SASSA Is Making Progress Against Fraud, Study Shows
But there are likely many fraudulent grant applications made years ago that still receive money
ONE
New R168 Million School for Blind Learners Delayed
The school is one of only six in Limpopo catering to visually impaired and blind learners
Quick Explainer: Inflation and How It Affects You
The inflation rate measures the rise in the price of a basket of goods. Stats SA announced on Wednesday that the inflation rate over the year to December 2024 was 3%, up from 2.9% for the year to November 2024. What does this mean and why does it matter? What is inflation? The standard measure …
Judge Mbenenge Denies Sending a Picture of His Private Parts to His Secretary
Secretary lied under oath, judge’s advocate claims
SA U19 Women Secure Victory Over Nigeria to Top Group C in the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup
SARAWAK: South Africa U19 Women are through to the Super Six stage of the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup following...
President Ramaphosa calls on nations to work together
President Ramaphosa calls on nations to work together
President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged nations to work together to tackle a multitude of challenges facing the global economy, highlighting rising debt and climate change impacts, as burning issues.
He was giving a special address to the 55th World Economic Forum in Davos on Tuesday as Head of State and in his capacity as the President of the G20.
He called for collective efforts to rid the world of current conflicts causing untold pain and suffering to those affected.
“As we confront the challenges of the 21st century – from climate change to pandemics, from poverty to terrorism, from migration to artificial intelligence – we are again called upon to harness that most powerful, and that most enduring, of human attributes: mutually beneficial cooperation and collaboration.
“This is a time of rising geopolitical tensions, unilateralism, nationalism, protectionism, isolationism, rising debt levels affecting poor countries in the world and a declining sense of common purpose,” the President said.
The President emphasised that without cooperation and collaboration between individuals, groups, peoples and nations, humanity cannot progress.
“This is a moment when we should be standing together as a global community to resolve the problems that confront humanity by ending the wars and conflicts that are causing such hardship and misery to many people around the world.
“We are called upon by the exigency of the moment to act together with greater urgency to halt the destruction of our planet,” he said.
President Ramaphosa further emphasised that this is a moment where countries should harness the abundant resources they collectively possess and the remarkable technologies that human ingenuity has produced to overcome poverty and inequality, unemployment, especially youth unemployment, and the abuse of women, "once and for all".
Important to meet needs of present without compromising future
He emphasised that countries must meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
“It is therefore in the interests of all countries to act with greater urgency to reduce global emissions and for industrialised countries to support the climate actions that poorer countries must necessarily take in line with and in support of decisions of UN climate change summits,” he said.
In addition to huge gaps in economic capabilities and levels of human development, the President said countries of the Global South face a lack of predictable financing for development and climate change, high levels of debt and vulnerability to pandemics.
“Debt sustainability for low-income countries is one of the four priorities of South Africa’s G20 Presidency. In the world we inhabit today, the pursuit of equality and the practice of solidarity cannot be separated from sustainable development,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Wed, 01/22/2025 - 12:33
113 views
Lenasia Magistrate Court shooting condemned
Lenasia Magistrate Court shooting condemned
Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mamoloko Kubayi has strongly condemned a shooting outside the Lenasia Magistrate Court, which claimed the life of one person.
The victim was a 27-year-old man awaiting to testify as a witness in an ongoing murder case being heard in the court.
“The safety of all court users is of the utmost priority. The security breach violates the core of the court administration system. We expect courts to be the custodians of justice and a safe place for our citizens,” Kubayi said.
The Minister said the department has immediately moved to beef up security for “high risk” matters.
“I can confirm that in less than 24 hours, the department, in collaboration with the National Prosecuting Authority and the South African Police Service, is implementing enhanced security measures for high risk cases. This includes an integrated security plan and a comprehensive threat and risk assessment to protect witnesses and court officials.
“These measures will ensure that Lenasia Magistrate Court public safety and security is urgently restored,” Kubayi said.
The department said operations at the court are continuing with arrangements made to “provide psychological support to affected court staff to address the trauma arising from this incident”.
“The department strongly condemns this heinous and deplorable act perpetrated on a witness who sought to assist the court to find justice. The department emphasises the importance of respect and upholding the rule of law, which is a cornerstone of our democracy.
“The Constitution remains the ultimate guide for the peaceful and lawful resolution of disputes, and any attempts to destabilize the justice system will not be tolerated,” the department said.
Furthermore, the public is encouraged to report any information they may have related to the shooting.
“The department calls on members of the public to assist SAPS with any information that could aid the investigation and ultimately lead to a successful prosecution.
