Category: News

SAPS seize counterfeit goods worth over R160 million

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Police operations have led to the seizure of counterfeit goods worth more than R160 million across various parts of the country.

“This week, police collectively seized counterfeit goods worth more than R160 million during multiple takedown operations in different parts of the country. The National Counterfeit and Illicit Goods Unit led a joint takedown operation in Bellville on Tuesday, 24 March 2026, which resulted in the seizure of counterfeit goods worth more than R117 million,” the South African Police Service (SAPS) said in a statement on Saturday.

The multidisciplinary team also comprised members from the Western Cape Counterfeit and Illicit Goods Unit, Crime Intelligence, the National Intervention Unit (NIU), Public Order Policing (POP) and officials from the South African Revenue Service (SARS) Customs Division, among others.
The team seized over 130 000 counterfeit items, including branded clothing, sports apparel, sneakers, caps, sunglasses, and watches.

In Gauteng, police executed several takedown operations in Johannesburg, Tshwane, Meyerton, Vanderbijlpark, and Vereeniging throughout the week.

In one operation, the Gauteng Counterfeit and Illicit Goods Unit, with support from various role players, shut down a counterfeit manufacturing plant operating in a medical building in the Johannesburg central business district.

“Counterfeit goods and label-printing machines worth over R28 million were seized. Additionally, a takedown operation in KwaZulu-Natal resulted in the seizure of a large consignment of counterfeit cigarettes worth over R15 million in Sydenham,” said the police.

The police said the illegal trade in counterfeit goods not only undermines the economy of South Africa but also threatens consumer health and safety, infringes on intellectual property rights, and erodes legitimate businesses.

Vehicle smuggling

Meanwhile, the work of the National Task Team deployed to the Emanguzi northern parts of KwaZulu-Natal has secured yet another conviction of a vehicle smuggler.

This follows the Mtubatuba Regional Court sentencing 45 -year-old Mpumelelo Cloud Goba on Friday to direct imprisonment for the theft of a motor vehicle worth more than R700 000 from a parking lot in Durban in August 2025.

“The accused was sentenced to seven years’ direct imprisonment, half of which is suspended for a period of five years on condition he is not found guilty of a similar offence,” the police said in a statement.
According to the police, the team operationalised information which was circulated about a Toyota Fortuner stolen from the parking lot in Durban.

Police intercepted the said vehicle with false registration en route to Emanguzi to be handed over to another driver to be smuggled into Mozambique, ultimately leading to Goba’s arrest.

“He was charged with the theft of a motor vehicle, and the team further conducted an investigation as well as successfully opposing his bail application in the Hluhluwe District Court until his case was transferred and finalised in the Mtubatuba Regional Court on 27 March 2026.

“This sentence underscores the Emanguzi Task Team’s unwavering commitment and dedication to deal decisively with cross-border crimes, especially vehicle smuggling from South Africa to the neighbouring countries, mostly to Mozambique,” the police said.

Since April 2025 to date, the team has arrested 96 suspects for various offences, seized 16 illegal firearms, including imitations and recovered 67 vehicles, as well as a truck.

“The team remains dedicated to combating cross-border crimes in the north of KwaZulu-Natal and surrounding areas, specifically focusing on vehicle theft and smuggling, robbery, carjacking, illegal possession of firearms, murder, attempted murder and robbery,” the police said. 

RTMC warns motorists of wet roads

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The Road Traffic Management Corporations (RTMC) is reminding motorists about wet roads on most parts of the country; therefore, urges motorists to drive carefully and stay alert and allow safe travelling distances to avoid crashes that causes traffic backlogs.

The South African Weather Service has issued weather alerts that will result in scattered showers and thunderstorms and disruptive rainfalls that are likely to affect visibility over most parts of Kwa-Zulu Natal.

The heavy downfalls are likely to lead to flooding of low-lying areas.

