DNA confirms identity of murdered journalist and partner

A DNA analysis has confirmed that the human remains found in Rust De Winter, Gauteng, earlier this month, are of Pretoria journalist Aserie Ndlovu and his partner, Zodwa Mdhluli. According to the national police spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, the human remains were analysed and matched with the reference sample of the biological relatives of the deceased. “A positive DNA match thus confirms that the discovered remains are that of the missing couple. The SAPS has already notified both families and is pleased to have assisted to provide closure to both families,” said Mathe. Seven suspects arrested in this case are currently appearing before the KwaMhlanga Magistrate Court in Mpumalanga, on various charges ranging from kidnapping, house robbery to possession of stolen property.Meanwhile, the African Media and Communicators Forum (AMCF) and the National Press Club (NPC) have expressed sadness, adding that the developments do not come as a surprise, as the location where the remains were discovered was pointed out by the suspects, following their arrest. “As the AMCF and NPC, we welcome this milestone in the investigation as it leads the families closer to the truth. We wish to convey our gratitude to the SAPS for keeping to their promise that in four weeks the results would be available. We confirm that the families in Ga-Rankuwa (Ndlovu) and Tembisa (Mdhluli) were visited earlier this evening by the police where the results were disclosed to them,” said Elijah Mhlanga, Chairperson of the AMCF. The organisations said the memorial services and funeral arrangements will be communicated in due course, once the families have finalised the details.