Olorato Mongale’s Murder Exposes Crime Ring Preying on Women in Johannesburg
The brutal murder of 30-year-old Wits University postgraduate student, Olorato Mongale, has uncovered a chilling criminal syndicate that has been preying on women in Johannesburg under the guise of social and romantic encounters.
Mongale was found dead in Lombardy on May 25. Her case has since become a horrifying catalyst in unravelling a pattern of gender-based crimes linked to at least 20 other female victims.
Also Read: Main Suspect in Murder of Wits University Student Olorato Mongale Shot and Killed in KZN
Twenty Women Come Forward with Chilling Testimonies
In the wake of Mongale’s death, 20 women—whose identities are being protected—have come forward with disturbing accounts of being lured into traps by the same group. Many of them were kidnapped or robbed after being enticed through dating apps, social media, or romantic pretexts.
These survivors’ testimonies have proven critical in shedding light on the syndicate’s methods and helping police connect the dots across numerous incidents previously treated as isolated crimes.
Police Recover Damning Evidence from Deceased Suspect
The breakthrough came following the death of suspect Philangenkosi Makhanya, who was killed in a police shootout in Amanzimtoti on May 30. Authorities recovered a trove of evidence linking Makhanya to the crimes, including 28 identity cards and 20 cellphones believed to belong to victims.
A white VW Polo—seized and found with fake number plates and traces of blood—has further tied the suspects to Mongale’s murder.
Prime Suspect Still at Large
The police are now intensifying efforts to locate Bongani Mthimkhulu, who has been named as the prime suspect. Authorities have urged the public to come forward with any information that could assist in the ongoing manhunt.
This case has ignited widespread outrage across South Africa.
Here are some of the reactions:
@TheSituationZA;
I pray for yall SA woman😭💔
@Reloadedd94;
It’s heartbreaking to have to think that over 20 women suffered at the hands of these evil specimen and even gut wrenching that Olorato had to be the sacrificial lamb for all the other victims to find their justice 💔💔💔
@Mab0710;
This is sickening.