Driving conditions in some of these routes will be affected by fog which will make visibility to be poor.

Road users are reminded to consider the following important road safety tips:

1. Reduce Speed: Wet roads can be slippery. Drive at a reduced speed to maintain control of your vehicle.
2. Maintain Safe Distance: Increase the distance between your vehicle and the one in front to allow for longer stopping distances.
3. Use Headlights: Keep your headlights on to improve visibility and ensure you are visible to other drivers.
4. Avoid Sudden Manoeuvres: Sudden braking or sharp turns can lead to loss of control on slippery surfaces. 
5. Be Mindful of Pedestrians and Cyclists: They may also be struggling with reduced visibility and challenging conditions.
6. Stay Informed: Keep updated with the latest weather forecasts and traffic reports

Plett double murder suspect arrested

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Detectives in Plettenberg Bay are investigating a double murder following the discovery of an elderly couple who were fatally attacked on a farm in Glen Loerie, The Crags.

Preliminary reports indicate that a Mercedes-Benz motor vehicle was captured by a license plate recognition (LPR) camera travelling at high speed along the R339 in the direction of Uniondale at approximately 18:50 on Wednesday, 25 March 2026.

The vehicle was subsequently flagged on a local security WhatsApp group. Police members responded to the registered address linked to the vehicle, where they discovered the bodies of a 71-year-old woman and a 77-year-old man. Both victims sustained multiple injuries.

A coordinated effort between police and community safety structures led to the pursuit of the identified vehicle. The vehicle later overturned near Uniondale, where the driver fled the scene on foot. The suspect was apprehended shortly thereafter.

Crime scene experts processed both scenes as part of the ongoing investigation.

A 34-year-old suspect from The Crags has since been arrested and is currently being detained in Uniondale. He is expected to appear in court once formally charged.

The motive for the attack remains the subject of further investigation.

Anyone with additional information that may assist the investigation is urged to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or use the mobile application MySAPS.

SA not welcome at G7 Summit

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South Africa’s invitation to attend this year’s G7 summit has been withdrawn after pressure from the United States.

France had invited President Cyril Ramaphosa to the summit in Evian, however reports say the US threatened to boycott the meeting if South Africa attended.

Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya says South Africa remains committed to restoring relations with the US through dialogue, while ties with France remain strong.

Repo rate remains unchanged at 6.75%

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The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) has kept the repo rate unchanged at 6.75%, citing heightened global uncertainty following the outbreak of conflict in the Middle East and its impact on inflation and growth.

With just a few weeks into the outbreak of conflict in the Middle East, Reserve Bank Governor Lesetja Kganyago noted that leading central banks have generally kept rates unchanged, as they wait for more information.

“The fact is, we are still only a few weeks into this crisis. The coming months will be crucial for assessing the longer-term inflation consequences. Given current forecasts, we see inflation risks to the upside.

“Against this backdrop, the committee decided to keep the policy rate unchanged, at 6.75%. The decision was unanimous,” Kganyago said on Thursday during a media briefing in Pretoria.

He added that the ongoing Middle East conflict was a clear instance of a supply shock, which raises prices while weakening demand. 

“The standard response to a supply shock is to look through first-round effects, which are unavoidable and cannot be stopped by interest rate changes. At the same time, central banks should be alert to second-round effects, where an initial shock triggers broad price increases. Getting policy right means ensuring that the price response to supply shocks is transitory, and not persistent,” the Governor said.

Looking at South Africa’s latest data, the economy grew further in the fourth quarter of 2025, with output rising by 1.1% for the year as a whole. 

“This is better than recent years but still well below longer-run averages. We have been encouraged by green shoots such as rising confidence and stronger investment, but the ongoing war could interrupt the growth recovery.

“For the time being, our growth projections are largely unchanged. There have been data revisions which lowered 2025 growth, making 2026 look a bit stronger in comparison. 

