Marumo Gallants have finally broken silence on the detained duo still stuck in Libya. It has been 15 days since club officials Rufus Matsena and Amos [Dina] Dhlomo were kept by Libyan businessman Dr Ali Elzargha.
This was after Marumo failed to pay money owed to him after he helped with flight tickets and other logistics. The arrangements were for the during their CAF Confederation Cup match against Al Akhdar
This publication has gathered that the club has approached the South African embassy in Tunisia to intervene. South Africa does not have an embassy in Libya currently, and the closest embassy is in Tunis.
FARPost have also gathered that despite the so-called interventions, Dr Elzargha is not bowing to any pressure. He allegedly insists the duo will only be released once he has received all his money. This includes the accommodation that the two are currently using.
MARUMO GALLANTS OFFICIAL COMMENT
“Marumo Gallants management is in communication with relevant officials to resolve the situation in Libya involving two of the club’s key employees,” the club said the club on Monday.
“Following the CAF Confederation Cup match against Libya’s Al Akhdar on 19 March 2023, the PSL team’s two staff members [Media Liaison Rufus Matsena and team physiotherapist Tebogo Amos Dhlomo] were detained at a Libyan hotel over a financial dispute.”
CLUB IN CONTACT WITH THE DETAINED DUO
“Marumo Gallants management is in contact with the two employees. They have confirmed that they are safe and waiting for the matter to be settled. Once the issue has been resolved, the club will address questions and concerns at a media briefing. The platform and details to be announced.”
“There are no further comments from Marumo Gallants F.C. at this point.”
Meanwhile, FARPost have also reached out to CAF through Luxolo September and SAFA Bennett Bailey [head of the delegation at the match] but both declined to comment.
RELATED STORY: Libyan hotel owner holding Marumo duo hostage speaks out