“Protecting and strengthening our justice system is a collective responsibility, and together, we must uphold the rule of law and resolve disputes within the framework of the Constitution,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 01/22/2025 - 12:48
49 views
City to Decide on Objections to Six-Storey Bo-Kaap Hotel
Residents are opposed to the development overshadowing the oldest mosque in the country
President Ramaphosa outlines SA’s G20 Presidency priorities at WEF
President Ramaphosa outlines SA's G20 Presidency priorities at WEF
President Cyril Ramaphosa has highlighted the significance of South Africa's G20 Presidency and the economic priorities of the South African Government of National Unity during a special address to the 55th World Economic Forum in Davos-Klosters, Switzerland.
The President told world leaders that South Africa will focus its G20 Presidency on three themes - namely solidarity, equality and sustainable development.
He emphasised the country’s commitment to advancing a just energy transition, fostering inclusive growth and addressing global inequalities.
“As a leading forum for international economic cooperation, the G20 plays an important role in shaping and strengthening global architecture and governance on major international economic issues,” the President said.
He pointed out that the G20 is being hosted on the African continent for the first time in history.
“This is a moment of great significance for South Africa, the African continent and the world in that it was in Africa where humans developed the capacity and the impulse for cooperation.
“Cooperation has been one of the key markers of human development touching on many aspects of life, from survival and social organisation to technological and cultural progress, which is what the G20 was established for - to foster cooperation to deal with the challenges the world faces. Cooperation is the bedrock of human civilisation,” President Ramaphosa said.
He referred to former President Nelson Mandela’s speech at the WEF annual meeting 33 years ago, when Tata Madiba said: “Our interdependence, bringing us together into a common global home, across the oceans and the continents, demands that we all combine to launch a global offensive for development, prosperity and human survival.”
President Ramaphosa said South Africa's G20 Presidency is aimed at pursuing the objective of fostering solidarity, equality and sustainable development.
“It is South Africa’s firm view that these themes can best be taken forward through the collective actions of institutions like the G20 and various multilateral institutions of the world, especially the United Nations, the WTO [World Trade Organisation] and global financial institutions, which should be reformed and be more representative and responsive to the needs of the citizens of the world.
“We will seek to get the G20 to focus more on how we can enhance solidarity through collective efforts to ensure that in the pursuit of progress for all, no person and no country is left behind,” the President said.
He emphasised that the rights and freedoms of one people cannot be separated from the rights and freedoms of all peoples. The President said that this is the foundation on which solidarity is built.
He said one of the greatest impediments to growth, development and stability is the persistence of inequality within and between countries.
The pursuit of the UN Sustainable Development Goal on reducing inequality is as much of an economic imperative as it is a social imperative, President Ramaphosa said.
“As the G20, we need deliberate and coordinated efforts to focus on inclusive growth based on responsive trade and investment to grow the incomes of poor nations and the poorest in society and to ensure equal access to opportunities especially for women and young people.
“For nations to flourish, equality and prosperity must be available to everyone – regardless of gender, race, religious beliefs or economic status,” he said.
Mobilising Finance for a Just Energy Transition
Another of South Africa’s priorities for its G20 Presidency is to mobilise finance for a just energy transition.
President Ramaphosa underscored the need for enhanced climate financing, urging global financial institutions to redirect unused Special Drawing Rights to support developing economies, particularly in Africa and the Global South.
“It is simply not fair that over 60% of Special Drawing Rights are concentrated in a handful of wealthy countries. These resources should empower countries in Africa to invest in infrastructure, education, health care, and industrial development,” the President said.
He called for innovative financing mechanisms and private capital to scale sustainable development, urging global institutions to derisk and support financing for emerging markets.
Highlighting South Africa’s Just Energy Transition Partnership, the President said: “We must accelerate the transition to low-carbon economies in a manner that is just and inclusive, while recognising the damage that climate change has already caused.”
Strengthening disaster resilience
With the increasing frequency of climate-induced natural disasters, President Ramaphosa said South Africa has therefore made the strengthening of disaster resilience as one of the priorities of its G20 Presidency.
He called for special financing and insurance mechanisms to support post-disaster reconstruction, particularly in vulnerable regions.
Harnessing critical minerals for inclusive growth
President Ramaphosa said another priority is to harness critical minerals for inclusive growth and development.
“We need a G20 framework on green industrialisation and investments to ensure progress towards a grand bargain that promotes value addition to critical minerals close to the source of extraction.
