South African Police Nab Seven in Murder Case of Journalist Aserie Ndlovu and Partner

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has made significant progress in the high-profile murder investigation of journalist Aserie Ndlovu and his partner, Zodwa Mdhluli. The National Commissioner of SAPS, General Fannie Masemola, expressed deep gratitude to the public for their assistance, which played a crucial role in tracing and apprehending suspects connected to the brutal killing of the couple.

Breakthrough in the Investigation

Following an urgent alert issued on Saturday, SAPS appealed to the public to help locate two outstanding suspects in connection with the murders. This call to action received widespread attention, especially on social media platforms where the suspects’ photos were widely circulated. The public response, particularly from communities in Mpumalanga, proved instrumental in leading law enforcement to the suspects' whereabouts.

On Monday evening, a multi-disciplinary team comprising SAPS Crime Intelligence officers, detectives, and the Cyber Crime Unit—working alongside community members—raided a hideout in Nokaneng, near Rust De Winter. During the operation, human remains believed to be those of Ndlovu and Mdhluli were discovered.

The remains have been sent for forensic analysis, and a DNA matching process is currently underway to confirm their identities with the help of close family members. If confirmed, this will bring some closure to the families, who have waited anxiously since the couple went missing nearly three months ago.

Arrests and Suspect Details

During the early hours of Tuesday morning, SAPS successfully arrested two of the previously wanted suspects—identified as 24-year-old Thato “Small” Madisha and 43-year-old Sello Uoane. In addition, a third individual was taken into custody at the same location. This brings the total number of suspects arrested in the case to seven, with four already in custody prior to this operation.

General Masemola praised the meticulous efforts of the SAPS officers and the broader investigation team, emphasizing the role of inter-agency collaboration in driving the case forward. He also acknowledged the indispensable role of everyday citizens.

“We thank the people of South Africa, particularly Mpumalanga, who have assisted our investigating team in tracing these suspects,” Masemola said. “The social media community must also be appreciated for sharing the pictures of these suspects far and wide. Together, we can do more with the cooperation of communities in fighting crime and apprehending dangerous criminals.”

Victims and Background

Journalist Aserie Ndlovu and his partner, Zodwa Mdhluli, were reported missing on 18 February 2025. The couple’s disappearance raised immediate concern due to Ndlovu’s high-profile work in the media, often covering issues related to political corruption and organized crime.

Last week, two decomposed bodies believed to be those of Ndlovu and Mdhluli were discovered, prompting intensified efforts to trace the remaining suspects. Their deaths have sent shockwaves through the journalism community and renewed calls for greater protection of media workers in South Africa.

A Community United Against Crime

This case highlights the power of collaboration between law enforcement and the public. General Masemola reiterated SAPS’s commitment to thoroughly investigating crimes against civilians, especially cases involving journalists, and to ensuring justice is served.

The suspects are expected to appear in court soon to face charges related to kidnapping, murder, and obstruction of justice. As the legal proceedings unfold, SAPS has assured the public that all efforts are being made to conclude the case with integrity and transparency.