Fewer children gets vaccinated, reveals CoCT stats

The City of Cape Town has noted a decrease in child vaccinations compared to previous years.

World Vaccination Week draws to a close on Wednesday, and as schools take a break this week, parents are reminded to take advantage of the extra week off school and get their children’s vaccinations up to date.

World Vaccination Week is commemorated annually during the last week of April.

ARCHIVE - Bush Radio

Between July 2024 and March 2025, City Health administered 310 786 doses of vaccines to children up until the age of 12.It was just over 2,6% lower than the corresponding period the previous year.

The number of fully immunised children under the age of one too declined by a similar margin.

‘’The decreases are marginal, but ideally, we want to see growth year on year so that we can improve immunity against illnesses, some of which can be fatal. In recent years, we have had outbreaks of measles and diphtheria – sure signs that there is room to improve our immunisation coverage. Children receive most of their vaccinations in their first year of life, so I encourage parents to please ensure that they remain on track for their child's well-being, and that of those around them,’’ said Francine Higham, Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health.

Parents and caregivers are advised to reach out to their nearest clinic for more information and guidance.

 

Done by: mitchum George

Slight delay in May payments for some, says SASSA

Certain social grant recipients will experience delays in May’s payment cycle as part of an effort to verify critical beneficiary information. So says the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA).

PICTURE: Postbank

The delay targets specific individuals who need to visit SASSA offices to update their personal details and confirm any changes to their financial circumstances — a move aimed at correcting inclusion errors in the current social support system.

Those affected are mainly beneficiaries who are registered using alternative forms of identification rather than the standard 13-digit South African ID number.

Upon consultation with the Department of Home Affairs, the agency discovered that some of these beneficiaries do have valid 13-digit IDs in the national database, but these are not reflected in SASSA’s system.

The announcement comes as eleven SASSA officials are before the Lenasia Magistrates Court facing charges of cybercrime, fraud, and theft in connection with an alleged scam involving the creation of fake SASSA profiles used to siphon off more than R4 million from the system.

“Once these clients have presented themselves at various SASSA offices, a review will be done and then their 13-digit ID numbers will be captured in the system. Beneficiaries who fail to come forward during this process may have their social grants suspended, and if they continue not to respond, more drastic actions such as lapsing of their grant will be applied,” said SASSA’s national spokesperson Paseka Letsatsi.

SASSA is also targeting individuals flagged through the bulk means test process — specifically those whose undeclared income streams into other bank accounts not disclosed to SASSA.

“In the 2025/2026 financial year, we will intensify our measures to ensure eligibility by regularly identifying clients on a monthly basis so that they come to our offices to verify their personal details,” Letsatsi added.

He also noted that SASSA will be scrutinizing its internal processes to root out any staff collusion with external parties attempting to exploit the system.

“This is part of concerted efforts and proactive measures implemented by SASSA aimed at enhancing security, improving the integrity of our systems, and preventing potentially fraudulent activities related to identity misrepresentation,” said Letsatsi.

 

Done by: Mitchum George

International Noise Awareness Day 2025

Wednesday marked International Noise Awareness Day and this day, observed annually on the last Wednesday of April, serves to highlight the risks of noise as a health hazard.

This year's theme, ‘Noise-induced Hearing Loss: Permanent Yet Preventable’, highlights how you can make a difference.

PICTURE: Bush Radio

According to the City of Cape Town, it recorded a 57% increase (from 1 216 to 1 905 in the 2023/24 financial year) in noise complaints in the past two years.  In the current financial year, the number of complaints is yet again nearing the 2 000 mark.

MMC for Community Services & Health, Francine Higham, says the top sources of noise complaints in Cape Town are places of late-night entertainment, events with amplified sound and residential business/workshop noise.

‘’Noise ranks as one of the top complaints to City Health. Our specialised health services work to resolve as many complaints as possible, but this is a shared responsibility. It starts with understanding what constitutes noise, how we are potentially contributing to it, and what can be done practically to mitigate the impact on others. It is also important to make a distinction between noise pollution and noise disturbance, as one is the responsibility of law enforcement agencies and the other is the responsibility of City Health.’’

Here are tips on how you can make a difference:

·        Lower Your Volume

Simple actions like reducing the volume on your devices can make a significant difference. Encourage those around you to do the same.

