The police are appealing for assistance in locating the driver involved in a fatal hit-and-run accident that claimed the life of well-known soccer enthusiast Muthakhi "King" Bale (45). The accident occurred on Sunday, 30 March, between Manavhela and Zamenkomste.
According to preliminary reports, Bale was walking home when he was struck by a motor vehicle.
Vhembe SAPS spokesperson W/O Vuledzani Dathi said the accident had happened in the early hours of Sunday. The driver fled the scene without offering assistance to the victim. The police are investigating a case of reckless driving and culpable homicide.
Dathi urged anyone with information about the incident to contact their nearest police station.
Bale was a well-known soccer official and a member of the Zamenkomste Liverpool soccer club. The club's chairperson, Steven Mathivha, described him as a dedicated community builder. "Muthakhi was larger than life. He was always there when we needed him. Now that he is gone, we fear that no one will ever fill his shoes because he is irreplaceable," Mathivha said.
He added that Bale had played a significant role in uplifting the standard of football in the local community.
Bale will be laid to rest at Zamenkomste Cemetery on 5 April.