The six-week search for missing Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) journalism student Oratile “Rati” Mothoa ended in heartbreak this week when his family identified his body at a Pretoria mortuary. The 20-year-old had been missing since March 7 after taking an e-hailing ride from his Soshanguve campus.
Shockingly, police revealed Mothoa’s body had been discovered along the N4 freeway in Silverton on the same day he went missing. Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo confirmed authorities are investigating a culpable homicide case after the second-year student was reportedly struck by a vehicle around 9:15 PM that evening.
TUT spokesperson Phaphama Tshisikhawe expressed the institution’s deep sadness, stating they await the official police report while respecting the family’s need for privacy. “The University extends its heartfelt condolences to Oratile’s family, friends and fellow students,” Tshisikhawe said, noting counseling services would be made available.
The tragic case has raised questions about student safety and the handling of missing persons cases, with many wondering why identification took six weeks despite the body being found immediately. As the Mothoa family prepares funeral arrangements, the journalism department mourns the loss of a promising young storyteller whose potential was cut short.
Police urge anyone with information about the incident to contact Silverton SAPS as investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding this heartbreaking loss.
