Police have arrested 15 more individuals in connection with the killings at the University of Fort Hare, bringing the total number of arrests to 25. The arrests were made across various provinces, including Gauteng, Eastern Cape, Western Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal. The suspects face multiple charges, including fraud, corruption, kidnapping, murder, and attempted murder. The bodyguard of the university's vice-chancellor, Professor Sakhele Buhlungu, was killed in January 2023, prompting the establishment of a national task team by Police Minister Bheki Cele to investigate the violent incidents. The arrested individuals are expected to appear in court in the Eastern Cape.

Patriotic Alliance leader Gayton McKenzie has announced a reward of R1 million for information leading to the safe return of 6-year-old Joshlin Smith from Saldanha Bay. McKenzie emphasized that the reward is more important than his political campaign, urging anyone with information to come forward without fear of questions.

Rise Mzansi, a political party, feels intimidated after the DA-run Stellenbosch municipality removed their election posters. Axolile Notywala, the party's Western Cape premier candidate, acknowledged that they did not secure the required permit for the posters, instead relying on a notice from the South African Local Government Association.

The City of Cape Town has adopted a 'constructive approach' to address murals on council rental flats following a controversy where law enforcement officers painted over a mural featuring the Palestine flag in Lavender Hill. The mural was created by resident Ebrahiem Freeman, who aimed to replace gang tags and graffiti in Wicht Court.

Opposition parties in the Western Cape are calling for the suspension of public hearings on the Western Cape Provincial Powers Bill, which aims to transfer certain powers to provincial and local governments. The Democratic Alliance is moving forward with the bill despite legal concerns raised by the provincial legislature.

In 2023, the Western Cape faced significant challenges with municipal council infighting, failing coalitions, and public demands for improved services. Beaufort West, Kannaland, and Laingsburg were particularly troubled, experiencing regular protests, political turmoil, and leadership conflicts. An Auditor-General report highlighted financial issues, with Beaufort West receiving a qualified audit opinion, Kannaland regressing to a disclaimed opinion, and Laingsburg receiving an adverse opinion.

The City of Cape Town and the Passenger Rail Agency of SA (Prasa) are in conflict over Prasa's unsanctioned relocation of 891 households from the Metrorail Central Line in Philippi to land along the R300 road. The City claims Prasa did not submit the necessary land use application or pre-consultation for the development on the Philippi East property, which is zoned as agricultural land. The City insists that an application for a change in land use should have been processed before the relocation.

Western Cape MEC Reagen Allen has labeled the year 2023 as challenging yet rewarding, overseeing police and community safety. With 2024 being an election year, crime is a focal issue. Allen highlighted crime statistics, noting increases in the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and Gauteng, with the latter two experiencing double-digit murder rate hikes. The Western Cape saw a 1.4% decrease in murders, which is still far from the 50% reduction target.

The Kaapse Klopse are set to return to Cape Town's streets for the annual 'Tweede Nuwe Jaar' celebrations, with the Hollywoodbets Cape Town Street Parade expecting large crowds and nearly 20,000 minstrels participating. This year's event coincides with the 20th anniversary of the Kaapse Klopse Karnival Association. The carnival, a significant part of Cape Town's cultural heritage, features troupes performing goema music and dancing through the city. The City of Cape Town supports the event to preserve these traditions, with road closures planned to accommodate the festivities.

The South African Weather Service has issued severe weather alerts for the Western Cape, Northern Cape, and North West provinces, warning of potential storms and floods this weekend. The national government and the National Sea Rescue Institute have urged residents to take precautions and follow safety instructions. Theewaterskloof Municipality has warned of significant rainfall and potential disruptions to essential services. The National Disaster Management Centre is supporting local disaster management efforts to assist affected communities.

The South African Weather Service has issued severe weather alerts for the Western Cape, Northern Cape, and North West provinces, with expected rain in other regions. The national government and the National Sea Rescue Institute have urged residents to take precautions. Theewaterskloof Municipality warned of significant rainfall and potential disruptions. The National Disaster Management Centre is supporting provincial and municipal disaster management efforts.

Journalist Thomo Nkgadima claims his rights were violated by Limpopo police when he was arrested for taking photos of Mayor Eddie Maila's house on Christmas Eve. Charged with intimidation and trespassing, Nkgadima spent Christmas Day in jail. The incident highlights issues of press freedom and law enforcement practices in South Africa.

