On October 26, 2014, the murder of beloved soccer star Senzo Meyiwa sent shockwaves through South Africa, leaving fans and the nation grappling with unanswered questions. Recently, during the ongoing trial, new revelations have thrust this high-profile case back into the public eye. Advocate Thulani Mngomezulu, representing accused number one, Muzikawukhulelwa Sibiya, made a stunning claim: Longwe Twala, son of renowned music producer Chicco Twala, was the one who fatally shot Senzo Meyiwa on that tragic night, as reported by Sunday World.
The accusation was brought forward during the cross-examination of state witness and ballistic expert Lt-Col Christian Mangena at the Pretoria High Court. This session marked a crucial moment, coming a year after Mangena’s initial testimony. Advocate Mngomezulu argued that Longwe shot Meyiwa with a .38 special revolver, allegedly owned by his father, Chicco Twala.
The Night Senzo Meyiwa Was Shot
On the night of the incident, Senzo Meyiwa was at the home of his girlfriend, Kelly Khumalo, a well-known South African singer. Others present included Khumalo’s sister Zandile, their mother Gladness, Zandile’s boyfriend Longwe Twala, and Meyiwa’s close friends Tumelo Madlala and Mthokozisi Thwala. What began as a gathering soon turned deadly when Meyiwa was shot in what has remained a highly contested and mysterious case.
Disputed Firearms Evidence
A significant focus of the case is on the ballistic evidence. Lt-Col Mangena testified that on November 14, 2014, he received two sealed evidence bags containing a 9mm parabellum semi-automatic pistol, among other items. However, forensic tests revealed that the 9mm pistol was not the weapon used to murder Meyiwa.
Advocate Mngomezulu scrutinized the ownership and legitimacy of the firearm. While he argued that the firearm was owned by Chicco Twala, Mangena could not verify this claim, stating he was unaware of the weapon’s owner. Mngomezulu further pushed the narrative, emphasizing the potential link between the weapon and Longwe’s involvement, considering his presence at the scene.
The Allegation Against Longwe Twala and Chicco Twala’s Firearm
Advocate Mngomezulu’s line of questioning aimed to connect Longwe Twala’s alleged actions to the firearm supposedly owned by Chicco Twala. He put forward a theory that Longwe fired the fatal shot and questioned how Chicco’s firearm could have been involved if he was not at the scene. Although Mngomezulu insisted he had verified the firearm license belonged to Chicco Twala, Mangena was resolute in his stance that he could not confirm the ownership.
The complexity of this case is underscored by the conflicting narratives surrounding the firearms involved. While Mngomezulu contended that a .38 special revolver was used rather than the 9mm in evidence, this discrepancy highlights the challenges facing the prosecution in their effort to construct a compelling case that establishes who is responsible for Meyiwa’s death.
Moving Forward
As the trial continues, the focus remains on uncovering the truth behind Senzo Meyiwa’s murder. With Chicco Twala’s name now associated with the case due to his son’s alleged involvement, the case has taken a new turn that could have significant implications for all those involved. The unfolding courtroom drama, coupled with new claims, keeps the nation on edge as it waits for justice to be served in the tragic death of one of South Africa’s beloved soccer stars.
