Police arrest three in KwaZulu-Natal for fraudulent marriage scheme

Police in KwaZulu-Natal have arrested three suspects for allegedly assisting foreign nationals in obtaining citizenship through fraudulent marriages.

An office thought to be used for these activities was found in Durban. The arrested individuals include two Pakistani nationals and a South African.

According to police, the suspects allegedly acquired South African Identity Documents through theft to facilitate the marriages.

Authorities suspect that this scam has been operating for 25 years.

Done by; Stephanie Van Rayen

Two prisoners arrested for extortion related charges

Two prisoners were arrested last week for extortion related charges.

PICTURE: PIXABAY

According to police, the two suspects operated from prison, extorting their victim, who had to pay protection fees on a weekly basis.

‘’They also created a false Facebook account and used the victim’s identity to sell products of which the buyers never received the products,’’ said Sergeant Wesley Twigg, Western Cape police spokesperson.

The two suspects, aged 23 and 24, were arrested and appeared in the Wynberg Magistrates’ court on Friday, 25 October 2024. They were remanded in custody.

Western Cape police appealed to the public to report extortion related incidents on the Western Cape Extortion Hotline on 0800 31 4444 so that these incidents can be thoroughly investigated and perpetrators be brought to book.

 

Done By: Bush Radio News

Nine people lost their lives in the Cape Metro over the weekend due to informal structure fires

Nine people lost their lives in the Cape Metro over the weekend due to informal structure fires.

In the first incident, four persons sustained fatal burn wounds, including three minors, in an early morning fire in Manuel Street, Wallacedene, on Saturday,

‘’At 04:40, the bodies of a man and woman were discovered after firefighters extinguished a blaze in Bida Crescent, Victoria Mxenge,’’ said Jermaine Carelse, City of cape town Fire & Rescue Service spokesperson.

Later the day, firefighters responded to a wendy house burning in Epping Forest – they found the body of a minor beneath the debris.  Two other persons were displaced and unharmed.

Just after midnight on Sunday, an emergency call was received of structures alight near the Chris Hani High School in Khayelitsha.

‘’The fire was extinguished by 01:45 – two adults, genders unknown, sustained fatal burn wounds,’’ said Carelse.

According to the City of Cape Town, firefighters responded to 48 informal structure fires this weekend

‘’It was a grim weekend for our firefighters as they battled 48 informal structure fires in which nine people lost their lives. I want to extend my condolences to the families. Fires are devastating and traumatic for all those involved. As we head into summer and much higher temperatures,  I want to encourage residents to exercise caution at all times with open flames whether fires, candles or cooking methods,’’ said JP Smith, Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security.

‘’The unlawful occupation of land creates a number of challenges for the City and this includes our emergency and enforcement responses to incidents. Our officers are on scene in record time, but are hampered by other factors such as access. Current legislation urgently needs to be amended to prevent the proliferation of land invasions, which exacerbate fire risks,’’ he added.

The South African Police Service are probing the matter.

 

Done by: Mitchum George

Triple murder in Khayelitsha

Western Cape police are investigating yet another mass murder.

PICTURE: Pixabay

A man and two women were shot and killed in site C, Khayelitsha, on Sunday evening.

‘’On Sunday evening at around 20:20 police responded to a murder complaint and discovered the body of a 26-year-old male in a passage in Island Site C, Khayelitsha with a gunshot wound. The bodies of two females, also in their twenties and both with gunshot wounds were discovered in a shack not far from the first scene. The motive for the murders is yet to be determined,’’ said Colonel Andrè Traut, Western Cape police spokesperson.

Anyone with information regarding the incident are urged to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111

 

Done By: Elona Sibunzi

City of Cape Town to evict homeless residents near Castle of Good Hope

The City of Cape Town is planning to evict homeless individuals who are currently residing unlawfully around the Castle of Good Hope.

Picture: Pixabay

This follows an eviction order granted to the Public Works and Infrastructure Department by the Western Cape High Court in September.

 Those living outside the Castle were given until October 17 to leave the area. The city stated that it is consulting with those affected and aims to provide transitional shelters where possible.

While no new official eviction date has been announced, the city indicated that, after exploring all support options, residents will be asked to leave with their belongings.

Previous eviction attempts by the City of Cape Town have been unsuccessful due to the property being owned by the public works department.

