Durban – Police have seized a Volkswagen Polo believed to have been used in the murder of 30-year-old Olorato Mongale, in a major breakthrough led by the South African Police Service’s (SAPS) National Crime Intelligence Unit.
The vehicle, which had been the subject of a nationwide search, was recovered on Tuesday at a panel beating workshop in Phoenix, Durban. SAPS forensic experts confirmed that blood traces were found inside the car, linking it to the gruesome murder.
The discovery was made by a multidisciplinary team including the SAPS anti-kidnapping task team, the Gauteng Provincial Investigation Unit (PIU), the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) KwaZulu-Natal tracking team, Durban Metro Police’s K-9 Unit, and private security partners.
SAPS SEIZES VW POLO USED IN OLORATO MONGALE’S MURDER – OWNER OF VEHICLE ARRESTED@SAPoliceService
The South African Police Service(SAPS) NATIONAL CRIME INTELLIGENCE UNIT has found and seized the wanted VW polo that was allegedly used in the murder of 30-year-old Olorato… pic.twitter.com/gDY6tUw6YH
— Yusuf Abramjee (@Abramjee) May 29, 2025
The investigation initially led officers to a lodge in Kew, Johannesburg, where two suspects had recently checked in. Follow-up intelligence directed officers to KwaMashu in Durban, to the residence of one of the suspects, and ultimately to the vehicle’s location.
An elderly man, believed to be the registered owner of the VW Polo, has been arrested and is currently in police custody. However, police are still hunting for two key suspects believed to have played a direct role in Mongale’s murder.
WANTED: Fezile Ngubane and Philangenkosi Sibongokuhle Makhanya
The suspects, identified as Fezile Ngubane and Philangenkosi Sibongokuhle Makhanya, are currently on the run. Police have urged members of the public to assist by sharing their photographs widely and to avoid any direct engagement with the pair, who are considered dangerous.
“If you spot either of these individuals, do not approach them. Contact Brigadier Nama immediately on +27 (82) 778-9035,” SAPS said in a statement.
SAPS National Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola, commended the collaborative effort, saying: “This case demonstrates the strength of integrated policing. I commend every officer and partner involved for their dedication and swift action in moving this investigation forward.”
Police have called on the suspects to surrender at their nearest police station.
Investigations are ongoing.
Follow African Insider on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
For more African news, visit Africaninsider.com
Compiled by Betha Madhomu
