Suspect in South African student's murder killed in police shootout

A suspect wanted in connection with the murder of a South African university student has been shot dead during a confrontation with police.

The man was believed to be involved in the killing of Olorato Mongale, whose body was discovered in Johannesburg on Sunday — roughly two hours after she had been reported missing following a date.

According to police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe, officers located the main suspect early Friday morning at a residential complex in the coastal town of Amanzimtoti.

The suspect, who has not yet been identified by authorities, allegedly opened fire on the police, who returned fire and fatally shot him, Brigadier Mathe reported.

Ms Mongale’s murder has triggered widespread outrage and reignited discussions on the high levels of violence against women in South Africa.

In a powerful statement, Police Minister Senzo Mchunu condemned the crime as “gruesome” and “inhumane,” urging: “To all men, this is a plea – simple, urgent, and human: Please, stop killing women.”

The hunt continues for two other suspects believed to be linked to Mongale’s murder. Meanwhile, police have arrested the parents of the deceased suspect.

His mother has been accused of warning him about police activity near their home, allegedly helping him avoid capture.

Police also stated that the suspect’s father owns the VW Polo believed to have been used in Mongale’s murder.

Earlier this week, the three suspects tied to the case were named as Fezile Ngubane, Philangenkosi Sibongokuhle Makhanya, and Bongani Mthimkhulu.

According to authorities, both Makhanya and Mthimkhulu had previously been arrested last month for kidnapping and robbing a woman in KwaZulu-Natal, using the same VW Polo. However, they had been released on bail.