“This offsets some of the impact from the current shock. We still have growth rising to around 2% over the next few years, but we now see downside risks to the outlook,” Kganyago said.

Moving to prices, inflation was 3.0% for February, with core inflation also at 3.0%, which is in line with the SARB target. 

“Higher energy prices will raise inflation in the near term. We expect headline will soon accelerate to around 4%, with fuel inflation over 18% for the second quarter. Our baseline forecast then has a gradual unwinding of the shock, taking inflation back to 3% late next year,” he said.

Given global uncertainty, the Reserve Bank looked at two alternatives, both with more adverse assumptions than its baseline. 

“The first scenario assumes that the conflict lasts another two months or so, with oil prices averaging nearly US$100 per barrel for this period and the rand about 5% weaker against the dollar. The second, more extreme scenario has the war lasting over a year, with oil prices staying above US$100 per barrel and the rand 10% weaker,” the Governor said.

In both scenarios, inflation is higher, exceeding 4% in the first version and 5% in the second. 
“Both call for higher interest rates this year, with one hike in the first scenario and several more in the other. 

“Inflation then slows as oil prices start easing and the policy response takes effect. In the first scenario we are back to target during 2027. In the second scenario this only happens in 2028. In both cases, growth is weaker initially, but there is some catch-up later,” Kganyago said.

He mentioned that South Africa has made important macroeconomic progress recently, with a lower inflation target, improved fiscal prospects and steadier growth. 

“Prudent monetary policy will help sustain these gains, despite difficult global conditions. Further support would come from reaching a prudent public debt level, lowering administered price inflation, and continuing structural reforms that raise potential growth,” the Governor said.

Fuel Supply Stable – Despite Panic Buying Ahead of Price Hike

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The Fuel Industry Association says South Africa’s fuel supply remains stable despite reports of shortages at some filling stations across the country.

The association says the shortages being reported are not due to a lack of fuel nationally, but rather isolated cases where certain stations have temporarily run out of stock. It believes the situation is largely being driven by panic buying as motorists rush to fill their tanks ahead of an expected sharp fuel price increase next month.

The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources says no relief measures are currently planned for motorists before the next fuel price adjustment. The department has confirmed that the price changes will be announced next week.

Fuel prices are expected to rise significantly in April amid ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which has pushed global oil prices higher and placed additional pressure on local fuel costs.

According to projections by the Central Energy Fund, petrol could increase by more than five rand a litre, while diesel prices could rise by more than nine rand a litre. These estimates are based on current international oil prices and the weaker rand against the US dollar.

Motorists will also face additional increases through fuel-related levies. These include adjustments to the general fuel levy as well as the Road Accident Fund levy, both of which form part of the final price paid at the pump.

Industry experts say the anticipated increases could have a broader impact on the economy, with higher transport costs likely to push up the price of goods and services.

Despite the looming price hikes, authorities are urging motorists not to panic buy fuel, emphasising that the country’s overall supply remains secure.

Water Week: Protecting Our Most Precious Resource

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Water is fundamental to life and essential to our daily wellbeing. While this may seem widely understood, it remains important to continually remind ourselves of the value of this finite resource. Although approximately 70% of the Earth’s surface is covered by water, only about 2.5% of it is freshwater available to sustain ecosystems and human needs.

Residents of Cape Town vividly remember the threat of “Day Zero” in 2018, when critically low dam levels meant that municipal taps could potentially be shut off. Through collective action, strict water-saving measures, awareness campaigns, and much-needed rainfall, the city successfully avoided this crisis.

However, the experience served as a stark reminder that water security can never be taken for granted. Today, similar concerns are emerging elsewhere in the province. For example, the town of Knysna - approximately 489 kilometres from Cape Town—is currently facing its own potential water crisis. These situations also highlight the persistent inequalities that exist in access to safe and reliable water.

