Community radio journalist Aserie Sibusiso Ndlovu and his partner Zodwa Precious Mdhluli have been missing since February 18.
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POLICE are edging ever closer in establishing the motive behind the kidnapping and hijacking of missing journalist, Aserie Ndlovu and his partner, Zodwa Mdhluli, says police commissioner Fannie Masemola.
He made the confirmation following a briefing with the families days after police made a breakthrough and arrested five people in connection with the case.
Ndlovu, a journalist and founder of an online radio Capital Live SA 99.0 FM, was last seen leaving his workplace at Denlyn Mall in Mamelodi. The two were reported missing on February 18. Ndlovu was wearing blue jeans, a blue and white long-sleeve shirt, and Nike sneakers.
Masemola said other units including the cybercrime unit, organised crime unit as well as serious and violent crime were roped in to bolster and capacitate the existing investigating teams that had already gathered evidence on the matter.
The breakthrough on Sunday saw three people being arrested, with two more later that evening. One suspect, a minor aged 17, has since been released into the care of his parents.
“All five suspects were traced to different villages in KwaMhlanga and all are South African nationals. Police have so far recovered and seized two VW Citi Golfs that were allegedly fitted with parts suspected to belong to the victim, Aserie Ndlovu’s vehicle.
"Home appliances that were allegedly stolen from the home of the couple have also been recovered. These include a fridge, stove, microwave, blankets and other items.
"Investigations are continuing and all possible leads are being followed where we are still searching for the missing couple. With the resources and capacity deployed, we are hopeful that we will soon get to the bottom of the motive and the whereabouts of the missing couple,” he said.
Cape Times
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