“We also need the development of low-carbon manufacturing value chains which can support decarbonisation and industrial development. As mineral extraction accelerates to match the needs of the energy transition, the countries and local communities endowed with these resources must be the ones to benefit the most,” the President said.
Showcasing Africa’s promise
President Ramaphosa highlighted Africa as the next frontier of global growth, with its abundant natural resources, young population and expanding markets.
He called for G20 support for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Adjustment Fund, investments in infrastructure, youth skills development, and women’s economic empowerment.
“The digitisation of the continent to enhance trade and development is a key enabler. Through its G20 Presidency, South Africa is well-positioned to advance global cooperation and build partnerships for growth and development,” he said.
Advancing global cooperation
President Ramaphosa praised South Africa’s inclusive governance under the Government of National Unity, which he credited with fostering stability and investor confidence.
“This cooperative culture and approach was taken to a higher level with the establishment of the Government of National Unity following the elections we held in May last year.
“The Government of National Unity, made up of 10 political parties, has been vital to stability and inclusive governance, and has contributed to greater interest among investors in South Africa’s economic prospects,” he said.
The President said over the last few years, the South African government has been working closely with social partners in business and in labour to address key national challenges and drive inclusive growth.
Concluding his address, President Ramaphosa extended an invitation to world leaders to attend the G20 Summit in Johannesburg later this year.
He said the seeds of human progress were sown in Africa, where the earliest forms of cooperation were forged and developed.
“As the leaders of the G20 return to Africa, we make a call that we all harness these essential capabilities that will make us take action to build a better and fairer world. We intend that the G20 in Johannesburg this year should be a forum where cooperation and collaboration amongst the leading economies in the world will be taken to a higher level.
“Acting together, we should build an inclusive, just and equal world in which all may prosper, leaving no one and no country behind. I look forward to welcoming you to the G20 in Johannesburg later this year.
“Even if you do not participate in any of the 130 G20-related meetings, I invite you to come and see South Africa for yourself, the most beautiful country in the world,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Wed, 01/22/2025 - 12:30
10 views
Judge’s Secretary Flirted Back, Argues Lawyer
The Judicial Conduct Tribunal hearing a complaint of sexual harassment against Eastern Cape Judge President Selby Mbenenge heard cross examination on Tuesday
Twenty suspects nabbed during Vala Umgodi operations in Limpopo
Twenty suspects nabbed during Vala Umgodi operations in Limpopo
The prompt response from Limpopo Vala Umgodi multidisciplinary forces has led to the arrest of 20 suspects involved in illegal mining, drug dealing and violations of immigration laws.
In a statement on Tuesday, Limpopo Provincial Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, said chrome worth over R1 million was also seized during an operation conducted on Sunday, following credible information from the community.
In Sekhukhune District, the task team acted on a tip-off regarding a drug dealer operating at the Groblersdal taxi rank.
Hadebe said the team’s swift response led to the arrest of a 31-year-old suspect, who was found in possession of 34 sachets of rock drugs, including 36 sachets of nyaope, 31 sachets of dagga, one plastic bag containing dagga and R656 in cash believed to be proceeds from drug sales.
A 53-year-old male suspect was also arrested at the same taxi rank for possession of four packs of illicit Remington Gold cigarettes.
“Further investigations led the team to a farm in Dithamaga village, Burgersfort, where illegal mining activities were taking place. Two male suspects, aged 38 and 58, were apprehended for illegally mining chrome with an excavator,” Hadebe said.
A total of 13 loads of chrome, with an estimated value of R1 058 560, and an excavator were also confiscated.
“In separate operations across the Capricorn, Mopani and Vhembe Districts, 15 individuals, aged between 22 and 41 years, were arrested for contravening the Immigration Act. The suspects were found to be in the country without the necessary documentation,” Hadebe said.
Hadebe has commended the joint efforts of the police and the community in combatting crime in the province.
She said the suspects are expected to appear before the respective magistrate’s courts in due course.
Twelve arrested for illicit mining in Northern Cape
Meanwhile, the continuous intelligence-driven disruptive operations conducted by the multidisciplinary teams of Operation Vala Umgodi, with a focus on illicit mining and other related crimes, has led to the arrest of 12 suspects in the Frances Baard and Namakwa Districts, Northern Cape.
Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Molefi Shemane, said police received information about suspected illegal mining activities taking place at a mining hotspot in Kleinzee, in the west coast of the Northern Cape.
Further investigation led to the arrest of four suspects, aged between 35 and 57, for alleged illegal mining and trespassing on Saturday.
“The police seized equipment suspected to be used in the commission of illicit mining, and bags containing possible suspected diamond bearing material,” Shemane said.