Climate change continues to intensify pressures on water resources. Increased frequency of droughts in some areas and flooding in others disrupts the availability and reliability of water supplies. As a result, protecting ecological infrastructure - such as catchments, wetlands, and river systems - has become more critical than ever. Healthy ecosystems play a vital role in storing, filtering, and regulating freshwater resources that communities depend on.

Access to safe drinking water is also closely linked to socio-economic conditions. In many communities, particularly those that are marginalised, water access remains limited. Promoting water conservation can be challenging in these contexts, where households may already struggle with minimal supply and rely on communal taps, rivers, or streams for daily water needs. In many cases, the responsibility of collecting water falls disproportionately on women and girls, creating a significant physical and time burden.

This responsibility can limit opportunities for education, employment, and participation in other activities, while also exposing individuals to risks such as crime and abuse. Improving access to reliable water and sanitation services can therefore play an important role in reducing gender inequalities in a country already facing serious challenges related to gender-based violence.

CapeNature contributes to addressing these challenges by supporting United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 6, which aims to ensure the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all. Through the conservation of ecological infrastructure - including strategic water source areas, catchments, rivers, and wetlands - CapeNature helps safeguard the natural systems that supply freshwater to communities across the Western Cape.

However, increasing urbanisation and population growth continue to place significant pressure on water supply systems. As cities expand, water infrastructure must meet the needs of growing populations while maintaining strict health and safety standards. At the same time, rising pollution levels pose an additional threat to freshwater ecosystems.

Of the 138 freshwater ecosystem types in the Western Cape, 101 are currently considered threatened. More than 35% of river ecosystem types and over 40% of wetland ecosystem types are not yet formally protected. These figures highlight the urgent need for stronger conservation and management efforts.

Addressing water security challenges requires a collective and integrated approach. Complex societal issues cannot be solved in isolation, and every sector of society has a role to play. Education and awareness remain essential tools, but they must recognise the realities and inequalities experienced by different communities. Empowering communities to participate in water governance and reinforcing that access to clean water is a fundamental right -not a privilege - are critical steps toward sustainable water management.

At the same time, reducing water pollution, discouraging the improper disposal of harmful chemicals, and encouraging the adoption of water-efficient technologies can significantly contribute to protecting this precious resource. Regular maintenance and improvement of existing water infrastructure is equally important to ensure reliable supply and reduce losses.

Ultimately, protecting our wetlands, rivers, groundwater, and catchment areas is essential not only for our own wellbeing but for the health of the entire planet. By working together to safeguard these vital ecosystems, we can help ensure that clean, reliable water remains available for current and future generations.

Helicopter Crashes on Table Mountain While Battling Blaze

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A helicopter assisting firefighters in combating a blaze on Table Mountain in Cape Town crashed after its rotor struck the mountainside during a water-bombing operation.

The aircraft was part of an aerial firefighting effort deployed to contain burning vegetation on the slopes of the iconic mountain. Witnesses reported that the helicopter was flying low over the rugged terrain while dropping water onto the flames when the main rotor clipped the rock face.

The impact caused the aircraft to lose control before crashing onto the mountainside. Moments later the helicopter reportedly burst into flames and exploded.

According to early reports from the scene, the pilot managed to jump clear of the aircraft before or during the crash sequence. Emergency crews responding to the incident confirmed that the pilot survived the accident but sustained injuries. He was treated at the scene before being transported to hospital for further medical care.

Authorities say the helicopter was conducting a standard “water-bombing” mission, in which aircraft collect water using a bucket or tank and release it over fires to help ground crews contain the blaze. These operations often require pilots to fly extremely low and close to mountainous terrain in order to target flames accurately.

Firefighting helicopters are frequently used in the Table Mountain National Park area, especially during the dry summer months when fynbos vegetation can ignite quickly and spread in windy conditions. The aircraft play a critical role in slowing the spread of fires and supporting crews battling flames on steep and inaccessible slopes.

