Key Points
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Olorato Mongale’s murder renews outrage over gender-based violence.
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Activists say GBV remains five times the global average in SA.
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Police have launched a manhunt for suspect known as “John.”
The murder of 30-year-old Olorato Mongale has ignited public fury across South Africa.
She had gone on a date with a man known only as “John” before her body was discovered in a veld near Lombardy West, Johannesburg.
Mongale, originally from the Free State, told her friends she would share her location during the outing. However, she failed to do so.
After waiting for two hours, her friends activated the “Find My Location” app. It led them to a house in Bramley.
At the scene, they found her handbag and phone. A short while later, community members and police found her body nearby.
According to police, the suspect drove with Mongale through Alexandra and Kew. He later dumped her body in an open field.
They also suspect that another man may have helped him commit the crime.
Activists say GBVF rates are higher than reported
Gender-based violence activists say the murder of Olorato Mongale reflects a worsening crisis.
Rosie Motene, a women’s rights advocate, said Mongale’s case is not isolated. She called it part of a devastating national pattern.
Motene, who has worked with survivors for over two decades, said the system continues to fail victims. She added that many never report abuse due to fear, intimidation, and mistrust in the police.
“Officers often tell victims to go home and make peace. In rural areas, women lack access to both justice and support,” she said.
Furthermore, Bafana Khumalo of Sonke Gender Justice said GBVF in South Africa is five times the global average. He urged authorities to improve prevention efforts, especially by involving men and boys.
Police intensify search for suspect known as ‘John’
Gauteng police have launched a manhunt for the suspect. He reportedly drove a white VW Polo with cloned license plates belonging to a Toyota Hilux.
SAPS spokesperson Athlenda Mathe confirmed that police are also investigating a similar case. A second woman was found dead in Sandown, Sandton, earlier this month.
Family spokesperson Criselda Kananda expressed heartbreak over the tragedy. She said Mongale’s friends followed her safety plan, but it wasn’t enough to save her.
“We ask the public to keep her family in their prayers,” Kananda said.
With rising pressure from activists and the public, authorities face renewed demands to treat gender-based violence as a national emergency.