·        Support Quiet Initiatives

Advocate for policies that reduce noise pollution, such as better zoning laws or quieter street designs. Your involvement can drive change in your community.

·        Seek Silence

Spend time in nature or quiet spaces to alleviate stress and improve mental health. Regular breaks from urban noise can refresh your mind and body.

·        Spread the Word

Educate friends, family, and colleagues about the impact of noise pollution. Sharing information helps raise awareness and promotes a quieter lifestyle.

‘’Every small effort contributes to a greater good. This International Noise Awareness Day, let's pledge to reduce the noise around us and cultivate a quieter, healthier future. Join the movement and make silence a part of our daily rhythm,’’ said Higham.

 

Done by: Mitchum George

Two people perish in Joe Slovo fire

Firefighters discovered the bodies of two persons after a fire broke out at the Joe Slovo Informal Settlement in Milnerton, in the early hours of Wednesday.

COURTESY: Facebook - Anthony Bernadie (ward councillor)

The City of Cape Town’s Fire & Rescue Service estimates about 45 structures were destroyed. Spokesperson, Jermaine Carelse, says a call came through just before midnight on Tuesday, of structures alight in Freedom Way, Joe Slovo.

‘’The first arriving Officer assessed the situation and called on additional resources to combat the blaze. In total we had 10 firefighting resources on scene, with nearly 50 staff members. By 06:10, Firefighters managed to extinguish the fire which, based on initial estimates, destroyed 45 structures – this is to be confirmed by the Disaster Risk Management Centre. Sadly, the bodies of two persons, genders and ages unknown, were found with fatal burn wounds. The cause of incident is still unknown pending an investigation by the South African Police Service.’’

COURTESY: Facebook - Anthony Bernadie (ward councillor)

Humanitarian organisation, Gift of the Givers, says they are providing aid.

‘’ At 5:30AM this morning, the Gift of the Givers team members were awakened by frantic community leaders of Joe Slovo Informal Settlement in Milnerton. The fire spread rapidly in the informal settlement; the area is densely populated, with structures being on top of each other. Our teams are on the ground as the fire department puts out the last of the flare-ups. The estimation from community leaders is that hundreds of structures burned down,’’ said Ali Sablay, Gift of the givers project manager.

 

Done By: Mitchum George

Saws issues Yellow Level 2 warning for damaging waves for Cape Town

The South African Weather Service (Saws) has issued a Yellow Level 2 warning for damaging waves and gale force winds for Cape Town.

According to Saws, high waves can be expected between Cape Point and Plettenberg Bay tomorrow and Friday.

Weather forecaster, Mathebula Langutelani, says the weather could lead to difficulties in navigation at sea.

“In term of impact we are expecting difficulty in navigation for small vessels and personal water craft which may lead to vessels being at risk of taking on water and capsizing.” Langutelani said.

Localised disruption can also be expected to beach front activities, localized harbours and ports too.

 

Weather update for today and tomorrow, 30 April 2025 - 01 May 2025:
Isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers are expected in most parts of the country, with widespread in the south today. ⚠️ Severe thunderstorms, Damaging winds and waves#saws pic.twitter.com/2qnDrrDVhI

— SA Weather Service (@SAWeatherServic) April 30, 2025

Done By: Elona Sibunzi

 

Budget 2025 to be re-tabled, for the third time, on 21 May 2025

The Budget 2025 will be re-tabled, for the third time,  on Wednesday, 21 May 2025. 

This was confirmed by Finance Minister, Enoch Godongwana, during a media briefing on Wednesday afternoon.

COURTESY: X - @Treasury_RSA

This comes as Godongwana's recent announcement and subsequent request to the Speaker of the National Assembly to maintain the Value-Added Tax rate at its current level of 15%, reversing the previously proposed 0.5 percentage point increase presented in the 12 March budget.

‘’This comprehensive review will include the Fiscal Framework, the Appropriation Bill, Division of  Revenue Bill, and already tabled Rates and Monetary Amounts and Amendment of Revenue Laws  Bill. The revised budget will adhere to all established technical processes and consultations as set out in the Money Bills and Related Matters Act.   This includes formal consultations with the Financial and Fiscal Commission, thorough  consultations with all political parties within the Government of National Unity as well as Cabinet  approval before presentation to Parliament,’’ said National Treasury in a statement.