Emergency services and firefighting teams continued working in the area following the crash to prevent the blaze from spreading further. Officials have not yet confirmed the full extent of the helicopter’s damage, but the aircraft was reportedly destroyed in the incident.

How to save fuel and stay safe on the roads this Easter

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Easter is one of South Africa’s busiest travel weekends, with thousands of motorists taking to the roads for long-awaited getaways and family visits. But with rising fuel prices, many drivers will be looking for ways to stretch their travel budgets while still keeping their families safe.

The good news is that a well-prepared car and a few smart driving habits can make a real difference. A quick vehicle check before you leave, combined with fuel-efficient driving, can help prevent common breakdowns, improve safety and ensure every litre of fuel takes you further.

1. Start with Your Tyres
Tyres are one of the most common causes of holiday breakdowns, yet they remain one of the most overlooked components. Tyre pressure changes significantly when a vehicle is fully loaded or towing, which is why it’s essential to check the manufacturer’s recommended pressure before you leave.

Under-inflated tyres can also increase fuel consumption because the engine must work harder to move the vehicle. Correct tyre pressure improves safety, tyre lifespan and fuel efficiency. Drivers should also inspect tread depth, look for cracking or uneven wear, and ensure the spare tyre is in good condition.

2. Don’t Neglect the Heart of Your Engine: Your Oil
Engine oil is vital to your car’s health. Oil doesn’t just lubricate – it cools and cleans your engine. Running low or using the wrong grade can cause severe and costly damage.

Before heading off on a long trip, motorists should check their oil levels and top up if necessary, then recheck after a few hundred kilometres. Oil should be replaced annually or at the service intervals recommended by the manufacturer, and it’s crucial to use the correct grade specified for the vehicle.

3. Why the Right Oil Matters
Not all engine oils are created equal. South Africa’s environment, with its heat, dust, varied terrain, and dense urban traffic places unique demands on vehicles. In many cities, repeated stop-and-go driving leads to increased engine temperatures and heat build-up, putting additional strain on engine components and accelerating oil degradation.

Products like Engen Xtreme are formulated specifically for these local conditions. Whether you drive an older model, a taxi, or a modern vehicle, choosing the correct lubricant helps manage heat more effectively, improves efficiency in heavy traffic conditions, and protects critical components over time.

4. Check All Fluids – Not Just Oil
Several other fluids play a crucial role in vehicle safety and reliability. Coolant prevents overheating, brake fluid ensures effective stopping power, and power steering fluid allows for smooth and responsive steering.

Windscreen washer fluid is equally important, especially during long-distance travel when insects, dust and road grime can quickly affect visibility. Adding a small amount of specialised cleaner to the wash water helps keep windscreens clear.

5. Make the Most of Your Forecourt Stop
A quick stop at a service station can prevent major problems later.  Forecourt staff are trained to help motorists with tyre pressure checks, wiper inspections, window cleaning, oil top-ups and windscreen wash refills.

These basic checks take only a few minutes but can significantly improve safety and fuel efficiency. Drivers should also look after themselves: stay hydrated, take regular breaks, and grab a coffee or snack to remain alert on the road.

6. Smart Driving Saves Fuel
Adopting fuel-efficient driving habits can make a noticeable difference.

Motorists can reduce fuel consumption by:
•    Driving at a steady speed and avoiding sudden acceleration or harsh braking
•    Using cruise control on open highways where possible
•    Removing unnecessary weight from the vehicle
•    Avoiding excessive idling
•    Planning routes to reduce congestion and unnecessary detours
Even small adjustments in driving style can help motorists save fuel over long distances.

7. Fuel Quality Matters Too
High-quality fuels can make a noticeable difference in vehicle performance, particularly during long trips.
Fuels such as Engen Primax Unleaded and Engen Dynamic Diesel (50 ppm) are designed to help keep engines cleaner, protect injectors and maintain optimal performance, which contributes to better efficiency over time.

