Amanzimtoti – A key suspect linked to the brutal murder of Olorato Mongale was shot and killed in a dramatic police shootout on Friday morning in Amanzimtoti, KwaZulu-Natal.
Authorities revealed that the suspect, who has not yet been publicly named, had been hiding out in a flat in the coastal town. According to SAPS spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda, police traced the man overnight and attempted to arrest him. When officers approached, he allegedly opened fire, prompting a shootout in which he was fatally wounded.
The suspect was one of three men connected to the killing of Mongale, whose body was discovered dumped on the roadside in Lombardy West, Johannesburg, last Sunday.
KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, visited the crime scene shortly after the incident before leaving for another assignment.
BREAKING NEWS –
— Vision Tactical (@visiontactical) May 30, 2025
The main suspect in the murder of Olorato Mongale has been shot and killed during a police operation in Durban, KZN.
KZN Police Commissioner, Lt Gen Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi is currently on the scene.
Police are still actively searching for two additional suspects… pic.twitter.com/YvNbZk87jR
Meanwhile, police are still pursuing the remaining two suspects believed to be involved in Mongale’s death. Investigations indicate that the suspects may have received help from family members.
On Thursday, officers arrested the mother and father of one of the suspects. The father allegedly owns the white VW Polo used during the crime, while the mother reportedly tipped off her son when police arrived at their home in Inanda, allowing him to flee.
Earlier reports had identified Bongani Mthimkhulu, a friend of one of the primary suspects, as wanted in connection with the murder. He and Phila Makhanya were previously arrested on 20 April for kidnapping and robbery in the Brockbunny area.
Mongale had last been seen alive on Sunday when she left for a date with her alleged killer, who picked her up in the same VW Polo bearing cloned number plates. Her body was discovered later that day with help from community members.
The investigation into Mongale’s murder is ongoing.
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