Olorato Mongale funeral: 'We will not rest until we find Bongani Mthimkhulu' - deputy police minister

BLOEMFONTEIN - The Police Ministry has renewed its call for public assistance in tracking down a third suspect in the murder of journalist Olorato Mongale.

The 30-year-old was killed last Sunday after leaving her Johannesburg home to meet a man she’d recently been dating. Her body was found hours later in Lombardy East, sparking a multi-provincial manhunt for suspects.

The main suspect, Philangenkosi Makhanya, was killed during a shootout with police in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) on Friday morning. 

A second man, initially thought to be involved, was cleared on Saturday.

ALSO READ: Second suspect in Olorato Mongale murder cleared, released from custody say police  

On Sunday, hundreds gathered at the Bloemfontein City Hall for her funeral, joining her family, government officials, and political leaders to bid a final farewell.

Friends and relatives took to the stage, sharing fond memories of a woman known for her kindness, her laughter, and her light.

READ: 'She was magic': Family and friends pay their last respects to slain Olorato Mongale

Deputy Police Minister, Polly Boshielo, joined the service, condemning the scourge of violence against women and children.

She said police continue with their search for a third suspect.

“We will also not rest until we find Bongani Mthimkhulu; Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi of KZN said to me, I will not rest until we find Bongani.”

ALSO READ: Olorato Mongale's family says they never sought revenge, only justice