Johannesburg – Xolani Khumalo, the former presenter of Moja Love's controversial show Sizok'thola, is a free man after murder charges against him were provisionally withdrawn in the Palm Ridge Magistrates Court on Monday, 14 April. Khumalo now plans a return to Moja Love and a renewed commitment to fighting drug abuse.
The charges stemmed from an incident in July 2023, where Robert "Kicks" Varrie, a 49-year-old suspected drug dealer, died following an alleged assault by Khumalo and his Sizok'thola crew during an interrogation at Varrie's home in Katlehong. Khumalo was facing charges of murder, robbery, and malicious damage to property.
State prosecutor Advocate Albert Dwera requested the provisional withdrawal, citing the need for further investigation by the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA). This decision offers Khumalo a reprieve, but the case could be reinstated pending new findings.
The incident and subsequent legal proceedings have been a rollercoaster for Khumalo, who was once celebrated as a fearless advocate for drug-free communities. Sizok'thola, known for its confrontational approach to exposing drug dens and alleged dealers, thrust Khumalo into the spotlight. However, the 2023 incident led to his arrest and dismissal from Moja Love.
Outside the court, surrounded by supporters and bodyguards, Khumalo expressed his relief and gratitude. "I will be able to pick up the pieces," he said, adding that he had lost a lot since his arrest. "This ruling will open more opportunities to work. I will work more. I will work 10 times more than before," he vowed.
Khumalo also spoke of his desire to collaborate with the SAPS in combating drug trafficking. "I would like to have a conversation with the SAPS to work together in fighting drugs. My team and I have put more resources into investigating and combating drug trafficking," he said. "Our vision is to eradicate drugs. We want our children to grow up in a drug-free environment. As we fight crime, we need support from the entire society. We can't do this alone." He also expressed his gratitude for the support he had received from political figures, particularly the MMC of the JMPD.
He claimed that during his absence from "the streets", the situation had got out of hand and that he needed to return to "fight drugs".
However, the family of Robert Varrie remains frustrated and determined to see justice served. A family spokesperson, who declined to be named, expressed mixed emotions, stating, "The family is happy because the case is not over. This has given us more perspective on what must happen. The case is not over. All the parties must be brought to justice not Khumalo alone. We accept his condolences and justice must be served."
Khumalo offered his condolences to Varrie's family, saying: "They must find comfort. Many things have happened in this case. I hope justice will prevail eventually."
Despite the ongoing investigation, Moja Love has announced Khumalo's return for season 4 of Sizok'thola. The channel had previously parted ways with Khumalo due to concerns about his involvement in incidents that led to "the possible contamination of crime scenes, failed prosecutions of known drug lords and unfortunate tragedies."
In a statement shared with TshisaLIVE, Khumalo said: "I am grateful to be back at Moja LOVE, a place that is home to me. I have had an opportunity to reflect and I look forward to reconnecting with the amazing viewers and showcase my talent to Mzansi."
Moja Love's head of channel, Livhuwani Dagada, defended the decision, stating, "Xolani is known for his authentic and on-air engaging presence and we have seen how he has built a strong connection with the viewers nationwide. His return will continue to strengthen the channel's commitment in raising awareness on the plight of drugs and its impact in communities in collaboration with law enforcement."
The NPA’s decision does not fully clear Khumalo, as the case could be reinstated pending new findings.
Khumalo's journey, from celebrated presenter to courtroom battles, has gripped the nation, raising questions about vigilante justice and accountability.
