Category: News

BMW recalls nearly 11,000 vehicles in South Africa over starter motor defect

Posted on by Eon Engelbrecht
The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has announced a product recall involving 10,961 BMW vehicles sold in South Africa from 2016 onwards due to a defect that could lead to engine starting failures and, in rare cases, overheating and smoke.

The recall affects selected BMW 3 Series, 4 Series, 5 Series, 7 Series, X3 and X4 models fitted with a Pinion Starter.

According to BMW South Africa, a production-related defect may cause excessive wear of the starter motor's solenoid switch after repeated engine starts. This can gradually reduce the engine's ability to start and, in some cases, prevent it from starting altogether.

The company also warned that a short circuit in the solenoid switch cannot be ruled out. If this occurs, it could cause localised overheating at the starter motor, with smoke potentially becoming visible or noticeable while driving or after the vehicle has been parked.

As a precaution, BMW recommends that affected vehicles should not be left unattended immediately after the engine has been started.

Owners are also advised not to use the Remote Engine Start function through the My BMW App or the remote-control key until the necessary repairs have been completed.

Consumers with affected vehicles are urged to contact their nearest authorised BMW dealership to arrange an inspection and repair. BMW says all corrective work related to the recall will be carried out free of charge.

International Firearm Destruction Day: SAPS destroys over 11 000 firearms

Posted on by Eon Engelbrecht
Police Deputy Minister Polly Boshielo on Thursday led the destruction of 11 859 firearms and firearm parts as the South African Police Service (SAPS) marked International Firearm Destruction Day, a United Nations campaign observed annually on 9 July.

The destruction process included 9 596 handguns, 1 102 rifles, 798 shotguns, 33 combination firearms and 330 firearm parts, bringing the total number of firearms destroyed by SAPS over the past seven years to 317 811.

The Deputy Minister Boshielo was joined by the Divisional Commissioner for Visible Policing and Operations, Lieutenant General Maropeng Mamotheti, the Sedibeng District Commissioner, Major General Nkhensani Mukhwevho, the Acting Component Head for Firearm, Liquor and Second-Hand Goods, Brigadier Nonhlanhla Sikhakhane and the Section Head for Firearm Compliance and Enforcement, Brigadier (Dr) Simon Bopape.

The majority of the destroyed firearms were confiscated during various policing operations, including Operation Shanela. 

Of those destroyed, 157 firearms were linked to finalised cases involving crimes committed against women and children, while three firearms were linked to cash-in-transit robberies. Other firearms were voluntarily surrendered or handed in during firearm amnesty periods.

The provincial breakdown of firearms destroyed is as follows:
- Gauteng: 3 863
- KwaZulu-Natal: 2 047
- Western Cape: 2 037
- Eastern Cape: 1 500
- Free State: 800
- Mpumalanga: 500
- Northern Cape: 419
- Limpopo: 371
- North West: 322

In addition to these firearms, SAPS also destroyed 4 089 blank guns, airguns and homemade firearms as part of ongoing efforts to eliminate both conventional and improvised weapons from circulation. 

Although often regarded as less lethal, these weapons can be modified to fire live ammunition and are frequently used in the commission of crime.

Boshielo said the destruction of firearms forfeited to the State ensures they can never re-enter circulation and reflects government's unwavering commitment to reducing violent crime.

"It is pleasing to note that we are also destroying firearms today that were used in incidents of gender-based violence. Firearms are destroying our families and our communities. Today's destruction demonstrates government's commitment to detecting and permanently removing illegal firearms and ammunition from our country," she said. 

The SAPS continues to seize no fewer than 100 illegal firearms every week through tracing operations, stop-and-searches and targeted crime-combating initiatives.  During last week's nationwide Shanela II operations alone, police confiscated 121 unlicensed firearms and 2 584 rounds of ammunition.

All firearms destroyed were audited and subjected to ballistic testing to determine whether they had been used in the commission of other crimes, including firearms surrendered during amnesty periods.

Madlanga Commission granted reporting deadline extension

Posted on by Eon Engelbrecht
President Cyril Ramaphosa has extended the reporting deadline of the Commission of Inquiry into Criminality, Political Interference, and Corruption in the Criminal Justice System, known as the Madlanga Commission.

