MURDER CASE OF JOURNALIST AND PARTNER POSTPONED FOR NEW LAWYER

20 JUNE 2025

MURDER CASE OF JOURNALIST AND PARTNER POSTPONED FOR NEW LAWYER

KwaMhlanga – The five men charged in connection with the disappearance and murder of journalist Aserie Ndlovu and his partner Zodwa Mdluli, appeared today in the KwaMhlanga Magistrates’ Court. Four of the accused, Father Samuel Mogowe, Lucky Sikhosana, David Madisha, and Sello Skhalo Uoane (44), previously abandoned their bail applications. They have now been joined by Thabang Isaac Hlophe, who is the fifth accused in the matter.

All five are facing two counts of kidnapping and two counts of murder. The accused were arrested on different occasions during an intelligence-driven operation by the police. Today’s court appearance was for the formal joinder of Hlophe to the matter and a possible bail application on his behalf. However, the application did not proceed as Hlophe opted to appoint a private attorney to represent him.

Ndlovu and Mdluli were last seen on 18 February 2025 and were reported missing shortly thereafter. Their remains were discovered three months later in Rust de Winter, along the Limpopo-Gauteng border. DNA analysis confirmed the identities of the deceased. All accused have been remanded in custody. The case has been postponed to 04 July 2025 to allow Hlophe to secure legal representation.

The National Prosecuting Authority condemns acts of violent crime and remains resolute in pursuing justice for victims.

Issued by:

Monica Nyuswa
NPA Regional Spokesperson
DPP Mpumalanga
Tel: 013 045 0625 / 076 485 445
Email: nnyuswa@npa.gov.za