The South African Police Service has confirmed that the remains found in Rust De Winter last month, are of journalist, Aserie Ndlovu and his partner. Ndlovu and his girlfriend went missing on 18 February 2025. The bodies analysed for DNA were discovered by SAPS on 8 May 2025.
“The SAPS can now confirm that a DNA analysis has been concluded and has positively linked the remains to that of Aserie Ndlovu and Zodwa Mdhluli”, said national police spokesperson, Athlenda Mathe.
Mathe said the remains found were analysed and matched against samples taken from biological relatives of both Ndlovu and Mdhluli.
DNA RESULTS END MONTHS OF SEARCHING
SAPS has notified both families of the positive DNA match. The families have also been told that the results confirm that the remains found are of the missing couple. Mathe said the police were pleased to assist both families in finding closure.
While the families come to terms with this new development, the case of the suspected killers of Ndlovu and Mdhluli continues before the KwaMhlanga Magistrate’s Court.
Seven suspects were arrested on 4 May 2025, over two months since the couple had been missing. The seven were charged with kidnapping, house robbery and possession of stolen property.
TRACKING DOWN THE ALLEGED KILLERS
Last month, a cross province operation involving Gauteng and Mpumalanga police led SAPS to the seven suspects. They were questioned and subsequently arrested.
“The first suspect who is arrested, is according to investigations, the last to be in the company of the missing couple”, said Mathe.
“The second, third and fourth suspects that have been arrested were found with different vehicle parts believed to be that of the missing journalist”, she continued.
SOCIAL MEDIA PRAISED
Police Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola has previously attributed the police successfully apprehending the suspects, to public participation.
“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 ”, said Masemola.
DO YOU BELIEVE THAT SOCIAL MEDIA PLAYS A ROLE IN SOLVING CRIME?
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