A growing wave of kidnappings in South Africa is raising alarm as criminal syndicates shift their focus to ordinary daily routines, including visits to shopping malls, school runs and commuting. Recent data from the South African Police Service (SAPS) shows that nearly 4,800 kidnapping cases were recorded between October and December 2025, averaging around 53…
South African authorities have moved to reassure the public that fuel supplies remain stable, even as rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East threaten to push global oil prices higher in the coming weeks. Concerns have emerged over potential shortages as conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel disrupts key energy markets. However, officials…
South African consumers are bracing for a sharp increase in living costs as electricity tariffs and fuel prices rise almost simultaneously, placing additional strain on already stretched household budgets. Power utility Eskom has confirmed that electricity tariffs for direct customers will increase by 8.76% from 1 April 2026, following approval from the National Energy Regulator…
The United States has formally launched a sweeping trade investigation targeting South Africa and dozens of other economies, marking a significant escalation in Washington’s efforts to address what it describes as unfair global trade practices. The probe, initiated under Section 301 of the US Trade Act of 1974, will assess whether countries are engaging in…
Recent corruption revelations within South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs have triggered fresh concerns about the credibility of the country’s passport system and the potential consequences for ordinary travellers. The warning follows findings by the Special Investigation Unit (SIU), which uncovered evidence that officials inside the department were allegedly involved in selling visas, permanent residence…
South African security forces have launched large-scale raids in several communities in the south of Johannesburg as part of a crackdown on crime and gang violence. Soldiers and police conduct joint operations Members of the South African National Defence Force joined police officers in coordinated operations across areas including Eldorado Park, Riverlea, Westbury and Sophiatown….
South African authorities and the Multichoice Group have carried out a series of raids targeting illegal internet streaming services in the Western Cape. Cape Town raids lead to arrests Two suspects were arrested during operations conducted in February and March 2026. Investigators seized mobile devices and accessed a streaming management panel linked to the illegal…
Residents raise concerns over air quality Residents in several areas of Johannesburg have reported an unpleasant smell lingering in the air since the weekend, sparking renewed concern about air pollution in the city. Numerous people took to social media to complain about the persistent odour, with many describing it as similar to rotten eggs —…
Airlines face sharp jump in jet fuel costs Air travellers in South Africa may soon pay more for flights after airlines announced a temporary fuel surcharge following a dramatic rise in aviation fuel prices linked to instability in the Middle East. Low-cost carrier FlySafair confirmed that it will introduce the surcharge from 12 March 2026…
Pretoria stresses rules-based international order South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation has reaffirmed the country’s support for Iran while urging lawmakers to promote a rules-based international order during diplomatic engagements. The comments were made during a parliamentary portfolio committee meeting on international relations and cooperation on Wednesday. Although the session was initially convened…
