NPA says evidence places two accused near missing journo
The National Prosecuting Authority in Mpumalanga has indicated that cell phone data has positioned the first and second accused near missing journalist Sibusiso Aserie Ndlovu and his partner, Zodwa Precious Mdhluli, around the time the pair vanished.
All five accused appeared in the KwaMhlanga Magistrate’s Court on Friday in connection with the couple’s disappearance.
“Cell phone evidence reveals that the cell phones of accused numbers one and two are linking them with the cell phones of the victims,” stated provincial NPA spokesperson Monica Nyuswa.
She explained that the data indicates the accused were in proximity to the victims and that one of them was present at the couple’s residence prior to their disappearance.
During the proceedings, accused number one told the court the police had assaulted him.
The magistrate subsequently ordered his transfer to a hospital for medical care.
The court also considered an application to allow the proceedings to be broadcast, citing the case's national significance.
Two sets of skeletal remains were recently found in a Limpopo bush and are believed to be connected to the couple.
DNA tests are currently underway for confirmation.
Nyuswa added that further charges could be laid depending on the outcome of the investigation.
“There is a possibility of adding more charges depending on the outcome of the investigations.”
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