Olorato Mongale's family says her alleged killer's death offers some closure
While her family insists true justice can never be achieved, they said it was easier to breathe knowing he could never do to another what he did to Olorato.
Family and friends attended a candlelight memorial service for journalist Olorato Mongale on 28 May 2025 at the site in Lombardy West, Johannesburg where her body was found. Picture: Katlego Jiyane/EWN
BLOEMFONTEIN - The family of slain 30-year-old Olorato Mongale said while her alleged killer's death doesn't wipe away their pain, it does offer a sense of finality on the ordeal.
Mongale was honoured at a memorial service in Bloemfontein on Thursday, just days after her body was discovered following a date with a man she had recently met at a mall.
Mongale was missing for hours before her family received a call about her death.
Police are still on a manhunt for two other suspects still at large.
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In a dramatic turn of events, police tracked down the main suspect in the early hours of Friday morning and confirmed that he was shot dead during a confrontation with officers.
While her family insists true justice can never be achieved, they said it was easier to breathe knowing he could never do to another what he did to Olorato.
Family spokesperson Criselda Kananda: "Just knowing and receiving the news that Olorato might be laid to rest with us knowing that the perpetrator will never ever commit the crime that he committed anywhere else in the world."
The investigation remains active, with authorities still on the hunt for the remaining suspects, as Mongale's loved ones prepare to lay her to rest this weekend.