 

Done by: Stephanie Van Rayen

 

Trio believed to be behind Bishop Lavis mass murder, arrested

Western Cape police made a breakthrough in a mass murder that occurred in Bishop Lavis

PICTURE: Pixabay

Six people - four men and two women - were shot and killed in Kogelberg Street on Thursday evening. Two other persons were wounded during the shooting incident. However, police confirmed on that a 26-year-old woman has succumbed to serious head injuries on Friday morning

‘’Police reports from the scene indicate that at approximately 20:40 an armed suspect entered an informal dwelling and fired several shots at the occupants. Murder and attempted murder dockets were opened for investigation with Anti-Gang Unit detectives investigating the cases. No arrests have been effected yet. The ages of the deceased persons are between 24 and 55.’’

The Bishop Lavis shooting incident happens on the back of another shooting where five people were shot and killed in Atlantis early on Wednesday evening.

‘’Both shooting incidents are believed to be gang related,’’ said Brigadier Novela Potelwa, Western Cape police spokesperson, on Thursday.

A day later, three suspects aged 17, 24 and 29, were arrested. According to Potelwa, ‘’the SAPS WC multidisciplinary tracing team worked through the night’’ to ensure arrests were made.

‘’During the tracing operation, a firearm was also confiscated. It has been sent for ballistic testing to determine if it was utilised in the commission of any crimes,’’ said Brigadier Novela Potelwa, Western Cape police spokesperson.

The suspects are facing murder, attempted murder and possession of unlicensed firearm charges. They are scheduled to appear in court on Monday.

Potelwa said additional deployments were assigned to Bishop Lavis, and the officers will remain in the area ‘’in efforts to stabilise the area. They will conduct patrols, high density operations and raids.’’

 

Done By: Mitchum George

Five shot and killed in Atlantis, five others left wounded

Five people were shot and killed whilst five others were left injured on Wednesday evening in Atlantis.

PICTURE: Pixabay

‘’Reports from the scene indicate the victims of the shooting incident were returning home in three vehicles from the Silverstroom beach when yet-to-be identified gunmen opened fire on the vehicles on the corner of Old Mamre and Silverstream Roads. As a consequence five individuals between the ages of 18 and 30 were fatally wounded and five others rushed to a medical facility after sustaining gunshot wounds,’’ said Brigadier Novela Potelwa, Western Cape police spokesperson.

Atlantis police are since probing cases of murder and attempted murder.

‘’As the investigation unfold, it is expected that the motive for the shooting incident will be determined. No arrests have been effected yet,’’ said Potelwa.

 

Done By: Bush Radio News

Rwandan genocide suspect moved to different prison due to safety concerns

A suspect in the Rwandan genocide has been transferred from Pollsmoor Prison in Cape Town to Heldestroom Prison in Caledon due to a security concern.

This information was presented to the Cape Town Regional Court on Thursday, where Fulgence Kayishema was scheduled to appear. The 64-year-old has been incarcerated since May of last year, following his arrest on a farm in Paarl.

He is accused of evading capture for over two decades and residing in South Africa under an alias. Kayishema did not attend court because police were unable to transport him from Caledon prison in time.

He faces 56 immigration-related charges and is considered the most wanted remaining fugitive from the 1994 Rwandan genocide. Joseph Habinshuti, a spokesperson for Kayishema's family, stated that the news regarding the security threat in prison is not surprising. 

"Our man is innocent but because there is a vendetta in our country that whoever they don't want they put any charge and when they can't they eliminate him. That's what we're seeing now," said Habinshuti.

Kayishema is scheduled to return to the Cape Town Regional Court on November 28.

Done by: Stephanie Van Rayen

 

An alleged 34-year-old man is accused of burning shacks in Taiwan, Khayelitsha

 

THE INFORMATION ON THIS STORY IS PROVIDED BY MISHECK MAKORA

A 34-year-old man is accused of burning shacks in Taiwan, Khayelitsha. This comes after, he was allegedly pursuing a 14-year-old romantically, and the minor reported the events to her grandmother. 

The grandmother confronted the man and at the time, it seemed like he would stop, until the minor complained again and the mother took it upon herself to go confront him.

When questioned about the events, the mother said, when she heard that he was still pursuing her daughter, she went to confront him and to question why he keeps stalking her daughter, she said she slapped him around and he said, he’ll show her.

Moments after that, the people of Khayelitsha in Taiwan found themselves homeless after a fire engulfed their shacks.

The suspect was arrested but was later released due insufficient evidence.

Writer: Esobusi Mkangalwa

Investigation: Sihle Jezile

Gugulethu residents feel safer after alleged extortionist is killed

A businessman from Gugulethu says that residents feel a bit safer now that an alleged extortionist has been shot and killed. 

