Celebrities and sporting stars across the world expressed shock on Twitter as they woke up to the news of the death of soccer player Senzo Meyiwa. The 27-year-old Bafana Bafana and Orlando Pirates goalkeeper and captain was shot dead at about 8pm in Vosloorus on Sunday.

Former Orlando Pirates coach Augusto Palacios tweeted: “What a tragic loss @SenzoMey1 was an unbelievably honourable human, friend & sportsman. The Country is mourning your loss #RIPSenzoMeyiwa”.

South African cricketer, Wayne Parnell said: “Saddened to wake up here in New Zealand and hear such horrific news about the passing of Senzo Meyiwa”.

Mamelodi Sundowns player, Teko Modise tweeted: “Beyond devastated at the loss of our captain & friend Senzo Meyiwa. thoughts & prayers are with his family & friends at this terrible time”.

Meanwhile, South African journalist Ranjeni Munusamy said: “So it wasn’t just a nightmare then? #SenzoMeyiwa”.

National Police Commissioner, Riah Phiyega would address the media about the investigations into Meyiwa’s shooting later on Monday.

“At 12 o’clock [noon], the national commissioner will address the media,” Brigadier Neville Malila said.

“There is nothing further to say until then.”

Malila could not confirm earlier whether Meyiwa was at his girlfriend, singer and actress Kelly Khumalo’s home. He was reportedly shot while protecting her. No arrests had yet been made and police were investigating a case of murder.

The SA Police Service tweeted on Sunday: “There were seven people inside the house. Two suspects went into the house, one remained outside. The three fled on foot after the shooting.”

Earlier on Monday, police offered a R150,000 reward for information that could lead to the arrest of the killer. SAPA