‘’Until the new budget is passed, government services will continue to be funded under section 29 of  the Public Finance Management Act. This allows spending of up to 45 per cent of last year’s budget during the first four months, and up to 10 per cent for each month after that. While we wait for the 2025 Division of Revenue Act to be passed, funding for provinces and  municipalities will continue under the 2024 Act, allowing transfers of up to 45 per cent of their  allocated funds,’’ it added.

This will be the third time this year that the budget will be tabled.

‘’While the postponement of the budget's passage is not ideal, the circumstances leading to this  decision have highlighted the importance of meaningful engagement on fiscal matters.  This situation has provided a valuable opportunity for all stakeholders—citizens, Members of  Parliament, labour organisations, and civil society—to thoroughly engage with the complex challenge of achieving fiscal sustainability while promoting economic growth and protecting  essential public services within very limited resources.,’’ said National Treasury.

According to the National Treasury, it has already commenced work on developing a new fiscal framework that will maintain trajectory toward debt stabilization.

This process includes: Revising economic assumptions using the latest available data; Generating a updated fiscal projects; Recalculating revenue projections and tax implications; Determining appropriate borrowing strategies; and Consolidating these elements into a coherent and sustainable fiscal framework.

‘’We owe it to the hardworking citizens of South Africans to be open and transparent about how tax money is spent. The budget that will be tabled on May 21 will aim to maintain these principles,’’ concluded National Treasury.

 

Done by: Mitchum George

Firefighters on alert for possible flare-ups along Table Mountain area

Firefighters are monitoring for possible flare ups along the Table Mountain National Park area.

This comes as fire efforts have been scaled back even further in the South Peninsula. The fire in the Tokai area was burning since Friday.

COURTESY: Facebook - SANPArks - Table Mountain National Park

The area along Boyes Drive into Kalk Bay, around Clovelly and along Ou Kaapse Weg into Noordhoek has been deemed safe.

‘’At Klein Constantia, there are hotspots that are inaccessible to firefighters. These are being monitored. At Tokai Manor House, VWS and NCC attended to hotspots overnight and will remain in attendance until the area is deemed safe,’’ said Jermaine Carelse, City of Cape Town Fire & rescue Service spokesperson, who gave an update on Wednesday morning.

South African National Parks (SANParks) stressed that hiking trials remain closed at this time.

‘’ [We] urge hikers, mountain bikers, and all members of the public to avoid these zones until further notice. Hidden hotspots, weakened trees, and smouldering roots present serious risks. The safety of visitors remains our highest priority. Please continue to respect all closures and safety instructions while restoration efforts begin,’’ said JP Louw, SANParks spokesperson.

COURTESY: Facebook - SANPArks - Table Mountain National Park

SANParks thanked those for supporting fire teams.

‘’We extend our gratitude to the public, community groups, and organisations who generously supported our firefighting teams with donations and supplies. Our sincere thanks also go to the brave firefighters, volunteers, and aerial support teams who worked around the clock to manage the fire across approximately 3,000 hectares of parkland,’’ said Louw.

 

Done by: Mitchum George

Boy (7) fatally struck by train

Tragedy struck on Tuesday afternoon as a boy was fatally wounded by a train.

PICTURE: X - @MetrorailWC

It is reported that the train was enroute from Cape Town when the incident occurred.

‘’Manenberg SAPS opened an Inquest docket for further investigation following an fatal accident whereby a seven year old boy was struck and fatally wounded by a train at about 13:50 on Tuesday, 29 April 2025… The boy was declared as deceased by medical personnel on scene. The circumstances forms part of ongoing investigation,’’ said Lieutenant Colonel Malcolm Pojie, Western Cape police spokesperson.

Metrorail confirmed the incident, saying they are probing the matter.

''Our Protection Services department confirmed the incident involving a minor yesterday afternoon [Tuesday]. According to the details, the minor was struck by train, while crossing the railway line. There are no further details as this is under investigation. This happened in Area Central, between Nyanga and Heideveld,'' said Zino Mihi, Metroraiol Western Cape spokesperson.

SCREENSHOT:  X - @MetrorailWC

* THIS BLOG WAS UPDATED TO ADD THE COMMENT OF METRORAIL WESRTERN CAPE

Done by: Mitchum George

Another bloodbath on Cape Flats

Philippi police are investigating a murder after the body of a man was found in Punt Road Bend, Philippi farm, on Tuesday morning.

