A profound sense of sorrow has gripped on May 8 South Africa’s media fraternity following the discovery of decomposed bodies believed to be those of journalist Sibusiso Aserie Ndlovu and his partner, Zodwa Precious Mdhluli, more than two months after they went missing. The remains, found in a remote area of Limpopo province, are undergoing DNA confirmation, though forensic investigators and two media organizations – the African Media and Communicators Forum (AMCF) and the National Press Club (NPC) – have identified them as the missing couple.
Five suspects have been arrested in connection with the murder, reportedly found in possession of stolen belongings and car parts linked to the victims.
Ndlovu, a respected media voice and founder of Pretoria-based Capital Live radio, was a well-known advocate for community journalism. His death, and that of his partner, has sent shockwaves through the journalistic community, which had clung to hope that the pair might be found alive. Elijah Mhlanga, chairperson of AMCF, expressed deep anguish at the loss, calling it “terribly sad” and extending condolences to their families. The tragedy underscores South Africa’s worsening security climate, where journalists and ordinary citizens alike are exposed to staggering levels of violent crime—figures for 2024 indicate an average of 72 murders per day, reflecting a broader societal crisis in law enforcement and public safety.