Sitha Maliwa:
The main suspect in the high-profile murder case of Olorato Mongale has been shot and killed during an apparent confrontation with law enforcement authorities in Amanzimtoti, KwaZulu-Natal.
Sources close to the investigation confirmed that the individual, whose identity is being withheld pending official notification of next of kin, was located early Friday morning following a coordinated intelligence-driven operation. Police spokesperson Colonel Thandi Mkhize stated that officers were attempting to apprehend the suspect when a shootout ensued.
“Members of the tactical response team were deployed to apprehend a suspect believed to be involved in the brutal killing of Ms. Olorato Mongale.
During the attempted arrest, the suspect opened fire on police officers, prompting an immediate response. He was fatally wounded during the exchange,” Mkhize said.
No officers were injured in the operation.
Olorato, a 26-year-old university graduate, was reported missing in early March 2025. Her body was discovered days later in a shallow grave outside Mahikeng, North West province. The case sparked national outrage, with social media users rallying under the hashtag #JusticeForOlorato, demanding swift action from authorities.
The suspect, who had been on the run for several weeks, was previously known to law enforcement and had a criminal record that included charges of assault and attempted robbery.
The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has confirmed that it will open an inquiry into the shooting, as is standard procedure in cases involving police-related fatalities.
Olorato’s family has yet to comment on the latest development but has previously urged anyone with information to come forward.
The incident has reignited debate over gender-based violence and the effectiveness of the criminal justice system in protecting vulnerable individuals.
This is a developing story. More details will be provided as they become available. – @NewsSA_Online
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