Xolani Khumalo, the presenter of the popular anti-drug show Sizokuthola, is facing intense scrutiny following the mysterious death of a suspected drug dealer during an interrogation by him and his crew.
‘Sizokthola’ host in hot water over mysterious death of alleged drug dealer
The incident has sparked outrage and raised questions about the show’s methods and ethics.
How the incident unfolded
On Wednesday, 19 July 2023, a dramatic event unfolded in Katlehong, southeast of Johannesburg, when Khumalo, accompanied by his crew and Gauteng Patrollers, known as ‘amapanyaza,’ confronted Robert “Kicks” Varrie at his residence based on a tip-off about drug-related activities.
During the confrontation, Varrie died under puzzling circumstances, per City Press.
The Police Investigation
Gauteng police spokesperson Mavela Masondo confirmed that a murder case was opened at Vosloorus police station and subsequently transferred to Katlehong North police station for investigation.
However, no arrests have been made yet, and the investigation is at an advanced stage.
Eyewitness Accounts
Eyewitnesses reported that during the interrogation, Varrie was restrained by armed men wearing masks while they demanded that he reveal more drugs.
According to Varrie’s girlfriend, Eunice Raadt, the crew placed a plastic bag over his head and used pepper spray, resulting in his death.
She further alleged that after the incident, the assailants loaded Varrie’s body into a vehicle and drove away, leaving him at a hospital where he was declared dead.
Allegations of Excessive Force
Raadt also revealed that the crew had assaulted her and her friend, Tsietsi Peele, using aggressive tactics to extract information about drug locations.
The incident has raised concerns about the show’s methods, with allegations of physical force being used to coerce suspected drug dealers.
Involvement of “Thatha-Zonke” Crime-Fighting Unit
According to reports, video footage showing the leader of the local crime-fighting unit “Thatha-Zonke,” Mandla Nkambule, alongside Khumalo and his crew exists, casting further suspicion over the show crew’s culpability in the death.
Moreover, Nkambule has admitted to being at the scene but denies entering the house where Varrie allegedly died.
“Thatha-Zonke” has been known to employ controversial methods, including an apartheid-era asphyxiation technique called “tubing,” which involves restricting a victim’s oxygen supply.
Khumalo’s Controversial Show
Sizokthola gained popularity for its unconventional approach to tackling drug issues.
The show follows Khumalo as he confronts suspected drug dealers and attempts to make them reveal their drug stashes on camera.
However, concerns about the show’s use of physical force have persisted, leading to threats on Khumalo’s life.
Moja Love’s Response
Moja Love, the broadcaster of Sizokthola, refutes allegations of torture and asserts that the crew operates within the confines of the law.
The network has maintained that their cameras serve as their primary weapons, and they cooperate with law enforcement agencies in their efforts to combat drug-related crime.
The South African Police Service has reportedly approached Moja Love to establish a working relationship, but there have been challenges in achieving convictions due to issues surrounding the show’s methods.
A police officer confirmed that some cases had been thrown out of court due to technicalities.