In Frances Baard District, the police also received information about illegal activities taking place at identified locations in Barkly West.
Shemane said the police arrested five undocumented persons between the ages of 26 and 47, as well as the seizure of ammunition.
“Furthermore, members received information regarding the sale of drugs in Windsorton and upon arrival, a male suspect was searched, and suspected drugs were found in his possession. The 65-year-old suspect was subsequently arrested,” Shemane said.
During a search in another location in Kimberley, drugs were found and confiscated. A 50-year-old man was arrested for possession of drugs.
In an unrelated matter, a 36-year-old male was apprehended on Sunday in Galeshewe for dealing in drugs.
“Drugs with an estimated value of R3 000 were confiscated with a substantial amount of money believed to be the proceeds of criminal activities,” Shemane said.
Shemane has reassured that the police will continue with their concerted efforts in addressing illicit mining activities, as well as other related crimes.
The public is reminded to report any criminal activities to SAPS Crime Stop number on 08600 10111, or use the MySAPS App. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 01/21/2025 - 12:26
167 views
Five-year-old repatriated from Mauritius adjusts to new life with family in SA
Five-year-old repatriated from Mauritius adjusts to new life with family in SA
Despite a challenging start to life, a young South African girl repatriated from Mauritius in December last year, is blossoming into what her grandmother describes as a “ball of fun and sunshine”.
The child, who was born in Mauritius, lived in a prison compound on the island, where her mother is awaiting trial for allegedly trafficking drugs. On turning five, the little girl had to leave her mother and the prison and start life anew in South Africa with extended family.
The little girl now lives with her grandmother in the North West province and was earlier this month preparing to start Grade R.
Speaking to the Department of Social Development, the grandmother shared that the transition has had its ups and downs but is ultimately a story of resilience, family support and healing.
A new beginning
On 10 December 2024, the little girl, clutching her favourite doll, landed at OR Tambo International Airport, marking the start of a new chapter.
Her repatriation was facilitated by the Department of Social Development, in partnership with the South African Embassy in Mauritius. Social workers recommended foster care with her maternal grandmother to ensure the child’s best interests were prioritised.
Her grandmother described the reunion as an emotional moment filled with tears of joy and hope.
Now, over a month since her return, the little girl is beginning to settle into her new life surrounded by the love and support of her family.
Her story is one of resilience, healing, and the power of family bonds to overcome even the most difficult circumstances – and of a little girl allowed to be a child.
Challenges and breakthroughs
Adjusting to life outside the prison compound in Mauritius, where she spent her early years, came with challenges. Initially shy and withdrawn, the little girl often asked about her mother and clung to her doll for comfort.
“When she first arrived, she cried a lot, asking about her mother. She clung to me and her doll constantly and was very quiet around her cousins,” the grandmother said.
A turning point came when her 17-year-old brother became a source of reassurance.
“He would hug her, tell her not to cry, and remind her that their mom would come home someday. That connection helped her feel safe,” the grandmother said.
By Christmas, the family began to see the child’s personality emerge. “She’s become a source of joy and laughter, always playing and smiling,” her grandmother said proudly.
Building a stable life
Despite the challenges, the grandmother is determined to provide her granddaughter with the stability and care she needs.
The grandmother is collaborating with the Department of Social Development to access care and protection services, including a foster care grant, to support the child’s education and well-being.
“I plan to use part of the grant for her school fees. We’re getting her ready for Grade R, and I want to make sure she has everything she needs to succeed,” the grandmother said.
The family has also introduced her to South African culture, including traditional foods and local languages. Having spoken French and Creole all her life, the child is now learning English, isiXhosa and Sesotho from her cousins.
“The other day, she asked for a slice of steamed bread during breakfast and to my surprise, she loved it and even asked for a second slice,” her grandmother said with a laugh.
“It’s moments like these that remind me she’s adjusting well. She’s getting used to everyone, and she’s loved very much.”
A message of reflection and the future
As she navigates her granddaughter’s transition, the grandmother reflected on the consequences of her daughter’s choices that led to her incarceration.
“People need to understand the implications of what they put their families through,” she said, a mixture of sadness and determination washing through her voice.
However, her focus remains on the future and building her granddaughter up.
“The past can’t be changed, but we can shape her future. With the help of social workers, the foster care grant, and the love of her family, we’re giving her the home and life she deserves. Time is a healer, and we’re taking it one day at a time,” the grandmother said.
