Heart-Wrenching Testimony: Zandile Khumalo Reveals Chilling Details About the Day Senzo Meyiwa was Killed
In a courtroom filled with tension and emotion, musician Zandile Khumalo took the stand as the first witness in the Senzo Meyiwa murder trial at the Pretoria High Court. Her testimony offered a haunting glimpse into the tragic night that claimed the life of the renowned goalkeeper, Senzo Meyiwa, back in October 2014.
The Chain of Events Unraveled
Zandile Khumalo, who shared a close bond with Senzo Meyiwa through her sister Kelly Khumalo, recounted the sequence of events that unfolded before and during the heart-wrenching ordeal, Sunday World reveals. The group, including Zandile, Senzo Meyiwa, Kelly, and others, had planned to attend a party hosted by Roy Mahamutsa. Little did they know that the night would take a dark and fatal turn.
A Night of Revelry and Friendship
As the day began, the group embarked on a joyous journey to attend the party. They laughed and enjoyed each other’s company during the car ride, with the initial plan being to drop Meyiwa off at the event. However, upon their arrival, they were met with an unexpected twist – the party had yet to begin.
“We all went in. When we arrived at the tavern, I had R400, and we used that to buy drinks. Mthokozisi and I went into the tavern, and then we all went back home. When we got home my mother was there and she dished up for us,” Zandie Khumalo testified, recalling the moments leading up to the fateful incident.
A Change of Plans and Gatherings
With the party postponed, the group decided to visit Mthokozisi Twala’s house in Katlehong, where they were later joined by Tumelo Madlala. The friends continued their journey to the Khumalo residence in Vosloorus, intending to spend time at a local tavern. Upon arrival, they decided to use Zandile Khumalo’s money to purchase drinks, indulging in camaraderie and celebration.
A Turn for the Worse
As the evening progressed, Zandie found herself texting with her boyfriend, Longwe Twala, while also serving drinks to the guests. However, their merriment was shattered when Longwe informed Zandie of his arrival outside the house. It was around 6 pm, and little did they know that danger lurked just around the corner.
“Longwe then sent me an SMS saying he was outside. It was about 6 pm before 7 pm I asked my mother whether there was still food. She said yes but soup would be needed. Then Kelly took Senzo with her to buy soup. Longwe had arrived, and I went outside,” Zandie testified, recounting the arrival of her boyfriend and the moments that preceded the horrific events.
The Nightmare Unleashed
Suddenly, two armed intruders forcefully burst into the Khumalo residence, forever altering the course of that night. Chaos erupted as the group was held at gunpoint, and Zandie’s bravery came to the forefront as she tried to defend herself and her loved ones from the attackers.
“The first intruder had a gun and demanded money and cellphones,” she recalled, describing the terrifying encounter.
Amidst the struggle, tragedy struck, and a gunshot rang out in the room. In a harrowing account, Zandie witnessed the brave Meyiwa wounded by the gunshot. Panic overwhelmed them all as they desperately sought help and safety.
Frantic Efforts to Save Senzo Meyiwa
Realizing the severity of Senzo Meyiwa’s injury, Zandile and the others rushed to get him to a hospital. With a sense of urgency, they attempted to call for emergency services, their desperate pleas for help revealing the gravity of the situation.
“We went outside, and I went to the back seat of the car and pulled Senzo in. He was in the middle of the backseat. There was a towel, I do not know who brought it, but it was used to put pressure on the wound. Then Kelly drove the car very fast,” she recalled, recounting the frantic moments as they tried to save Senzo Meyiwa’s life.
Zandile is set to continue with her testimony tomorrow.
