Pretoria – DNA tests on human remains found in a veld in Rust De Winter, Limpopo, have been positively identified as those of a missing couple – journalist Sibusiso “Aserie” Ndlovu and his partner, Zodwa Precious Mdhluli.
The remains of the couple reported missing on 18 February 2025 were found last month on 8 May.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) on Wednesday, 4 June 2025, said extensive tests and analysis of the human remains confirmed them to be those of the missing couple.
“The SAPS can now confirm that a DNA analysis has been concluded and has positively linked the remains to those of Aserie Ndlovu and Zodwa Mdhluli,” said spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe.
“The human remains were analysed and matched with the reference sample of the biological relatives of the deceased.
“A positive DNA match thus confirms that the discovered remains are that of the missing couple.”
Brigadier Mathe said the police have already notified both families.
Seven suspects arrested in connection with the murders are appearing before the KwaMhlanga Magistrate’s Court on various charges including kidnapping, house robbery to possession of stolen property.
Meanwhile, the African Media and Communicators Forum (AMCF) and the National Press Club (NPC) said they have noted, albeit with sadness, the developments in the matter.
“The developments do not come as a surprise, as the location where the remains were discovered was pointed out by the suspects, following their arrest,” the AMCF and NPC said in a joint statement.
“As the AMCF and NPC, we welcome this milestone in the investigation as it leads the families closer to the truth.
“We wish to convey our gratitude to the SAPS for keeping to their promise that in four weeks the results would be available.”
The families are relieved that the long wait is finally over and that they can begin with plans for funerals.
Elijah Mhlanga, Chairperson of the AMCF said: “We confirm that the families in Ga-Rankuwa (Ndlovu) and Tembisa (Mdhluli) were visited earlier this evening by the police where the results were disclosed to them”.
Acting Chairperson of the National Press Club, Antoinette Slabbert, said: “It has been an agonising wait for the results after months of grief following the mysterious disappearance of the couple.
“We hope that the evidence will also serve in court in the murder charges against the accused”.
The memorial services and funeral arrangements will be communicated in due course, once the families have finalised the details.
“Once again, we convey our condolences to the families of the deceased,”‘ the joint statement said.
