The suspicious death of an alleged drug dealer during the filming of Moja Love’s hit TV show, Sizokthola, has raised concerns about civilians’ role in police investigations.
Moja Love TV show, ‘Sizokthola’ embroiled in death of alleged drug dealer
The death of a suspected drug dealer, Robert Varrie, during a recent raid conducted by the show’s crew has ignited intense scrutiny.
Questions are now being raised about the risks of civilian involvement in police operations and the potential compromise of evidence.
Tragedy in Katlehong
In July 2023, the Sizokthola crew visited a house in Katlehong, Ekurhuleni, where a 49-year-old man, Robert Varrie, was allegedly interrogated and assaulted by the crew and armed men wearing balaclavas.
Tragically, Varrie was later pronounced dead at Thelle Mogoerane Hospital in Vosloorus. Reports suggest that he surrendered drugs during the incident after the crew allegedly demanded them.
Calls for Accountability
Varrie’s family is demanding the arrest of the show’s presenter, Xolani Khumalo, and his crew, holding them responsible for his untimely demise. The incident has sparked public outcry over the potential consequences of civilians participating in police operations.
Gauteng police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo confirmed that the police are investigating the case.
However, as of now, no arrests have been made. The circumstances surrounding Varrie’s death are under close scrutiny, especially given the involvement of a TV show crew in a law enforcement context.
Moja Love’s Statement and Legal Implications
Moja Love confirmed their crew’s presence during Varrie’s interrogation but emphasised that their investigation is ongoing.
The channel refrained from commenting on any working agreement with the South African Police Service (SAPS) but stated that the matter is now a legal concern.
“This is a legal matter now and we can’t comment until the investigation is concluded,” Moja Love’s Bokani Moyo told City Press.
National Police Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola, clarified that there is no working relationship between SAPS and Moja Love, but further reports from provinces are awaited to determine if any agreements exist.