In the Western Cape, over 5,000 inmates were released on parole and more than 2,000 on probation in 2023, raising concerns about the adequacy of parole officer staffing. Community policing forums are upset about not being consulted prior to releases, fearing that parolees may re-offend. The Department of Correctional Services provided statistics, while community leaders and an Action Society director expressed distrust in the rehabilitation process. High-profile cases like Norman Afzal Simons' release on parole after 28 years in prison for murder have heightened concerns. The MEC for Police Oversight and Community Safety reported that some parolees have re-offended, and emphasized the need for effective monitoring of parolees to ensure community safety.

A total of 108 people were arrested in the Western Cape for driving under the influence of alcohol during the festive season. MEC for Mobility Ricardo Mackenzie urged the public to avoid drinking and driving, emphasizing the dangers even small amounts of alcohol pose. Over the past long weekend, 17 pedestrians and 14 passengers died in various crashes. Provincial Traffic Services conducted 320 roadblocks and checkpoints, checking 45,302 vehicles and issuing 14,993 fines for various violations. Additionally, 31 vehicles were impounded, 234 were discontinued for being unroadworthy, and 374 speeding offences were recorded. In total, 172 arrests were made for various offences.

A total of 108 people were arrested in the Western Cape for driving under the influence of alcohol during the festive season. MEC for Mobility Ricardo Mackenzie urged the public to avoid drinking and driving, emphasizing the dangers even small amounts of alcohol pose. Over the past long weekend, 17 pedestrians and 14 passengers died in various crashes. Provincial Traffic Services conducted 320 roadblocks and checkpoints, checking 45,302 vehicles and issuing 14,993 fines for various violations. Additionally, 31 vehicles were impounded, 234 were discontinued for being unroadworthy, and 374 speeding offences were recorded. In total, 172 arrests were made for various offences.

The City of Cape Town's Disaster Risk Management Centre has issued a warning about the increased risk of wildfires due to more strong winds expected on Wednesday afternoon. Despite a brief respite, the SA Weather Service has advised that the city is still at risk. Spokesperson Charlotte Powell emphasized the ongoing threat and the need for vigilance.

The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has arrested a police officer on charges of murder, possession of ammunition, and assault after he allegedly shot a man dead in Somerset West during the early hours of Tuesday. The incident occurred while the victim was on his way to buy electricity at a petrol station with three other individuals. The group was stopped by police along the R44.

The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has arrested a police officer on charges of murder, possession of ammunition, and assault after he allegedly shot a man dead in Somerset West during the early hours of Tuesday. The incident occurred while the victim was on his way to buy electricity at a petrol station with three other individuals. The group was stopped by police along the R44.

Six people have died and at least 10 are missing due to flash floods in Ladysmith, KwaZulu-Natal. The South African Weather Service has issued a Level 2 alert for thunderstorms in the area. The Cogta department states that the search for the missing will continue on Tuesday morning.

Trifles are a cherished Christmas dessert in South Africa, enjoyed by families who gather to celebrate the holiday. Each family has its unique recipe, often prepared days in advance to enhance the flavors. The dessert plays a significant role in holiday traditions, sparking conversations and friendly competition among family members.

Major malls across Cape Town have increased security measures as the festive season begins, with the V&A Waterfront deploying extra personnel and implementing serious safety protocols for traffic and events. Donald Kau, a spokesperson for the V&A Waterfront, confirmed the enhanced security efforts.

Major malls in Cape Town have increased security measures as the festive season begins, with the V&A Waterfront deploying extra personnel and implementing strict safety protocols. Donald Kau, a spokesperson for the V&A Waterfront, highlighted the enhanced security and traffic management efforts, especially on peak days.

Firefighters have been battling a spreading blaze in Simon's Town since Tuesday, with the fire reaching Misty Cliffs and Scarborough by Thursday evening. Strong winds have fueled the fire, leading to the evacuation of 97 households in Stonehaven Estate. Cape Town Fire and Rescue Services, supported by six aerial water-bombing craft, continue their efforts to control the fire. No property damage or injuries have been reported. Road closures remain in place, and the City of Cape Town has activated agreements with neighboring municipalities for additional fire service support.

Residents in Simon's Town, Cape Town, are terrified as a fierce fire that began on a private property has spread to SANParks and navy properties, driven by strong winds. Firefighters are battling to contain the blaze, which started on Tuesday morning.

