POLICE are expected to arrest additional suspects linked to the murder of Robert "Ricks" Varrie, a suspected drug dealer.
This was revealed by State Prosecutor Albert Dwera when former Sizok'thola presenter Xolani Khumalo appeared in the Palm Ridge Magistrates Court on Thursday, 9 May.
Dwera said the state needs time to identify additional suspects and consult with witnesses.
"The state needs to know who was operating the cameras because those people should also be charged in this matter.
"One of the witnesses is here in court. However, the state needs to do a consultation with the other two," said Dwera.
The case involving Xolani Khumalo, previously a presenter on Sizok'thola, has been postponed in the Palm Ridge Magistrates Court in Ekurhuleni to 3 July. This will allow the prosecution to identify additional suspects and consult with witnesses. Video by Happy Mnguni @dailysunsa pic.twitter.com/P2xYf4FnPR
— happy mnguni (@happy_mnguni) May 9, 2024
The case was postponed to 3 July for further investigation.
Xolani is facing a charge of murder, robbery and property damage after Varrie (49) was allegedly assaulted in July 2023 in Katlehong, Ekurhuleni.
He was declared dead after being interrogated during the filming of Sizok'thola.
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Speaking outside the court, Xolani thanked his supporters who rallied behind him.
"Thank you for supporting me throughout this case. It means a lot to me. It shows I'm not alone. I wish you could do the same when one of us faces challenges," he said.
Ex-Sizok'thola presenter Xolani Khumalo expressed his gratitude to his supporters who rallied behind him outside the Palm Ridge Magistrates Court on Thursday, 9 May. Video by Happy Mnguni @dailysunsa pic.twitter.com/fhxNAeSwIZ
— happy mnguni (@happy_mnguni) May 9, 2024
Sipho Masango from Sebokeng in the Vaal said: "The government has been failing to tackle the issue of drugs that affect our children. Let your ancestors and God be with you through this hard time. We're behind you."
One of Varrie's family members said they were delighted to see progress in the case.
"We're happy that more people will be arrested. We've been saying Xolani was not alone when Robert was allegedly assaulted and killed. We want justice for our brother," she said.