The Commission will now submit its final report on Monday, 16 November 2026, instead of the end of August.

“The extension granted by the President sets an evidence deadline of Friday, 2 October 2026, and a reporting deadline of Monday, 16 November 2026, to enable the Commission to close off topics it has opened up in the course of hearings to date.

“The extension allows the Commission to hear evidence on all of the matters listed in its terms of reference. Without an extension, the Commission will have to leave large parts of its work unfinished,” the Presidency explained in a statement.

The Commission was established to investigate allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi on 6 July 2025 relating to criminality, political interference and corruption within the criminal justice system.

Two interim reports have already been submitted to President Ramaphosa.

“President Ramaphosa once again expresses his deepest appreciation for the work conducted by Commission as well as for the manner in which law enforcement agencies are following up testimony emerging from Commission hearings,” the statement read. 

Bonnie Tyler, iconic voice behind Total Eclipse of the Heart, dies at 75

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Welsh singer Bonnie Tyler, whose unmistakable raspy voice helped define some of the biggest hits of the 1970s and 1980s, has died at the age of 75.

Her family confirmed that she died unexpectedly on Wednesday night in a hospital in Portugal, where she had been receiving treatment for an illness. They have asked for privacy and said a further statement will be released in due course.

Born Gaynor Hopkins in Skewen, Wales, Tyler rose to international fame with a string of chart-topping hits, including It's a Heartache, Holding Out for a Hero and her signature anthem, Total Eclipse of the Heart. The 1983 power ballad became a global phenomenon, topping charts around the world and remaining one of the most recognisable songs of its era.

Tyler's distinctive gravelly voice, which developed after vocal cord surgery early in her career, became her trademark and earned her millions of fans worldwide. Over a career spanning more than five decades, she sold millions of records, received multiple Grammy nominations and continued performing well into her seventies. She also represented the United Kingdom at the Eurovision Song Contest in 2013.

The singer had been seriously ill in recent months after undergoing emergency intestinal surgery in Portugal. Although her condition briefly improved, her family announced that she died as a result of the illness for which she had been receiving treatment.

Tributes have begun pouring in from fans, fellow musicians and public figures around the world, remembering Bonnie Tyler as one of the most distinctive and enduring voices in popular music.

Five provinces removed from load reduction schedule

Posted on by Eon Engelbrecht
At least five of South Africa’s nine provinces are load reduction-free following the implementation of Eskom’s nationwide Load Reduction Eradication Programme.

Since the launch of the programme in September last year, some 1.1 million South Africans have been removed from load reduction schedules, representing some 65% of the power utility’s eradication target.

Provinces eliminated from load reduction are Mpumalanga, joining the Western Cape, Northern Cape, Free State and North West, with national eradication targeted by March 2027.

“The achievement reflects Eskom’s broader strategy to pursue operational and financial sustainability by reducing energy losses and modernising the power system through targeted investment in strengthening distribution infrastructure.

“It also supports improved reliability and customer experience, while delivering tangible benefits to households, schools, clinics, businesses and communities through a more resilient and secure electricity network,” Eskom said in a statement.

Eskom Group Executive for Distribution Junaid Munshi added that the milestone is indicative of the power utility’s drive to transform “electricity service delivery across South Africa”.

“While significant progress has been made in improving generation performance and sustaining power system stability, we recognise that some communities continue to experience the impact of load reduction.

“Reaching the milestone of more than one million customers removed from load reduction demonstrates that the programme is delivering tangible results. However, the work is not complete.

“The remaining areas, particularly in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal, require sustained investment, continued infrastructure upgrades, the deployment of advanced technologies and ongoing collaboration with communities and stakeholders to address the root causes of network overloading,” Munshi said.

Load reduction is implemented by the power utility to protect infrastructure from overloading and destruction where there are illegal connections.

“Illegal connections, electricity theft, meter tampering and vandalism continue to place significant pressure on local electricity networks, increasing the risk of infrastructure damage, supply interruptions and safety incidents.

