Special task team investigates Senzo Meyiwa's death
Police commissioner Riah Phiyega says his death hit the soul of the nation and will not go unsolved.
JOHANNESBURG/CAPE TOWN - National Police Commissioner Riah Phiyega has announced that a special task team has been set up to investigate the murder of Bafana Bafana captain Senzo Meyiwa.
She says a reward for information may also be offered at a later stage.
The football star was shot in the back last night at his girlfriend Kelly Khumalo's Vosloorus home on the East Rand, apparently while trying to protect the singer from the men.
He was rushed to the Botshelong Hospital, but was pronounced dead on arrival.
No arrests have yet been made, but police have launched a massive manhunt for the three suspects.
Its understood Khumalo is now being given trauma counseling.
Phiyega says a case of murder and robbery has been opened and is being investigated.
"What I can confirm is that our police were at the scene of the crime. We proceeded to put together a special task team to look into this matter."
Police say they will do all they can to bring Meyiwa's killers to book and have announced via Twitter that a reward of R150,000 will be given for any information leading to the arrest of the men.
The incident happened at around 20h00, Zamo Section in Vosloorus. Reward of up to R150 000 is on offer 4 any info that can lead to arrest.
- SA Police Service (@SAPoliceService) October 26, 2014
MEC VISITS THE SCENE
Gauteng Community Safety MEC Sizakele Nkosi-Malubane visited the crime scene during the early hours of this morning and met with Khumalo.
The MEC said Meyiwa was shot whilst trying to protect Afro-Pop singer.
"Two guys entered the house and demanded cellphones, money and other valuables. Senzo tried to protect Kelly because one of the men had a gun pointed towards her."
She said when Meyiwa jumped to protect Khumalo, he was shot in the back and the bullet came out through his chest.
A teary-eyed Khumalo was seen driving away in Meyiwa's BMW and a police escort.
#SenzoMeyiwa Meyiwa's car is still parked outside the scene of the shooting.VM pic.twitter.com/UUTmTVCVAQ
- EWN Reporter (@ewnreporter) October 27, 2014
#SenzoMeyiwa the scene where Meyiwa was shot dead. VM pic.twitter.com/etRpi2I4eH
- EWN Reporter (@ewnreporter) October 27, 2014
Last night at the hospital, some Orlando Pirates players who had gathered were in tears.
Bafana coach Shakes Mashaba was there to comfort them.
REACTION
Minister of Sport and Recreation Fikile Mbalula said it is a sad day for South Africa.
Good morning SA we are deeply ,shocked by the passing away of Senzo Meyiwa. Its a sad day for South Africa ,his family and Orlando Pirates.
- RSA Min of Sport (@MbalulaFikile) October 27, 2014
I have spoken to Safa Pres Danny Jordaan,PSL &Pirates chair DR Irvin Khoza, Senzo Meyiwa 's Father about the passing on of Senzo.
- RSA Min of Sport (@MbalulaFikile) October 27, 2014
Orlando Pirates chairman, Dr Irvin Khoza, said in a statement via the club's website, "This is a sad loss whichever way you look at it - to Senzo's family, his extended family, Orlando Pirates and to the nation."
Meyiwa's agent Mike Makaab said, "It's an absolute tragedy. I've known him since he was 13-years-old. My deepest sympathies to his family."
SOCIAL MEDIA
South Africans and the world have reacted with shock and outrage this morning to the news.
The shooting is being described as senseless, barbaric and horrific.
RIP my friend .They say there is always another player . To me there will never be another Senzo .Thank You my Buddy pic.twitter.com/eJ5kofGceW
- Roger De Sa (@RogerDe_Sa) October 27, 2014
Tragic news abt the passing of @orlandopirates @BafanaBafana captain. Sad sad news don't know wat to say......
- Lucas Radebe (@LucasRadebe) October 27, 2014
We are shocked and saddened by the passing on of @Bafana_Bafana & @Orlando_Pirates Goalkeeper & Captain, Senzo Meyiwa. May he Rest In Peace.
- Kaizer Chiefs (@Kaizer_Chiefs) October 27, 2014
" @Bradzc: Just heard this terrible news, football in SA has lost a true pillar of strength RIP Senzo gone to soon."
- The One (@Ms_Onesimo) October 27, 2014
We waking up to a devastating news that Senzo Meyiwa has been shot dead by criminals with no sense of national assets - Lucky Dube, Baloyi,
- Zwelinzima Vavi (@Zwelinzima1) October 27, 2014
Our thoughts are with the family of Senzo Meyiwa, the South Africa captain and goalkeeper who has been tragically shot dead.
- Everton (@Everton) October 27, 2014
TRAGEDY!!!!R.I.P. Senzo Meyiwa. My condolences to his family&friends. #crazyworld #cantbelieveit pic.twitter.com/13WxdiOHeH
- Kevin-Prince Boateng (@KPBofficial) October 26, 2014
