Gauteng police are searching for a man known only as “John”, who they believe is the alleged killer of 30-year-old Olorato Mongale from Johannesburg.
According to South African Police Services, police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said police last saw Mongale on Sunday, 25 May 2025, when the alleged killer took her on a date.
He picked her up from her residential complex in Athol, Johannesburg, at around 3 pm in a white VW Polo that police later discovered had fake number plates.
Cloned plates traced to different vehicle
Police investigators revealed that the vehicle used cloned registration plates, LT 57 JG GP, which belong to a Toyota Hilux.
Mathe confirmed that the alleged suspect drove with Mongale through Alexandra and into Kew before proceeding towards Lombardy West.
It is between Alexandra and Lombardy West that the murder allegedly took place, with the suspect then dumping the victim’s body.
Victim’s belongings found abandoned
Police discovered some of Mongale’s personal belongings, including her phone and handbag, abandoned on 9th Road in Kew.
Members of the South African Police Service (SAPS), assisted by community members, found her body at approximately 4:50 pm in Lombardy West.
Police found her body less than two hours after she went missing.
Second suspect possibly involved
Mathe added that investigators are exploring the possibility that the suspect known as “John” may not have acted alone.
Police believe another man may have accompanied him when he killed Mongale.
The investigation is ongoing, and police have urged anyone with information to come forward.
What safety measures do you think could help prevent similar crimes involving online or casual meetups?
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