‘I forgot 10111’ Zandile Khumalo Testifies in Senzo Meyiwa Murder Trial
In the Pretoria high court, state witness Zandile Khumalo continued her testimony in the trial against the men accused of the murder of her sister Kelly Khumalo’s boyfriend, soccer star Senzo Meyiwa. Zandile recounted the events of the night in 2014 when the alleged robbery took place.
Hiding in Fear
Zandile described her position during the incident, stating, “I was hiding between the basin and the bathtub. This is the window where I thought if a criminal were to walk past they would see me. That is why I decided to crouch so they don’t see me.” She explained that she cautiously peeped out of the slightly opened door to observe what was happening.
Also Read: Mzansi Questions Inconsistencies In Zandile Khumalo’s Testimony In Senzo Meyiwa Murder Trial
The Presence of Senzo Meyiwa
According to Zandile’s testimony, she saw Senzo coming from the kitchen wearing blue jeans, a white T-shirt, and white sneakers. He knelt next to the couch and the TV stand, with Kelly standing behind him for support. Zandile alleged that her mother reached for her cellphone near the couch, but the intruder noticed it and hit her with his elbow, causing her to fall onto the sofa. The intruder then snatched the cellphone and left.
Panic and Forgotten Emergency Number
After the intruders fled, Zandile emerged from the bathroom and discovered the tragic situation. She panicked upon seeing Senzo’s injuries and the blood on the floor, and his T-shirt. In her state of panic, she realized she had hidden her phone behind the cushion but couldn’t dial the emergency number 10111 as her mind froze. Zandile sought help by going to a neighbour’s house belonging to her mother’s friend and asking them to call the police and an ambulance.
The Accused and Charges
Zandile identified one of the accused, Ntanzi, as the second intruder who entered the house that night. The accused are facing charges of premeditated murder, attempted murder, robbery with aggravating circumstances, possession of firearms without a license, and possession of ammunition. All the accused have pleaded not guilty.