Xolani Khumalo Appears in Court Charged With Murder
South Africans are deeply divided over the recent news of Xolani Khumalo, a popular TV host renowned for his anti-drug show “Sizokuthola,” being charged with murder and facing legal proceedings.
The startling revelation came when Khumalo voluntarily surrendered himself to the Katlehong North police station on a recent Tuesday.
- Also Read: Mzansi Rallies Behind Sizokuthola Presenter Xolani Khumalo as Alleged Drug Dealer Dies Mysteriously
The Incident in July: Robert “Kicks” Varrie’s Mysterious Death
This development stems from an incident in July involving the suspicious death of Robert “Kicks” Varrie, a suspected drug dealer. During an interrogation, Khumalo and his team confronted Varrie, who later passed away under mysterious circumstances. An anonymous source who spoke to City Press revealed that Khumalo is set to appear at the Palm Ridge Magistrate’s Court to face murder charges.
In July, following Varrie’s death, Gauteng police spokesperson Mavela Masondo confirmed the initiation of a murder case at the Vosloorus police station, which was subsequently transferred to the Katlehong North police station for further investigation. This incident unfolded when Khumalo, accompanied by his team and the Gauteng Patrollers (known as amapanyaza), acted on a tip-off and cornered Varrie at a residence in Katlehong.
Public Reactions: A Divided South African Response
The news of Xolani Khumalo’s impending court appearance has sparked a range of reactions among South Africans. Some call for the legal process to run its course, while others defend Khumalo’s actions, arguing that he was essentially assisting the police in their duties. Some even speculate that Khumalo’s work might have disrupted a high-profile politician’s drug trade, leading to his prosecution. Here are some public comments:
@blackpresidante:
I’m very happy about this. He was acting as if he is above the law. His arrest must serve as a deterrent to other vigilante groups
@Netvinc_Bahasis:
I’m sure the victim is a Nigerian drug dealer who destroyed many lives but ke South Africa 🇿🇦 belongs to all
@Lebohang5214:
He must have disrupted the free flowing narcotics operations of an influential comrade, this smells filthy from afar.
- Also Read: Sizokuthola Host Xolani Khumalo Sparks Controversy: Invites Foreigners to Join Anti-Drug March
Xolani Khumalo Foundation’s Response as He Appears In Court for Murder
Following Khumalo’s voluntary surrender to the police, the Xolani Khumalo Foundation issued a statement. In it, the foundation reassured the public of Khumalo’s cooperation with the South African Police Services (SAPS) while maintaining his innocence. They expressed hope that the justice system would clear his name.
The foundation also urged the community to continue supporting Khumalo and emphasized that he and his team operated with professionalism during drug busts. Part of their statement reads:
The South African Police Services have requested that Xolani Knumalo hand himself over in connection with an incident that occurred at one of the last drug busts. Xolani Knumalo and the team operated according to the strictest standards of professionalism when engaged in securing accountability from those that sell drugs and choose to harm the communities where they choose to operate. We rely on law enforcement to act with equity and fairness.
Accordingly, Xolani has handed himself over to the police. Xolani and the Xolani Knumalo Foundation respects the laws of the Republic and rejects all forms of vigilantism. Xolani, having completely operated under the law, will willingly submit to the law. The Foundation having full confidence in Xolani’s innocence will allow the law to take its course. We urge the community to support him in prayer and in solidarity continue to support the work of the Foundation. The Foundation will keep the public informed of all developments in this matter.