KEY POINTS
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Police are searching for two suspects believed to be linked to the murders of journalist Aserie Ndlovu and his partner, Zodwa Mdhluli, whose remains were found nearly three months after their disappearance.
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Two other men have already appeared in court on kidnapping charges, with potential murder charges pending the outcome of DNA tests on the discovered remains.
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The case has intensified concerns over journalist safety in South Africa and has drawn condemnation from government officials and media advocacy groups.
Authorities are intensifying efforts to track down two additional suspects believed to be connected to the brutal murders of Tshwane-based radio journalist Aserie Sibusiso Ndlovu and his partner, Zodwa Precious Mdhluli.
According to Sowetanlive, the couple was reported missing on February 18, 2025, sparking a months-long investigation that took a grim turn last week with the discovery of human remains suspected to be theirs.
On Saturday, police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe confirmed that the South African Police Service (SAPS) is actively searching for 24-year-old Thato David Madisha and Sello “Skhalo” Uoane in relation to the case. “The two are wanted suspects in the case of murdered journalist Aserie Ndlovu and his partner Zodwa Mdhluli,” said Mathe. “While tracking teams are on the ground searching for the pair, the two suspects are also advised to voluntarily hand themselves over at their nearest police station.”
She added that Uoane is currently out on parole for a previous rape conviction, a detail that raises concerns about systemic failures in monitoring high-risk parolees.
Murder Investigation Deepens as DNA Results Awaited
Earlier in the week, two men—Samuel Mogongwe, 41, and Michael Sikhosana, 40—appeared briefly in the KwaMhlanga Magistrate’s Court on charges of kidnapping, pending further developments. The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has indicated that murder charges may be added once DNA results confirm the identity of the remains found.
NPA spokesperson Monica Nyuswa stated that the legal process remains contingent on forensic evidence. “We will await the results of DNA tests to establish if the remains are theirs before adding more charges,” she explained.
The remains, discovered in a remote area on Thursday, were in a condition that required detailed forensic examination. Though formal identification is pending, the bodies are believed to be those of Ndlovu and Mdhluli.
Their disappearance had drawn considerable attention in media and activist circles, especially given Ndlovu’s role as a journalist covering political and community issues. He was well known for his critical reporting and fearless commentary on matters affecting ordinary South Africans.
Deputy Minister in the Presidency Kenny Morolong condemned the incident, describing it as a direct attack on press freedom and human dignity. “We condemn this senseless, barbaric and brute act of violence,” he said.
A broader pattern of violence against Journalists
The killings have reignited conversations around the safety of journalists and activists in South Africa. According to Reporters Without Borders, South Africa remains one of the most dangerous countries in Africa for media workers, with increasing threats both online and offline.
Civil society groups have urged the police to treat the case with urgency and transparency, fearing that unresolved attacks on journalists could create a chilling effect on press freedom in the country.
The SAPS has appealed to the public for any information that may lead to the arrest of Madisha and Uoane. “Communities who may know their whereabouts or may have any information are advised to contact the investigating officer in this case, Lieutenant-Colonel Maboko, on 0720302794,” said Mathe.
As the investigation continues, family members and colleagues of Ndlovu and Mdhluli have called for justice and closure, expressing deep sorrow and frustration at the violent turn of events.
