MojaLOVE warns public of fundraising scam for 'Sizok'thola' show

27 July 2023 - 12:00
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Presenter Xolani Khumalo and the rest of the crew of the drug-busting MojaLOVE show 'Sizok'thola' have allegedly received death threats. In the last week an alleged dealer died during a filmed bust in Katlehong.
Presenter Xolani Khumalo and the rest of the crew of the drug-busting MojaLOVE show 'Sizok'thola' have allegedly received death threats. In the last week an alleged dealer died during a filmed bust in Katlehong.
Image: MojaLOVE/Instagram

MojaLOVE has warned the public of a fundraising scam for Sizok'thola host Xolani Khumalo making the rounds on social media. 

The host came under fire after the death of alleged drug dealer Robert “Kicks” Varrie. 

The post claimed the ANC told Xolani to compensate Varrie's family with R2m before he could resume shooting the show. 

The account, under the name “TC Simelane”, asked the public for donations.

“We are sad to inform you the presenter of the Sizok’thola show Xolani Khumalo is facing a murder charge. A drug dealer died while [being] interrogated by the Sizok’thola team,” read the post.

MojaLOVE said: “Do not fall victim.”

Speaking to ZiMoja, Xolani said: “This scam is saying Sizok'thola is asking for R100 donations. This is not true. This is a scam. That money is not going to us.”

The channel also flagged the scam with Capitec and reported it.

The Gauteng community safety department dismissed claims crime-prevention wardens, popularly known as Amapanyaza, were involved in the murder of Varrie. 

Department spokesperson Ofentse Morwane said since the introduction of the wardens in 361 wards in township informal settlements the fight against crime had accelerated, ensuring timely response to crimes.

“These wardens [undertake] early warning crime-intelligence gathering through interaction with community structures and other sources as well as tackling lawlessness through heightened enforcement.”

MojaLOVE spokesperson Nonzwakazi Cekete said they were investigating the circumstances around Varrie's death.

She said the crew had attended a drug bust in Katlehong. They had gone with “community law enforcement groups recognised by the police” and were acting on “credible and verifiable information”. 

According to Cekete, Varrie initially resisted arrest but then allegedly agreed to hand over drugs in his possession. 

“While MojaLOVE can confirm the crew was in the vicinity of the premises while the deceased was being questioned, the channel is still investigating the circumstances that led to the deceased allegedly having to be rushed to hospital. We will wait for the official autopsy results for the cause of death,” she said.

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