New criminal syndicate targeting one group of people at shopping malls in South Africa

The national crime statistics show that there are 51 reported kidnappings every day, and police are warning women to be on guard when visiting shopping malls. 

The South African Police Service (SAPS) confirmed that it is investigating a syndicate believed to be targeting women at malls across several provinces. 

This follows the brutal murder of Olorato Mongale, who was reportedly killed after going on a date with a man. Mongale’s body was later discovered in Lombardy West, near Alexandra.

Providing an update on the case, police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said that the SAPS had mobilised maximum resources since Mongale’s death on Sunday (25 May). 

“We have been investigating this particular case, and yesterday, our team traced the VW Polo involved in a panel beater workshop in Phoenix,” said Mathe. 

“Forensic experts have found traces of blood in the vehicle, and we are in the process of confirming whether it is linked to the victim.”

According to Mathe, the investigation has uncovered that the same vehicle was used in multiple crimes and has now been linked to a broader criminal operation. 

“We can officially confirm that the SAPS has uncovered and is investigating a criminal syndicate that is targeting women,” she said. 

“They approach women using the same modus operandi, posing as romantic interests, chatting with them and persuading them to meet in person.” 

Mathe noted that these women are usually approached at shopping malls and appear independent and confident.

The operation spans several provinces, including Gauteng, the Free State, and the Northern Cape. 

Mathe cited a case from 20 April in Brakpan where a vigilant SAPS officer spotted a suspicious VW Polo. Upon investigation, a kidnapped woman was rescued. 

“Two suspects were arrested and charged with kidnapping and robbery, and they appeared in court on 22 April and were released on bail on 26 April,” Mathe said.

A dangerous syndicate targeting women

Mathe stressed that the SAPS has received a flood of information from members of the public, including victims who have survived similar encounters and individuals who know the suspects. 

“The cooperation is overwhelming. People are coming forward with names and stories,” Mathe said. 

“We are still analysing additional cases, including other bodies that have been found, to determine whether they are linked to this same group.”

“This is a dangerous syndicate that goes after women, believing them to be soft and easy targets,” Mathe warned. 

“They lure them into dates and then attack. We are calling on South Africans to assist us. Help us bring these criminals to justice before another woman is found dead at their hands.”

The SAPS has cautioned all women, particularly young women, to be alert and in control when such communication and appointments are made. 

This warning is important considering that the number of reported kidnappings in South Africa increased for the first three months of 2025. 

This was revealed by the SAPS’ latest crime stats for the fourth quarter of 2024 (January to March 2025).

According to the report, kidnappings have increased by 6.8% year-on-year from 4,279 in the first three months of 2024 to 4,571, equating to 51 abductions per day. 

52.8% of these reported cases are in Gauteng, followed by KwaZulu-Natal (18.7%) and Mpumalanga (5.6%).

Gauteng saw the steepest increase in kidnappings (15.8%) compared to 2024, while the Western Cape (-19.1%) and the Free State (-13%) recorded the most significant decline in cases. 

The number of kidnappings in South Africa is a significant concern, and even the Ministry of Police has noted an increase in incidents where women have fallen victim after developing relationships online.