Tributes for Bafana Bafana and Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Senzo Meyiwa

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27 October 2014

While South Africa reels from news of the passing away of Bafana Bafana and Orlando Pirates Football club goalkeeper and captain Senzo Meyiwa, tributes are pouring in for one of the country’s most promising sports stars who was shot dead by robbers in Vosloorus in the south of Johannesburg on Sunday evening.

In a statement, President Jacob Zuma expressed shock, sadness and outrage at the death of Meyiwa.

“We mourn the death of this young footballer and team leader whose life has been taken away at the prime of his career.

“The law enforcement authorities must leave no stone unturned in finding his killers and bring them to justice. Words cannot express the nation’s shock at this loss.’

Zuma said on behalf of government and all the people of South Africa, he wished to send his words of condolence to his family and relatives, his friends and peers in the football game, his club Orlando Pirates and the national soccer team as well as the football fraternity as a whole. “May his soul rest in peace,” he said.

National Police Commissioner Riah Phiyega also sent her condolences to the Meyiwa family and said a special task team has been set up to investigate the murder of Meyiwa. She said a reward for information has been also be offered.

“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.’

Gauteng Community Safety MEC Sizakele Nkosi-Malubane also visited the crime scene where Meyiwa was shot and killed while trying to protect his Afro-Pop singer and girlfriend, Kelly Khumalo.

“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.

In a statement, Orlando Pirates said the Orlando Pirates Football Club family has learned with sadness about the untimely death of Meyiwa.

“This statement is being issued whilst Orlando Pirates officials are up and about dealing with matters that arise when such untimely and unsettling news is received.

Orlando Pirates chairman Irvin Khoza said: “This is a sad loss whichever way you look at it – to Senzo’s family, his extended family, Orlando Pirates and to the nation.”

SAinfo reporter