Category: News

Police bust illegal abalone poaching ring

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The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has welcomed the seizure of abalone worth an estimated R5 million and the arrest of nine people at Robben Island. 

The swift and coordinated efforts of enforcement officials from the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), the South African Police Service (SAPS), the City of Cape Town Marine Unit, and other enforcement agencies disrupted a large-scale illegal abalone poaching operation on Monday and Tuesday.

On 22 September 2025, DFFE Fishery Control Officers together with the other law enforcement officers intercepted a truck with dried abalone near Rawsonville in the Western Cape. 

The truck was transporting 13 341 dried abalone with a weight of approximately 840 kilograms with an estimated value of R5 million.

A day later, law enforcement officers discovered an abalone poaching operation, which involved approximately 20 divers. 

Despite the difficulties posed by rough terrain and the strategic concealment tactics used by the divers, enforcement teams were assisted by the SAPS drone unit and managed to apprehend nine suspects and recover diving equipment and gear.

“These arrests, and other recent ones, are indicative of our ongoing conservation efforts supported by stronger, tactical law enforcement. 

“Criminal syndicates must know that South Africans do not tolerate lawlessness and the misuse of our natural assets – those who exploit our natural resources will face the full consequences of the law,” the Minister said on Thursday.

George has called on the public to join hands in the fight against illegal activity by reporting any suspicious activities to the relevant DFFE authorities on 086 111 2468 | [email protected] or any other law enforcement authority.

"I also extend my heartfelt gratitude to every officer and partner involved in these operations. Their hard work and sacrifice are crucial in safeguarding South Africa’s marine biodiversity,” he said.

Koeberg operating within safety standards – Eskom

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Eskom has rejected recent commentary suggesting that it is ‘flying blind’ at the Koeberg Nuclear Power Station, while confirming that the power station operates in line with safety standards.

In a statement on Wednesday, the power utility asserted that the commentary was inaccurate and misleading.

Eskom confirmed that all safety-critical systems are fully functional, carefully monitored, and continuously improved, in line with strict nuclear safety standards.

“Eskom operates Koeberg with a 'safety first' mindset, under the strict oversight of the National Nuclear Regulator and in full alignment with international nuclear safety conventions. 

“Assertions that safety tests have been skipped or that Eskom is operating 'blind' are not only inaccurate -- they undermine the rigorous engineering and regulatory processes that govern nuclear operations."

Koeberg’s containment buildings, the massive concrete domes designed to prevent any release of radiation in the event of an incident, have undergone rigorous structural assessments. 

These included:
-Concrete core sampling and mechanical testing conducted by reputable and independent institutions, in line with international nuclear safety standards, confirmed that the material properties remain sound and well within safety margins.
-The results of the Integrated Leak Rate Test (ILRT) that was recently concluded on Unit 1 further validate the structural integrity of the containment buildings and the data that is being used.
-The results of various tests and data analyses confirm that both containment structures at Koeberg are fit for continued operation for at least the next 20 years. Monitoring systems, such as strain gauges and crack detectors, continuously track structural behaviour over time, enabling early detection of any anomalies and supporting proactive, preventative maintenance.
-The existing containment monitoring instrumentation was fully refurbished and restored during the 2023 and 2024 maintenance cycles. In 2025, Eskom installed Vibrating Wire Strain Gauges (VWSGs) and optical fibre sensors to enhance the precision, redundancy, and reliability of structural monitoring. These upgrades are part of Eskom’s proactive approach to safety, not a response to any immediate risk.

According to Eskom, the Integrated Leak Rate Test (ILRT) is a cornerstone of nuclear safety. It pressurises the containment to accident condition pressure to verify that the containment building is leak tight and capable of containing radioactive release in the unlikely event of an accident. 

The ILRT for Unit 1 was successfully completed during Outage 127 in 2025, and the ILRT for Unit 2 is scheduled for Outage 227, in line with the 10-year testing cycle required by international standards.

“The 10-year interval that Eskom has adopted is in line with the standard practice at most nuclear power plants in France. In the United States, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has endorsed a risk-informed methodology that allows licensees to apply for a permanent, performance-based extension of the ILRT surveillance interval from 10 to 15 years. 

