Court Appearance in South Africa Over Missing Journalist Case
Two suspects arrested in connection with the disappearance of journalist Aserie Ndlovu and his partner Zodwa Mdhluli are scheduled to appear in the KwaMhlanga Magistrate's Court in Mpumalanga, according to SABC News. The couple was last seen in Mamelodi, Pretoria, in February. Human remains, believed to be those of the missing couple, were discovered in Rust de Winter, Limpopo. At least five individuals have been arrested in connection to the case. National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola confirmed that DNA testing is currently in progress to confirm the identities, with results expected in approximately one month.
In KwaZulu-Natal, five suspects wanted for the murder of a couple were killed during a shootout with police in Mophela, Hammersdale, as reported by IOL. Police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda stated that the incident occurred in the Mophela area of the Mpumalanga township in Hammersdale. Police intelligence led them to the suspects' location, and an attempt to intercept their vehicle resulted in the suspects opening fire, prompting police to return fire. Colonel Netshiunda added that a thorough search of the suspects' vehicle is pending; however, three firearms were recovered from the suspects. These suspects have been linked to the murder of a 66-year-old man, who had previously survived a shooting in January, and his wife, who was killed in February.
The Department of Social Development has emphasized that the fight against child trafficking and abuse must begin within the home, where children should feel most secure, according to EWN. As part of Child Protection Month, the department is actively working to empower parents and caregivers to protect children and prevent the exploitation of vulnerable children. This initiative follows public concern regarding the case of Joshlin Smith, a young girl who has been missing for over a year. Joshlin's mother and two accomplices were recently convicted of kidnapping and human trafficking. Department spokesperson Bathembu Futshane noted that Joshlin's case is not an isolated incident and that many similar cases go unnoticed, highlighting the urgent need to make homes safer for children.
