KEY POINTS
- Two bodies, believed to be missing journalist Aserie Ndlovu and partner Zodwa Mdhluli, were found following a suspect’s tip, with DNA confirmation pending.
- The case links to a kidnapping syndicate and mirrors the recent murders of three police officers, underscoring South Africa’s missing persons crisis.
- Ndlovu’s investigative reporting on corruption fuels fears of targeted violence against journalists, with 14 media workers killed since 2020.
Two bodies suspected to be those of missing journalist Aserie Sibusiso Ndlovu and his partner, Zodwa Precious Mdhluli, were discovered in an undisclosed location, national police commissioner General Fannie Masemola confirmed on Thursday.
The discovery follows a tip-off from one of five suspects arrested in connection with the couple’s disappearance in February.
“One of the suspects pointed out the area where the remains were found. DNA tests will confirm their identities alongside the closest relatives,” Masemola stated. The couple was last seen on February 18, 2025, sparking nationwide outcry and a months-long search.
Sowetanlive reports that their case echoes the recent tragedy of three Free State police officers whose bodies were recovered from the Hennops River in April, highlighting a surge in high-profile disappearances.
Suspect’s family taxi linked to case
The investigation took a shocking turn when it emerged that one suspect allegedly used a family-owned taxi to transport the couple before their disappearance. Relatives of the missing pair expressed anguish over the betrayal, with Ndlovu’s sister stating, “We trusted him—he drove our brother for years.”
South Africa’s missing persons rate has risen by 18% since 2023, with activists blaming systemic policing gaps and organized crime. The DNA results, expected within 48 hours, will determine if the remains belong to Ndlovu, a freelance reporter known for covering corruption, and Mdhluli, a nurse.
Ndlovu’s work often exposed graft in local municipalities, prompting speculation his disappearance was retaliation. Media advocacy group Right2Know condemned the incident, calling it “an attack on press freedom.” Meanwhile, the Hawks (South Africa’s Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation) linked the suspects to a syndicate involved in kidnappings for ransom, with over 30 similar cases reported in Gauteng this year.
The couple’s case parallels the April recovery of three police officers’ bodies in Centurion, where a R350,000 reward failed to save Constables Senoge, Buys, and Cebekhulu. Their funeral services this week have intensified demands for improved officer safety and anti-kidnapping measures.
