‘Catch Meyiwa’s killers and leave me in peace’
Zamokuhle Mbatha, the first suspect to be arrested for the murder of Senzo Meyiwa in 2014, has welcomed the announcement by police minister Fikile Mbalula that Senzo’s killers could soon be arrested and charged.
Mbatha, who was initially detained by police for the murder of the celebrated Orlando Pirates and national side Bafana Bafana’s goal-keeper, told Kathorus MAIL in an exclusive interview that nothing will bring him sheer joy other than the arrest and conviction of Meyiwa’s killer or killers. Mbatha is currently suing the police for R10-million for wrongful arrest and detention after the case was struck off the court roll by the magistrate at the Boksburg courts.
Following the recent announcement by the minister of police, Fikile Mbalula, Mbatha said he wants to see the person or people who almost destroyed his life for a crime he did not commit be arrested, charged and sentenced in court. “I am still traumatised by the allegations that were falsely made against me and the subsequent arrest that followed, which saw me spend several days in detention,” said a visibly relieved Mbatha, with a smile on his face.
Meanwhile, without going into details or mentioning names, a fortnight ago, the police minister disclosed that the person or people responsible for Senzo Meyiwa’s death could soon be brought to book. This follows the pressure that was placed on the minister by the slain soccer star’s father, Sam Meyiwa, regarding the arrest of the person or people involved in his son’s murder.
Mbatha said he and his family have always known that one day the truth about his wrongful arrest would surface. “My wrongful arrest and subsequent release without being charged made me realise that I was used as a scapegoat by those who implicated me in Senzo Meyiwa’ murder,” said a visibly excited Mbatha.
Mbatha who lives several meters from Kelly Khumalo’s mother’s house where Senzo was killed, said he has always suspected that the claim of a robbery was “too far-fetched” to be believed.
According to Mbatha, the arrest of the person or people involved in Senzo’s murder will not only help to clear his name but remove the dark cloud that has made him and his family live in fear. “I have been living in constant fear for my life and those of my family. I now believe the pressure will ease once the police minister, Fikile Mbalula, follows through on his promise to have Senzo’s killers arrested,” said Mbatha.
