Africa Politics Nigeria Armed security personnel have taken over Kano Emir’s Palace Chinedu Bruce Dec 6, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Armed security personnel road block Armed security personnel took control of the Kano Emir's Palace at Kofar Kudu early Friday morning. They restricted movement in and out of the palace, causing concern among residents. This increase in security happened as Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II was set to escort Alhaji Munir Sanusi, the newly-appointed Wamban Kano, to his posting in Bichi. Bichi, one of the four emirates created under former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, was later dissolved by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf. Reports indicate that the Bichi Emir’s Palace is also under tight security, with armed police officers stationed there. At the time of this report, the reasons for the heavy security presence remain unclear. Efforts to contact the Kano State Police Command Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Haruna, have been unsuccessful as his phone was unreachable. Many traditional rulers and titleholders were left stranded at the Kano Emir’s Palace due to the security blockade. A source at the palace revealed that the Emir was still inside while most visitors had left for prayers. Security personnel remain on guard, limiting human and vehicle movement around the palace DR.Congo Eleventh day of fighting south of Lubero, the FARDC chases Rwandan M23 terrorists from Matembe Kenya Kenya boosts border security as Somali and Jubaland forces clash over disputed elections Kenya President Ruto urges Kenyans to embrace factual criticism, defend progress on development projects Ghana Julius Debrah, Doe Adjaho, and Others: Mahama's Transition Dream Team Top News Related Posts Eleventh day of fighting south of Lubero, the FARDC chases Rwandan M23 terrorists from Matembe . DR.Congo Kenya boosts border security as Somali and Jubaland forces clash over disputed elections . Kenya President Ruto urges Kenyans to embrace factual criticism, defend progress on development projects . Kenya Julius Debrah, Doe Adjaho, and Others: Mahama's Transition Dream Team . Ghana

Africa Politics Ghana Oheneba Nana Asiedu, Wantumi FM Radio Presenter in Kumasi Summoned Over False Election News Agyeman Joshua Nov 23, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Oheneba Nana Asiedu, a presenter at Wontumi FM in Kumasi Oheneba Nana Asiedu, a presenter at Wontumi FM in Kumasi, has been invited by the police for allegedly spreading false information about Ghana's December 2024 elections. During a recent broadcast, he claimed voting would occur on two separate dates: December 7 for candidates listed first to sixth on the ballot and December 8 for the remaining candidates. This misleading information, also circulated on social media, prompted police action. In a statement, the police labeled the claim as false, warning it could disrupt public peace. "The media must act responsibly as the nation nears the election period," the statement read. Oheneba has been instructed to report to the Ashanti Regional Police Command for further investigation. Authorities reminded the public that spreading false news can severely impact national stability. DR.Congo Eleventh day of fighting south of Lubero, the FARDC chases Rwandan M23 terrorists from Matembe Kenya Kenya boosts border security as Somali and Jubaland forces clash over disputed elections Kenya President Ruto urges Kenyans to embrace factual criticism, defend progress on development projects Ghana Julius Debrah, Doe Adjaho, and Others: Mahama's Transition Dream Team Top News Related Posts Eleventh day of fighting south of Lubero, the FARDC chases Rwandan M23 terrorists from Matembe . DR.Congo Kenya boosts border security as Somali and Jubaland forces clash over disputed elections . Kenya President Ruto urges Kenyans to embrace factual criticism, defend progress on development projects . Kenya Julius Debrah, Doe Adjaho, and Others: Mahama's Transition Dream Team . Ghana

