Four suspects have been arrested in connection with the disappearance of journalist Aserie Sibusiso Ndlovu and his partner Zodwa Mdhluli, who were reported missing in February.

Police have since opened cases of kidnapping and carjacking as investigations intensify. One of the suspects was reportedly the last person seen with the couple, while another, a mechanic, was allegedly found in possession of car parts suspected to belong to Ndlovu’s vehicle.

This is after The National Press Club (NPC) and the African Media and Communicators Forum (AMCF) have increased the reward for information leading to the whereabouts of missing journalist Sibusiso Aserie Ndlovu and his partner Zodwa Precious Mdhluli from R50,000 to R100,000.

The announcement was made on May 4, 2025, as concerns grew for the couple, who have been missing since February 18, 2025.

Ndlovu, a respected journalist, and Mdhluli were last seen in Gauteng.

Despite ongoing investigations by the South African Police Service (SAPS), no significant leads have emerged, prompting the NPC and AMCF to escalate efforts to locate them. The doubled reward is intended to incentivize the public to come forward with credible information and to urge authorities to intensify their search.

The NPC has reiterated its call for anyone with details about the couple’s disappearance to contact the SAPS or the organizations directly, emphasizing the importance of protecting press freedom and ensuring the safety of journalists. The public is urged to assist in bringing closure to this distressing case.