In terms of the order, various assets registered in the names of the accused have been restrained, including multiple high-value immovable properties across Gauteng, some valued at over R3 million as well as movable assets such as a Mercedes-Benz A45S AMG, Aston Martin DB9, Volkswagen Golf 8 GTI, Toyota Fortuner, Jaguar E-Pace, Ford Ranger, Toyota Hilux, and other vehicles. The total estimated value of the restrained assets is approximately R43.9 million.

Yesterday, 14 April 2024, the sheriffs of the court, representatives of the AFU, members of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) and the appointed auctioneers visited the various addresses in Gauteng to execute the provisional restraint order. In accordance with the provisional restraint order, the auctioneers took possession of various motor vehicles to be kept in storage pending the finalisation of the criminal case and possible confiscation application.

According to the evidence, an international Israeli syndicate, operated the call centers from which they enticed unsuspecting members of the public, in countries such as Australia, New Zealand, Canada, United States of America and various other countries abroad, to invest in non-existing products with promises of returns on their investments.

The call center agents employed by the syndicate would contact members of the public who reacted to false advertisements that were posted on the internet in what is commonly referred to as “click bait”. Evidence shows that the call center agents targeted vulnerable individuals, groomed them and knowingly misrepresented investment opportunities and returns.

National Prosecuting Authority Spokesperson

Kaizer Kganyago said the criminal case remains before the Palm Ridge Magistrates’ Court and has been postponed to 4 June 2026 for further investigation.

The AFU aims to ensure that benefits unlawfully derived from criminal acts are extracted and recovered in accordance with the objectives of the POCA. The effective partnership and collaborative efforts between the DPCI, the NPA’s Specialised Commercial Crime Unit (SCCU), and AFU have resulted in the restraint of assets linked to this multibillion-rand cybercrime syndicate. This outcome underscores the impact of coordinated action by government agencies working together in the pursuit of justice.

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Speaking during a media briefing at the EFF headquarters in downtown Johannesburg, Malema said Nxumalo has been a close associate and has previously supported the party with transportation.

“Ze Nxumalo is my friend,” Malema stated, adding that Nxumalo is well known in northern Johannesburg circles. He further described Nxumalo as someone deeply connected in elite social spaces, claiming he grew up around the household of billionaire businessman Johan Rupert and maintained close friendships within those circles.

Malema also revealed that his introduction to the late taxi boss Jotham Msibi came through Nxumalo. He explained that he first met Msibi during a strike in Johannesburg and later again at Nxumalo’s office in Sandton.

Addressing allegations linking Nxumalo to the so-called “Big 5 cartel,” Malema dismissed the claims, stating that neither he nor his associates are involved in such activities. He added that he was surprised by allegations involving Nxumalo’s father, saying he had never witnessed any wrongdoing.

Malema’s remarks come amid growing scrutiny over alleged networks of influence involving business figures and political actors in South Africa.

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The invitation had originally been extended personally by French President Emmanuel Macron to Ramaphosa during last year’s G20 summit in Johannesburg.

However, according to Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya, U.S. officials made it clear they would boycott the summit if South Africa were represented.

“Therefore, they couldn’t risk missing a key member of the G7, hence the withdrawal of their invitation,” Magwenya told News24. He added that France’s ambassador to Pretoria, David Martinon, had conveyed the decision directly to Ramaphosa’s special advisor for foreign affairs several weeks ago.

Ramaphosa has accepted the French decision. “We’ve accepted the French decision and appreciate the pressure they’ve been subjected to,” Magwenya said. “There’s no need for us to seek further clarification. South Africa will always endeavour to resolve disputes through constructive dialogue… Their decision will have no bearing on the close nature of our bilateral relationship.”

The move comes amid strained relations between Pretoria and Washington. The United States has repeatedly criticised South Africa’s foreign policy, including its case against Israel at the International Court of Justice and its ties with Russia, Iran, and China.

Earlier this year, the U.S. announced it would exclude South Africa from its activities during its 2026 G20 presidency an unprecedented step.

Macron had offered Ramaphosa strong backing during South Africa’s G20 term, even as Washington sought to undermine it.

Ramaphosa’s office has signalled no further escalation, insisting bilateral ties with France remain intact.

The G7 summit, traditionally a gathering of the world’s leading industrial democracies, will now proceed without South Africa’s participation.

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The 18th edition of the awards marked a return to Durban after a seven year absence following the end of a previous hosting agreement in Johannesburg.

Several performers say it has now been four months since the ceremony, yet they are still awaiting payment for their services.

One of the affected performers, Nonhlanhla Patricia Matleng, published an open letter on social media outlining her concerns. She stated that she had not received payment despite signing a formal agreement with the organisation on 16 November 2025.