Africa Politics South Africa Johannesburg City Manager Floyd Brink's appointment was ruled unlawful by the High Court, given 10 days to vacate office Ayize claire Dec 4, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Johannesburg city manager Floyd Brink The Gauteng High Court has ruled that Johannesburg City Manager Floyd Brink must vacate his position within 10 days after finding that his appointment was irregular. This decision follows a legal challenge initiated by the Democratic Alliance (DA) in May 2022, contesting Brink's selection for the role. The DA argued that Brink was not the most qualified candidate and that his appointment, facilitated by former Speaker Colleen Makhubele on an "urgent and exceptional" basis, was unlawful. On Wednesday, Judge Stuart Wilson ruled that Brink must step down within 10 days or immediately after an acting city manager is appointed if this occurs sooner. The court also criticized the City for breaching its constitutional obligations by prematurely confirming Brink’s appointment in a press release on 29 November 2023. However, any decisions or actions taken by Brink during his tenure will remain valid. Additionally, the City was ordered to cover the legal costs. Before Brink’s appointment, Johannesburg had lacked a permanent city manager since February 2021 when Ndivhoniswani Lukhwareni left the position through a mutual agreement with then-Mayor Geoffrey Makhubo. Brink’s selection as city manager was contentious due to his prior involvement in procurement irregularities involving R320 million, which led to him being placed on special leave in April 2022. Despite this, he was later rehired as acting city manager. In November 2022, Brink claimed that his appointment was being obstructed unlawfully. At the time, he was one of two candidates for the position, but the other candidate withdrew after securing other employment. Brink, however, failed the vetting process. Also read: South Africa’s government has clarified that there are no plans to create a new BRICS currency The political landscape shifted in January 2023 when the City’s governance moved from the DA-led coalition under Mpho Phalatse to a coalition of the ANC, EFF, and Patriotic Alliance (PA), known as the Government of Local Unity (GLU). On 22 February 2023, the GLU appointed Brink in a closed-door council meeting, labeling the decision as "urgent and exceptional." The DA legally challenged this decision in May 2023. Amid the controversy, the GLU-led council made significant changes, including weakening the City’s anti-corruption unit in June 2023 and dismissing prior charges against Brink in September. However, on 7 November 2023, the court declared Brink’s appointment unconstitutional and invalid. The City appealed this decision but still released a statement on 29 November reaffirming Brink’s appointment. The High Court has now upheld the earlier ruling, cementing Brink’s removal. Following the judgment, DA Johannesburg caucus leader Belinda Kayser-Echeozonjoku expressed relief, stating that Brink’s tenure was marked by "large-scale devastation" and service delivery failures. She criticized the coalition for protecting what she described as an "inept and illegally appointed cadre," adding that residents have borne the cost of this legal battle and the decline in services. DR.Congo Eleventh day of fighting south of Lubero, the FARDC chases Rwandan M23 terrorists from Matembe Kenya Kenya boosts border security as Somali and Jubaland forces clash over disputed elections Kenya President Ruto urges Kenyans to embrace factual criticism, defend progress on development projects Ghana Julius Debrah, Doe Adjaho, and Others: Mahama's Transition Dream Team Top News Related Posts Eleventh day of fighting south of Lubero, the FARDC chases Rwandan M23 terrorists from Matembe . DR.Congo Kenya boosts border security as Somali and Jubaland forces clash over disputed elections . Kenya President Ruto urges Kenyans to embrace factual criticism, defend progress on development projects . Kenya Julius Debrah, Doe Adjaho, and Others: Mahama's Transition Dream Team . Ghana

Africa Politics South Africa Julius Malema Gun Trial Nears Conclusion as Lawyers Present Final Arguments Ayize claire Dec 10, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link The trial of EFF leader Julius Malema and his bodyguard The trial of EFF leader Julius Malema and his bodyguard, Adriaan Snyman, is approaching its final stages. Both the state and the defense have presented their arguments in the East London Regional Court, with Magistrate Twanet Olivier set to deliver judgment soon. The case stems from allegations that Malema fired a real gun during the EFF's fifth birthday celebration at the Sisa Dukashe Stadium in the Eastern Cape in 2018. State prosecutor Joel Cesar argues there is compelling evidence, including video footage, witness testimony, and investigations, to show Malema acted recklessly by firing the weapon in a crowded venue. Meanwhile, Malema's senior counsel, Laurence Hodes, dismissed the claims, stating that the state has not proven that the weapon used was real or that lives were put at risk. "The state is clutching at straws," Hodes argued in court. The trial’s outcome now hinges on whether the court finds the evidence sufficient to prove the charges against Malema and Snyman. DR.Congo Eleventh day of fighting south of Lubero, the FARDC chases Rwandan M23 terrorists from Matembe Kenya Kenya boosts border security as Somali and Jubaland forces clash over disputed elections Kenya President Ruto urges Kenyans to embrace factual criticism, defend progress on development projects Ghana Julius Debrah, Doe Adjaho, and Others: Mahama's Transition Dream Team Top News Related Posts Eleventh day of fighting south of Lubero, the FARDC chases Rwandan M23 terrorists from Matembe . DR.Congo Kenya boosts border security as Somali and Jubaland forces clash over disputed elections . Kenya President Ruto urges Kenyans to embrace factual criticism, defend progress on development projects . Kenya Julius Debrah, Doe Adjaho, and Others: Mahama's Transition Dream Team . Ghana

