A woman who dated a man connected to Philangenkosi Makhanya—the suspect fatally shot in last week’s Amanzimtoti police raid—has come forward, alleging he was part of a syndicate targeting women in a brutal “romantic dating scam.”
Mary (name withheld), who recognized the man’s voice in an SABC News interview, claims he lured young, working women through Instagram, arranging dates that ended in kidnappings and robberies—particularly of iPhones.
A Flat Full of Stolen Phones
Mary recalls visiting his Amanzimtoti flat and seeing “a box of many iPhones, some brand new.” Police later recovered nearly 30 ID smart cards and 20 cellphones from Makhanya after the shootout.
The Red Beijing Car & Police Bribery
Both Mary and another victim, Jessica*, say the man drove a red Beijing car—the same vehicle used to pick up Jessica for a date, accompanied by a woman he claimed was his “sister.”
Mary also alleges she witnessed him bribing Ekurhuleni police to release a blood-stained car linked to an accomplice. “They took the car to be cleaned of the blood,” she said.
“He Killed Olorato—Not Makhanya”
Though the man denies involvement, Mary insists, “I still believe he is the one who killed Olorato.” Police are still searching for Bongani Mthimkulu, another suspect in the murder case.
A Growing Web of Victims
Jessica’s account matches Mary’s: the scam involved fake romantic connections, robberies, and female accomplices. One woman, known to SABC, allegedly frequently accompanied the suspect during crimes.
As investigations continue, more victims may emerge, exposing what appears to be a dangerous, organized operation preying on unsuspecting women.