‘’According to reports police members attended to the crime scene where upon arrival they found the body of an adult male laying on the field with gunshot wound sustained to his body. The victim was declared deceased at the scene by the medical personnel. The unknown suspect\s who fled the scene are yet to be arrested,’’ said Aneliswe Manyana, Western Cape police spokesperson

PICTURE: Pixabay

Meanwhile, the DA in the Western Cape has once again called for policing powers to be devolved in the province

This comes as more than ten murders were reported in separate incidents including Uitsig, Athlone, Belhar, Mitchell’s Plain, and Gugulethu.

Spokesperson on Police Oversight and Community Safety, Thomas Walters, described the killings as a humanitarian crisis.

‘’ The events of this past weekend mark yet another tragic chapter in the lives of communities across Cape Town. These killings, many linked to gang violence, highlight a crisis of lawlessness and bloodshed that has spiralled out of control.’’

‘’The continued slaughter of people - in streets, open fields, and even next to places of recreation - is not normal. It is a humanitarian crisis. From a young man stabbed to death on a soccer field in Tafelsig, to multiple fatal shootings across the Cape metro, it is painfully clear that criminal elements have seized control of our communities while the South African Police Service (SAPS) remains under-resourced, uncoordinated, and politically unsupported.’’

‘’We cannot continue to bury our brothers, sons, and fathers while waiting for National Government to act. There is simply no political will to decisively deal with what has become urban terror on the Cape Flats. Our communities are under siege by gangs, and the current policing model is failing us.

Walters added: “The DA in the Western Cape reiterate its call for the immediate devolution of SAPS to the Western Cape Government. Localised control of police resources, crime intelligence, and operational command will ensure a better, faster, and more accountable response to the unique challenges faced by our province. We also call for increased coordination and better resourcing in the investigation of gun violence and gang activity, with clear mandates, timelines, and oversight mechanisms.

"This weekend’s spike in killings is a devastating symptom of a deeper rot that must be addressed through coordinated action, community involvement, and empowered local leadership. Let us be clear - this is a call for justice, for dignity, and for the right to live without fear. The time for speeches is over. The time for action is now,’’ he concluded

 

Done by: Mitchum George

WC SAPS offers reward for taxi-related murders

Western Cape police have offered a R200 000 reward for information that could help solve three murder cases that occurred between 2023 and 2025

A British doctor was shot and killed in August 2023 while he was on his way to the Cape Town International airport. He and his family were en-route to the airport when their GPS rerouted them through Nyanga as the N2 was blocked due to a taxi strike. While driving in Ntlangano Road, an unknown man approached and shot the doctor in the head.

‘’The suspect was described as a light skinned African male wearing a hoodie. No one else was injured or robbed,’’ said Lt Col Malcolm Pojie, Western Cape police spokesperson

A reward of up to R100 000 is offered for information that could lead to the arrest of the suspect.

PICTURE: Pixabay

Pojie confirmed that police are also offering R50 000 rewards each for information on the murders of a school principal in Kraaifontein and a taxi owner in Nyanga.

On 23 January 2025 at approximately 07:00, the deceased, Mr Sigudla, the principal of Ekutheleni Primary in Kraaifontein and his wife stopped in front of the school when they were accosted by two suspects of whom one pulled out  firearm and shot the deceased multiple times. The deceased’ wife was wounded in her arm. Nothing was taken and the suspects fled on foot.

On 16 April 2025, The secretary general of CATA, Mongi Titi, was shot multiple times while he was seated in his stationary Toyota Fortuner at the Nyanga Taxi Rank. Nothing was taken from the deceased, even though he was armed.

‘’It is believed that two suspects fled the scene,’’ said Pojie

Anyone with information regarding the murders and the whereabouts of the suspects are urged to contact Lt Col Julian Tarentaal on 082 559 4645 or Capt Lukhanyo Magadla on 082 411 3245, both are attached to the Western Cape Serious and Violent Crime Investigations. Alternatively, Crime Stop can be contacted on 08600 10111 or on MySAPS mobile application. 

