journalist Aseri Ndlovu
By Keletso Mkhwanazi
The high-profile double murder case involving the slain journalist Aseri Ndlovu and her partner Zodwa Mdhluli is set to return to the Kwamhlanga Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, October 14.
Five suspects are scheduled to appear, facing serious charges of kidnapping, house robbery, and two counts of murder.
The accused are: Samuel Father Mogongwe (40), the couple’s family driver, who is believed to be the alleged mastermind Lucky Michael Sikhosana (40).Thabang Hlope (30).Thato Madisha (25).Sello Voane (44), who is alleged to be the gunman.
The tragic events began on Friday, February 18, when the couple was last seen. They were reported missing shortly thereafter. A desperate search concluded three months later when their skeletal remains were discovered in Rust De Winter, located along the Limpopo-Gauteng border.
SAPS DNA analysis was used to confirm the identities of the deceased. Aseri Ndlovu and Zodwa Mdhluli were subsequently buried in separate funerals in Mpumalanga in June.
Court proceedings are expected to be contentious. The accused have previously indicated their intention to apply for bail. However, the prosecution team has firmly stated that bail will be opposed.
Furthermore, a critical decision regarding the case’s future is pending: the court heard that the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) is yet to issue a ruling on the transfer of the matter to the High Court.
In a key development, NPA spokesperson in Mpumalanga, Monica Nyuswa, confirmed that police investigations have been completed and that the matter is now ready for trial.
