Olerato Mongale murder suspects were out on bail for April 2025 armed robbery
Two of the three men wanted in connection with the murder of Olorato Mongale identified as Bongani Mthimkhulu and Philangenkosi Makhanya were arrested on April 20 in Brakpan after allegedly being caught in the act of kidnapping and robbing a young woman.
According to Brakpan Herald, the suspects were apprehended while driving a VW Polo during the reported incident. The men were granted bail following their arrest.
The victim, who works at a retail store in a nearby mall, recounted her experience in a brief interview. She said one of the suspects had previously professed romantic interest in her, and she had begun to show interest.
“He suggested I join him and his friend during my lunch break,” she said. “But once we were in the car, he told me to empty my handbag. They took R500 in cash.”
The investigation and manhunt of the suspects into Mongale’s murder remains ongoing. Police have not confirmed whether the Brakpan incident will influence the pending murder case.