Africa Politics Nigeria Deputy Senate President Barau Says Many, Including Lawmakers, Lack Clarity on Tax Reform Bills Chinedu Bruce Dec 1, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin has revealed that many people, including lawmakers, lack understanding of the tax reform bills currently being debated. The controversial bills, sent to the National Assembly by President Bola Tinubu in September, have sparked significant backlash, particularly in Northern Nigeria, with critics arguing they could worsen economic hardships in the region. Northern governors, traditional leaders, and various groups have rejected the bills, warning they could make it harder for states to pay salaries and worsen economic conditions nationwide. Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State voiced concerns over the urgency with which the National Assembly is handling the bills. Speaking to the BBC Hausa Service, Jibrin defended the process, explaining that the bills’ second reading was necessary to allow public input. He stated, “Because of the contents of the bills, we decided to invite experts or the people who developed them on behalf of the President to explain to us... The second reading is done so that the public can have room to pass their comments on it.” Read: Northern Senators debated Tax Reform Bills aimed at easing tax burdens Addressing criticism over the process, Jibrin clarified that it follows standard legislative procedure, ensuring committees review the bills after the second reading to provide a comprehensive analysis. Regarding concerns about potential hardship, he added, “Nobody will do something that will have a negative impact on his people... Majority of people don’t even know the contents therein, even some of our lawmakers.” He assured Nigerians that expert input and public contributions would shape the outcome, emphasizing that the process has only just begun. DR.Congo Eleventh day of fighting south of Lubero, the FARDC chases Rwandan M23 terrorists from Matembe Kenya Kenya boosts border security as Somali and Jubaland forces clash over disputed elections Kenya President Ruto urges Kenyans to embrace factual criticism, defend progress on development projects Ghana Julius Debrah, Doe Adjaho, and Others: Mahama's Transition Dream Team Top News Related Posts Eleventh day of fighting south of Lubero, the FARDC chases Rwandan M23 terrorists from Matembe . DR.Congo Kenya boosts border security as Somali and Jubaland forces clash over disputed elections . Kenya President Ruto urges Kenyans to embrace factual criticism, defend progress on development projects . Kenya Julius Debrah, Doe Adjaho, and Others: Mahama's Transition Dream Team . Ghana

Africa Politics Ghana Armed men invade Metro TV during live show Agyeman Joshua Nov 27, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Metro TV, Randy Abbey During a live show on Wednesday, November 27, armed men entered Metro TV, a station based in Accra. A staff member told a credible source that about ten officers were at the station when it happened. The officers were asked why they were there, and they said they were looking for someone. In a video shared by a credible source, the host of the morning show, Dr. Randy Abbey, was seen asking some of the officers, who appeared to be in police uniforms, about their actions. The two sides exchanged words in a tense manner. DR.Congo Eleventh day of fighting south of Lubero, the FARDC chases Rwandan M23 terrorists from Matembe Kenya Kenya boosts border security as Somali and Jubaland forces clash over disputed elections Kenya President Ruto urges Kenyans to embrace factual criticism, defend progress on development projects Ghana Julius Debrah, Doe Adjaho, and Others: Mahama's Transition Dream Team Top News Related Posts Eleventh day of fighting south of Lubero, the FARDC chases Rwandan M23 terrorists from Matembe . DR.Congo Kenya boosts border security as Somali and Jubaland forces clash over disputed elections . Kenya President Ruto urges Kenyans to embrace factual criticism, defend progress on development projects . Kenya Julius Debrah, Doe Adjaho, and Others: Mahama's Transition Dream Team . Ghana