The man, known as "Spoon," died during a reported shootout with police in Mfuleni last Thursday. He was accused of being part of a group that threatened Gugulethu residents and demanded money from local businesses for a so-called protection fee. Gugulethu has been struggling with extortion-related crime. 

Picture: Pixabay

The businessman mentioned that the extortion issue in Gugulethu has gone on for too long, and many people are afraid of these extortionists. 

"It seems as if the police are doing nothing, that's what we are seeing at face value because these boys are known. They are doing this every month, and they are getting away with it. The police know their collection dates, they know when they usually come," he said 

In June, a local leader from the Azanian People's Organisation (AZAPO) was shot near his home in Gugulethu after he reportedly refused to pay a protection fee.

"They think they have the license to kill because these boys if you don't pay, they kill you. The provincial chairperson of AZAPO in the Western Cape has flats and stays in Gugulethu, and was killed by these boys of protection fee," he added.

 

Done by: Stephanie Van Rayen 

 

Mossel Bay SAPS seeks assistance from public in finding a man and his nine-year-old daughter

Mossel Bay police are searching for a man and his nine-year-old daughter who went missing last week.

According to the police, Jacob and Yaleen Mare were last seen when Jacob went to fetch Yaleen from school in Hartenbos on Monday the 14 of October.

Police spokesperson, Sergeant Wesley Twigg, says no one saw Jacob and the child again after he picked her up from school.

Preliminary information suggests that Jacob picked up Yaleen from her school in Hartenbos on Monday 14 October. They have not been seen since, said police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg on Tuesday.

Anyone with information on their whereabouts, can contact Warrant Officer Alistair Rezant at the Mossel Bay FCS on 082 234 3557 or call Crime Stop at 08600 10111. 

Picture by SAPS

Done by: Esobusi Mkangelwa 

Gang-related shootings in Delft leave three dead and several injured

Authorities are looking into a suspected gang-related shooting in Delft that resulted in the deaths of three men and left a 14-year-old boy injured. The incident took place in the Eindhoven area on Sunday.

Picture: Pixabay

“Unknown assailants opened fire at the group where they were sitting in the yard of a residence and fled the scene. Anti-Gang Unit members were deployed in the area to search for the suspects and prevent any further violence that could endanger the lives of the community," said the South African Police Service's Andre Traut.

Additionally, there have been reports of another shooting in Leiden, also in Delft, on Monday, where two men are believed to have died and a woman was injured.

Done by: Stephanie Van Rayen 

Former Johannesburg Mayor arrested over funeral policy scam

Kabelo Gwamanda, former mayor of Johannesburg and Al Jama-ah councillor, has been arrested for an alleged funeral policy scam involving his company, Ithemba Lama Afrika, which reportedly operated since 2011.

Picture: Pixabay

He is accused of deceiving Soweto residents into paying monthly premiums and fleeing when they sought to claim. Gwamanda, currently an MMC for community development, was appointed in August after being ousted as mayor.

His arrest followed a complaint from a victim who discovered the company's offices had moved when trying to claim funds. The Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) is investigating the matter, as Gwamanda had a warrant issued for his arrest in May 2024 but was out of the country.

He surrendered to police on Friday. ActionSA is calling for his immediate resignation.

 

Done by: Stephanie Van Rayen

Western Cape Welcomes new police officers

The Western Cape has welcomed new police officers. In efforts to increase police visibility across the province. Residents can expect to witness more police presence in communities with disrupting criminal activities.

“The Deputy Minister of Police, Polly Boshielo, welcomed the 1, 013 police constables within the police ranks,” said national police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Amathe.

Picture by: SAPS/X

“559 new Constable’s stood on parade at the Bishop Lavis training academy while 454 Constable’s stood on parade in Oudsthoorn. This new injection of blood will see more boots on the ground ahead of the busy festive season at all police stations and SAPS service points.”

The recruits aim to increase capacity at police stations in the province ahead of the busy festive season.

 

Done by: Sihle Jezile

Firearm and Ammunition seizure lead to arrests of two suspects in Delft

 

Delft police arrested a 23-year-old suspect for unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition. 

Picture: Pixabay

The police’s Malcom Pojie said members followed up on info regarding a firearm at premises in Delft.

“On arrival at the identified premises, the members ensued with a search during which they discovered and confiscated a firearm, a 38 Special revolver and nine rounds of ammunition which were buried in the backyard.”  Pojie further elaborated.