Today, the young girl is thriving in a home filled with love and care. From watching fireworks for the first time on New Year’s Eve to playing with her cousins, she is embracing her new life in South Africa.
“She’s already thriving. Every day, she’s becoming more confident and more comfortable. She’s where she belongs now,” the grandmother said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 01/21/2025 - 10:41
118 views
Single Mom Has to Walk 5KM to Buy Drinking Water
The only water tank in this Tshwane informal settlement has been stolen
Eskom edges closer to meeting load shedding target
Eskom edges closer to meeting load shedding target
Eskom Group Executive for Generation, Bheki Nxumalo, says eyes at the power utility are now firmly fixed on reaching a year without implementing load shedding - a target that is just slightly more than two months away.
This as Eskom reached 300 days without implementing the scheduled rolling black outs today.
“Credit goes to all our 40 000 dedicated and skilled Eskom employees, who are committed to serving South Africa. Our sights are now firmly focused on delivering one year without load shedding at midnight on 26 March 2025.
“These 300 days without load shedding have been characterised by a significant reduction in unplanned outages, which have long been one of the biggest challenges, a notable improvement in the energy availability factor of approximately 7%, and savings in diesel expenditure of R16.42 billion,” Nxumalo said.
The State-owned entity’s Group Chief Executive, Dan Marokane, said the performance is putting the power utility on a “path to profitability”.
Eskom’s performance has been on a steady upward trajectory since the implementation of the Energy Action Plan introduced by President Cyril Ramaphosa in July 2022, as well as the implementation of the power utility’s own Generation Recovery Plan.
“Public sentiment is shifting. Business leaders, who once had to invest precious capex in self-generation, have enquired whether they should revert to investing in Eskom for their power needs.
“The savings we are making in diesel spend are invested in the business to drive efficiencies further and place Eskom on a path to profitability and long-term operational and financial sustainability,” Marokane said.
Eskom said it will continue to focus on implementing plans to further improve performance.
“Eskom expresses gratitude to all stakeholders, including the Minister of Electricity and Energy, the Eskom Board, government and the National Energy Crisis Committee, for the collaborative effort in addressing the country’s electricity challenges.
“Eskom will continue to focus on implementing generation recovery, strengthening governance, and tackling crime and corruption, while future-proofing the organisation to enable energy security, growth and long-term sustainability to the benefit of South Africa and sub-Saharan Africa,” the power utility said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 01/21/2025 - 10:24
67 views
Over a Hundred Disabled and Elderly People Queue Outside Sassa in Khayelitsha
Monday was the first day for disability grant applicants to make medical bookings
Clanwilliam Dam Project Limps Along Ten Years Behind Schedule
Originally it was supposed to be completed in 2018. The cost has also more than doubled.
“Horny” Judge Asked Secretary for Sex, Judicial Conduct Tribunal Hears
The hearing of a complaint of sexual harassment against Eastern Cape Judge President Selby Mbenenge has entered its second week
Tanzania Confirms Outbreak of Marburg Virus Disease
Tanzania today confirmed an outbreak of Marburg virus disease in the northwestern Kagera region after one case tested positive for the virus following investigations and laboratory analysis of suspected cases of the disease.
President of the Republic of Tanzania, Her Excellency Samia Suluhu Hassan, made the announcement during a press briefing alongside World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, in the country's administrative capital Dodoma.
“Laboratory tests conducted at Kabaile Mobile Laboratory in Kagera and later confirmed in Dar es Salaam identified one patient as being infected with the Marburg virus. Fortunately, the remaining suspected patients tested negative,” the president said. “We have demonstrated in the past our ability to contain a similar outbreak and are determined to do the same this time around.”
A total of 25 suspected cases have been reported as of 20 January 2025, all of whom have tested negative and are currently under close follow-up, the president said. The cases have been reported in Biharamulo and Muleba districts in Kagera.
“We have resolved to reassure the general public in Tanzania and the international community as a whole of our collective determination to address the global health challenges, including the Marburg virus disease,” said H.E President Hassan.
WHO is supporting Tanzanian health authorities to enhance key outbreak control measures including disease surveillance, testing, treatment, infection prevention and control, case management, as well as increasing public awareness among communities to prevent further spread of the virus.
“WHO, working with its partners, is committed to supporting the government of Tanzania to bring the outbreak under control as soon as possible, and to build a healthier, safer, fairer future for all the people of Tanzania,” said Dr Tedros. “Now is a time for collaboration, and commitment, to protecting the health of all people in Tanzania, and the region, from the risks posed by this disease.”