Intercape has welcomed a court ruling that found national and Eastern Cape police commissioners in contempt for failing to protect long-haul buses. The Eastern Cape High Court ordered the South African Police Service to implement a safety plan for bus drivers and passengers. Intercape has faced over 176 violent incidents in the past three years, leading to serious injuries and significant financial costs. The ruling is seen as a victory for Intercape and public safety, with hopes it will inspire other businesses to defend their rights.

Cape Town firefighters, supported by five helicopters, are battling a mountain slope blaze in Simon's Town that came close to residential areas on Tuesday night. Five firefighters were injured, with two hospitalized. City fire and rescue services spokesperson Jermaine Carelse confirmed the ongoing firefighting efforts.

A severe fire in Simon's Town has led to the evacuation of homes and injuries to five firefighters. The blaze continues to rage, prompting emergency responses and safety measures.

Bonke Makalala, owner of Makalala Transport, remains in custody following his court appearance at the Athlone Magistrate's Court on charges including murder, attempted murder, and illegal possession of firearms and ammunition. Originally from Tsomo in the Eastern Cape, Makalala was arrested in Pretoria after being tracked by police across the Eastern Cape in an investigation that started in 2018.

Workers in South Africa are heading home for Christmas as factories and industries shut down operations. This annual migration highlights the economic and social impact of the holiday season on the workforce.

The Democratic Alliance regained control of the Witzenberg municipality in the Western Cape after successful motions against the ANC and its coalition partners at a special council meeting. The meeting, chaired by Overstrand municipal manager Dean O’Neill, was marked by the absence of the speaker and municipal manager. Local Government MEC Anton Bredell's appointment of O’Neill as chair angered the ousted coalition, which accused Bredell of interfering with council business and abusing his power.

The Western Cape High Court has issued a final eviction order permitting the City of Cape Town to remove homeless individuals occupying the Green Point tennis courts. The order mandates that 37 people vacate the property by 31 January of the following year.

High-level discussions are set to take place between Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana and Western Cape Premier Alan Winde following the Western Cape government's declaration of an intergovernmental dispute. The dispute arises from the centrally negotiated public sector wage bill, which was implemented after the Western Cape parliament had already approved its annual budget.

The Bela Bela Magistrate's Court denied bail to Imanuwela David, the alleged mastermind of a 2020 burglary at President Cyril Ramaphosa's Phala Phala farm. David, along with co-accused Florianah and Ndlilinasho Joseph, faces charges including housebreaking and money laundering.

Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana and Western Cape Premier Alan Winde are set to have high-level talks following the Western Cape provincial government's declaration of an intergovernmental dispute over budget cuts. The dispute arose after the public sector wage bill was implemented post the approval of the Western Cape's annual budget.

Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis criticized the National Treasury for budget cuts that he claims harm the poor by reducing essential funding for sustainable human settlements and quality of life improvements. These cuts were part of the Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement announced by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana. Hill-Lewis expressed his discontent while presenting the adjustment budget for the 2023/24 financial year.

The trial of former Stellenbosch University student Theuns du Toit, who was caught urinating on first-year student Babalo Ndwayana's belongings, has been postponed to February next year for further investigation. The incident, which occurred last year, led to campus-wide protests and accusations of racism against the university management.

Police Minister Bheki Cele disclosed that over 5,000 officers have been arrested since 2019 for serious crimes, with nearly 4,000 still employed by the South African Police Service. This revelation was made in a written parliamentary response to the DA's deputy spokesperson on police, Okkie Terblanche, prompting calls for urgent overhaul of disciplinary hearings for officers implicated in criminal activity.

The Western Cape government has initiated an intergovernmental dispute with the National Treasury over mid-term budget cuts, seeking a fair allocation of resources. Premier Alan Winde emphasized the need for engagement and warned of potential legal action if discussions do not occur.

The Western Cape legislature, led by the DA, has rejected the National Health Insurance (NHI) Bill following extensive public participation. Residents expressed concerns about the bill's financial and social implications. The decision was made in a brief meeting by the provincial legislature's standing committee on health and wellness.

The Western Cape government has initiated an intergovernmental dispute with the National Treasury over mid-term budget cuts, seeking a fair allocation of resources. Premier Alan Winde emphasized the need for engagement and warned of potential legal action if discussions do not occur.

