The South African Police Service (SAPS) has arrested four suspects in connection with the disappearance of journalist Aserie Ndlovu and his partner, Zodwa Mdhluli.

The couple has been missing since 18 February 2025.

The arrests, confirmed on Monday, come after a cross-province operation involving police teams from Gauteng and Mpumalanga. Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Kenny Morolong, welcomed the arrests, calling them a “significant breakthrough.”

“While investigations are still underway, I want to commend the investigating team for the progress they have made thus far. We continue to hope and pray for the safe return of both Mr. Ndlovu and Ms. Mdhluli,” said Morolong, who visited the Ndlovu family on Sunday to offer government support.

The National Commissioner of SAPS, General Fannie Masemola, also welcomed the progress in the case. According to SAPS, the first suspect arrested was the last known person to have been seen with the couple. The other three suspects were found with vehicle parts believed to belong to Ndlovu’s car. Among them is a KwaMhlanga-based mechanic.

Two VW Citi Golfs found in the suspects’ possession have been seized. SAPS has since reclassified the case from a missing persons report to kidnapping and car hijacking. Additional charges, including house robbery and possession of stolen property, may follow, they added.

Brigadier Athlenda Mathe stated, “This multidisciplinary operation is a testament to the commitment of our teams. We are pursuing all leads and continue to search for the couple and any additional suspects.”

One of the suspects will appear in the Mamelodi Magistrates Court on Tuesday, 6 May, while the other three are expected to appear later in the week in KwaMhlanga.

Mathe further stated that the investigation includes specialised units such as the SAPS Airwing, drone pilots, cybercrime and intelligence divisions, and serious and violent crimes detectives.

Authorities urge anyone with information to come forward.