Marburg virus disease is highly virulent and causes haemorrhagic fever. It belongs to the same family as the virus that causes Ebola virus disease. Illness caused by Marburg virus begins abruptly. Patients present with high fever, severe headache and severe malaise. They may develop severe haemorrhagic symptoms within seven days.
“The declaration by the president and the measures being taken by the government are crucial in addressing the threat of this disease at the local and national levels as well as preventing potential cross-border spread,” said Dr Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa. “Our priority is to support the government to rapidly scale up measures to effectively respond to this outbreak and safeguard the health of the population,”
Tanzania previously reported an outbreak of Marburg in March 2023 – the country's first – in Kagera region, in which a total of nine cases (eight confirmed and one probable) and six deaths were reported, with a case fatality ratio of 67%.
In the African region, previous outbreaks and sporadic cases have been reported in Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ghana, Kenya, Equatorial Guinea, Rwanda, South Africa and Uganda.
Marburg virus is transmitted to people from fruit bats and spreads among humans through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected people, surfaces and materials. Although several promising candidate medical countermeasures are currently undergoing clinical trials, there is no licensed treatment or vaccine for effective management or prevention of Marburg virus disease. However, early access to treatment and supportive care – rehydration with oral or intravenous fluids – and treatment of specific symptoms, improve survival.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization - United Republic of Tanzania.
Celebrating 30 years of policing in a democratic SA
Celebrating 30 years of policing in a democratic SA
Members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) work under the most daunting working environments as the country struggles with high rates of violent crime, including homicide and sexual assault.
When police officers leave their families every day to perform their duties, the brave men and women in blue are putting their lives on the line and risk returning home in a coffin.
Through the commemoration of National Police Day, which takes place annually on 27 January, government recognises the hard work and sacrifices that the country’s police officers make and continue to make to provide a safe South Africa for all.
Speaking to SAnews, KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla MKhwanazi, said this year’s celebrations coincides with 30 years of policing in a democratic South Africa.
“We know that in 1995 there was an amalgamation of different policing agencies that we had in the country that established the SAPS…[now] we are all one in policing in the country as mandated by the Constitution of the Republic,” MKhwanazi said.
When South Africa attained independence in 1994, the new democratic order brought about many changes and had a substantial impact on policing.
Last year, South Africa celebrated the 30th anniversary of the country’s democratic dispensation and commemorated the nation’s first democratic election on 27 April 1994.
This historic milestone coincided with the 28th anniversary of the enactment of the South African Constitution as the supreme law of the land.
“We are going to be celebrating 30 years of policing in a democratic South Africa. We will be displaying all our capabilities as the SAPS. The National Police Day is one of the activities on the SAPS calendar that has been gazetted by government and authorised for us to have a celebration.
“This year’s event will be celebrated in KwaZulu-Natal, specifically in eThekwini. We want to give confidence that Durban remains a place of interest for hosting big events,” the provincial police commissioner said.
Since its establishment in April 2024, the Presidential eThekwini Working Group (PeWG) has been working hard to address critical service delivery, infrastructure, and socio-economic challenges within the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality with the goal of positioning the city as an investment and tourism hub.
The Working Group operates across three spheres of government and includes representatives from the private sector and labour.
Call for donations for the SAPS education trust fund
Prior to National Police Day, the SAPS will host a fundraising event, which will be in the form of a golf day on 25 January 2025.
The SAPS has established the South African Police Service Education Trust (SAPSET) to raise funds for the provisioning of financial or any other form of assistance to a child or children of members in the service that died in the execution of official duties or on duty, by financing the costs of such child’s or children’s educational needs.
“This allows us to assist these children to go through school until the obtain their first tertiary qualification to make life better for them because those men and women would have died saving society and therefore their children should not be forgotten.
“Of course, government will pay their insurance, but on top of that, we felt that it is important that we find a way of augmenting the resources they have in order to be able to go to school without any struggles.
“We are doing the fundraising and we rely heavily on business to come on board and help us finance the educational trust fund,” Mkhwanazi said.
Last year, the provincial fundraising event in KwaZulu Natal managed to raise about R1.2 million.
“This is the national event so we expect businesses from all over the country to contribute and donate to this fund. We are hoping that if KZN can pull more than R1 million alone, with nine provinces that will raise more funds to assist the children of the departed members.
“These are members that we normally celebrate every September in Pretoria at the Union Buildings, that would have died in the line of duty,” he said.
National Police Commemoration Day takes place on the first Sunday in September in memory of police officers who died in the line of duty in the last twelve months.
The education trust is comprised of members that are independent of the SAPS and meets all the legal requirements for donations.
