In the case of missing Pretoria-based journalist Aserie Ndlovu and his partner Zodwa Mdhluli, four suspects have been apprehended by South African police. The couple’s mysterious disappearance in February has now escalated from a missing persons investigation into serious allegations of kidnapping and car hijacking.
Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, the police spokesperson, confirmed that the arrests were made after three of the suspects were reportedly found in possession of vehicle parts connected to Ndlovu’s car. This evidence has shifted the focus of the investigation, raising urgent concerns for the safety of the missing couple.
The couple was last seen on 18 February – Mdhluli was last at their home in KwaMhlanga, Mpumalanga, while Ndlovu left Capital FM South Africa, where he served as the station manager. Since that day, there have been no sightings or communications from either individual, prompting widespread alarm among family, friends, and the media community.
Mathe disclosed that the first suspect taken into custody was the last person known to have been with Ndlovu and Mdhluli. Further investigations revealed that the second, third, and fourth suspects were discovered with various vehicle parts believed to belong to the missing journalist’s car. Among those arrested is reported to be a mechanic from the KwaMhlanga area, adding a layer of complexity to the case.
In addition to the vehicle parts, police have identified and seized two VW Citi Golfs found in the possession of the suspects. Legal proceedings are set to commence soon, with one suspect expected to appear at the Mamelodi Magistrates’ Court on 6 May 2025, while the others will face court proceedings later in the week at the KwaMhlanga Magistrates’ Court. Police indicated that additional charges—likely to include house robbery and possession of stolen property—could be added as the investigation unfolds.
Despite the arrests, Brigadier Mathe emphasised that the search for Ndlovu and Mdhluli continues. “This is a developing case,” she affirmed, underscoring the ongoing efforts by a multidisciplinary team that comprises crime and counterintelligence specialists, cybercrime experts, organised crime detectives, and SAPS Airwing alongside drone pilots.
As the investigation progresses, hope remains that the missing couple may soon be found safe.