“Eskom, therefore, calls on all customers and community stakeholders to support efforts to protect electricity infrastructure and maintain reliable electricity supply,” the power utility said.

Community members are encouraged to:
-Report illegal connections, electricity theft and meter tampering.
-Report damaged or unsafe electricity infrastructure.
-Support smart meter installations and providing safe access to authorised Eskom technical teams.
-Promote the safe and legal use of electricity within communities.

“Customers are encouraged to report illegal connections and infrastructure damage to the Eskom Crime Line at 0800 112 722 or via WhatsApp at 081 333 3323.

“Eskom remains committed to delivering a safe, reliable and sustainable electricity supply while ensuring that the benefits of improved power system performance are progressively experienced by all South Africans,” Eskom said.

Seven companies placed on blacklist following Transnet investigation

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Transnet Port Terminals (TPT) has blacklisted seven companies implicated in serious unethical and unlawful conduct.

This after the company, assisted by the Special Investigating Unit, conducted forensic investigations which uncovered financial misconduct, kickback schemes, bribery, theft of company assets, collusion and the submission of false information.

Disciplinary action has also been taken against officials at the State-Owned Entity (SOE) who colluded with the companies.
TPT Chief Executive, Jabu Mdaki said: “Transnet Port Terminals remains committed to upholding the principles of good governance and conducting its business with the highest standards of integrity, transparency and accountability. Unlawful conduct will not be tolerated under any circumstances”.

He added that the company is determined to grow and add to the country’s global competitive edge.

“TPT has a mammoth task of enabling South Africa through our specialisation in maritime logistics where the country trades with over 100 markets in the world.

“As a team, we are united in understanding that we exist to serve and there’s no room for anyone who does not share in that mission,” Mdaki said in a statement on Thursday.
According to Transnet, the crackdown reflects a broader, systemic investigation currently active across all of Transnet’s operating divisions.

“Earlier this week, Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM) suspended four employees based on similar allegations. Additionally, restrictions against implicated suppliers at TRIM are also proceeding.

“Earlier this year, Transnet announced the suspension of nine employees implicated in alleged collusion with suppliers. Six of these employees have now left Transnet’s employment because of disciplinary action instituted against them. Disciplinary proceedings against the other employees are still in progress,” the SOE said.

Members of the public are encouraged to report any suspected fraud or any irregularity involving Transnet to 0800 003 056, email: [email protected] or SMS: 063 786 7403.

“While the consequence management processes are proceeding, Transnet is also implementing systemic improvements to detect and prevent the recurrence of such malfeasances,” Transnet said. 

George Airport Capacity Set to Double in R974 Million Expansion

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George Airport is set for a R974 million expansion as growing passenger demand continues to strengthen air travel across the Western Cape, particularly on the Southern Cape and Garden Route.

The project will double airport capacity from 1 million to 2 million passengers annually, with completion expected in 2027, enhancing regional connectivity and supporting the province’s tourism growth trajectory.

Upgrades will improve key passenger areas including check-in facilities, security screening, baggage handling, and circulation flow, delivering a more efficient and seamless travel experience.

Delivered in phases while remaining fully operational, the expansion also reinforces sustainability priorities, targeting a 4-Star Green Star certification aligned with long-term environmental goals.

Bail postponed again for Peet Viljoen

Posted on by Eon Engelbrecht
The bail application of fraud-accused and disbarred attorney, Peet Viljoen, has been postponed to 23 July.

Viljoen told the Pretoria Specialised Commercial Crimes Court today that he is not a flight risk and would not attempt to evade his trial if released on bail.

Viljoen is facing numerous charges, including 400 counts of fraud, forgery and corruption.

The former reality TV personality says he intends to sue the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for R500 million, claiming he has been subjected to an unlawful prosecution. He remains in custody.

Knysna Oyster Festival remains key economic driver for Garden Route

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The Western Cape Government is proud to continue partnering with the Knysna Oyster Festival, as the Garden Route expands into a sporting, cultural and culinary hub, marking a lively 10-day programme filled with a variety of experiences. Taking place from 3 to 12 July 2026, this year’s programme highlights Knysna as a special destination and one of South Africa’s much-loved winter locations for sport, arts and culture. 

