South Africa’s nationwide rollout of the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO) system has introduced a new framework for handling traffic infringements, but motorists still have legal protections when fines are issued incorrectly or enforcement procedures are not followed. The first phase of AARTO’s national implementation began on 1 July 2026, expanding the system…
A South African man has been arrested in Thailand after customs officers allegedly discovered 17.5 kilograms of heroin concealed inside coffee and green tea bags during an airport inspection. The arrest took place on 9 July 2026 at Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok, where officials from the Investigation and Suppression Division carried out a routine baggage…
South Africans who no longer own a television or who have emigrated may no longer need a TV licence, but many say ending that obligation is far more difficult than the official procedure suggests. Under South Africa’s Broadcasting Act of 1999, households with equipment capable of receiving television broadcast signals must hold a valid TV…
South Africa’s Deputy President Paul Mashatile has called on Chinese automaker Chery to integrate township businesses into its supply chain following the company’s acquisition of the former Nissan manufacturing plant in Rosslyn, saying deeper localisation will create more jobs and strengthen the country’s automotive industry. His remarks came during the official relaunch of the Rosslyn…
South Africa’s anti-illegal immigration movement, March and March, has warned that it could organise a nationwide shutdown if the government fails to respond to its demands following a planned three-month campaign of weekly demonstrations. The announcement comes after nationwide protests held on 30 June, which authorities had feared could develop into widespread unrest but ultimately…
Five South African police sergeants have appeared before the Vanderbijlpark Regional Court after being charged with corruption and extortion over allegations that they demanded a R100,000 bribe from a supermarket owner during a police raid in 2024. The accused officers — Sergeants Johannes Thakhisi, Ntombeko Seya, Mpho Molatedi, Nhlanhla Sithole and Tlokotsi Kganya — are…
South Africa has been recognised as one of the world’s leading destinations for wildlife tourism after a new international survey ranked the country second globally for wildlife holidays, reinforcing its reputation as a premier destination for nature-based travel. The ranking comes as more international travellers seek immersive outdoor experiences instead of traditional city sightseeing, with…
A rare fin whale measuring approximately 23 metres has washed ashore on South Africa’s Western Cape coastline, prompting a coordinated scientific investigation and plans for the animal to be buried under environmental management protocols. The female whale stranded at Die Plaat Beach near Gansbaai after first being spotted floating in Walker Bay. Fin whales are…
South Africa’s communications regulator has introduced new rules that will allow inactive prepaid mobile numbers to be deactivated after 90 consecutive days without chargeable activity, as part of broader efforts to improve national numbering management and make better use of limited telecommunications resources. The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) published the Numbering Plan…
Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer BYD is expanding its retail footprint in South Africa by opening dealerships inside major shopping malls, reflecting a growing shift in how automakers engage with consumers as competition in the country’s new energy vehicle market intensifies. The company has established several in-mall showrooms, including locations at Menlyn Park Shopping Centre in…
