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Darryn Wilken, 35, appeared in court for possession and distribution of child pornography, drug possession, money laundering, and fraud. Police found 10 million images and videos of child pornography at his Midrand home. The case has been postponed to next week.
The Hawks busted a drug lab in KwaZulu-Natal, seizing narcotics and arresting two suspects. The operation involved various law enforcement units and was based on intelligence gathered in November 2023. The lab processed dagga into consumable items for sale. Evidence found included edibles, dagga, equipment, and cash. The confiscated items are valued at R120,000.
Transport Minister Barbara Creecy criticized the lawlessness on SA’s roads as she revealed the 2024 festive season’s road fatalities. There were 1,200 accidents resulting in 1,502 deaths, a 5.3% increase from 2023. All provinces reported fatalities, with KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, and Free State seeing significant increases. Gauteng, Mpumalanga, and Western Cape had decreases. Creecy acknowledged efforts but emphasized the need for more work.
President Cyril Ramaphosa emphasized job creation as the priority in his recent meeting with business leaders. Partnerships with the private sector have already yielded results, particularly in electricity reforms. The government’s focus is on economic growth, aiming for a 3% increase by the end of the year to drive job creation and foster positive growth sentiment.
The Prudential Authority’s decision to file for provisional liquidation of Ithala may lead to the closure of 257,000 depositors’ accounts. Ithala, facing insolvency, failed to meet conditions for a banking license. The Reserve Bank cites losses and high costs. Ithala disputes the action, claiming solvency. Legal battles ensue, with Ithala seeking government intervention to protect jobs and services. Treasury assures depositors of protection.
The Judicial Conduct Tribunal in Johannesburg is hearing testimony in the sexual harassment case against Eastern Cape Judge President Selby Mbenenge, accused of harassing a high court secretary. The complainant detailed unwanted advances, including conversations about the judge’s private parts. The tribunal is examining the interactions to determine if they were unwanted. The case began in 2023 after a complaint was filed.
Giwusa accuses SAPS of detonating explosives in Shaft 10 of Buffelsfontein gold mine while miners were trapped, following completion of rescue operation in Shaft 11. President Mametlwe Sebei claims miners were still in Shaft 10 when explosion occurred, alleging cover-up by police to prevent body count from rising above 78. Giwusa demands search for survivors, denouncing police interference with justice.
The Villa shopping centre in Pretoria, empty for 15 years, is deteriorating. Owners plan to complete construction and fill it with stores. The R3.5 billion development was to be one of South Africa’s largest malls, with 302,744 square meters. Located in Moreleta Park, it aimed to compete with Menlyn Park, attracting R1.5 billion in investor funding.
Forestry, Fisheries, and Environment Minister Dr. Dion George praised the 18-year prison sentence given to a Congolese rhino poacher and money launderer. The suspect pleaded guilty, while 15 co-accused await trial. George emphasized a zero-tolerance approach to poaching, expressing disappointment that the poacher collaborated with locals and park rangers. George recently gained insights on wildlife issues at a training course.
ANC leaders are meeting to decide on the fate of its underperforming Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal branches. The party holds all structures accountable for poor election results, considering disbanding or reconfiguring the branches. ANC NEC meeting at Birchwood Hotel in Boksburg to address electoral decline and potential leadership changes. National leadership may also be held accountable for the party’s overall decline.
