Fezile Ngubane, a young man from KwaMashu, has been cleared by police after being wrongly accused in a dangerous crime ring that targeted young women across the country. The South African Police Service (SAPS) confirmed on Saturday, 31 May, that Ngubane is not a suspect, but a victim used by criminals to carry out their schemes.
Ngubane’s father took him to the KwaMashu police station after hearing his son was wanted in connection with the murder of Olorato. This led to a full investigation by a special police team. After being interviewed and investigated, police found that Ngubane had no role in the crimes.
“Mr. Ngubane is not linked to the crimes he was suspected of,” said SAPS spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe. “He is a victim who was unknowingly used by criminals. He has since been released from custody.”
Background of the Case
Ngubane, who makes a living washing cars, lived in the same area as the late Philangenkosi Makhanya — now believed to be the real mastermind behind a syndicate that kidnapped and robbed women using fake SIM cards and stolen IDs. Police say Makhanya took Ngubane’s ID smart card and bank card and used them to commit multiple crimes, including buying clothes and setting up mobile numbers used in the operations.
His ID was found among 27 stolen identity cards recovered from Makhanya. “This proves that Mr. Ngubane’s details were abused by the actual suspect,” said Brigadier Mathe. “We urge the public not to jump to conclusions before investigations are finalised.”
Police are investigating at least 20 cases of women being kidnapped and robbed by the group. These cases have been reported in Potchefstroom, Bloemfontein, Midrand, Ogies, Nelspruit, Pretoria, and Johannesburg. The SAPS also confirmed that the parents of another suspect were released after their statements were taken.
The search continues for the remaining suspect, Bongani Mthimkulu. “We are urging Mr. Mthimkulu to come forward and hand himself over to the nearest police station,” Mathe added.
Police have promised to continue working hard to bring justice to the victims and protect innocent people like Ngubane from being wrongly accused.