“Therefore, the 10-year interval Eskom has adopted aligns with best practices worldwide, and there is currently no performance-based data that requires Eskom to adjust the ILRT interval to every five years,” Eskom said.

Koeberg remains one of the most closely monitored and well-maintained nuclear facilities on the continent. 

“Eskom will continue to invest in its safety systems, infrastructure, and personnel to ensure that Koeberg remains a reliable, secure, and compliant source of energy for South Africa.

“Eskom assures the public that the containment buildings of both Unit 1 and Unit 2 at Koeberg Nuclear Power Station are safe and fully capable of performing their intended design function.” 

Cape Town prepares hero’s welcome for Proteas

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The ICC World Test Champions Proteas are bringing their Mace Tour to Cape Town this week. In collaboration with Cricket South Africa, the City of Cape Town is putting together a fitting celebration to honour the test champions in the Mother City.

Proteas Captain Temba Bavuma and his team will lead the celebration for the Cape Town leg of the victory parade on Friday, 26 September 2025.

The procession around the streets of the Cape Town CBD will be preceded by some entertainment on the iconic Grand Parade, in front of the City Hall.

The team will also host a fan meet and greet session before getting on the bus for the parade.

‘The Proteas have had an amazing year that has brought so much pride to the nation. They are returning from two successful tours in which they’ve won the ODI series against Australia and England.

This is an opportunity for us to celebrate their success, especially the ICC World Test Champions victory, South Africa’s first ICC title in over 20 years.  Cape Town is honoured to host the victory parade and our City teams are working with Cricket South Africa on a route that will ensure residents and visitors can celebrate with the team.

"We urge those who will be in the CBD to line up the streets, and businesses to allow employees to step out so we can fill the streets, celebrate together, and give the Proteas the hero’s welcome they deserve,’ said Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith.

The Mace Parade proceedings will start on the Grand Parade in front of the City Hall from 11:00.

The team bus will depart for the parade at 13:00 via Darling Street and will move through the following roads:
Adderley Street 
Wale Street
Long Street
Buitensingel
Loop Street
Strand Street
Back on Adderly Street (past the Cape Town Station)
                                                                                                                                                                
Residents and motorists are alerted to temporary and rolling road closures for the parade in the CBD between 11:00 until 16:00.

Mini budget to be tabled in November

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National Treasury has announced that the Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) will be tabled in Parliament on 12 November 2025.

This after media reports erroneously reported that the MTBPS would be tabled in January next year.

“It is unfortunate and reckless for the publication to have reported the date without having verified the information with the National Treasury. Parliament today published its programme for the fourth term, which indicates 12 November 2025 as the calendar date for the MTBPS tabling.

“National Treasury officials are hard at work with MTBPS engagements and preparations,” the Treasury said in a statement on Monday.

Parliament confirmed the date – revealing that the National Assembly (NA) Programme Committee has resolved that Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana will table the MTBPS, “in line with constitutional and legislative requirements governing the budget process”.

“Furthermore, the NA agreed that it will consider and adopt the MTBPS on 13 January 2026, following the conclusion of the necessary committee processes.

“This year’s later tabling and consideration of the MTBPS is the direct knock-on effect of the national budget itself having been tabled later than usual, owing to well-documented challenges already in the public domain. As a result, subsequent processes in the budget cycle, including the MTBPS, have had to be adjusted accordingly.

“Parliament has therefore ensured that these processes remain aligned with constitutional requirements, while accommodating the unavoidable delays without compromising scrutiny, accountability, or public participation,” Parliament Spokesperson, Moloto Mothapo explained.

The Budget was re-tabled on 21 May 2025.

Operation Shanela II nets over 18 000 suspects

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Police operations have led to the arrest of 18 232 individuals and the seizure of 206 unlicensed firearms during intensified nationwide crime-combatting efforts under Operation Shanela II.

Last week’s operations saw the South African Police Service (SAPS) conducting  6416 liquor inspections across the country resulting in the closure of 443 unlicensed liquor premises.

In a statement, the police said the majority of these liquor outlets were closed by police in KwaZulu-Natal. 

