In a major development in the ongoing investigation into the murder of 30-year-old Olorato Mongale, the South African Police Service (SAPS) has officially cleared Fezile Ngubane of any involvement in the crime. Initially identified as a suspect, Ngubane has now been confirmed to be a victim of identity theft and criminal exploitation.
The tragic murder of Mongale shocked the nation after her body was found dumped in Lombardy West, Johannesburg, on Monday. She had last been seen the previous day after going on a date with a man who was reportedly driving a Volkswagen Polo. This man has since been identified as Philangenkosi Makhanya, who has now been confirmed as the main suspect in the case.
On Thursday, police tracked down Makhanya to Amanzimtoti, KwaZulu-Natal, where he was killed during a shootout with law enforcement. His death brought a new wave of developments, including the discovery that Ngubane’s identity was fraudulently used in Makhanya’s alleged criminal operations.
According to SAPS spokesperson Athlenda Mathe, Ngubane washes cars for a living and resides in the same neighborhood as Makhanya, who allegedly targeted him due to his vulnerable circumstances. Police believe Makhanya stole Ngubane’s smart ID card and used it to register multiple SIM cards used in a series of crimes, including kidnapping and robbery aimed at young women.https://x.com/SAPoliceService/status/1928776993644097727?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1928776993644097727%7Ctwgr%5E7e3730f966e4ac6b57b8a25533a74a2cbf6b66de%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sabcnews.com%2Fsabcnews%2F1039353-2%2F
“Ngubane was unfortunately exploited. His ID smart card was one of 27 found in Makhanya’s possession. These IDs were likely used to create false identities, enabling the perpetrator to continue his crimes undetected,” said Mathe. “In some cases, it is suspected that Makhanya also used Ngubane’s bank card to make purchases at clothing stores.”
The case has since widened, as investigators believe the syndicate may be connected to as many as 20 cases involving young female victims. As a result, police are intensifying their efforts to bring others involved to justice. One key suspect, Bongani Mthimkulu, remains at large. Authorities have urged him to surrender at the nearest police station.
Meanwhile, the parents of one of the other individuals linked to the case were taken in for questioning but have since been released after providing their statements.
The SAPS continues to investigate the extent of the criminal network believed to have orchestrated these heinous acts. The case has stirred nationwide outrage, particularly due to the methodical targeting of vulnerable women.
As for Fezile Ngubane, he has now been officially cleared of wrongdoing and released from custody. His story serves as a grim reminder of how innocent individuals can become entangled in criminal schemes beyond their control.
Authorities continue to call on the public for information that may lead to the arrest of any remaining suspects and to assist in bringing full justice for Olorato Mongale and other potential victims.