Johannesburg- Gauteng police have launched an intensive manhunt for a suspect identified only as “John” in connection with the murder of 30-year-old Olorato Mongale, who was killed during what appeared to be a date gone tragically wrong.
The suspect, described as an African man, drives a white Volkswagen Polo fitted with cloned number plates bearing the registration LT 57 JG GP – plates that legitimately belong to a Toyota Hilux.
According to national police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, Mongale was picked up from her residential complex in Athol, Johannesburg, at approximately 3 PM on Sunday by her alleged killer for what she believed was a date.
“He drove with the victim to the township of Alexandra, proceeded to Kew and between Alexandra and Lombardy West in Johannesburg, this man allegedly murdered Olorato and dumped her body,” Mathe said.
The victim’s belongings, including her mobile phone and handbag, were discovered abandoned in Kew. Mongale’s body was found less than two hours later, around 5 PM, in Lombardy West with the assistance of community members who aided police in the search.
Investigators are exploring the possibility that “John” may have had an accomplice – another male suspect who could have been present during the alleged murder.
This case forms part of a disturbing pattern of violence against women in the province. Police are investigating similarities with another case involving a 39-year-old woman found dumped on Catherine Street in Sandown, Sandton, on May 8, 2025.
The investigation comes just one week after police arrested a 24-year-old man who targeted women through fake Facebook profiles. The suspect, currently in custody and having appeared before the Bolobedu Magistrate’s Court on charges of kidnapping and rape, allegedly lured a 28-year-old woman to Limpopo under false pretenses before repeatedly assaulting her.
The victim was later rescued by police at a filling station in Giyani.Mathe emphasized the urgent need for women to exercise extreme caution, particularly when meeting new acquaintances or going on dates with people they’ve met online or through social media.
“While police investigating teams are on the ground on the Olorato Mongale case and several other gender-based violence and femicide cases, we are urging women to be extra vigilant and look out for this VW Polo,” she said.
Police have issued specific safety recommendations for women:- Always inform friends and family of whereabouts when meeting new people or going on dates- Avoid meeting strangers in secluded areas- Only meet in public spaces- Be aware of the white Volkswagen Polo with cloned plates LT 57 JG GP
The investigation into Mongale’s murder continues as police work to apprehend the suspect and determine whether he is connected to other similar crimes in the region.