The suspect was arrested for the illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition, and he is scheduled to appear in the Bellville Magistrate’s court once charged.

Meanwhile, Maitland police arrested a 33-year-old, in Lower Crossroads. During crime prevention patrols in the Philippi, they received information from a community member of a firearm that was stored at premises.

“They followed up the information which led them to a residence in Nondlwana Street in Lower Crossroads where they searched the identified premises upon which they discovered and seized a 9mm pistol with ammunition.” Said Pojie.

They arrested a 33 year old man who will appear in the Athlone Magistrates’ court today on the mentioned charges.

 

Done By: Elona Sibunzi

 

 

 

 

 

Western Cape Police Constable was convicted for rape

A police constable from the Lwandle Crime Prevention Unit was found guilty of raping an 18-year-old woman by the Wynberg Regional Court.

In July, three members, including the accused, Constable Jerome Coetzee followed intelligence that led them to a house to search for drugs. They searched the premises and found three packets of drugs and arrested an 18-year-old woman who was in the house.

“Constable Coetzee, who was driving the police vehicle, dropped off his two colleagues at the police station, while the arrested woman was in the back of the vehicle. He drove to a deserted area where he raped the woman inside the police vehicle,” said, IPID spokesperson Phaladi Shuping.

”The complainant reported the incident and positively identified Constable Coetzee. The incident was reported to IPID for investigations and the police officer was charged and arrested for rape. He was found guilty and the case was postponed to 29 November for sentencing.”

 

Done by: Sihle Jezile

Two killed, and one wounded in a shootout with police

The crackdown continues as authorities round up extortion suspects.

Two suspected extortionists were shot and killed Tuesday afternoon in a shootout with the police, another one was wounded.

The police’s Malcolm Pojie said, police followed up on information on suspects who were alleged to have extorted businesses. Members followed a vehicle with three occupants. A shootout ensued on the N1 highway, which resulted in the two fatalities and one suspect seriously wounded.

“Three firearms were seized from the vehicle after the shootout. Preliminary investigations indicate the vehicle the suspects were travelling in was hijacked in Thornton a few days ago. Investigations are underway to determine the identities of the deceased individuals.” Explained Pojie.

Police are probing attempted murder, possession of unlicensed firearms as well as possession of a hijacked vehicle charges

Done By: Elona Sibunzi

 

Special funeral declared for late Tito Mboweni

President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared a Special Official Funeral Category 2 in honour of the late former Minister of Finance and Reserve Bank Governor, Tito Mboweni. Mboweni succumbed to a short illness on Saturday at the age of 65.

‘’President Ramaphosa reiterates his condolences to the family and friends of Dr Mboweni who served the nation as an activist, economic policy innovator and champion of labour rights, with a sharp focus on fiscal discipline and economic transformation,’’ said Vincent Magwenya, Presidency spokesperson.

PHOTO: X - @Tito_Mboweni

According to the Presidency, Mboweni's funeral will feature elements provided by the South African Police Service.

"Dr Mboweni has been accorded a Special Official Funeral Category 2 which will take place at Nkowankowa Stadium, Tzaneen, Limpopo, at 10h00 on Saturday, 19 October 2024.

"President Ramaphosa has directed that the National Flag be flown at half-mast at all flag stations from tomorrow morning, (Wednesday), until the evening of the funeral on 19 October 2024,’’ added Vincent Magwenya, Presidency spokesperson.

 

Done By: Bush Radio news

Four arrested for Lusikisiki mass murder

KwaZulu-Natal police have arrested the four men who were wanted in connection with the Lusikisiki mass murder that claimed the lives of 18 people.

Their arrest follows less than 24 hours after police launched the manhunt of Songezo ‘Mashiya’ Vuma (20), Bonga ‘Rico’ Hintsa (31), Aphiwe ‘AP’ Ndende (25) and Lwando ‘Abi’ Shakes (31).

This after another suspect in the murder, Siphosoxolo Myekethe, appeared in the Lusikisiki Magistrate’s Court and abandoned his bail application on Tuesday. His case was postponed to November.

KZN police spokesperson Robert Netshiunda said the suspects were arrested in Port Shepstone.

"Police received a tip-off from a community member that the wanted suspects were hiding at a rented accommodation at Mkholombe informal settlement in Port Shepstone. A swift operation was put in motion, and the three suspects, aged 22, 24 and 31 years old, were arrested. The operation is ongoing with police searching for a firearm which the suspects allegedly used in the commission of the crime."

National police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe confirmed that all suspects were in police custody.

