Qiqa Tobia

Mandla Sindane better known as ‘Mgijimi’, the Pirates fanatic who never missed a game, was found dead yesterday morning at 11am.

According to his brother who was interviewed by KickOff, Johannes Thembinkosi Sindane, said his brother had an issue with his respiratory system on Monday. “We thought it was a normal passing thing,” he added.

Mandla’s children are said to be currently away, hence his body was only discovered Tuesday morning by the father of the renowned Pirates backer. After going to check up on him in his house located in eMpumelelweni, eMalahleni town in Mpumalanga.

“At this stage we don’t know what took him. He was even telling us that he was starting to feel okay, not realising he was passing,” said Thembinkosi.

He included that, even other people are in disbelief about the sudden passing of Mgijimi. “We’ve been receiving calls from all corners, it’s unbelievable,” he said.

Mandla received tributes from all parts of the football community, with the Orlando Pirates FC going to their Twitter page to express their grief and condolences to the family of Sindane. The tweet read, the club is saddened to learn of the passing of one of its staunchest and most active supporters Mandla Sindane Rest in Peace, Mgijimi. Followed by a short video of moments shared with one of the leading Buccaneers “Bucs” followers, Migijmi.

The man who covered his body with white paint, and wore all white overalls and brought character to the Bucs stands will be dearly missed, may his soul rest in peace.

Picture: sowetanlive.co.za