Xolani Maphanga (39), the presenter of the Sizok’thola-programme, which is broadcast on channel 157 on DStv, and Bongani Mkhabela (33), a bodyguard for the programme, as well as director and owner of the Tshenolo private investigation company, were granted bail of R5 000 each in the Soshanguve Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday.
The two face three counts of attempted murder and trespassing.
Lumka Mahanjana, spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority, says it is alleged that the two, together with other crew members of the Moja Love channel, raided the complainant’s house in Soshanguve on March 14.
“They were looking for drugs that they said were being sold by the complainant. When they couldn’t get the drugs, the two apparently started to assault a woman – who is also a complainant in the case – with a sambok. They apparently also shocked her with a stun gun and tried to suffocate her brother – the alleged drug dealer. The woman reported the matter to the police three days after the incident.
“Maphanga and Mkhabela surrendered to the police last Tuesday after a warrant for their arrest was issued,” says Mahanjana.
However, the two denied in court by means of an affidavit that they had committed the crimes and asked to be released on bail.
The state did not oppose their release on bail, but did ask for conditions. They may not communicate directly or indirectly with the witnesses and must report to their nearest police station once a week.
Bail was granted and the case was adjourned to May 21 for further investigation.
RNews previously reported that a suspected drug dealer died in July last year shortly after a film crew from the same program (Sizok’thola) questioned him about his alleged involvement in drug trafficking.
Robert “Kicks” Varrie died under mysterious circumstances after team members from the program – in collaboration with the community policing forum – swooped on his home in Katlehong during a drug raid on 19 July 2023.