"The National Commissioner of the South African Police Service, General Fannie Masemola, wishes to thank South Africans from all walks of life for the overwhelming support in providing information… General Fannie Masemola confirms that in less than 24 hours from the time the SAPS issued an alert on the wanted suspects, communities rallied together and informed police of their whereabouts.

“To those who shared the pictures of these suspects on social media, to all the journalists and media houses that played their watchdog role, we are indebted to you. This is what the SAPS can achieve when the whole country rallies behind our men and women in blue. We thank you South Africa for assisting us to stamp the authority of the state”, said Gen Masemola.

Mathe says SAPS will not provide further details.

‘’The SAPS wishes not to divulge where these suspects were found and arrested at this stage as this may jeopardise investigations’’

 

Done by: Mitchum George

Automobile Association predicts a price hike for fuel in November

The Automobile Association warns consumers that the current trend of fuel price cuts might possible come to an end in November.

Data from Central Energy Fund indicates a likely increase in petrol and diesel prices for November, supporting AA’s forecast.

The two grades of petrol are expected to increase by between three and 14 cents per litre, and diesel by around 14 cents per litre.

AA spokesperson, Eleanor Mavimbela said the hikes are due to higher international product prices.

“The marginal expected increase comes at a time where most consumers and motorists are still struggling financially and any increase will add more pressure on them.”

 

Done by: Sihle Jezile

More than 75 600 candidates to write 2024 NSC final exams in WC

A total of 75 647 candidates will write the 2024 National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams in the Western Cape. Of these, 64 375 are full-time candidates, and 11 272 are part-time candidates.

Candidates will sit on Monday, with 66 988 candidates writing all forms of the English paper. In total, 123 examination papers will be written before the exams end on Wednesday, 27 November 2024.

PICTURE: Pixabay

According to the Western Cape Education Department (WCED), there are 270 more full-time candidates writing in 2024 compared to 2023. The subject with the most candidates writing is Mathematical Literacy, with 51 932 candidates. Furthermore, five subjects have a single candidate writing: Zulu Home Language, Sepedi Home Language, Sepedi First Additional Language, Setswana First Additional Language, and Hebrew Second Additional Language.

The WCED said the exams will be written at 474 exam centres, overseen by 1 809 invigilators who will keep an eye out for any procedural irregularities.

‘’Marking will take place between 2 and 12 December 2024, with 920 000 examination scripts being marked by 4 232 markers and checked by 1 046 mark-checkers,’’ said David Maynier, Western Cape Education MEC.

The national results announcement will take place on 15 January 2025, with individual candidate’s results available at schools or online the following day.

‘’The scale of the matric exams poses a mammoth administrative challenge, and we appreciate the tremendous efforts of the Western Cape Education Department’s (WCED) officials and school staff in ensuring that the exams run smoothly and fairly,’’ said Maynier.

‘’Our matrics, and their teachers, have put so much work into preparing for these exams, so we appeal to everyone in the Western Cape to make our matrics the VIPs of our province in these coming weeks. Let us all play our part by supporting our matrics during what is understandably a stressful period, so that they can do the very best they can!,’’ he added.

 

Done by: Mitchum George

Truck driver who damaged a bridge on the N1 to appear in court

A truck driver who damaged a bridge on the N1 outbound last Friday will appear in court on Tuesday on charges of reckless and negligent driving. The truck too was impounded.

COURTESY: X - @TrafficSA

Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, JP Smith, said he will be liaising with the relevant City departments to ensure that a claim for damages is instituted against the owner of the truck. Smith also wants greater compliance in the trucking sector.

‘’The infrastructure, economic and emotional damage caused by one person’s actions cannot be tolerated. I trust that the court will take these factors into account when dealing with this case. We understand that the trucking industry is an important cog in our economy, but there is a responsibility to ensure that drivers and vehicles are fit for purpose.’’

Work is still under way to determine the extent of the damage to the bridge, which has caused additional ad hoc lane closures on the N1. I will be liaising with the relevant City departments to ensure that a claim for damages is instituted against the owner of the truck. I will also ask that the City’s Traffic Service works to ensure greater compliance in the trucking sector,’’ added Smith.

 

Done by: Mitchum George

Survivors live in fear after Orange Farm mass shooting

Survivors of a mass shooting in Orange Farm, where seven people were killed, say they now live in constant fear. The deadly incident unfolded in the early hours of Sunday after a dispute between a tavern owner and a patron over the closing time and alcohol sales.