“In addition, 954 individuals were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Of the total arrests, 2,701 were wanted suspects linked to serious and violent crimes, including murder, attempted murder, rape, vehicle hijackings, armed robbery and illegal possession of firearms.”

A total 153 suspects were arrested for murder with the majority arrested in the Free State (31), followed by the Eastern Cape (29) and Gauteng while an additional 127 people were arrested for attempted murder.

Additionally, 166 people were arrested for the possession of illegal firearms while 269 others were arrested for dealing in drugs among others.

In addition to the 206 unlicensed firearms, 2 488 rounds of ammunition were seized, and 74 stolen and hijacked vehicles were recovered.

South Africa Marks World Rhino Day Amid Ongoing Battle Against Poaching

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South Africa is marking World Rhino Day today (22 September) with a renewed call to action in the fight against poaching. Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, highlighted both the progress and the challenges that remain in safeguarding the country’s rhino populations.

“The loss of 103 rhinos to poaching in the first three months of 2025 is a stark reminder of the relentless threat to our wildlife,” Dr George said. “Yet, the absence of poaching in four provinces shows that our targeted interventions are yielding results, and we must build on this progress.”

Between January and March this year, 103 rhinos were killed nationwide - an average of 34 a month -closely matching the 12-month average of 35 per month in 2024. Most losses were recorded in SANParks-managed areas, with 65 rhinos killed, followed by KwaZulu-Natal (16), Limpopo (10), Free State (5), North West (4), and Mpumalanga (3). No incidents were reported in the Eastern Cape, Northern Cape, Western Cape, or Gauteng, a sign that intensified security in some regions is paying off.

Law enforcement efforts have also delivered results, with 15 poaching-related arrests made and five cases finalised in the first quarter of the year. The Department is working with the National Prosecuting Authority and the South African Police Service to strengthen bail opposition, particularly against repeat offenders and suspects with no fixed address.

Dr George stressed that collaboration remains key, pointing to improved ranger patrols, advanced surveillance technology, and closer ties with communities near protected areas. Cutting-edge tools such as drones and thermal radars are also being deployed to detect illegal activity.

Above all, the Minister paid tribute to rangers on the frontline. “Our rangers are the true heroes in this fight, risking their lives daily to protect our rhinos. Their tireless dedication inspires us all.”

On this World Rhino Day, government is calling on South Africans and the global community to support conservation through awareness, responsible tourism, and donations of equipment such as binoculars and anti-poaching gear.

Suspicious activity around wildlife can be reported to the Environmental Crime Hotline at 0800 205 005 or to SAPS at 10111.

SAPS makes breakthrough in illegal possession of firearms

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In the early hours of Monday morning, 22 September 2025, members of the Provincial Operational Coordination Combat Team conducted an intelligence-driven operation at a flat in Bellville, where they searched a premises and confiscated a significant consignment of firearms.

According to preliminary information, the firearms had been transported from KwaZulu-Natal to Cape Town. During the search, the members seized six AK-47 rifles and eight 9mm pistols with ammunition. The suspects were unable to produce valid firearm licences or permits for the weapons.

As a result, eight adult male suspects were arrested for the illegal possession of firearms and ammunition. They are expected to appear in the Bellville Magistrates’ Court once they have been formally charged.

Provincial police management has commended the members for their dedication and swift action, which led to this breakthrough. The removal of these firearms from the streets has undoubtedly prevented them from being used in the commission of serious crimes, and this success highlights the commitment of SAPS to ensuring safer communities.

Volkswagen Recalls 374 Amarok Vehicles Over Brake Safety Risk

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The National Consumer Commission has announced the recall of 374 Volkswagen Amarok vehicles following a safety concern flagged by Volkswagen South Africa.

The affected vehicles, sold between 10 January and 12 June this year, may experience a possible loss of braking assistance due to a fault with the electromechanical brake servo control unit.

While the braking system remains functional, VW has cautioned that drivers may need to apply greater pressure on the brakes, resulting in longer stopping distances if the fault occurs while the vehicle is in motion.

Owners of the affected Amaroks are urged to take their vehicles to any VW or Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles approved dealership for a free assessment.

