The brutal murder of 30-year-old Olorato Mongale, a postgraduate student at Wits University, has sent shockwaves across South Africa, reigniting urgent calls to address the country’s ongoing gender-based violence crisis.
What really happened to Olorato Mongale?
Olorato Mongale, a 30-year-old postgraduate student at Wits University, was tragically murdered on Sunday, May 25, 2025. She had gone on a date with a man known only as “John,” who picked her up from her residence in Athol, Johannesburg, around 3 p.m. They traveled through Alexandra and Kew before her body was discovered less than two hours later, around 4:50 p.m., dumped in a black refuse bag in Lombardy West. Her phone and handbag were found abandoned on 9th Road in Kew .
Who was Olorato Mongale before death?
Olorato was the only child of her mother, who had experienced multiple miscarriages before her birth. She was described by family and friends as a vibrant, loving individual with an infectious laugh and a passion for reading. Her death has sparked widespread outrage and renewed calls for action against gender-based violence in South Africa.
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Mongale was pursuing a postgraduate diploma in business management at Wits University, having previously graduated from Rhodes University. Described by friends and family as vibrant, loving, and full of promise, her untimely death has left a community in mourning.
How the investigation going so far?
The vehicle used in the crime was a white Volkswagen Polo with cloned number plates registered to a Toyota Hilux. This car was later found at a panel-beating workshop in Phoenix, Durban, leading to a breakthrough in the investigation.
Police have identified three suspects: Fezile Ngubane, Philangenkosi Makhanya, and Bongani Mthimkhulu. All are currently at large, and a nationwide manhunt is underway.
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The public is urged to assist in locating the suspects. Anyone with information can contact Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or use the MySAPS App to submit tips anonymously.