Africa Economy South Africa Chinese Ambassador Wu Peng delivers food and solar electronics to Kgomo-Kgomo Village Ayize claire Dec 13, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ambassador Wu Peng and Minister Sisisi Tolashe applaud during the Kgomo-Kgomo donation event, supporting the Poverty Alleviation Model Village project. The Chinese Embassy in South Africa delivered truckloads of food and solar-powered electronics to Kgomo-Kgomo villagers in North West Province, continuing its commitment to poverty alleviation. The donation, part of the ongoing Poverty Alleviation Model Village project, was led by Chinese Ambassador Wu Peng and supported by Chinese businesses in South Africa. This initiative, which has supported the village for years, focuses on assisting vulnerable groups such as the elderly and disabled. In addition to food supplies, power batteries were also handed over to improve energy access in the community. Ambassador Wu, visiting Kgomo-Kgomo for the first time, expressed his admiration for the villagers' hospitality. "It feels like home," he said, emphasizing the growing partnership between China and South Africa under Presidents Xi Jinping and Cyril Ramaphosa. Wu highlighted China’s extensive poverty alleviation achievements, noting that nearly 800 million rural Chinese were lifted out of poverty over 70 years. He also reiterated China's commitment to global poverty reduction and collaboration with Africa through initiatives like the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). South African Minister of Social Development Sisisi Tolashe thanked the Chinese government for its continued support. "This partnership demonstrates how we can uplift communities by addressing basic needs," she said. Plans for additional infrastructure projects, including roads, clinics, schools, and improved utilities, are already in discussion. Traditional leader Kgosi Nchaupe III requested further investment, including a hospital and school, while local officials praised the embassy's sustained efforts to uplift the village. This donation marks a step forward in implementing the Poverty Alleviation Model, with hopes of replicating its success across South Africa. DR.Congo Eleventh day of fighting south of Lubero, the FARDC chases Rwandan M23 terrorists from Matembe Kenya Kenya boosts border security as Somali and Jubaland forces clash over disputed elections Kenya President Ruto urges Kenyans to embrace factual criticism, defend progress on development projects Ghana Julius Debrah, Doe Adjaho, and Others: Mahama's Transition Dream Team Top News Related Posts Eleventh day of fighting south of Lubero, the FARDC chases Rwandan M23 terrorists from Matembe . DR.Congo Kenya boosts border security as Somali and Jubaland forces clash over disputed elections . Kenya President Ruto urges Kenyans to embrace factual criticism, defend progress on development projects . Kenya Julius Debrah, Doe Adjaho, and Others: Mahama's Transition Dream Team . Ghana

Africa Economy Kenya Kenya to Follow Sweden’s approach in Reducing Tobacco-Related Deaths Bahati shalom Nov 21, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Estimates show that 184,000 lives could be saved if Kenya implemented harm reduction measures Sweden is set to become the first "smoke-free" country, thanks to its adoption of tobacco harm reduction (THR) strategies. By encouraging smokers to switch from traditional cigarettes to safer nicotine alternatives, Sweden has significantly lowered smoking rates and smoking-related deaths. Experts at a recent Nairobi workshop highlighted the potential for Kenya to replicate Sweden’s success. They estimated that 184,000 lives could be saved if Kenya implemented similar harm reduction measures. These strategies focus on helping smokers transition to less harmful products as a pathway to quitting altogether. According to Quit Like Sweden , Sweden’s smoking rate is five times lower than the European Union (EU) average, contributing to a 40% reduction in cancer rates and 21% fewer smoking-related deaths compared to the EU. A report titled Saving 600,000 Lives in Nigeria and Kenya revealed that by adopting harm reduction policies, Kenya could cut tobacco-related deaths from 8,000 annually to 3,400 by 2060. Derek Yach, a co-author of the report, emphasized that harm reduction is “the missing piece” in Kenya’s battle against smoking-related illnesses. “Countries like Sweden and New Zealand show how safer alternatives can dramatically reduce smoking rates and save lives,” he said. Suely Castro, Director of Quit Like Sweden, echoed this sentiment, urging Kenya to tailor Sweden’s model to its own context, backed by research and community engagement. Joseph Magero, chair of the Campaign for Safer Alternatives (CASA), described the initiative as a chance for Kenya to lead Africa in adopting balanced tobacco control measures, reducing disease and offering smokers effective tools to quit. Meanwhile, the Tobacco Control (Amendment) Bill, 2024, sponsored by Senator Catherine Mumma, seeks to update the Tobacco Control Act of 2007. The bill, under Senate review, aims to regulate modern nicotine products, ensuring their safe production, marketing, and use. Advocates argue that such regulations could help smokers transition to safer options, saving lives and reducing healthcare costs. DR.Congo Eleventh day of fighting south of Lubero, the FARDC chases Rwandan M23 terrorists from Matembe Kenya Kenya boosts border security as Somali and Jubaland forces clash over disputed elections Kenya President Ruto urges Kenyans to embrace factual criticism, defend progress on development projects Ghana Julius Debrah, Doe Adjaho, and Others: Mahama's Transition Dream Team Top News Related Posts Eleventh day of fighting south of Lubero, the FARDC chases Rwandan M23 terrorists from Matembe . DR.Congo Kenya boosts border security as Somali and Jubaland forces clash over disputed elections . Kenya President Ruto urges Kenyans to embrace factual criticism, defend progress on development projects . Kenya Julius Debrah, Doe Adjaho, and Others: Mahama's Transition Dream Team . Ghana