 

Western Cape SAPS have also offered up to R100 000 to anyone with information which will lead to the apprehension of alleged taxi-hitman, Vuyo Tshukela aka Yesufor whom a warrant of arrest was issued by the court.

‘’The suspect who is on the run has been positively linked to at least four taxi-related murders which were perpetrated in Philippi East and Nyanga during August 2024 and murders in Nyanga and Delft during September 2024,’’ said Lt Col Malcolm Pojie, Western Cape police spokesperson

COURTESY: SAPS

Anyone with information regarding the fugitive’s whereabouts is urged to contact Lt Col Julian Tarentaal on 082 559 4645 or Capt Lukhanyo Magadla on 082 411 3245. Alternatively, Crime Stop can be contacted on 08600 10111 or on MySAPS mobile application. 

 

Done by: Mitchum George

Good Samaritan lost his life trying to save a paddler struggling at sea in Simon’s Town

A good Samaritan man lost his life trying to save a paddler struggling at sea in Simon’s Town on Monday.

The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) received reports of a paddler on a surf ski who appeared to be in difficulty offshore from Kalk Bay Harbour.

PHOTO: NSRI

A nearby fishing vessel conducted rescue efforts for the paddler and the Samaritan. The vessel successfully rescued the paddler, but the Samaritan remained unresponsive to CPR resuscitation.

‘’A local man, age 35, a Good Samaritan, seeing the man appearing to be in difficulties at his surf-ski, had jumped off the Kalk Bay Harbour wall and he swam to the paddler in efforts to attempt to go to assist. The paddler, although in the water, was gradually swimming back towards the Kalk Bay Harbour mouth using his surf-ski to aid in his floatation,’’ said Craig Lambinon, NSRI spokesperson.

‘’The Good Samaritan man had reached the paddler but appeared then to be in difficulties himself. At that stage the fishing vessel Emily Marie had reached the 2 men rescuing both men onto their fishing vessel.’’

Lambinon said the cause of death is unknown at this stage

 ‘’The body of the deceased man has been taken into the care of Government Health Forensic Pathology Services.The paddler, age 57, from Green Point was medically treated by CMR paramedics before being released requiring no further assistance.’’

Police have opened an inquest docket.

 

Done by: Shaneca Cupido

Suspect arrested at N1 City Mall for R2m worth of drugs

A 28-year-old suspect will appear in the Goodwood Magistrates Court on Wednesday on a charge of dealing in drugs, after the suspect was caught with an estimated value of over R2 million worth of mandrax from a vehicle at N1 City Mall.

COURTESY: Hawks

‘’The vehicle was spotted, thereafter stopped and searched. On closer inspection, two containers containing 51 packets (51 000) of mandrax were found in the boot of the vehicle.  The driver was immediately arrested,’’ said Warrant Officer Zinzi Hani, Hawks Western Cape spokesperson.

 

COURTESY: Hawks

Done By: Shaneca Cupido

Woman allegedly raped in Belhar after booking an e-hailing service

The community of Belhar was furious on Sunday after a woman was allegedly raped by three men after booking an e-hailing driver at a house in Belhar.

It is believed that the woman was allegedly raped at a house on the corner of Tyne and St Vincent Street. Multiple videos surfaced online and were shared by crime groups showing the community and the police vans outside the house.

In one video, a man taking the video shows community members outside the house as SAPS are inside searching, the man then pans over to the white Hyundai car which belongs to the alleged rapist and shows the passenger window smashed in allegedly by angry community members. Another video shows members of SAPS walking out of the house with a man whose hands are cuffed behind his back.

Belhar Community Policing Forum (CPF) Public Relations Officer Shireen Nordien said that the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences units (FCS) was dealing with the matter. She explains “We know that FCS was dealing with both the victim and the alleged suspect. We as the Belhar CPF condemn in the strongest terms any and all violence against women and children and we trust that the matter will be justly and compassionately dealt with.”

 Police spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Malcolm Pojie said that "Police have heard about the allegations but cannot confirm at this stage whether it is true, as no criminal cases with regards to the alleged incident was reported to police by the alleged victim."

Done by Shaneca Cupido   

Fewer people driving and texting, but figure still high

Fewer people are using their phones whilst driving. This is according to the City of Cape Town who revealed that cellphone impounds dropped by 16% between July 2022 and June 2024 (5 260 to 4 4240, while fines for cellphone-related offences dropped from 10 597 to 9 373 (11.5%).