The festival programme included the flagship Knysna Forest Marathon and Half Marathon which took place on Saturday, 4 July. With a scenic route through the indigenous Knysna Forest, this year marks the 41st edition of one of the Garden Route's most iconic races.

The Western Cape Government’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport (DCAS) is supporting several team sports tournaments and engaging various community leaders across the region throughout the festival week. Through the Department’s support, basketball is once again part of the festival programme. The success of the Knysna Oyster Festival and its sporting tournaments is made possible through strong partnerships between government, municipalities, sporting federations, and organisers. 

Western Cape Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport, Ricardo Mackenzie, congratulates all participants of the Knysna Forest Marathon, the Knysna Basketball Tournament and other sporting codes. “As the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport, we remain committed to supporting events and festivals that encourage young people to participate in sport and contribute to job creation and the economy. Well done to all athletes and to everyone who continues to invest in and strengthen sport across the region,” said Minister Mackenzie. 

The Minister also joined passionate spectators at the Springbok Bok Tent for the Nations Championship on 4 July, as part of the Knysna Oyster Festival celebrations. The crowds were buzzing, proudly singing our national anthem, and celebrating a successful 45 – 21 victory over England at Ellis Park in Johannesburg. The Knysna Oyster Festival serves as a catalyst for a much broader celebration of sport and community leadership across the Garden Route. 

During this period, the Minister also opened the 2026 Growthpoint Properties Jarvis / Kaplan National Squash Championships in Mossel Bay. This  marks the start of one of South Africa’s premier national squash tournaments, and for the first time ever, the tournament is being played on an all-glass court. The all-glass feature enables spectators to have a full, uninterrupted view of the game from all angles. The department welcomes all athletes from across the country and wishes those competing in the championships every success. “The upcoming week will be a showcase for sport and for our country”, says Minister Mackenzie. 

By supporting events such as the Knysna Oyster Festival and its sporting tournaments, as well as sporting events across the broader Garden Route region, the department continues to strengthen the Western Cape’s sporting ecosystem – investing in sport as a catalyst for youth participation, community development and job creation.

The Garden Route’s packed sporting calendar is a testament to the region’s vital role in hosting significant national sporting events during the winter season. The full festival programme is available on knysnaoysterfestival.co.za and we encourage everyone to visit the Garden Route and support this festival and other activities in the region.

Six Western Cape properties to remain centres for GBVF survivors

Posted on by Eon Engelbrecht
Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson has formalised the renewal of six State-owned properties made available to the Western Cape Department of Social Development for the continuation of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) shelter services.

The properties in Aurora, Albertinia, Heidelberg, Laingsburg and Moorreesburg were being used to support shelter and care services for survivors of GBVF. The renewal will ensure the continuation of these services.

At the signing ceremony held at the Western Cape Department of Social Development on Wednesday, Macpherson formalised the renewal of the six State-owned properties made available to the Western Cape Provincial MEC for Social Development, Jaco Londt, for the continued provision of shelter and support services for victims and survivors of GBVF.

Macpherson said the renewal reflects the department’s commitment to ensure that public property is used for the public good and does not stand idle or vacant in communities across the country.

The renewal of the properties is part of the department’s broader work to ensure that state-owned properties are actively used to support service delivery alongside the 801 unused and non-essential state-owned properties identified by the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure for sale or repurposing.

“When I took office, I made it clear that public assets must be used for the public good. This renewal gives practical meaning to that commitment by ensuring that these state-owned properties continue serving as safe spaces for some of the most vulnerable people in our society.

“As the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, we are proud to support the Western Cape Department of Social Development and its partners in providing shelter, care and protection to victims and survivors of gender-based violence and femicide,” Macpherson said.

Londt said the partnership with the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure will play an important role in supporting victims and survivors of Gender-based violence.

“This renewal reflects our shared commitment to putting the needs of our citizens first. By continuing this partnership, we are ensuring that these properties remain safe havens for women, children and vulnerable people fleeing gender-based violence and other crises,” Londt said.

The renewal process forms part of Macpherson’s commitment to ensure that public assets continue to be used for the public good, particularly where they support vulnerable communities and frontline social services. 
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