Africa Finance Nigeria The Nigerian government now deducts a N50 electronic levy on transactions over N10,000 Chinedu Bruce Dec 2, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link N50 levy on transactions The Nigerian government has started deducting a N50 electronic levy from transactions made through platforms like Opay and Moniepoint, as reported. The deductions apply to transactions exceeding N10,000 and follow directives from the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS). Both Opay and Moniepoint notified their customers about the levy over the weekend. Opay announced that the Electronic Money Transfer Levy (EMTL) took effect on December 1, 2024, stating: “Dear Customer, in line with the FIRS, the EMTL applies starting from December 1st, 2024.” Similarly, Moniepoint informed its users about the implementation, explaining that the N50 charge on inflows of N10,000 or more would be collected and forwarded to the FIRS. Their message read: “Dear customer, you will be charged stamp duty of N50 on inflows of N10,000 and above. Moniepoint collects and remits this on behalf of and to FIRS.” In September 2024, Opay, Moniepoint, and other FinTech platforms had earlier announced plans to implement the N50 levy on electronic transactions. DR.Congo Eleventh day of fighting south of Lubero, the FARDC chases Rwandan M23 terrorists from Matembe Kenya Kenya boosts border security as Somali and Jubaland forces clash over disputed elections Kenya President Ruto urges Kenyans to embrace factual criticism, defend progress on development projects Ghana Julius Debrah, Doe Adjaho, and Others: Mahama's Transition Dream Team Top News Related Posts Eleventh day of fighting south of Lubero, the FARDC chases Rwandan M23 terrorists from Matembe . DR.Congo Kenya boosts border security as Somali and Jubaland forces clash over disputed elections . Kenya President Ruto urges Kenyans to embrace factual criticism, defend progress on development projects . Kenya Julius Debrah, Doe Adjaho, and Others: Mahama's Transition Dream Team . Ghana

Africa Culture Nigeria Renowned Islamic Preacher Muhydeen Ajani Bello Passes Away at 84 Ayize claire Dec 6, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Late Islamic scholar Sheikh Muhydeen Ajani Bello Sheikh Muhydeen Ajani Bello, a widely respected Islamic scholar and preacher, has passed away at the age of 84. Sheikh Akewugbagold Taofeek, an Islamic cleric based in Ibadan, shared the news on Facebook, describing Friday as a deeply sorrowful day. He confirmed that the Oyo State-born preacher had returned to his Creator. In his post, Akewugbagold prayed for God’s mercy on Sheikh Muhydeen’s soul. “Today is one of my saddest days! My father and mentor has returned to his creator. SULTONUL WAHIZEEN of Yorubaland Sheikh muhyideen AJANI BELLO, may Allah be pleased with your soul. Aljannah fridaos for you. Our heart is full of grief and our eyes full of tears, but we will say nothing but what will please our Creator, the sole commander of life and death – ALLAH,” he wrote. The preacher’s son, Alh Basit Olanrewaju Katibi Bello, also known as Aponle Anobi, confirmed the sad news on social media. He shared an image of the Sheikh along with crying emojis but did not give further details. Sheikh Muhydeen was born in 1940 into the family of Alhaji Bello Ajani and Alhaja Ubaidat Bello in Arolu Compound, Ita Olukoyi, Ibadan. DR.Congo Eleventh day of fighting south of Lubero, the FARDC chases Rwandan M23 terrorists from Matembe Kenya Kenya boosts border security as Somali and Jubaland forces clash over disputed elections Kenya President Ruto urges Kenyans to embrace factual criticism, defend progress on development projects Ghana Julius Debrah, Doe Adjaho, and Others: Mahama's Transition Dream Team Top News Related Posts Eleventh day of fighting south of Lubero, the FARDC chases Rwandan M23 terrorists from Matembe . DR.Congo Kenya boosts border security as Somali and Jubaland forces clash over disputed elections . Kenya President Ruto urges Kenyans to embrace factual criticism, defend progress on development projects . Kenya Julius Debrah, Doe Adjaho, and Others: Mahama's Transition Dream Team . Ghana