The use of cellphones while driving is prohibited by the National Road Traffic Act, and motorists can be fined. The City’s by-law also makes provision for cellphones to be impounded.

Devices can be reclaimed once the fine and impoundment release fees are paid. Those that are not claimed are disposed of.

COURTESY: CoCT

MMC for Safety & Security, JP Smith, attributes the decline to a combination of increased in-vehicle technology and greater compliance from road users.

‘’The phenomenon of distracted driving continues to be a challenge, but the downturn in statistics does suggest that some drivers have stopped blue-ticking our appeals to not use their cellphones while driving. We are also mindful that more newer vehicles come with standard features that allow for hands-free use of devices, and that has likely played a role. We will continue to enforce the law and make our roads safer for everyone, but this status update is encouraging news indeed.’’

Smith, says unclaimed cellphones are donated to Neighbourhood Watches. He says since June 2024, a total of 226 cellphones have been donated to NWs in a number of areas, including Kleinvlei, Mfuleni, Delft, Manenberg and Mitchells Plain.

‘’We’ve worked hard to find a mechanism for redistributing the devices that are not reclaimed, and it has been challenging, but I am happy to see some progress. These smart phones are especially useful for Neighbourhood Watches to access our Trusted Partner App, which was specifically designed to improve communication and coordination between safety stakeholders. At our most recent mass information session for Neighbourhood Watches, we featured a demonstration on how this app enhances incident reporting and real-time response efforts,’’ said JP Smith, Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security.

Done by: Mitchum George

Retreat indoor swimming pool temporarily closed due to vandalism

The Retreat indoor swimming pool has been temporarily closed due to vandalism.

COURTESY: CoCT

The City of Cape Town says staff arrived on Friday morning to a break-in at the facility that resulted in significant damage to the plant room. According to the municipality, thieves stole all pipes leading to the swimming pool filters and vandalised a number of other components in the plant room.

COURTESY: CoCT

The incident comes just six months after the Retreat indoor swimming pool reopened to the public, following a period of repairs and maintenance, including upgrades to key systems and facilities, ensuring a safer and more efficient experience for pool users.

COURTESY: CoCT

MMC for Community Services & Health, Francine Higham, described the incident as disappointing and frustrating. She says permanent repairs are scheduled to commence on Tuesday.

‘’An assessment has to be completed to determine the extent of the damage, and then the process will begin to do repairs. This facility is a hub for many local users, including swimming clubs and the latest closure is a blow. I want to appeal to the community to please come forward with any information that could help identify those responsible for this wanton act of destruction.’’

 

Done By: Mitchum George

Fire rages in upper Tokai

Firefighters are battling a blaze towards Elephant Eye and the Gym Thickets, in the Tokai area.

COURTESY: Facebook - SANParks - Table Mountain National Park

The South African National Parks (SANParks) says this is the third fire that broke out yesterday afternoon and in the early evening in the Lower and Upper Tokai areas of the Table Mountain National Park.

SANParks says the two fires were successfully contained overnight.

‘’Fire crews are working to prevent the blaze from spreading into the trees in that area. A helicopter was launched at first light supported by ground teams from the SANParks firefighters and Volunteer Wildfire Services. The City of Cape Town Fire and Rescue Services are supporting ground fire fighting efforts,’’ said JP Louw, SANParks spokesperson.

All trails in Tokai, including the elephants Eye footpath are closed. Louw advised hikers to avoid access from Silvermine above the fire zone for their safety.

Louw alleges that arson could be behind the fire, but investigations are underway.

‘’ We are investigating the causes of fires as preliminary investigations suggest they were started deliberately. Anyone with information pertaining to the fire is encouraged to come forward to help the investigation,’’ he said.

 

Done By: Mitchum George

More arrests imminent, says SAPS, in Wynberg court shooting

Two more suspects appeared in the Wynberg Magistrate's Court in Cape Town on Friday in connection with the murder that took place in the same court earlier this month.

Brian Booysen of Vrygrond, and Wanay McKaylan Farao of Belhar, are facing charges of murder, among others.

COURTESY: X - SAPS - WC Police Commissioner, Lt Gen. Thembisile Patekile attending court proceedings

Police confirmed they were arrested on Thursday morning in connection with the murder of Dingalamaya Chintso (50), who was shot four times in the head on the fourth floor of the courthouse on April 8.

