Police have recovered two bodies believed to be those of missing journalist Aserie Ndlovu and her partner, Zodwa Mdhluli, marking a significant turn in the case that has gripped public attention for over two months.
Recovery of Aserie Ndlovu and Zodwa Mdhluli bodies ends missing persons search
The discovery comes after a multi-province investigation led authorities to arrest four suspects linked to the pair’s disappearance.
The couple was last seen on 18 February 2025 driving a white Volkswagen Citi Golf.
Since then, no trace of them had been found — until on Thursday.
According to police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, suspects in custody led officers to the location where the bodies were recovered. The remains have not yet been formally identified, as DNA testing is still pending.
National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola confirmed the development but cautioned the public, saying, “We have to wait for the DNA results before we can make a conclusive statement.”
One of the arrested suspects, believed to be the last person seen with the couple, appeared at the Mamelodi Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, 6 May 2025. His appearance was delayed due to power outages in the court building, but the matter has now resumed.
The other three suspects are expected to appear later in the week at the KwaMhlanga Magistrate’s Court.
The investigation took a major step forward when police conducted a joint operation across Gauteng and Mpumalanga. During the operation, officers recovered two Citi Golfs and car parts suspected to belong to the missing couple’s vehicle.
One of the suspects was identified as a mechanic operating in the KwaMhlanga area.
Police say the case has now evolved from a missing persons file to include serious charges such as kidnapping, car hijacking, house robbery, and possession of stolen property.
Aserie Ndlovu’s son shared his feelings on the breakthrough, saying:
“It was a very frustrating time for the family. For around 77 days there was nothing. At least now we are starting to receive some answers and we are hopeful that we are going to find our parents.”
As investigations continue, the identities of the recovered bodies remain to be officially confirmed.