Police believe that the trio linked to Olorato Mongale’s murder are part of a bigger syndicate targeting women.
Police further confirmed that two of the suspects currently on the run, Bongani Mthimkhulu and Philangenkosi Makhanya, were previously arrested and charged for kidnapping and robbery.
National police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, said Mthimkhulu and Makhanya were spotted by a police officer on patrol on April 20 in Brakpan. They were driving a white Volkswagen Polo that has since been seized by police in KwaZulu-Natal.
The accused appeared in court and were released on bail on April 26.
Syndicate’s modus operandi
Mathe said the syndicate preys on young women at malls.
“We are investigating a syndicate. These men use the same modus operandi where they approach these young women at malls and ask to take them out on dates.
“When these women agree, that is when they plan to rob them,” she said.
Police are appealing to the public to assist them in tracing Mthimkhulu, Makhanya and Fezile Ngubane.
Already cops have arrested the owner of the vehicle, which was discovered at a panel beater workshop in Phoenix.
Mongale is alleged to have gone on a date with one of her killers.
Police said they drove to Alexandra, then to Kew in Gauteng. She said that between Alexandra and Lombardy West in Johannesburg, this man allegedly murdered Olorato and dumped her body. Mongale’s body was found around 5pm on Sunday.
Investigations continue.