“On the 26 January 2025, we are going to have the Excellence Awards where we recognise outstanding dedication, service, and excellence across various categories within the SAPS.
“We are going to be recognising those who have gone beyond the call of duty, including the committee members that have played the role in helping us fight crime in their role as the Community Policing Forums (CPF)
“If a police officer is off duty and places themselves in a position to prevent crime or becomes a rescuer of people that are trapped in dams or pit toilets, and you sacrifice yourself by taking them out, that is beyond your duties. It is such individuals that we want to recognize,” Mkhwanazi said. -SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 01/20/2025 - 12:48
236 views
Cape Town Not Immune to Los Angeles Type Fire Disaster
The city has better preventative measures but is far less resourced than Los Angeles
Road crashes and fatalities increase during festive season
Road crashes and fatalities increase during festive season
While law enforcement maintained a constant presence throughout the festive season, conducting operations around the clock - the preliminary 2024/2025 Festive Season Statistics reveal a concerning increase in crashes and fatalities, primarily attributed to human behavior.
“Tragically, South Africa witnessed 1,502 deaths resulting from 1,234 fatal crashes during the 2024/25 festive season. The number of fatalities represents a year-on-year increase of 5.3% (70) compared to the 2023/24 festive season, with a 4.2% (50) increase in the number of crashes,” Transport Minister Barbara Creecy said during a media briefing, held in Pretoria, on Monday.
The preliminary 2024/2025 Festive Season Statistics indicate that 87% of crashes happened because of human behaviour, including hit-and-runs, jay-walking (pedestrians crossing or walking in the street or road unlawfully), fatigue, loss of control over vehicles, speed, drunken driving, and reckless overtaking.
“The number of people who died on our roads this festive season has increased because people continued to behave badly. In spite of our pleas and warnings, and notwithstanding our efforts to clamp down on irresponsible and reckless behaviour, it is clear that many road users – both drivers and pedestrians – continue to act without regard for the lives of others.
“Six provinces recorded increases in the number of fatalities in the 2024/25 festive season compared to 2023/24, namely KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, Free State, Limpopo, Northern Cape and North West,” the Minister said.
The Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal and Free State recorded increases of 70, 54 and 21 fatalities as compared to 2023/24, while Gauteng, Western Cape and Mpumalanga recorded decreases of 76, 23 and 15 fatalities, respectively.
Concern over pedestrian fatalities
Creecy said pedestrian fatalities remain a huge concern, with 41% of all road fatalities being pedestrians.
The highest percentage of pedestrian fatalities were recorded in Gauteng, Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal, which are the most populous provinces in the country in terms of vehicles and people.
Gauteng had the highest pedestrian fatalities at 63.84% followed by Western Cape with 53.9% and KwaZulu-Natal with 44.33%.
During this period, law enforcement conducted joint operations in line with the focus areas, including vehicle road worthiness, public passenger transport, drunken driving, execution of warrants of arrest, and speed law enforcement.
Law enforcement officers issued 711,184 fines for various traffic offences across the country.
“Some 23,607 fines were issued to drivers who failed to wear seatbelts, while another 16,925 motorists were fined for using cell phones while driving. Then, 16,527 vehicles were found to be unroadworthy and issued with traffic fines, as well as their motor vehicle licence discs removed, particularly in areas where vehicles could not be impounded due to lack of impoundment facilities,” the Minister said.
In total, 8,917 motor vehicles were impounded in areas where facilities were available.
“To clamp down on drunken driving, speeding and other moving violations, our officers arrested more than 9,550 motorists, with 3,840 individuals arrested for drunken driving.
“A total of 414 drivers were arrested for driving at high speed and five amongst them were driving at excessive speeds of between 200km/h to well above 240km/h,” Creecy said.
The highest speedster was arrested in Gauteng, driving at 245km/h (kilometre per hour) in a BMW Sedan on N1 near Honeydew, on 18 December 2024.
“We, South Africans, must change our behaviour on the roads. As we said at the beginning of the festive season, government and our law enforcement agencies cannot do it on our own.
“The statistics clearly send all of us, as South Africans, one message: Drivers and pedestrians must change their behaviour. We must obey the law, we must obey the basic rules of the road,” Creecy said.
Interventions
The Minister has asked the provinces to conduct a detailed analysis of their respective statistics, and come up with a clear plan for the way forward, by the end of January.
This will include a look at severe consequences for those who continue to show a disregard for road safety.
