The ATM has joined the growing calls for the protection of Sizokuthola’s host, Xolani Khumalo and his crew.
This follows reports of death threats against Khumalo.
According to Sunday World, Khumalo and the channel’s CEO, Aubrey Tau, received threats from people who wanted them to stop the show.
Together with law-enforcement agencies and investigative journalists, Sizokuthola aims to crack down on criminality and drug dens among others.
ATM’s spokesperson, Zama Ntshona says the party leader, Vuyo Zungula has written to the Ministers of Police and Justice and Correctional Services, Bheki Cele and Ronald Lamola, to intervene on the matter.
‘’I am writing to draw your immediate attention to a matter of utmost urgency concerning the safety and security of the host, Xolani Khumalo and crew members of the TV show Sizokuthola, a show primarily focused on exposing drug dealers in our communities.
“Xolani, because of his courageous work as the host of the show, has become the target of numerous threats to his life. In light of these circumstances, I implore you to take immediate action to ensure his safety and the entire crew,” reads the letter.
The crime show made news recently after an alleged attack at Coconut Lounge in Rustenburg, North-West where they were shooting the arrest of a ‘’drug dealer’’.
According to Zimoja, a blog by the channel, the Lounge’s security and management blocked the crew from approaching the suspect they were targeting and they allegedly threw bottles at the crew while they were already outside the premises, resulting in damage to one of their vehicles.
North-West SAPS is reportedly investigating a case of malicious damage to property following the incident.
In his letter, Zungula appealed to Cele and Lamola to provide the crew with a security escort.
‘’It is essential they be provided with police protection when they are shooting episodes of the show, round the clock surveillance and any other necessary security measures to mitigate the risks they face,” he said.
He further called on the ministers to investigate and prosecute the exposed drug dealers.
