JOHANNESBURG – The South African Police Service (SAPS) has made a major breakthrough in the investigation into the tragic murder of 30-year-old Olorato Mongale. Authorities have confirmed the seizure of a white Volkswagen Polo believed to have been used in her killing. The vehicle, found at a panel beating workshop in Phoenix, Durban, contained traces of blood, reinforcing suspicions of its role in the crime.
The car was recovered by the SAPS National Crime Intelligence Unit after days of intense searching. Investigators had been tracking leads since Mongale’s body was discovered in Lombardy West, Johannesburg, earlier this week. Following the discovery of the car, one man — believed to be the registered owner — was taken into police custody. His role in the incident is now under investigation.
According to police reports, Mongale was last seen on Sunday when she left her home in Athol. She had been picked up by a man she had recently met, and the two were reportedly going out on a date. Tragically, just hours later, Mongale’s lifeless body was found abandoned in a remote area of Lombardy West.
Law enforcement officials believe that two other men are directly involved in the murder. These suspects are currently on the run, and police have launched an urgent manhunt to track them down. Authorities have called on the public to assist in identifying and locating the suspects, emphasizing the severity of the situation.
Police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe described the fugitives as dangerous and urged communities to help by sharing any information or images of the men widely. “The two suspects are on the run, and members of the public are urged to distribute their photos far and wide to assist police investigations,” Mathe stated.
The brutal killing of Mongale has sent shockwaves across Johannesburg and beyond. In the aftermath of her death, family and friends have organized a candlelight service in her memory. The gathering is set to take place in Lombardy West — the very area where her body was discovered — to honor her life and call for justice.
This incident has once again highlighted the dangers women face and sparked renewed conversations around gender-based violence in South Africa. Community leaders, activists, and residents are demanding swift justice and better protection for women across the country.https://x.com/AthlendaM/status/1927835789972365342?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1927835789972365342%7Ctwgr%5Ec95e94f5166a7a5c2cc069402d1994a307aff936%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ewn.co.za%2F2025%2F05%2F29%2Fpolice-seize-car-used-in-olorato-mongales-murder-owner-of-vehicle-arrested
Police are urging anyone with relevant information — especially regarding the whereabouts of the two suspects — to come forward. Tip-offs can be reported anonymously to Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or through the MySAPS mobile app.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities have vowed to bring all those responsible for Mongale’s murder to justice.