“We will continue to direct our efforts at changing the behaviour of road users, invest in designing and engineering safer roads, enforcing safe speeds in high congestion areas, and enhancing emergency response systems and access to quality trauma care, which is essential to saving lives.
“By reducing response times and improving the availability of critical care, we can increase survival rates and reduce the long-term impacts of road traffic injuries. This initiative will require collaboration with the Department of Health, and other industry role-players,” she said.
Creecy said indications are that the implementation of 24/7 traffic policing shifts is more critical than ever.
“During the festive season, we agreed to release National Traffic Police resources to provinces, to intensify road safety communication and education campaigns and strengthen monitoring of our law enforcement operations especially at night.
"This approach will serve as a blueprint for our road safety activities but will only succeed if it is consistent all year round, especially on weekends and in every province across the country,” the Minister said. -SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 01/20/2025 - 13:47
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Manhunt for Stilfontein underground ‘kingpin’ after escaping police custody
Manhunt for Stilfontein underground 'kingpin' after escaping police custody
North West Acting Provincial Commissioner, Major General Patrick Asaneng, has ordered maximum resources to be mobilised in finding an alleged Stilfontein mining kingpin.
This comes after James Neo Tshoaeli, known as “Tiger”, allegedly escaped from the police custody, after resurfacing from the mine shaft 11 at Stilfontein, last week.
In a statement issued on Monday, Asaneng said extensive investigations and tracing operations were underway to find the officials who aided Tiger’s escape between shaft 11 and the Stilfontein police holding cells.
“According to records, Tiger was never booked into various other stations where some illegal miners are being kept. Tiger is also not admitted at a local hospital for further medical care,” Asaneng said.
The alleged kingpin and ringleader is a Lesotho national and according to records, his name is James Neo Tshoaeli but is commonly known as Tiger.
According to the Acting Commissioner, Tiger is being fingered in several statements as one of the ring leaders who controlled operations underground.
“He is also being accused by some illegal miners who resurfaced underground as being allegedly responsible for some deaths, assault, and torture that is alleged to have taken place according to videos in police possession. He is also alleged to have hoarded and kept food away from other illegal miners,” Asaneng said.
Asaneng has expressed disappointment in what he terms as an “embarrassment to the Vala Umgodi operation that has been running from December 2023”.
He warned that heads would roll once they find the officials that aided the kingpin to escape from police custody.
“Tiger is a fugitive of justice and is considered dangerous. Members of the public are advised to share any information pertaining to his whereabouts to the Stilfontein Police Station,” Asaneng said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 01/20/2025 - 13:45
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KZN Premier condemns brutal killing of five men in Inanda
KZN Premier condemns brutal killing of five men in Inanda
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has strongly condemned the brutal killing of five young men in the Bhambayi area of Inanda, north of Durban.
This follows an incident which took place in the early hours of Friday, sending shockwaves through the community.
According to preliminary police reports, the officers responded to reports of multiple murders, and discovered three bodies at a local sports ground in a nearby school.
Two additional bodies were found a kilometre away at another open field.
The victims, aged between 19 and 26, were reportedly abducted from their homes around midnight. Their bodies were found with multiple injuries, including one victim who had an arm chopped off.
Police suspect a bush knife was used in the attacks, though the motive remains unknown at this stage.
Ntuli has called for an urgent and thorough investigation into this heinous crime.
"The senseless and barbaric killing of these young men is deeply disturbing and unacceptable. These were our children, some of whom should have been celebrating their matric results, while others should be preparing for higher education.
“I am confident that the dedicated members of the South African Police Service, under the leadership of Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi [in KwaZulu-Natal], will move swiftly to arrest those responsible, and ensure they face the full might of the law," Ntuli said.
The Premier also appealed to the community of Inanda and surrounding areas to come forward with any information that could assist law enforcement in tracking down the perpetrators.
"I urge members of the community safety structures and the broader public to collaborate with the police. Let us work together to ensure that those who commit such horrific crimes are brought to justice. We must not shield criminals in our communities," Ntuli said.
Ntuli further expressed concern over the persistently high crime levels in Inanda, which has been identified as one of the province’s most crime-affected areas in the latest third quarter crime statistics.
He emphasised that such violent incidents undermine government efforts to create a safer and more secure environment for all citizens.
The Premier reaffirmed the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government’s commitment to intensifying crime prevention strategies and strengthening partnerships between law enforcement agencies and communities.
Ntuli has extended his deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims during this tragic time. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 01/20/2025 - 12:53
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Woman Collapses in Long Queue at Pretoria Labour Office
Mamelodi residents say the long lines are exacerbated by the six-month closure of their labour office