Durban, KwaZulu-Natal – May 30, 2025 – In a haunting final admission, Philangenkosi Sibongokuhle Makhanya—the fugitive wanted for Olorato Mongale’s brutal murder—reportedly confessed his crime and spoke of suicide just hours before police gunned him down in an Amanzimtoti safehouse.
The shootout capped a nationwide manhunt that uncovered something far more sinister: a traveling safe containing 28 ID cards and 20 cellphones, exposing what authorities believe is a nationwide kidnapping syndicate targeting young women.
“I did it in Joburg”: The confession that sealed his fate
According to KZN Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, Makhanya’s last words to a gospel musician who’s had a prior dealing with him were chillingly candid:
“He confessed to what he did in Joburg. He said he wanted to commit suicide.”
Thr encounter occured when Makhanya arrived at the man’s Durban apartment on Thursday seeking another rental. Recognising him from media reports at the wanted murder suspect, the “gospel cordinator” refused – then spent 12 hours urging him to surrender.
The standoff ended when SAPS officers stormed the apartment, prompting Makhanya to open fire, triggering a fatal exchange.
Syndicate of terror: 90 potential victims emerge
Makhanya was one of three men believed to be part of a dangerous syndicate targeting women through social media and dating platforms. The investigation has since revealed terrifying dimensions:
✔ Makhanya and two accomplices—one now fugitive in Zimbabwe—operated an abduction ring luring women through dating apps and mall encounters
✔ Over 90 women nationwide have contacted police with similar horror stories
✔ The group’s white VW Polo (used in Olorato’s murder) was recovered with bloodstains and cloned plates at a Phoenix panel beater
Mother arrested for aiding fugitive son
In a shocking twist, Makhanya’s mother was detained for warning him during the police search, while his father faces charges for owning the murder vehicle.
Olorato’s last moments: A lunch date turned nightmare
The 30-year-old Wits master’s student had met Makhanya days earlier at a Bloemfontein mall. On May 25, he messaged claiming to be in Johannesburg and invited her to lunch—a trap that ended with her body dumped in Lombardy West within two hours.
Nationwide alert: Armed suspect still at large
Police are urgently seeking:
🔴 Fezile Ngubane (last seen fleeing to Zimbabwe)
🔴 Bongani Mthimkhulu (linked to prior kidnappings)
WARNING: Both are armed and dangerous. Report sightings to 08600 10111 or via MySAPSApp.
A country’s anger: “No more hashtags, we want change”
The case has intensified demands for:
✔ Stricter bail conditions for violent offenders
✔ Dating app verification laws
✔ Specialized anti-syndicate task forces
#JusticeForOlorato
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