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Suspect charged over murder of South African football captain

Senzo Meyiwa was shot dead while visiting his girlfriend's home near Johannesburg
Senzo Meyiwa was shot dead while visiting his girlfriend's home near Johannesburg

A suspect has appeared in court over the murder of South African football captain Senzo Meyiwa.

Zanokuhle Mbatha, 25, was charged with "murder and armed robbery", National Prosecution Authority spokesman Nathi Mncube told AFP news agency.

He was remanded in custody until 11 November to allow him time to apply for legal aid.

The South African goalkeeper was shot dead last Sunday by an intruder while visiting his pop star girlfriend's home some 30km south of Johannesburg.

More than 17,000 people were killed in South Africa last year, but despite this, the slaying of the popular sporting hero has stunned the nation.

Police had previously denied reports that they had arrested two people linked to the murder.

Mr Meyiwa will be buried tomorrow in his hometown of Umlazi on the outskirts of the eastern coastal city of Durban.