The owner allegedly followed the patron to a family lobola celebration and opened fire. Among those he killed were five family members, a neighbour, and a three-year-old boy before he turned the gun on himself.

Survivor Lauren Maisha explained: "We can’t even stay here, we’re thinking of moving but where to? We don’t know. We live in constant fear, he threatened to use petrol on us and every sound we hear in the evenings, affects us, we're so scared."

Done by: Stephanie Van Rayen

Duo arrested in Mfuleni for alleged extortion

Western Cape police seems to be making strides in those believed to terrorise communities through extortion

Officers attached to the Anti-Economical Crime task team received a tipoff on Monday morning about five men carrying firearms, allegedly busy extorting spaza shops in the Cosovo and Samora Machel area.

Lt Col Malcolm Pojie, said when officers arrived in the area, they were informed by residents that the suspects moved over to Philippi, probably continuing with their extortion activities.

‘’The members traced the suspects to Browns Farm where they encountered two males aged 20 and 22  who were carrying blue backpacks. Upon seeing the members approaching, they acted very nervously. The members searched the two and found a plastic bag containing an undisclosed amount of coins and a few packets of cigarettes, allegedly taken from some of the shops they extorted.’’

‘’After further interrogation, the two led the members to two different addresses in Covid informal settlement, Mfuleni where the members discovered an assault rifle which was hidden under a mattress in one of the rooms of the first address. The members proceeded to the second address where they found two prohibited firearm,’’ added Pojie.

COURTESY: SAPS

The duo were detained at Mfuleni SAPS and are expected to make their first court appearance in the Blue Downs Magistrates’ court, soon.

 

Done by: Elona Sibunzi

Elderly Chinese man shot and wounded following suspected attempted robbery in Pinelands

Shoppers in Pinelands were left shaken on Monday. A suspected attempted robbery played out in broad daylight near the library at the back of the Howard Centre.

PICTURE: X - @_ArriveAlive

Western Cape police confirmed that a 62-year-old Chinese national was shot and wounded and was transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment.

‘’Pinelands police opened an attempted murder docket for further investigation following a shooting incident which occurred near the library at the back of the Howard Centre earlier today, Monday, 14 October at about 15:15 during which a 62 year old Chinese national was hit in the chest,’’ said Lieutenant Colonel Malcolm Pojie, Western Cape spokesperson.

‘’Preliminary information reveals that the male victim was accosted by four unknown suspects who attempted to rob him from a black bag, later found to be containing documents and a laptop, when a scuffle ensued. It is reported that several shots were fired in the direction of the victim with one bullet hitting him in the chest,’’ he added.

Pojie adds that the assailants fled the scene empty handed and are yet to be arrested.

Anyone with information regarding his incident are urged to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10 111

 

Done By: Mitchum George

Khayelitsha CPF Sub-districts along with residents marched against crime and gun violence

Khayelitsha residents alongside activists, and police officers marched against the increasing gun violence and infested criminal activity that has taken over the community and surrounding areas. Protesters marched through Makhaza, Site B and Harare on Saturday.

Picture by: Supplied

Residents had many grievances that led to marching but the highlight was the rise in number of crimes committed with unlicensed firearms.

“The idea was to silence the gun violence in Khayelitsha and in the surrounding areas, there is no day that passes without gun violence, 60% of deaths and murders in Khayelitsha are a result of gun violence,” said, Lunga Guza chairperson of Lingelethu CPF.

“We apprehended one gun already on the day of the March, the message we were sending to the community was for them to join us in the fight against violence, we can’t do it alone, we are often targeted by criminals and some of our members have died in the hands of perpetrators of crime in communities.”

 

Done by: Sihle Jezile

SARS' two-pot system withdrawals reaches R21 billion

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) says a total gross lump sum of about R21.4 billion has been paid out to taxpayers, who have applied to utilise their Savings Withdrawals Benefit of the two-pot retirement system.

More than 1.2 million South Africans applied for the tax directive, with at least 1.14 million approved.

PICTURE: SARS

According to SARS, the remainder were “declined for a variety of reasons, including incorrect identity numbers and incorrect tax numbers, amongst others”.

“SARS reminds taxpayers, who want to apply for a withdrawal to make sure that they verify their tax numbers, have supplied the correct identity numbers, and that they do not have any outstanding debt with SARS,’’ said Edward Kieswetter, SARS Commissioner.

