South African sports broadcaster Owen Ndlovu has been found dead, hours after he was allegedly abducted during a vehicle hijacking in Johannesburg.
Ndlovu, 54, was reported missing on Tuesday evening after he was allegedly taken while collecting his wife from a church in Katlehong, east of Johannesburg.
According to provincial police spokesperson Col Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi, three men approached Ndlovu and his wife as they were leaving the church. One of the suspects was reportedly armed with a firearm.
The attackers allegedly pushed Ndlovu’s wife aside before forcing the broadcaster into the back of his Ford Raptor pickup truck. The suspects then drove away from the area.
Police later recovered the vehicle abandoned in Walkerville, south of Johannesburg, as the search for Ndlovu continued.
His body was discovered the following morning beside a road in Thokoza, an area neighbouring Katlehong. Witnesses said he appeared to have sustained gunshot wounds. A bag believed to belong to him was also found near the body.
Police have opened a murder investigation and are searching for three suspects in connection with the incident.
A post-mortem examination will be conducted to establish the official cause of death. Investigators are also working to establish the circumstances leading to Ndlovu’s death.
Family spokesperson Eugene Mthethwa said relatives were awaiting further information from authorities.
The family described Ndlovu’s death as a major loss and thanked police officers, residents and others who assisted with the search following his reported abduction.
Ndlovu was known to South African audiences through his work at the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC). He worked as both a presenter and producer and was involved in radio coverage of the Premier Soccer League.
His career later expanded into work involving the music industry, including issues relating to artists’ rights and royalty payments. He was associated with Artists United and the SABC Summer Song of the Year initiative.
Following news of his death, colleagues and members of South Africa’s media industry paid tribute to the broadcaster.
Journalist Lelo Mzaca described Ndlovu as an energetic and committed professional. In a tribute published by the Mail & Guardian, Mzaca reflected on his contribution to broadcasting and his personality.
The provincial government has appealed to anyone with information that could assist the investigation to contact the authorities.
Ndlovu’s death comes as South Africa continues to deal with high levels of violent crime, including vehicle hijackings and armed robberies.
Police recorded more than 5,000 murders and almost 4,000 carjackings across the country between April and June 2026.
Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia said last month that serious crime remained a concern in communities, noting that some offences were linked to organised criminal groups and involved heavily armed suspects.
Police have not announced any arrests in connection with Ndlovu’s death. The investigation remains ongoing.
