Bloemfontein – Former Orlando Pirates and Marumo Gallants striker, Gabadinho Mhango, finds himself embroiled in a serious legal battle following a car accident in Bloemfontein on Sunday, 29 September.
The incident, which allegedly involved Mhango driving under the influence of alcohol, has drawn significant attention, highlighting the ongoing challenges of drink-driving within South African football.
According to police spokeswoman Captain Loraine Earle, the accident occurred on Fort Hare Street, near the Batho Clinic. Mhango, driving a black VW GTI Golf, allegedly rear-ended a Toyota Quantum minibus taxi carrying an unspecified number of passengers. The collision took place as both vehicles were entering the Bochabela township.
"The driver of the GTI and passengers in the Quantum were rushed to the hospital where they were treated for minor injuries," Captain Earle confirmed. "A case of reckless and negligent driving while under the influence of alcohol is being investigated," she added.
Mhango, the 32-year-old Malawian international, faces charges of drunk driving, reckless driving, and negligence. He appeared briefly in the Bloemfontein Magistrates Court on Monday, 30 September, and was released on a warning. His next court appearance is scheduled for Wednesday, 2 October, to allow him to secure legal representation.
The incident has prompted a response from Marumo Gallants, Mhango's current club. Sello Nduna, the club's spokesperson, told Daily Sun that the club only learned of the incident through social media.
"We're not aware that our player has been arrested and subsequently appeared in court," Nduna stated.
"The players were given a few days to relax after our game against AmaZulu, which Mhango was not part of. We are on the Fifa calendar until 26 October. We condemn any irritating behaviour amongst our players. We will wait for the matter to formally come to the management. The internal processes will be followed thereof," he explained.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of drink-driving. The tragic death of Bafana Bafana striker Richard Henyekane years ago, on the N5 highway between QwaQwa and Bethlehem, remains a poignant example of the dangers associated with driving under the influence of alcohol. This incident, and others involving prominent footballers, underscores a concerning pattern within the South African Premier Soccer League (PSL).
Several high-profile PSL players have faced legal repercussions due to drink-driving incidents in the past. The list includes notable names such as Mbulelo Mabizela, Junior Khanye, Dumisani Zuma, Andile Jali, Itumeleng Khune, Phakamani Mahlambi, and Siyabonga Zulu.
These incidents highlight a need for increased awareness and stricter enforcement of drink-driving laws within the football community and beyond. The case against Mhango is likely to be closely followed, not only by football fans but also by those concerned about the broader issue of road safety in South Africa.
