Pilot dies after helicopter crash at Patensie

Posted on November 10, 2025November 11, 2025 by

The pilot who died on Monday morning in a helicopter crash on a farm near Patensie in the Eastern Cape - while spraying crops in the Gamtoos Valley and hitting power lines - has been identified as a chef, writer, host of the television show Speel met Vuur on DStv’s VIA channel, and in recent years also a helicopter pilot.

Mynie Steffens was, according to the police, the only occupant of the Robinson helicopter and was declared dead on the scene. Police spokesperson Warrant Officer Majola Nkohli says an inquest is being conducted.

It is believed that the freak incident occurred at about 07:45, when the helicopter was spraying crops at the farm outside Patensie.

NSC exams progressing smoothly at halfway mark

Posted on November 10, 2025November 10, 2025 by

As the 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations reach the halfway mark, the Department of Basic Education (DBE) has reported that the overall administration of the exams continues to proceed smoothly, with stability, integrity and efficiency across all nine provinces.

More than 920 000 candidates are currently writing their final examinations at 6 800 examination centres nationwide.

“Despite the scale and logistical complexity of this process, the vast majority of sessions have unfolded without disruption, a reflection of the strength of the DBE’s examination systems, the dedication of invigilators and educators, and the discipline shown by learners,” the department said in a statement.

While a few isolated incidents have been reported, including limited community protests, and minor administrative and technical challenges, the department said these have been swiftly and effectively managed through established risk management and contingency measures.

“These timely interventions continue to demonstrate the preparedness and resilience of South Africa’s examination system, which is built on firm safeguards to maintain fairness and credibility,” the department said.

The DBE also responded to public discussions around the perceived difficulty of the 2025 Mathematics Paper 1 and Paper 2, assuring learners, parents and the public that all NSC papers are carefully designed to assess a full range of cognitive skills, in line with curriculum standards.

The department said each paper is designed to include a balanced mix of fundamental concepts and higher-order problem-solving questions.

“Importantly, the standardisation process overseen by Umalusi, the Quality Council for General and Further Education and Training, ensures that any variations in performance trends are scientifically reviewed before final results are approved.

“Should any paper prove more challenging than expected, this process guarantees that no learner is unfairly disadvantaged. Confidence in the integrity, credibility and fairness of the examination system therefore remains well placed,” the department said.

The department extended appreciation to learners, parents, educators, provincial teams, law enforcement agencies, municipalities, and community leaders for ensuring a peaceful and secure examination environment.

As the exams enter their final stretch, the DBE appealed to communities to continue protecting schools as zones of learning and peace.

“Any form of protest or unrest that disrupts teaching, learning or examination activities undermines the hard work and aspirations of thousands of learners nationwide,” the DBE said.

Learners are also encouraged to manage exam anxiety by maintaining a balanced routine, getting enough rest, eating well and taking short breaks while studying.

“Candidates are reminded that calm focus and confidence go a long way [towards preparation, and a positive mindset remains the best tool for success,” the DBE said.

With the continued cooperation of all South Africans, the department said it remains confident that the 2025 NSC examinations will conclude successfully, upholding the high standards and credibility that define the national education system.

Police rescue three who fell victim to a human trafficking scam

Posted on November 10, 2025November 10, 2025 by

The South African Police Service (SAPS) rescued three young women, all Botswana nationals, at OR Tambo International Airport on Friday, 07 November 2025.

The victims, aged between 20 and 23, were reportedly lured via social media by a syndicate under the false pretence of being offered job opportunities in Sierra Leone.

The victims were en route from Botswana to Sierra Leone via South Africa and Nairobi when they were intercepted and rescued by members of INTERPOL NCB Pretoria and the Germiston Serious Organised Crime Investigation Unit after landing at OR Tambo International Airport.

A preliminary report suggests the Botswana High Commission in Pretoria had alerted INTERPOL to assist in tracing the missing victims.

Foot-and-Mouth disease confirmed in WC – Quarantine and Control Measures underway

Posted on November 10, 2025November 10, 2025 by

On 6 November 2025, Western Cape Veterinary Services confirmed a case of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) on a farm near Gouda.

The affected property has been placed under quarantine, along with two other properties in the Velddrif and Bredasdorp areas from where cattle are believed to have been moved to the Gouda farm.

All properties with cloven-hoofed animals within a 10 km radius of the affected area have also been quarantined. Veterinary teams are conducting thorough inspections and surveillance on these farms.

An investigation into the transport company involved is currently underway, and all properties that have had contact with this company in the past 30 days will be traced and inspected.

Foot-and-Mouth Disease is a controlled animal disease in South Africa. While it poses no risk to humans, it is highly contagious among cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs. The virus spreads easily through direct animal contact or indirectly via contaminated vehicles, equipment, clothing, or feed.

To prevent further spread of the disease, Western Cape Veterinary Services urges all livestock owners not to move any cloven-hoofed animals while the extent of the outbreak is being assessed.

-Any movement of livestock into or within the province must be reported here
. By law, such movement must be accompanied by:
-An owner’s declaration of origin and health status; and
-A recipient’s declaration confirming that the animals will be isolated for at least 28 days upon arrival.
-Both forms are available here
-For further information on Foot-and-Mouth Disease and the contact details of Veterinary Services offices in the Western Cape, click here