New Sizok’thola Presenter Xolani Maphanga Arrested For Attempted Murder
Sizok’thola’s new presenter, Xolani Maphanga, found himself in a bewildering predicament when he was mistakenly apprehended by the police, only to be released shortly after.
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Looking for Xolani Khumalo: Attempted Murder Investigation
Authorities in Thembisa were originally seeking Xolani Khumalo, the former host of the show, in connection with an attempted murder case. Maphanga, widely known as X, has since taken over Khumalo’s position as the host of the program.
Kumalo’s latest charges stem from an incident that took place on 31 January, when he allegedly shot a man in the hand with a rifle.
The Mix-Up: Xolani Maphanga Arrested For Attempted Murder
Maphanga found himself in police custody on February 15th after being mistaken for Khumalo. The mix-up stemmed from their similar vehicles—a silver-grey bakkie for one and a gold bakkie for the other. Maphanga recounted the ordeal to ZiMoja, expressing his frustration at the lack of communication from Khumalo.
“The incident did happen where I was arrested on attempted murder charges but later the charges were dropped because they had mistaken me for Xolani Khumalo,” he said
Unsettling Silence: Lack of Communication from Khumalo
Maphanga revealed his disappointment that Khumalo, whom he has known for years, hadn’t reached out during the ordeal. Despite Khumalo’s apparent visit to the police station with his lawyer, Maphanga received no direct communication.
“We have known each other for years and he is supposed to call me and explain to me what is really happening. He has never called me but I was informed by the police that he did go to the police station in Thembisa. I was told he went to the station with his lawyer” he said.
Moja Love parted ways with Khumalo last year, making Maphanga the new face of Sizok’thola. Khumalo chose not to answer his phone, and when ZiMoja reached out via WhatsApp, their messages were read but left unanswered.
Captain Mavela Masondo of the Gauteng SAPS confirmed the incident, stating that the complainant had withdrawn the attempted murder charge, opting to resolve the matter outside of court.
“Police can confirm that a case of attempted murder was opened at Thembisa Police Station. However, the complainant withdrew the case, stating that they resolved the matter out of court,” he said.