Journalist and Partner Abducted: Four Suspects Taken into Custody in Kidnapping Investigation

Pretoria – Police have arrested four individuals connected to the disappearance of journalist Sibusiso “Aserie” Ndlovu and his partner Zodwa Mdhluli.

Ndlovu, founder of Capital Live FM, and his partner vanished on February 18, 2025.

On Monday, May 5, 2025, national police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe revealed that the case has been reclassified as a kidnapping and vehicle hijacking incident.

The arrests followed a meeting between Deputy Minister in the Presidency Kenny Morolong and the families of Ndlovu and Mdhluli in KwaMhlanga, Mpumalanga.

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Brigadier Mathe elaborated: “The first suspect is believed to be the last person seen with the missing couple.

“The second, third, and fourth suspects were found with various vehicle parts that are thought to belong to the missing journalist’s car.

“One of those arrested is reported to be a mechanic who works on and builds cars in the KwaMhlanga area.”

Brigadier Mathe confirmed the seizure of two VW Citi Golfs associated with the suspects.

“Further charges, including house robbery and possession of stolen property, may also be added,” Brigadier Mathe indicated.

“One suspect is set to appear in the Mamelodi Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, May 6, 2025.

“The remaining three are expected to appear later this week at the KwaMahlanga Magistrate’s Court.”

Brigadier Mathe stressed that a multidisciplinary team, comprising units from crime and counterintelligence, cybercrime, detectives, SAPS Airwing, and drone operators, is actively engaged in the investigation.

“The search for the missing couple and additional suspects is ongoing,” Brigadier Mathe confirmed.

National Commissioner of the South African Police Service General Fannie Masemola has expressed satisfaction with the latest progress in the case.