Key Points
- Five suspects face charges in the disappearance of Ndlovu and Mdhluli.
- The reward for information increased to R100,000 thanks to AMCF and NPC.
- Family members feel hopeful that justice will be served soon as the case moves forward.
PRETORIA, South Africa (AP) — Police Minister Senzo Mchunu confirmed Thursday that Pretoria-based journalist Sibusiso Aserie Ndlovu and his partner, Zodwa Precious Mdhluli, remain missing. The couple vanished under mysterious circumstances in February.
Police Arrest Suspects, Investigation Continues
Speaking during the funeral of Constable Boipelo Senoge in Bloemfontein, Mchunu addressed the ongoing investigation. He told mourners that the South African Police Service (SAPS) has continued working intensively on the case.
“Officers have arrested suspects, and we thank SAPS for their tireless efforts,” Mchunu said. “The case is now in court, but authorities still haven’t found the couple.”
Police have charged five suspects with kidnapping the pair and hijacking Ndlovu’s white Volkswagen Polo. Ndlovu frequently drove the vehicle. Authorities expect the suspects to appear in the KwaMhlanga Magistrate’s Court on Friday. The court postponed the case earlier after the African Media and Communicators Forum (AMCF) and the National Press Club (NPC) filed an application. These organizations want the media to have access to broadcast the trial.
Media Forums Offer Reward and Demand Access
Recently, the AMCF and NPC increased the reward for information from R50,000 to R100,000. They also called on authorities to show transparency and urgency.
Elijah Mhlanga, chairperson of the AMCF, announced that the forum has secured legal representation. “We hired a lawyer to represent the media houses, and that lawyer is ready to proceed,” Mhlanga said.
Clearly, the media and advocacy groups remain committed to ensuring justice and accountability in the case of the missing South African journalist.
Police Leaders Meet Families of the Victims
On Wednesday, Deputy Police Minister Polly Boshielo and SAPS National Commissioner Gen. Fannie Masemola traveled to Mpumalanga. They held private meetings with the families of Ndlovu and Mdhluli to share updates on the investigation and upcoming trial.
Afterward, Mdhluli’s son, Treasure, addressed the media. “We believe we are close to the end, and justice will prevail,” he said. “We’re truly grateful for the support we’ve received from everyone.”
This show of support gives the families renewed hope that they will soon find answers.
Mchunu Speaks on Rising Crime and Cruelty
Furthermore, Mchunu commented on the troubling nature of violent crime in South Africa. He expressed concern over what he described as increasingly cruel and sadistic behavior among criminals.
“I don’t understand what drives someone to commit such brutal acts,” he said. “Why would you choose to harm a fellow citizen in the most inhumane way possible?”
His remarks reflect the growing national concern over public safety. Many are now calling for stronger law enforcement reforms.
This case involving a missing South African journalist highlights the urgent need to protect journalists and vulnerable citizens alike.