“After a registered taxpayer has applied, a successful tax directive informs the fund management how much tax to deduct from a withdrawal. Directive applications are accepted by SARS 24/7 and processed within an hour 365 days a year from 8am to 7pm. Unless a directive application is submitted outside of these hours, the response if the taxpayer is compliant be sent to the fund within an hour,’’ he added.

SARS explained that taxpayers with debt owed to it may be deducted if the taxpayer does not have a payment agreement in place.

“Before a final amount is paid to the applicant, the pension fund will be informed to also deduct any outstanding debt on behalf of SARS before any payout is made to the member. If a person has a debt arrangement with SARS, the withdrawal will not be affected. If there is debt owed to SARS, it will be deducted in terms of such arrangement,” he said.

Furthermore, Kieswetter said tax is imposed on the withdrawal at a rate ranging from 18% - 45%, depending on their scales. He warned that taxpayers, wilfully understating their income, are dodging their obligation to the revenue service.

 “SARS is deeply concerned that 213 654 taxpayers have been identified, where they have declared incorrect taxable income, with the view to have a more favourable tax rate. If a taxpayer understates their income, they are intentionally involved in evading their tax obligation. A penalty will be imposed on taxpayers who have understated income. Finally, I wish to caution taxpayers to refrain from this conduct that borders on criminality as there are real consequences for this behaviour,” Kieswetter said.

The revenue service encourages taxpayers to use its digital services.

“In line with SARS’ intent for taxpayers to use digital channels, SARS is happy to announce that the simulated WhatsApp calculator was used 51 547 times since the implementation of the process.

“The simulated calculator on the SARS website, which forms part of the SARS Online Query System, has been used 655 801 times. SARS has also received 53 519 queries through the voice channel, and 8 655 at branches.

“Taxpayers are encouraged to continue to use the digital channels, which are simple, easy and user-friendly. Using these channels means taxpayers do not have to leave their homes or places of employment to stand in queues,” concluded Edward Kieswetter, SARS Commissioner.

 

Done by: Mitchum George

South African woman arrested in Ethiopia with 13kg of cocaine worth R5.4m

National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola has commended the collaboration between the South African Police Service (SAPS) Gauteng Counter Narcotics Intelligence unit and the Ethiopian Federal Police after a South African woman suspected to be a drug trafficker was arrested in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

COURTESY: X - @AthlendaM

team from the SAPS Gauteng counter narcotics covert unit flagged a 29-year-old South African woman, through SAPS Interpol, on suspicion that the woman was travelling to Brazil to collect drugs and fly back to South Africa via several countries.  The woman indeed travelled to Brazil from OR Tambo International Airport during the first week of October.

According to the drug trafficker’s itinerary, she was supposed to travel from Brazil, via Addis Ababa and via Sudan, and back to South Africa. SAPS intelligence immediately notified the Ethiopian Federal Police about her movements.

“On arrival in Addis Ababa on Saturday, she was flagged and her luggage was checked, which confirmed that she was carrying 13kg of cocaine. She was immediately apprehended and is expected to be charged and appear in court in Ethiopia,” said a statement from the police.

“The cooperation between SAPS and the Ethiopian Federal Police must be commended. When African police organisations unite, more can and will be achieved by working together. We are stamping the authority of the State on a larger scale and sending out a clearer message that the long arm of the law will find you, no matter which route you utilise to try to traffic drugs into SA.’’

“We are intensifying our fight against transnational organised crime and the trafficking of drugs. SAPS intelligence is relentless in their pursuit to be one step ahead of criminals. This is commendable,” Masemola said.

The police said that through Interpol SA, SAPS Gauteng Counter Narcotics Covert Intelligence will work closely with the Ethiopian Federal Police to investigate the masterminds behind the consignment.

 

Done By: Bush Radio News

''Retrieve, Recycle and Revive,'' on International e-Waste Day

Monday marked International e-Waste Day and this day is aimed at raising awareness and highlighting the importance of responsible and sound management of electrical and electronic waste.

The theme for 2024 “Join the e-Waste Hunt – Retrieve, Recycle and Revive”, encourages the public to recycle their e-waste and declutter their homes, hunt down forgotten electronics and take out unused electronics that have gained new life to their nearest e-Waste collection points.

PICTURE: Electronic waste

According to the latest United Nations Global E-Waste Monitor, in 2022, 62 billion kg of e-waste is generated globally. This e-waste stream is growing five times faster than the formal recycling collection rates.

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment (DFFE) says it is tackling e-waste, amongst others, enforcing legislative and regulatory measures to contribute to pollution reduction, resource conservation and effective energy consumption.  

