A devastating twist has emerged in the case of Olorato Mongale’s death, as speculation mounts around her mother’s potential involvement. The controversy erupted after music executive Nota Baloyi made a bold statement on social media, accusing Mongale’s mother of being the “#1 suspect.” His claims were echoed by other users online, sparking intense public debate over possible family motives and inheritance-related schemes.
Family Tensions and Public Suspicion
A social media user identifying as an only child weighed in, suggesting that Mongale’s family—aware of her being an only child—could benefit from her passing through access to her belongings, property, and insurance payouts. This user shared chilling personal stories of familial manipulation and alleged “witchcraft attacks,” fueling speculation that Olorato’s murder may have been orchestrated from within her own family.
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The user proposed that relatives might have seen Olorato as a financial opportunity, saying, “What if her family set her up, knowing they stand to gain should her parents die?” Such theories, while unconfirmed, have contributed to widespread scrutiny and pressure on Olorato’s immediate family, particularly her mother.
Grisly Details and a Complex Investigation
Police spokesperson Colonel Athlenda Mathe revealed disturbing details surrounding the murder. Olorato Mongale was allegedly lured from Bloemfontein to Johannesburg by Philangenkosi Makhanya, who then murdered her and dumped her body in Lombardy West. Makhanya, with help from an accomplice, used multiple vehicles with cloned number plates and stayed in various lodges while evading police.
Most shockingly, investigators claim Makhanya received a tip-off from Olorato’s mother, warning him that police were closing in. This allowed him to temporarily escape arrest. Makhanya allegedly confessed to a friend that he had met Olorato and her mother at a mall in Bloemfontein before convincing her to travel with him.
Criminal Syndicate Uncovered
Authorities believe that Makhanya and Bongani Mthimkhulu—who remains at large—were part of a wider romance crime syndicate targeting women at malls across several South African provinces. The syndicate is accused of being behind multiple robberies, kidnappings, and murders in Mpumalanga, Gauteng, Limpopo, Free State, and North West.
“We have cracked a romance syndicate that operated across the country,” said Mathe. The now-confiscated white VW Polo linked to the case has become central evidence.
Family in Mourning, Silence Fuels Suspicions
Dr. Maureen Mongale, Olorato’s aunt, publicly described her niece as a kidnapping victim and praised the police efforts to solve the case. However, the silence of Olorato’s mother has intensified public suspicion. Family spokesperson Criselda Kananda confirmed the mother’s refusal to speak on the matter or comment on autopsy results.
While former suspect Fezile Ngubane has been cleared by investigators, the focus has now turned squarely on the family dynamics surrounding Olorato’s final days.
As the investigation continues under the direction of KwaZulu-Natal police chief Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, the nation watches closely, demanding justice—and answers—for Olorato Mongale.
