In a grim development, the South African Police Service (SAPS) has discovered two bodies believed to be those of missing journalist Aseri Ndlovu and his partner, Zodwa Mdluli. The couple had been missing since February 2025 after mysteriously disappearing from their home in KwaMhlanga, Mpumalanga.
National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola revealed the shocking update during the funeral of Constable Boipelo Senoge, one of three police officers whose bodies were recently recovered from the Hennops River in Tshwane. Masemola confirmed that the remains were discovered following crucial information obtained from a suspect currently in custody.
Although the suspect did not reveal the exact burial site, a SAPS search and rescue team conducted a detailed sweep of the indicated area and ultimately uncovered the bodies. Masemola noted that DNA testing is underway to conclusively confirm the identities of the deceased individuals.
The tragic discovery brings a chilling turn to a case that has gripped the nation since early 2025. Aseri Ndlovu, a respected journalist and founder of @Live\_Capital, and Zodwa Mdluli were last seen leaving their residence in KwaMhlanga. Their sudden disappearance sparked a national outcry, leading to widespread media attention and a major police investigation.
In a significant breakthrough, police recently arrested five suspects connected to the case, including the alleged mastermind, Samuel Mogongwe. The 41-year-old, who had been employed as the couple’s taxi driver, is accused of orchestrating their abduction. Authorities believe Mogongwe’s motive was to steal the couple’s vehicle with the intent of converting it into a taxi for operation in the local area.https://x.com/keletsomk/status/1920450586152952095?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1920450586152952095%7Ctwgr%5Ec227d07738ac8b090a63c01be04ec81416f7f207%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.snl24.com%2Fdailysun%2Fnews%2Fwatch-bodies-believed-to-be-of-missing-journalist-aseri-ndlovu-and-partner-found-20250508
Sources suggest the crime was premeditated, with the vehicle being the primary target. The hijacking quickly escalated into a kidnapping, and tragically, it appears the couple was murdered soon after. Mogongwe and the other suspects are currently in police custody, and investigations are ongoing.
While the families of the victims await official confirmation from the DNA tests, the discovery has offered some closure after months of anxiety and fear. The incident has also raised renewed concerns about safety in the Mpumalanga region and the exploitation of trust by individuals in close proximity to victims.
The SAPS has urged the public to remain patient as forensic processes take place and has promised that justice will be served. Masemola reaffirmed the police’s commitment to uncovering the full truth behind the crime and ensuring all responsible parties are held accountable.
This case continues to develop, with more details expected as authorities proceed with their investigation and legal processes against the accused.