‘’The Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Regulations were brought into law in South Africa in 2021. The policy is aimed at improving the producers' responsibility and accountability for the post-consumer stage of their products’ life cycle. To implement these regulations, the E-Waste Recycling Authority (ERA) serves as intermediary between industry and the government, with a particular focus on Waste Electrical Electronic Equipment and Lighting (WEEEL) - which includes electronic waste, lighting, and batteries,’’ said Dion George, Minister of DFFE.

‘’The department is tackling e-waste through, amongst others, legislative and regulatory measures to contribute to pollution reduction, resource conservation, and energy savings and is currently considering comments that were received from the public on the draft Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) National Management Policy.  This policy aims to provide a robust, integrative, harmonising and comprehensive policy framework that leads to the safe and sustainable management of all WEEE in South Africa that is evidence-based, transparent and inclusive, therefore responding to the needs of all South Africans. The rationale of the draft WEEE National Management Policy is to outline the intention of the Government of the Republic of South Africa to address WEEE management in a way that yields triple-bottom-line benefits. The triple-bottom-line aims to create new economic opportunities; offer decent and safe working conditions; and ensure the protection of the environment and people who depend on it,’’ he added.

South Africa is currently in the 3rd year of EPR Regulations that cover lighting, electrical and electronic equipment waste. To date almost 68 000 tons of e-waste has been diverted from landfill and recycled through EPR schemes. The retailers are providing collection points across the country enabling the recycling of e-waste.

 

Done by: Mitchum George

Counterfeit sporting socks worth R2.5m confiscated in Stikland

Western Cape police confiscated counterfeit goods worth more than R2.5 million in Stikland over the weekend.

COURTESY: SAPS

Police said the integration operation, consisting of Provincial Counterfeit and illicit Goods Policing Team and Anti-Economic task team executed a search warrant in Brug Street on Sunday.

‘’They descended on an identified premises where they found a Scania truck. The members searched the suspicious truck and found 22 bags containing well-known branded sporting socks. The members widened the search of the contents of the truck which resulted in the ultimate confiscation of a consignment of sporting goods . Although arrests are yet to be made, counterfeit goods valued at over R2,5 million were seized,’’ said Warrant Officer Joseph Swartbooi, Western Cape police spokesperson.

COURTESY: SAPS

Western Cape Police Commissioner, Lt Gen. Thembisile Patekile, described the trade in counterfeit goods as an economic sabotage

‘’[Lt. Gen. Patekile] reiterated that the team will continue to remove counterfeit goods from the streets of the Province. He also issued a stern warning that landlords who are aware of illegal activities on their premises are also in the sights of SAPS,’’ said Swartbooi.

Done by: Elona Sibunzi

Umalusi CEO addresses the nation for the upcoming matric examination

 Umalusi approves the 2024 NSC end of year examination. Umalusi has concluded the audit of the state of readiness of the public Department of Education, Department of Higher education and training and private assessment bodies. The Council for Quality Assurance in General and Further Education and Training, Umalusi, has given the green light for the 2024 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations, which are set to take place from 21 October to 28 November 2024.

All nine provinces have completed and successfully met the standard procedure for the writing of the NSC exams.

Examinations are separated into various categories from high risk, moderate risk to low risk. Markers have been selected and have placed in regions to mark the learners scripts, the reason for the various categories are to minimise cheating amongst the candidates. The council has announced that more than 1.1 million candidates across the provinces are registered to sit for the exams this year.

 Internal systems were put in place to manage the school based assessments which are the practical and theory assessments learners complete during the school year.

Umalusi believes that they have implemented adequate plans for the upcoming examination and have everything under control. Subject specialists markers have been placed in the various departments to limit the long duration of script marking.

Although Umalusi is happy with the security measure that are put in place to minimise the leaking of question papers they have flagged some weaknesses. The risks identified have been brought to the attention of the Heads of the Provincial education department and the Directors General of the DBE and DHET.

Processes and standard procedures are in place for the 2024 examination invigilators’ and monitors have started with their training earlier this month and are expected to complete on the 24^th of October.

 Factors that can possibly suppress the smooth running of exams are loadshedding, cheating and community protests. Markers have been appointed, but the DBE has voiced that marker shortages can be a potential issue.

Lastly, Umalusi has issued a warning to all candidates and teachers to refrain from all forms of cheating including group copying and teachers leaking question papers. They urge communities to not engage in community protests during the national exams and wish the class of 2024 well in the upcoming examinations.

Done by: Shaneca Cupido