Philangenkosi Makhanya allegedly confessed to his role in the brutal crime before fatal police encounter in KwaZulu-Natal
Amanzimtoti, KwaZulu-Natal — The police manhunt for suspects in the murder of 30-year-old Olorato Mongale has taken a dramatic and tragic turn. One of the main suspects, Philangenkosi Makhanya, was fatally shot by law enforcement officers in Amanzimtoti after allegedly opening fire on police.
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KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi confirmed the incident during a televised interview, revealing disturbing new details about the hours leading up to the confrontation.
“He arrived yesterday morning to rent a vehicle from an individual he had rented from before. Upon seeing the suspect’s face on the media, the man chose not to rent him the car and spent the day trying to convince him to surrender,” said Mkhwanazi.
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Suspect Confessed Before Police Arrival
The car rental owner, whose name is being withheld for his safety, reportedly spent the day with Makhanya and said the suspect openly confessed to his role in the Johannesburg murder. Makhanya allegedly expressed deep remorse, even speaking about wanting to end his life.
He also revealed that another suspect involved in the case had fled and was en route to Zimbabwe. That individual is still on the run, and police efforts to locate him are ongoing.
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Deadly Confrontation at Amanzimtoti Apartment
According to the SAPS, when officers arrived at the apartment, they followed standard procedure by knocking and identifying themselves. However, an engagement occurred after entry, during which Makhanya opened fire, forcing police to return fire. He was declared dead at the scene.
Mkhwanazi added, “Unfortunately, there was an engagement, and the suspect was shot dead.”
Public Reaction and Community Reflection
The public has been closely following the Mongale murder case, which has exposed a chilling trend of dating-app-related crimes targeting women. Social media is flooded with condolences and anger over the events leading to Mongale’s tragic death.
A community member from Alexandra, where Olorato’s body was discovered, commented:
“We are shaken. No woman deserves to be lured and killed like this. It’s time these syndicates are dismantled.”
Call for Continued Public Vigilance
As investigations continue, authorities are urging the public to remain alert and report any suspicious individuals or activity. With one suspect dead and another missing, the case is far from over.
“If anyone has information about the whereabouts of the remaining suspect, please come forward. Every tip can save another life,” a police spokesperson said.
Final Words from the Family
Olorato Mongale’s loved ones continue to mourn a life stolen too soon. Friends describe her as vibrant, talented, and full of dreams. The news of Makhanya’s death brings mixed emotions — a step toward justice, but no true closure.
Let’s not allow her death to be in vain.
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