The NCC stressed that product recalls are a crucial safety measure and confirmed it will closely monitor the process in line with the Consumer Protection Act.

President Ramaphosa to lead SA delegation to New York this week

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President Cyril Ramaphosa will this week lead a South African delegation to the High-Level Segment of the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA80) in New York from 23 to 29 September 2025.

To be held under the theme: “Better together: 80 Years and more for peace, development and human rights”, this landmark session coincides with the 80th anniversary of the UN Charter.

President Ramaphosa will use this critical platform to advance a progressive agenda for a more just, peaceful and equitable world order.

Advancing a vision for peace and multilateralism

President Ramaphosa will address the General Debate on Tuesday. His address will champion robust multilateralism, the peaceful resolution of conflicts and the unwavering protection of human rights for all. He will carry a clear message from the Global South, amplified by South Africa’s current role as Chair of the G20.

The delegation will engage on urgent international issues, including the ongoing genocide in Gaza, conflicts in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the war in Ukraine and other geopolitical tensions.

South Africa will leverage its proven reputation as a trusted mediator to build bridges between opposing sides and advocate for dialogue over discord.

Championing UN reform and sustainable development
A central pillar of South Africa’s agenda is the comprehensive reform of the United Nations Security Council to make it more representative, democratic and effective. South Africa will assertively advance the three core pillars of the UN Charter: peace and security, sustainable development, and human rights.

Building on its G20 mandate to shape global economic solutions, South Africa will argue forcefully for a sustainable, inclusive, and resilient global economy. 

The delegation will spotlight the disproportionate impact of current global challenges on developing nations and push for enhanced international cooperation to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.

Key engagements
On the margins of the General Debate, President Ramaphosa and the delegation will participate in several pivotal meetings, including:

The inaugural Biennial Summit for a Sustainable, Inclusive and Resilient Global Economy.
The G20 Foreign Ministers’ meeting.

A high-level meeting on the two-State solution in Israel/Palestine.

Trade and investment discussions with leading US captains of the Industry and other key US decision makers.

The President will be accompanied and supported by the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola; the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Tau; the Minister of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chukunga; the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dion George; the Minister of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Maropene Ramokgopa; the Minister of Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi and the Deputy Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Mondli Gungubele.

Mayor calls for signal-blocking of Pollsmoor cellphones

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Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis has called for the introduction of cellphone signal-blocking technology at Pollsmoor prison. The Mayor wrote to Correctional Services Minister Pieter Groenewald this week expressing concern that criminal activities are being coordinated by cellphone from within Pollsmoor.

‘The City has received various reports that crime and extortion activity is being coordinated by phone from within Pollsmoor. On a recent roads project inspection in Bishop Lavis, I was informed that the contractor had left the site due to extortion threats made by phonecall from an underworld figure inside Pollsmoor.
 
‘This shows we must do more than just jail criminals, we have to prevent their ability to coordinate crime from within prisons. I have written to the Minister to offer the City’s full support to pilot sophisticated signal-blocking tech at Pollsmoor. We have to flip the switch on cellphones in prisons, and we welcome the Minister’s public commitments to cracking down on this,’ said Mayor Hill-Lewis.
 
Besides technology to jam signals and intercept communications from underworld figures inside prisons, the Minister has also publicly committed to intensify raids on illegal contraband including illicit cellphones in correctional facilities.
 
Mayor Hill-Lewis has offered the City’s support in various ways, including:
• Intelligence-sharing to identify patterns of criminal activity emanating from Pollsmoor
• Technical and logistical support to install signal blocking technology
• Raising public awareness to support these efforts
 
The City also continues to raise concerns about flaws in the parole system, which enable repeat offenders to continue terrorising communities.
 
‘City officers regularly encounter incidents of parolees committing repeat offenses. It is also common for arrested suspects to return to the streets due to the broken criminal justice system’s inability to secure convictions. We continue to call for reforms to the early parole system, and for criminal investigative powers to be devolved to our municipal officers to help SAPS gain more convictions by building prosecution-ready case dockets, especially for gang, gun, drug and extortion-related crime,’ said Alderman JP Smith, Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security.
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