The Western Cape legislature has rejected the National Health Insurance (NHI) Bill after a public participation process where residents raised concerns about its financial and social implications. The standing committee on health and wellness, dominated by the DA, voted against the bill.

The Western Cape legislature session was abruptly adjourned due to disorder and disruptions led by the EFF. Premier Alan Winde was scheduled to answer questions, including inquiries about the provincial government's stance on cutting ties and trade with Israel.

Western Cape Premier Alan Winde has called for Police Minister Bheki Cele's resignation following the release of crime statistics showing a 10% year-on-year increase in murders in the province. Winde criticized the ANC for not allocating sufficient police resources to crime hotspots and described the situation as the worst in 20 years. Despite some improvements in earlier quarters, the latest data revealed a significant rise in violent crimes. Cele, however, highlighted some positive developments in crime reduction efforts. The debate in the Western Cape Legislature was marked by interruptions and a temporary suspension.

A 47-year-old man was mauled to death by three pit bulls in Lutzville, Western Cape. Police are investigating two incidents involving the same dogs, including an earlier attack on a 38-year-old man. The incident has intensified calls to ban pit bulls.

Former University of Cape Town council chairperson Sipho Pityana defended the appointment of the institution's former vice-chancellor, Mamokgethi Phakeng, stating it was based on merit. Phakeng and former council chairperson Babalwa Ngonyama are at the center of an independent judicial investigation into the governance crisis at UCT, following the resignation of Professor Lis Lange. The probe is led by retired Supreme Court of Appeal president Judge Lex Mpati.

A memorial service was held at St George's Cathedral in Cape Town for Ahmed Abbasi, the head of the Gift of the Givers Foundation offices in Gaza, who was killed in a rocket strike. The humanitarian organization claimed that Abbasi was directly targeted by Israeli forces. National and local government dignitaries attended the service to pay their respects.

A University of the Western Cape student, caught on video allegedly stabbing his wife at a private student residence in Belhar, Cape Town, has abandoned his bail bid. The student provisionally abandoned his bail application during his appearance in the Bellville Magistrate's Court, where he faces charges of attempted murder.

A police officer has died following a robbery by gunmen at jewellery stores in Durban's Pavilion Mall. The incident highlights ongoing crime issues and the risks faced by law enforcement in South Africa.

Two suspects have been taken into custody in Gauteng for questioning regarding a burglary at the SA Rugby Union offices in Cape Town, where signed Springbok jerseys, whisky, and laptops were stolen. The police are investigating the incident, which involved the theft of 60 laptops from another company as well. The real Webb Ellis Cup and other valuable trophies were not taken. The suspects will be charged and appear in court in Cape Town.

Two suspects have been taken in for questioning in Gauteng in connection with a burglary at the SA Rugby Union offices in Cape Town. The suspects allegedly stole five signed Springbok jerseys, whisky, and numerous laptops from two businesses. CCTV footage shows the men inside the SA Rugby offices, handling a replica of the Webb Ellis Cup. The Serious Violent Crimes Unit is leading the investigation, and the suspects will appear in court in Cape Town once charged.

National Technical Specification Notices (NTSNs) were introduced in January 2021 to replace the EU's Technical Specifications for Interoperability (TSIs) post-Brexit. With recent revisions to the TSIs by the EU in September 2023, the UK has the opportunity to update its NTSNs. The RSSB is coordinating industry recommendations to the Department for Transport (DfT) for these revisions, which cover various aspects such as control command and signalling, rolling stock, infrastructure, and energy. The consultation process for these changes is currently open and will close on December 11, 2023, with final recommendations expected by early 2024.

The South African Police Service has arrested 15 additional individuals in connection with a series of murders and attempted murders at the University of Fort Hare, bringing the total arrests to 25. The arrests occurred across various provinces during the Easter weekend. Charges include fraud, corruption, kidnapping, murder, and attempted murder. The vice-chancellor's bodyguard, Mboneli Vesele, was killed in January, and the vice-chancellor, Professor Sakhele Buhlungu, has since been taken to a safe house. The newly arrested suspects are expected to appear in the Dimbaza Magistrate's Court. The national police commissioner, General Fannie Masemola, emphasized the task team's commitment to a thorough investigation, following the establishment of the team by Police Minister Bheki Cele last year in response to violence at the university.