KEY POINTS
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Sello Uoane, suspect in the murder of journalist Aserie Ndlovu and his partner, had his parole revoked twice before his recent arrest.
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Despite being classified as a high-risk offender, Uoane was released on parole in January 2024 and monitored 86 times.
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The case has intensified scrutiny of South Africa’s parole system, especially regarding the release and monitoring of high-risk individuals.
The recent arrest of Sello Skhalo Uoane, a suspect in the murders of journalist Aserie Sibusiso Ndlovu and his partner Zodwa Mdhluli, has brought to light significant concerns regarding South Africa’s parole system. Uoane, previously convicted of violent crimes, had his parole revoked twice before his latest apprehension.
Uoane was arrested alongside Thato Madisha in Nokaneng, Mpumalanga, after being sought by police since February. He was last seen at his community service placement, working as a gardener under conditions. His parole history is troubling:
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In July 2022, his parole was revoked after allegations of rape emerged, though the case was later struck off the roll.
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In October 2023, he was arrested for possession of an unlicensed firearm, leading to another parole revocation; this case was also struck off the roll.
Despite being classified as a “high-risk offender,” Uoane was released in January 2024. Correctional services spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo stated, “Records indicate that [Uoane] has been visited [by officers] at his residence 86 times since his most recent parole placement on 24 January 2024.”
The disappearance and murder of a Journalist couple raises alarms
Ndlovu and Mdhluli were reported missing on February 18. Their remains were later discovered in a Limpopo veld, with DNA results pending confirmation. The couple’s disappearance had previously raised concerns, with the African Media and Communicators Forum (AMCF) intensifying efforts to locate them. AMCF chairperson Elijah Mhlanga expressed, “We are increasingly concerned over the couple’s safety, especially because the last time either one of them was last seen was 20 days ago.”
Sowetanlive reports that the case has prompted calls for a review of the parole system, especially concerning high-risk offenders. The fact that Uoane, with a history of violent crimes and violations, was free raises questions about the monitoring and assessment processes in place.