Africa Politics South Africa EFF's leadership race heats up as grassroots favor Ndlozi for deputy president Ayize claire Dec 13, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ndlozi with Julius Malema EFF party president This weekend, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) are expected to re-elect Julius Malema as party president for a third consecutive term, continuing his leadership since the EFF’s founding in 2013. Malema, known for his firm leadership style, will lead the party again, but this time without Floyd Shivambu as his deputy. Shivambu vacated the position after leaving the EFF to join the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party, founded by former President Jacob Zuma. Shivambu has since risen within the MK Party to serve as its secretary-general. The EFF’s elective conference is being held at the Nasrec Expo Centre in Soweto, Johannesburg. The three-day event will decide the party’s new leadership, with the position of deputy president now open for contest. Speculation suggests that Malema supports Godrich Gardee, the party's secretary-general, for the deputy president role. However, many EFF members, including those in the Central Command Team (CCT), are pushing for Dr. Mbuyiseni Ndlozi, the former spokesperson, to take the position. They believe Ndlozi is the best candidate for the job. Tensions surrounding leadership choices are not new to the EFF. Challenging Malema has often led to expulsions. For example, in October, EFF Student Command member Kganki Mphahlele was expelled following a social media dispute with Malema. Mphahlele criticized Malema’s rumored preference for Gardee and voiced support for Ndlozi, claiming grassroots members favored him. Some delegates have accused Malema of trying to impose Gardee as deputy president, while Ndlozi appears to have widespread support. However, Ndlozi’s absence from Thursday’s registration at UJ Soweto and the Central Command Team meeting has raised questions. Reports even suggest that Ndlozi may have been barred from attending the assembly. Despite these developments, many knowledgeable party delegates continue to back Ndlozi, arguing he represents the will of the majority. DR.Congo Eleventh day of fighting south of Lubero, the FARDC chases Rwandan M23 terrorists from Matembe Kenya Kenya boosts border security as Somali and Jubaland forces clash over disputed elections Kenya President Ruto urges Kenyans to embrace factual criticism, defend progress on development projects Ghana Julius Debrah, Doe Adjaho, and Others: Mahama's Transition Dream Team Top News Related Posts Eleventh day of fighting south of Lubero, the FARDC chases Rwandan M23 terrorists from Matembe . DR.Congo Kenya boosts border security as Somali and Jubaland forces clash over disputed elections . Kenya President Ruto urges Kenyans to embrace factual criticism, defend progress on development projects . Kenya Julius Debrah, Doe Adjaho, and Others: Mahama's Transition Dream Team . Ghana

Africa Politics South Africa Gauteng's Kidnapping Crisis, where a case is reported every 28 minutes Ayize claire Nov 30, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link The Gauteng South African Police Service (SAPS) Kidnapping incidents in South Africa have surged alarmingly, with Gauteng province at the forefront of this crisis. Between July and September 2024, Gauteng recorded 113 kidnapping-for-ransom cases, primarily targeting foreign businessmen from countries such as China, Portugal, and India. In response to this escalating threat, the Gauteng South African Police Service (SAPS) has established a specialized task team within its organized crime investigation division. During the second quarter, this team managed six kidnapping cases where a combined ransom of R75 million was demanded. All victims were successfully rescued, and four suspects were arrested. The broader kidnapping landscape in South Africa is equally concerning. In the 2022/2023 fiscal year, the country reported 15,343 kidnapping cases, with Gauteng accounting for 7,818 of these incidents. This represents a staggering 260% increase over the past decade. The pervasive nature of this crime affects individuals across all socio-economic backgrounds, with both affluent businesspeople and ordinary citizens being targeted. The rise in kidnappings poses significant challenges to law enforcement agencies and has profound socio-economic implications for the affected communities. Addressing this crisis necessitates a coordinated effort from law enforcement, community organizations, and policymakers to implement effective strategies aimed at curbing the incidence of kidnappings and ensuring the safety of all citizens. DR.Congo Eleventh day of fighting south of Lubero, the FARDC chases Rwandan M23 terrorists from Matembe Kenya Kenya boosts border security as Somali and Jubaland forces clash over disputed elections Kenya President Ruto urges Kenyans to embrace factual criticism, defend progress on development projects Ghana Julius Debrah, Doe Adjaho, and Others: Mahama's Transition Dream Team Top News Related Posts Eleventh day of fighting south of Lubero, the FARDC chases Rwandan M23 terrorists from Matembe . DR.Congo Kenya boosts border security as Somali and Jubaland forces clash over disputed elections . Kenya President Ruto urges Kenyans to embrace factual criticism, defend progress on development projects . Kenya Julius Debrah, Doe Adjaho, and Others: Mahama's Transition Dream Team . Ghana