The other accused are Shireen Matthews (35) and Abubaker Adams (24), who appeared in court together for the first time on Wednesday.

They are being charged under the Prevention of Organised Crime Act (Poca) for allegedly being members of the Junky Funky Kidz gang and allegedly committing the murder for the gang.

The state alleges that Matthews had the victim killed in retaliation. The case has been postponed to 9 May.

Police have not ruled out more arrests.

 

Done By: Mitchum George

Mitchells Plain boy caught in crossfire; two killed in Eastridge

An 11-year-old boy was left wounded after he was caught in the crossfire in Eastridge, Mitchell’s Plain, on Thursday night. Two other men succumbed to injuries.

Police confirmed that detectives are investigating two counts of murder and one of attempted murder.

‘’ The circumstances surrounding a shooting incident on Thursday evening, 24 April 2025, at about 22:00 on the corner of Malva and Melon Streets, Eastridge, Mitchell’s Plain.. are under investigation. Preliminary investigation suggest that the two males were approached by unknown gunmen who opened fire on them. Both males sustained injuries to their bodies and were declared deceased on the scene by medical personnel. The 11 year old boy sustained a gunshot wound to his neck when he was caught in the cross fire and was transported to a medical facility for medical treatment where he is in a stable condition. The suspects fled the scene and are yet to be arrested,’’ said Sergeant Wesley Twigg, Western Cape police spokesperson.

 

Done By: Mitchum George

Attacks on social workers in the Western Cape are sharply on the rise

Attacks on social workers in the Western Cape are sharply on the rise, with almost one attack per month.

In response to a parliamentary question, the Department of Social Development confirmed 12 attacks on social workers in the past 12 months - including seven hijackings, five attempted hijackings, and eight attacks on child and youth care workers involving armed robberies and hijackings.

The reply revealed that most incidents were recorded in Khayelitsha, Driftsands, Crossroads, Gugulethu, Wesbank, Mitchells Plain, and sections of the N2 between Spine Road and Mew Way.

Western Cape Provincial Legislature Chairperson on Social Development Wendy Kaizer-Philander noted the emotional toll and disruption to services the attack has on workers

‘’These are the people who work tirelessly to protect the vulnerable- our children, our elderly, and communities in distress. To be targeted in this way is both criminal and a disgrace.’’

“These attacks jeopardise the very services meant to support at-risk communities. We cannot allow a climate of fear to derail our social development agenda,” added Kaizer-Philander.

The Western Cape DSD has raised these incidents at platforms such as ProvJoints and DevCom. SAPS and stakeholders have acknowledged the urgency, with intelligence-gathering and risk-based operational adjustments underway.

The DA in the Western Cape called for:

• A dedicated SAPS task team to investigate these attacks;

• Stronger interdepartmental collaboration for staff safety;

• Accelerated intelligence efforts and increased policing in hotspots;

• Classification of these crimes as crimes against the state.

“Our social workers should not need bulletproof vests to do their jobs. These attacks strike at the core of our democracy-our care system,” Kaizer-Philander concluded.

Done by: Mitchum George

Slight decline in Easter road fatalities in WC

There has been a slight decline in road-related fatalities over the 2025 Easter weekend. According to figures from the Western Cape Mobility Department, between 17 and 21 April 2025, a total of 22 fatal crashes were recorded in the Western Cape, resulting in 22 lives lost. This marks a decline compared with the 26 road-related fatalities reported over the 2024 Easter period.

Of the 22 lives lost this year, 14 fatalities occurred on municipal roads and 8 on provincial routes, with the majority of these incidents taking place within the Cape Metro: 14 pedestrians, 5 passengers, 2 drivers, 1 motorcyclist.

The Mobility Department said just over 19 000 fines were issued for various offences; 8,714 speeding violations were recorded; 226 arrests were made, of which 181 were for driving under the influence of alcohol.