“On the 26th of November 2025, we were formally hired by World Gospel Powerhouse to render our services at the Crown Gospel Awards. This was not a casual arrangement. A contract was drafted and agreed upon, clearly stating that payment would be made within 30 days after the recording,” she wrote.

Matleng further raised concerns about what she described as a lack of communication.

“What is even more disheartening is not just the non payment, but the complete lack of communication. We have made numerous attempts to reach out through calls and messages, but have been met with silence. Phones have been off, and there has been no effort to communicate, explain, or take accountability.”

Documents seen by MDN News indicate that each performer was to receive R10 000, including a R2 000 deposit upon signing and the remaining R8 000 due within 30 days after the event, specifically by 26 December 2025.

In response to the allegations, Crown Gospel Awards operations manager Larry Mahlanga said payments to artists are handled by the KwaZulu Natal Department of Sport, Arts and Culture.

“Truth is backing vocalists, lead artists and band members are paid directly by KZN Arts and Culture. We submitted over 42 artists to the department. They pay in batches. Nonhlanhla is on the list for upcoming payments,” he said.

However, the KwaZulu Natal Department of Sport, Arts and Culture disputed this claim.

MEC for Sport, Arts and Culture Mntomuhle Khawula said the department was not responsible for organising the event and only provided support.

“The department of Sport, Arts and Culture in KZN and the Government of KwaZulu Natal were not the organisers of the event. We only gave assistance to the organisers. They themselves were responsible for all the logistics,” he said.

Khawula added that all departments that had committed support had honoured their obligations.

“I can confirm that all KZN departments that had made commitments to assist have honoured those commitments.”

Further claims suggest that only six individuals out of more than 40 staff members, including artists, instrumentalists, backing vocalists and technicians, received payment on 13 March 2026. These claims could not be independently verified.

At the time of publication, no formal legal action has been confirmed in relation to the matter. MDN News will update this story should further responses be received.

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In a statement, the department said it has introduced strict measures to deal with the growing number of land invasions across the City of Johannesburg.

According to JMPD, a multi-disciplinary operation was successfully carried out on Tuesday morning in Ennerdale Extension 11 to remove illegal structures.

The operation involved a specialised team made up of the By-Laws Management Unit, Public Order Policing (POP), Operations Unit, K9 Unit and Tactical Response Unit.

During the operation, 50 illegal structures were demolished and building materials were removed without any resistance.

JMPD said the action followed a tense incident at the same site last week, where officers were allegedly violently attacked by a mob while carrying out their duties.

The department praised the officers involved in that earlier incident for what it described as a tactical retreat, saying their actions demonstrated restraint and professionalism.

JMPD said had officers retaliated, the situation could have resulted in a catastrophic loss of life. Instead, their withdrawal helped prevent a major disaster.

With the increased presence of the Public Order Policing unit during Tuesday’s operation, the department said enforcement procedures were carried out properly while ensuring the safety of both officers and the community.

“The JMPD will not be deterred by acts of lawlessness. It is unacceptable for officers to be shot at while lawfully enforcing city bylaws. We urge the community to cooperate with law enforcement and resolve land and housing issues through legal means rather than resorting to violence,” the statement said.

The department added that it will continue monitoring Ennerdale Extension 11 and other identified hotspots to prevent the re-erection of illegal structures.

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According to police, officers responded to a shooting, upon arrival at the scene, two victims had already been declared dead by paramedics, while six others who sustained gunshot wounds were transported to a local hospital for medical treatment.

It is alleged that a social gathering was taking place at the venue when approximately eight unknown men entered the yard and randomly opened fire on the people present before fleeing the scene on foot.

Police spokesperson Brigadier Brenda Muridili said police are still searching for the suspects and the motive for the attack remains unknown.

“No suspects have been arrested at this stage and the motive of the shooting is unknown. Police are appealing to anyone who may have information that can assist with investigations to contact the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111 or anonymously give tip-offs through the MySAPS App which can be downloaded on any smartphone,” says Muridili.

Police investigations are ongoing.

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The massive crowd, made up mostly of young South Africans, lined up hoping to secure just a handful of minimum-wage positions at the popular burger chain.

The scenes quickly went viral online — and they tell a deeper story about the growing pressure facing the country’s job market.

According to The Mzansi Plug here’s what people are saying:

“housands are competing for a few entry-level jobs, many applicants are graduates struggling to find employment and families across the country are feeling the impact as parents and young people battle to survive

For many of those standing in line, this wasn’t just about a job but it was about survival.

South Africa continues to face one of the highest unemployment rates in the world, with young people hit the hardest.

Experts warn that when thousands of qualified people fight over a few low-paying jobs, it signals deeper structural problems in the economy.