8. Plan Your Route – and Know Help Is Close
With the largest service station footprint in the country, help is never far away. Many of Engen’s 1 000+ forecourts can be found along major travel routes and in towns across South Africa, offering motorists peace of mind during long journeys.

A Small Habit That Makes a Big Difference

Before starting your trip – and during your journey – stop at a service station and let the team run through a quick vehicle check. It takes only a few minutes and can make a big difference to your safety and your fuel bill.

Drive Safe this Easter

As South Africans take to the roads this Easter, a few minutes of preparation can prevent mechanical failures, reduce roadside emergencies and help motorists manage rising fuel costs.
Safe cars save lives. Check your vehicle, drive responsibly, and enjoy a smooth journey this holiday season.

By Bhavish Vallabhjee, Product Manager at Engen

Citro-Soda batches recalled over contamination risk

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The South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) has recalled specific batches of Citro-Soda Regular, following the discovery of potential contamination risks at the Adcock Ingram manufacturing facility in Clayville, Johannesburg. 

The recall affects Citro-Soda Regular 60g, 120g, and 4g sachets, with batch numbers starting with the letter “C,” all produced at the Clayville site. Products manufactured at other facilities, including those produced in India, are not affected.

SAHPRA CEO, Dr Boitumelo Semete-Makokotlela, confirmed the recall during a media briefing in Pretoria on Tuesday, saying the move demonstrates the regulator’s commitment to public safety.

The CEO assured the public that the decision to recall the product followed a thorough inspection of the facility and a detailed assessment of its manufacturing practices. 

“As a regulator, our mandate is to ensure that every health product you consume is of good quality, safe and effective...when we become aware of any details that indicates that there is any compromise of the quality, safety or efficacy of health products, we will act and we will do so decisively,” she said.

The recall follows an inspection prompted by a whistleblower report, which uncovered serious non-compliance with Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards at the Clayville facility.

SAHPRA has urged consumers to alert them of any quality defects that they come across. 

“We would like to urge the public that as part of the country, as citizens of the country, and as those who consume these products, please do alert us of any quality defects that you encounter, with any health product available in the country,” Semete-Makokotlela said. 

SAHPRA Inspectorate and Regulatory Compliance Head, Lebohang Mazibuko, said critical deficiencies were identified, including contamination risks from metallic and black residues on equipment. 

“We found [the] presence of metal fragments from the manufacturer equipment and some unknown black particles from those manufacturing equipment. Those metal fragments were from the manufacturing vessels that are used to manufacture this product. Hence, we say you cannot consume a metal and be well after that,” Mazibuko said.

Other issues included inadequate cleaning procedures, damaged and rusted equipment, and the absence of proper air handling systems to control contamination.

SAHPRA emphasised that the recall is limited to affected batches of Citro-Soda Regular produced at the Clayville facility and does not extend to other products manufactured by Adcock Ingram.

Regulatory Compliance Manager, Mokgadi Daphney Fafudi, said the recall is being implemented across all distribution channels, including pharmacies, hospitals, clinics and retail outlets.

“The public needs to note that this is not a withdrawal of a product, but it's a recall of batches that do not comply, and these can be returned to the nearest facilities, whether it's a health facility or a retail facility. Otherwise, they can contact Adcock Ingram, the contact details are available on our website,” she said. 

The regulator further urged consumers to take note of the batch numbers when purchasing the product. 

“We have only recalled the batch numbers that start with C of the regular Citro-Soda, all regular Citro-Soda with batch that starts with C, which are also listed on the recall notice are the ones that are affected,” Fafudi emphasised.

The SAHPRA will closely monitor both the recall process and compliance at the facility until all affected batches have been removed. 

“We will monitor this recall up until all the batches have been recalled and they have been destroyed. And we will also monitor compliance of the site up until they have satisfactorily addressed the corrective actions and the preventative actions that are required that were also prescribed,” she said.
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