Amakhosi are making preparations to assist in burying BP Top 8 semifinal victim. Patrick Mkhondo, a card-carrying supporter of Kaizer Chiefs died while celebrating a 34th minute Chiefs goal scored by Kenny Niemach, during the BP Top8 semifinal clash between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates on Saturday 25 August 2001.

Mkhondo, (37) was born in Phiring, Ohrigstad, near Burgersfort, Mpumalanga. At the time of his death, he had been part of a building construction company based in Zambia. The late Mkhondo fell head first into the FNB Stadium concrete moat and died.

Patrick’s younger brother Martin, two sisters Gladys and Cynthia and his aunt Lucy positively identified his body, at the Johannesburg government mortuary on Tuesday, 28th August 2001. The shocked family then proceeded to Chiefs Village, Naturena, where they met by Club Director, Mr Hamid Muhammid and Public Relations Officer, Putco Mafani.

Mafani said: "Although we are still shocked at the tragedy, we were quite pleased to meet the family of the late i-Khosi, Patrick Mkhondo."

"We officially expressed our deepest sympathy and assured them we will do everything in our power to assist the family at this time of grief and pain," said Mafani from the club's head quarters in Naturena

"The circumstances surrounding the manner in which we lost this supporter are very touching. They bring about deep emotions, the very thought that a supporter can die celebrating our only goal that saw us reaching the finals of the BP Top 8, by edging out defending champions Orlando Pirates is pretty much an intriguing and unique situation," added Mafani.

Kaizer Chiefs in conjunction with Hollard Life Insurance, the under writers of the Chiefs Supporters Funeral Cover, have secured the services of KERRS’ Funeral Directors, to facilitate and conduct the funeral service at no cost to the family. Additionally, Kaizer Chiefs have made a cash donation of R5000 towards assisting the family with preparations for the funeral.

BP Southern Africa Communications Manager at BP S, Vuyo Zambodla said, "At BP, safety and security are of paramount importance, and to lose one fan at our tournament, is ‘one too many’. Our condolences go the family of the late Patrick Mkhondo and the entire Kaizer Chiefs family. We have been assured that this matter is being thoroughly investigated with a view to avoid any recurrence of this regrettable incidence. We have full confidence in the safety and security measures taken by our partners, the Premier Soccer League during this tournament."

BP will make a donation of R10 000 to the family.

Funeral arrangements have not been finalized as yet, but indications are that Mkhondo will be buried next Saturday, 8th September at his hometown of Ohrigstad in Mpumalanga. Details pertaining to the funeral arrangements will be released shortly. A moment of silence will be observed at the final of the BP Top 8 in remembrance of the fallen supporter.

For further information, please contact Putco Mafani on 011-941 1465/6/7/8 or 082 991 0977.