Myeni’s body on its way back home to be laid to rest near Richards Bay

THE body of former rugby player Lindani Myeni is expected to arrive home tomorrow for burial in his hometown of Esikhaleni, near Richards Bay.

Myeni family spokesperson Nonhlanhla Myeni said a press conference would be held today at the Union Buildings in Pretoria ahead of the body’s arrival. She said only family members would be allowed at the event to receive the body.

“Once we are home, we prefer not to be interrupted, hence there will be a press conference.”

Myeni was shot and killed earlier this month by police in Hawaii in the US. They had allegedly mistaken him for a suspect in a burglary.

The 29-year-old former KwaZuluNatal rugby player was apparently unarmed at the time of his shooting.

His wife, Lindsay, and their two children had been waiting for Myeni to return home after going for a drive.

She was informed of his death some hours later.

Police alleged that Myeni entered a home in the Nuuanu area and was acting strangely. He apparently took off his shoes and spoke to the homeowners. They called the police.

Myeni then went to sit in his car. According to KZN Premier Sihle Zikalala, the Miami authorities had handed over Myeni’s body to his widow and it was expected to arrive at OR Tambo International Airport tomorrow.

Funeral arrangements were expected to be announced soon afterwards.

Many have described Myeni’s death as another case of racial discrimination against black people in the US.