Johannesburg – Television channel Moja Love is probing the circumstances that led to the death of an alleged drug dealer after it filmed community policing forum members raiding the suspect’s premises.
The channel said the suspect identified as Robert “Kicks” Varrie was raided on Friday in Katlehong, Ekurhuleni.
Nonzwakazi Cekete, Spokesperson for Siyaya TV, which owns Moja Love, said the show works with law enforcement agencies in each of its shows.
Cekete said case numbers were shared and suspects handed over to the SA Police Service (SAPS) authorities for further investigations and legal processes.
Varrie was declared dead at the Mogoerane Regional Hospital in Vosloorus after he had been interrogated during the filming of a Moja Love Sizokuthola episode.
“Based on information currently at our disposal, we are advised that following a community tip-off the crew on 19 July 2023 attended to a drug bust in Katlehong and did so in conjunction with community law enforcement groups, as is customary, that are recognised by the SAPS,” said Cekete.
“It is our understanding that the information received by the crew and the local community groups was credible.”
Cekete said the suspect initially refused to cooperate with the lawful instructions of the recognised members of the community policing forum, who were dressed in their uniforms and had their credentials.
“Following persistence by the members of the community policing forum, the Varrie agreed to hand over the illegal drugs that he had been hiding at the premises,” Cekete said.
“Whilst Moja Love can confirm that the crew was within the vicinity of the premises when Varrie was being questioned, the channel is still investigating the circumstance that led to the deceased having to be allegedly rushed to hospital.
“We will wait for the official autopsy results for the cause of death.”
The channel said it will cooperate with any investigation that may be initiated and it sends its condolences to the deceased’s family.
“The channel is offering the crew and any other interested individuals counseling assistance following the news of the deceased,” said Cekete.
