Cape Town – The presenter of the anti-crime show Sizokuthola, Xolani Khumalo, has reportedly been released on bail after surrendering to the police in connection with the death of a man during the show’s taping.
The controversy arose when alleged drug dealer Robert Varrie died during a confrontation with the show’s crew in Katlehong, southeast of Johannesburg in July.
Khumalo is facing a murder charge in relation to this incident, News24 reported.
“Sizokuthola” features Khumalo and his crew confronting suspected drug dealers in an effort to combat substance abuse in various communities.
The Xolani Khumalo Foundation, in a social media statement, asserted that Khumalo and his team operated professionally during these operations and relied on law enforcement to act fairly. They expressed full confidence in Khumalo’s innocence.
“Xolani Khumalo and the team operated according to the strictest standard of professionalism when engaged in securing accountability from those that sell drugs and choose to harm the communities where they chose to operate. We rely on law enforcement to act with equity and fairness,” the foundation said.
Press Release: SAPS has requested that Xolani Khumalo must hand himself over in connection with the incident led to a drug dealer dying.#HandsOffXolani #DrugFreeSouthAfrica pic.twitter.com/I4fgeqzWqo
— Xolani Khumalo Foundation (@xkfoundation) September 19, 2023
Siyaya TV, the owner of Moja Love (the channel airing the show), said that the crew had received a tip-off and conducted the drug bust in collaboration with community law enforcement groups recognised by the local police. They maintained that the operation was carried out within the boundaries of the law.
Xolani Khumalo has been released on R10 000 bail and is scheduled to appear in court on 19 October.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
