified individual.
Mpumalanga police spokesperson Jabu Ndubane confirmed that the three suspects are expected to appear at the KwaMhlanga Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday.
They face charges of kidnapping, hijacking, and house robbery.
ALSO READ: Missing KZN teen recounts alleged abduction after two-week ordeal
National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola praised both the investigative team and members of the public for their role in the arrests.
“We thank the people of South Africa, particularly Mpumalanga, who have assisted our investigating team in tracing these suspects,” Masemola said in a statement.
“The social media community must also be appreciated for sharing the pictures of these suspects far and wide.
“Together, we can do more with the cooperation of communities in fighting crime and apprehending dangerous criminals.”
Mpumalanga Acting Police Commissioner Zeph Mkhwanazi echoed the sentiment, describing the arrests as a major breakthrough.
“We are utilising all available resources to uncover the truth behind what has transpired to the two victims.
“We are encouraged by the team’s diligent efforts, which are yielding positive results,” he said.
Mkhwanazi added that investigations remain ongoing, and police are committed to holding all responsible parties accountable.
READ MORE: Police rescue two businessmen in Midrand after kidnapping ordeal
The arrests follow the discovery of human remains near Rust De Winter, believed to belong to the missing couple.
Forensic testing is currently underway to confirm the identities, with results still pending.
“A DNA matching process is already underway to match the human remains found with the DNA of close family members,” national police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe said on Tuesday.
Ndlovu and Mdhluli were last seen on 18 February, driving in a white Volkswagen Citi Golf.
The total number of suspects arrested in the case has now risen to eight.
Previously, five individuals were apprehended in various villages around KwaMhlanga, Mpumalanga.
They face multiple charges, including kidnapping, carjacking, house robbery, possession of suspected stolen property, possession of a suspected stolen vehicle, and drug possession.
Among them is a 17-year-old minor who was released into the custody of his parents.
The others remain in custody and had already appeared in court as of last week.
READ MORE: Man allegedly holds ex captive for 13 days before she escapes
The first suspect arrested in connection with the case, Samuel Mogongwe, was reportedly the last person seen with the missing couple before their disappearance.
The 41-year-old was well known to the victims and their families, having worked as their taxi driver.
The police have recovered two VW Citi Golfs, allegedly fitted with parts suspected to be from Ndlovu’s vehicle.
In addition, several home appliances, including a fridge, stove, and microwave, believed to have been stolen from the couple’s residence, have also been retrieved.
Download our app