The Western Cape’s Health & Wellness Department also had a buisy weekend. Between 07:00 on Friday to 07:00 on Tuesday, Emergency Medical Services (EMS) logged a total of 7,988 incidents. The most frequent calls were for: Non-cardiac related pain: 1,505; Respiratory complaints: 1,049; Assault-related injuries: 597

Transport-related emergencies included: 85 pedestrian vehicle accidents; 104 motor vehicle accidents; 5 incidents involving cyclists

‘’Hospitals across the province also managed high volumes at their emergency centres. At the Hospital Emergency Centre Trauma Information System (HECTIS) reporting sites (*see footnote below), 16,395 patient episodes were recorded over the weekend period (00:00 Friday to 08:00 Tuesday).

Of these:

3,624 were trauma-related cases

12,476 were non-trauma cases

 

The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness Forensic Pathology Service (FPS) also responded to a number of fatalities over the Easter weekend: 23 fatal shootings; 6 confirmed suicides; 1 drowning

‘’This sustained demand across services reflects the critical role played by healthcare and forensic workers throughout the province. Every emergency call, hospital presentation, and forensic case represents a human life touched by tragedy. We remain deeply mindful of the burden borne by both our staff and affected families during this time,’’ said Mireille Wenger, Western Cape Health & wellness MEC.

‘’The sustained demand on our healthcare services highlights the vital role our healthcare workers play across the province - responding with skill, compassion, and unwavering dedication. Each call and each hospital visit represents a person in crisis. We are deeply aware of the emotional and physical toll this takes - not only on our staff, but also on affected families. Preventing trauma is a shared responsibility. "We urge residents to continue practising road safety, avoid abusing alcohol, and treat healthcare workers with respect. A safer province is only possible when we all do our part. Thank you to our EMS and hospital teams who worked throughout the long weekend, and for the care and commitment you continue to show our residents,’’ she added.

 

Done by: Bush Radio News reporter

 

 

WCGov calls to prioritise safety this long weekend

As another long weekend approaches, followed by a week-long school break, the Western Cape Government is urging all road users to prioritise safety, whether behind the wheel, walking, or cycling.

PICTURE: WC Mobility Department

The call for caution comes in the wake of the recent Easter weekend, during which 14 pedestrians tragically lost their lives on Western Cape roads, and 181 individuals were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol.

‘’These statistics underscore the urgent need for safer road use, both from drivers and pedestrians. These recent figures are a stark reminder of the real consequences of irresponsible behaviour. Alcohol impairs judgment, slows reaction times, and puts everyone at risk. Pedestrians, in particular, remain vulnerable, especially when visibility is low or road rules are ignored. With increased traffic volumes expected, the Western Cape Mobility Department reminds all residents and visitors to stay vigilant and make responsible choices on the road,’’ said Muneera Allie, the Western Cape Mobility Department’s Head of Communication.

“As families take advantage of the break to travel or enjoy leisure time, we are calling on every individual to be part of the safety solution. It only takes one poor decision to cause a life-changing incident. Let us all make the right choices, whether we are driving, walking, or cycling, and ensure a safe and joyful long weekend for everyone,’’ she added.

Drivers are reminded that alcohol and driving do not mix. If you’re planning to consume alcohol, do so responsibly and make alternate travel arrangements:

·        Use a ride-hailing service, taxi, or another form of public transport.

·        Designate a sober driver in your group.

·        If hosting, offer safe options for guests to get home or stay over.

Pedestrians remain among the most vulnerable road users. To stay safe:

·        Cross only at designated pedestrian crossings.

·        Avoid walking on highways and busy roads.

·        Wear visible or reflective clothing, especially at night or in poor weather conditions.

·        Stay alert - avoid distractions like phones or headphones near traffic.

·        Keep our children safe

 

With children out of school next week, it is crucial for drivers and parents to take extra precautions:

·        Always use appropriate car seats or booster seats for young children.

·        Teach children basic road safety rules, like looking both ways before crossing.

·        Never leave children unattended in vehicles or near busy roads.

·        Reduce speed in residential areas, near malls, playgrounds or parks.

‘’The Western Cape’s enforcement and road safety teams will continue their work across the province to monitor traffic, educate road users, and assist those in need. Let us work together to ensure that every journey ends safely,’’ said Alie.

Meanwhile, the Western Cape Education Department (WCED) confirmed that public ordinary schools will reopen on 2 May 2025.

‘’Parents and learners of independent schools will need to refer to their school timetable and calendars as we are aware some schools will not close during this period,’’ said Bronagh Hammond, WCED spokesperson.

 

Done by: Mitchum George