During the Senzo Meyiwa murder trial, Tumelo Madlala, a longtime friend of the deceased, has raised questions regarding Kelly Khumalo’s statement about the events surrounding the tragic incident in which former Bafana Bafana captain Senzo Meyiwa was fatally shot during an alleged robbery in 2014.
Madlala was subjected to cross-examination on Thursday in the North Gauteng High Court in Pretoria, where he provided insights into the circumstances of Meyiwa's untimely death.
Advocate Zithulele Nxumalo, representing one of the five individuals accused of the brutal killing, read out a statement made by Kelly Khumalo to the police shortly after her former boyfriend's shooting.
According to Nxumalo's recitation from Khumalo's statement, she described the scene: "I noticed a spot of blood on his back, and upon turning him over, I observed a significant amount of blood on his chest. He collapsed onto the couch, and I cradled him while desperately calling for assistance. During this time, the assailant remained within the premises, with my son in close proximity to him."
However, Madlala contested Khumalo’s account of the events, asserting, "I cannot comprehend what she was describing. She ought to clarify her statement. From my perspective, I only witnessed bloodstains and not the substantial bleeding she mentioned."
Madlala further emphasized the need for Khumalo to address these discrepancies directly, urging, "It is imperative that she herself provides an explanation for these perplexing details."
Nxumalo proceeded to highlight additional contradictions in various witness testimonies, underscoring the complex nature of the case.
Madlala, in response, maintained his stance of refraining from interpreting others' statements, stating, "I am present to recount my own observations. Each individual should present their side of the story. I am not in a position to speak on their behalf."
The tragic incident occurred on October 26, 2014, at the Khumalo residence, where Meyiwa was fatally shot in what is believed to be a bungled robbery.
Present in the house on that fateful day were Kelly Khumalo and her younger sister, Zandile, as well as their mother Ntombi Khumalo (MaKhumalo). Also in attendance were Longwe Twala, Meyiwa’s friends Mthokozisi Thwala and Tumelo Madlala, Kelly’s then four-year-old son, Christian, and Thingo, her daughter with Meyiwa source: IOL
