In a major breakthrough, the South African Police Service (SAPS) has seized the Volkswagen Polo believed to have been used in the murder of 30-year-old Olorato Mongale.
The vehicle was recovered at a panel beater workshop in Phoenix, Durban, following an intensive investigation led by SAPS’ National Crime Intelligence Unit and its specialist Anti-Kidnapping Task Team.
The high-stakes operation began when investigators tracked two suspects to a lodge in Kew, Johannesburg. Acting swiftly on new intelligence, officers later raided a residence in KwaMashu, Durban, before locating the vehicle in Phoenix.
Forensic examination has confirmed the presence of blood inside the car, reinforcing suspicions of its involvement in the gruesome crime.
An elderly man, believed to be the registered owner of the vehicle, has been arrested. However, the two prime suspects in the murder remain at large.
The SAPS has launched an urgent manhunt for Fezile Ngubane and Philangenkosi Sibongokuhle Makhanya, who are wanted in connection with Mongale’s murder.
Authorities describe the pair as armed, dangerous, and highly volatile, warning the public not to approach them under any circumstances.
“These men are extremely dangerous. If you see them, do not engage. Immediately call Brigadier Nama at +27 (82) 778-9035,” the police urged in an official statement.
The National Commissioner of Police, General Fannie Masemola, commended the combined efforts of the Gauteng Provincial Investigation Unit (PIU), the DPCI KwaZulu-Natal Tracking Team, Durban Metro Police K-9 Unit, and private security partners for their support in the ongoing investigation.
The SAPS is urging members of the public and media outlets to widely circulate the suspects’ photographs to aid in their swift capture.“To the suspects: We are closing in.
Turn yourselves in at your nearest police station before it’s too late,” said General Masemola.
This is a developing story.
Authorities remain on high alert and further updates will follow.Anyone with information is urged to come forward.
Do you have an idea on why she was killed?
Why would those men go through all the trouble?