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The rising young fighter is currently training in Las Vegas at the world renowned Mayweather Boxing Club, a facility known for shaping champions and cultivating elite talent. Founded by undefeated boxing legend Floyd Mayweather Jr., the gym has become synonymous with discipline, precision and a championship mindset.

Botlhale first stepped into a boxing gym at the age of 14, but it was in 2025 that he made a firm decision to pursue the sport seriously. His defining moment came two years ago when, at just 16, he met Mayweather in a life changing encounter that shifted his perspective entirely. What began as admiration quickly evolved into belief that the global stage was within reach.

Today, that belief is taking shape in Las Vegas, widely regarded as the fight capital of the world. Surrounded by seasoned professionals and immersed in an environment that demands excellence, Botlhale is refining his technique, strengthening his mindset and embracing the grind required to compete at the highest level.

“Training at Floyd Mayweather’s studio changed my mindset. It’s showing me that greatness is real, and it’s built through hard work. Being here now pushes me to give everything I have,” he says.

Beyond the ring, Botlhale has also demonstrated creative versatility. Earlier this year, he served as creative director during the Johannesburg stream of US digital star Darren Jason Watkins Jr., popularly known as IShow Speed. Balancing roles as a creative, a streamer and a disciplined athlete, he remains focused on growth and purpose.

“I’m making the most of the opportunities and pursuing my passion.”

While his surname carries recognition, Botlhale Hakeem Thobejane is determined to build a legacy defined not by association but by hard work, resilience and performance inside the ring. From South Africa to Las Vegas, his journey is only just beginning.

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Bondo Rammusi, Sibusiso Moloi and Thabang Mohlale were arrested in August last year at the Doornkop Police Station in Soweto in Johannesburg after they were identified by the victim.

Hlongwane was at the police station to open a case and submit required documents when he recognised the suspects.

According to Jozi FM on 20 August 2025, one of the suspects requested a trip from Cresta Shopping Centre to Dobsonville Extension 3.

Upon arrival at the destination, one of the occupants seated in the back allegedly strangled Hlongwane, while the other suspects appeared.

The suspects then drove with him to a nearby shopping centre where they forced him to withdraw money from his bank account.

They later blindfolded him and drove around with him. The following day, he was dropped off in Lenasia, where a Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department officer assisted him.

The case will continue in April, and the initial suspect who made the trip request remains at large.

Meanwhile, human skeleton remains were recovered at a construction site in Naledi, Soweto after workers excavating old water pipes made the discovery.

Divers from the Johannesburg Water Policing and Diving Services were deployed to the scene.

The remains were found in ankle-deep water at Naledi Camp 2.

The recovered remains were handed over to detectives from the South African Police Service at the scene.

Raymond Sambo, Media Liaison Officer for Rapid Response Services said:

“Police have opened an inquest docket as investigations continue.”

Authorities are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who has information to contact their nearest police station or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.

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The upcoming release reflects her lived experiences and delivers a message of resilience, empowerment and social responsibility at a time when South Africa continues to battle alarming levels of gender based violence and femicide.

Raised in White City, Jabavu and later in Meadowlands Zone 9 in Soweto, Rainym says her upbringing shaped both her musical identity and her passion for activism.

“Growing up in Soweto profoundly shaped my character. It instilled resilience in me and gave me the courage to navigate different cultures and environments. My music connects my roots in Soweto with global audiences,” she said.

Her sound blends contemporary RnB with strong South African influences. She draws inspiration from soulful vocalists and lyricists who transform personal struggles into powerful anthems of hope. Rainym says her music reflects the realities of township life while speaking to universal themes of healing and self worth.

Beyond the studio, Rainym is an active advocate against gender based violence. She joined the Black Womxn Caucus in 2019, a feminist social movement focused on combating GBV and femicide across South Africa.

Her recently released single titled Do Something directly addresses the urgent need for communities to confront abuse, silence and complicity.

“The song highlights the pressing need for awareness and action. Music can be more than entertainment. It can challenge society and push people to act,” she said.

The project features production by Izzy, whose creative direction complements Rainym’s emotive vocal style. Together they have crafted melodies that combine poignant storytelling with accessible rhythms designed to connect with young listeners.

As gender based violence remains one of South Africa’s most urgent social crises, artists such as Rainym are increasingly using their platforms to advocate for accountability, justice and healing. Her latest release adds a strong cultural voice to a national issue that continues to dominate public discourse.

With the single set for release on Friday, Rainym hopes the message will resonate far beyond Soweto and inspire meaningful conversations across the country.

“I want people to feel seen, heard and empowered. If my music encourages even one person to speak out or seek help, then it has done its job,” she said.

Her work reflects a growing movement of South African creatives who are turning art into activism and using their influence to drive awareness and social change.

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