Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie has condemned media outlets for publishing speculative details about the death of footballer Jayden Adams, urging the public to allow police to investigate.

The controversy arose after News24 published a report based on an earlier Rapport article, which detailed alleged arguments between Adams and his girlfriend, his emotional distress, and family tensions.McKenzie criticized the media for potentially influencing the grieving family and undermining the police inquiry.

Police have not confirmed any of the allegations and are conducting an inquest to determine the cause of Adams' death, which was discovered on July 11 in Cape Town.The 25-year-old midfielder, who played for Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns, is set to be laid to rest in Stellenbosch on July 25.The incident has sparked debate about media responsibility and the impact of sensational reporting on sensitive cases.

While the family has not commented on the media coverage, the police emphasize that the investigation is ongoing and no conclusions have been reached.