By Phumlani Saul

The Nelson Mandela Bay community is still reeling in shock and sorrow following the tragic bus and taxi collision that claimed the lives of eight people in KwaNobuhle, Kariega, on Monday, 4 May 2026.

Families, friends and residents gathered at the Babs Madlakane Community Hall in KwaNobuhle for an emotional memorial service held in honour of the victims whose lives were cut short in the devastating accident.

The memorial service was attended by Nelson Mandela Bay Executive Mayor Babalwa Lobishe, MMC for Roads and Transport Yolisa Pali-Jongilanga, councillors from Kariega, community leaders and various transport stakeholders.In a powerful show of solidarity,

organisations including the South African National Taxi Council, Algoa Bus Company, local taxi associations and the South African Police Service joined grieving families and community members to pay tribute to the victims and offer support during the painful period.

Speaking during the memorial service, Mayor Lobishe conveyed heartfelt condolences to the affected families and assured residents that the municipality stands with the community during this difficult time.

“Today we gather with heavy hearts to remember the lives that were lost in this tragic accident. No family should have to endure such pain, and as a municipality, we share in the grief of every affected family,” said Lobishe.

She added that the tragedy had deeply affected the entire metro.
“This is not only a loss for the families involved, but for the whole Nelson Mandela Bay community.

We continue to pray for healing, strength and comfort for everyone impacted by this heartbreaking incident.”
MMC Yolisa Pali-Jongilanga also called for unity and support among residents as families begin the difficult journey of mourning their loved ones.

“Road tragedies leave permanent scars in our communities. We urge motorists and public transport operators to prioritise safety at all times to prevent more lives from being lost,” she said.

Emotions ran high throughout the service as mourners comforted one another, while candles were lit and prayers offered in memory of the deceased.

Community members described the accident as one of the most painful tragedies to hit KwaNobuhle in recent years, with many saying the loss of eight lives has left a dark cloud over the area.

The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality reiterated its commitment to supporting the bereaved families and ensuring that residents receive comfort and assistance during this period of mourning.

As Kariega continues to grieve, messages of sympathy and support continue to pour in from across the metro, reminding affected families that they are not alone in their sorrow.

By Phumlani Saul

A dark cloud has fallen over the Eastern Cape policing community following the tragic deaths of three South African Police Service (SAPS) officers in a shooting incident in Rudman Street, Kariega, during the early hours of Thursday morning.

According to Eastern Cape police spokesperson Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana, two officers were declared dead at the scene, while a third officer later succumbed to injuries at Cuyler Hospital.

Police have withheld the identities of the deceased officers until all next of kin have been formally notified.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the incident may have stemmed from a domestic dispute involving police members. It is alleged that a male constable, reported to be the former boyfriend of a female constable, forced his way into a residence where she was with another male constable.

“Witnesses reported hearing gunshots, after which all three members sustained fatal injuries,” said Gantana.

A state-issued firearm was recovered at the scene, along with 10 live rounds of ammunition. Authorities confirmed that ballistic testing will form part of the ongoing investigation to establish the full circumstances surrounding the deadly shooting.

Given the nature of the incident, the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has been notified and will conduct a parallel investigation in accordance with the IPID Act. SAPS has also opened an internal disciplinary docket.

Eastern Cape Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant-General Vuyisile Ncata expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the three officers, describing the incident as a devastating blow to the police family.
“This is a tragic and heartbreaking loss for SAPS. Three young officers have lost their lives under deeply distressing circumstances,” said Ncata.

He added that trauma counselling and support services are being provided to affected officers, while the families of the deceased will receive assistance during this difficult period.

Investigations remain ongoing, and police say no further details will be released at this stage to preserve the integrity of the case.

By Daily Kasi News Reporter

A bright young football star from the township is on the verge of turning his dream into reality — but he needs the community’s support to get there.

Lulutho “Messi” Sinxo, a gifted youngster from Cosmos Sports Club, is quickly becoming one of the hottest rising talents in local football, with his eyes now firmly set on the international stage.

The teenage sensation first joined Cosmos Sports Club’s junior ranks as an Under-15 player during the 2023/24 season, where his dazzling footwork, sharp vision and natural confidence on the ball immediately caught attention.

It wasn’t long before he was promoted to the Under-17 squad, where he helped lead the team to victory in a Heritage Tournament in Zwelitsha, playing a key role in their triumph.
His rise has been nothing short of remarkable.

Now 16, Messi has stepped up to senior football in the Hollywoodbets Regional League, where he has already cemented himself as a regular starter. Week after week, he continues to impress with mature performances beyond his years, helping Cosmos push into the league’s top three.
His talent has now opened a life-changing door.

After standout performances at Under-17 trials held at Sisa Dukashe Stadium, Messi earned selection to represent his talent in Denmark at the prestigious Dana Cup tournament during the upcoming winter vacation — a major international platform where young stars from across the world showcase their skills.

For the young footballer, it’s the chance of a lifetime.
But dreams come at a cost.
Messi needs approximately R61,000 to cover travel, accommodation and tournament expenses.

Cosmos Sports Club is now appealing to businesses, sponsors and members of the public to rally behind one of kasi football’s brightest prospects.
Club officials believe supporting Messi is an investment in the future of South African football.

“Talent like this deserves an opportunity,” said the club. “With the right backing, Lulutho can go far and make the country proud.”

Any donation, big or small, can help turn this dream into reality — taking Messi from local dusty fields to the global stage.

Banking Details for Donations:
Nedbank
Account Number: 1263246265
Account Name: Cosmos Sports Club

For sponsorships, donations or partnership opportunities, contact:
Mr Thabile Balani – 062 157 1450
Mr Nkululeko Sitywantsi – 082 636 9692

Be part of Messi’s journey — today’s local hero could be tomorrow’s international star.

By Akhona Naliti

A tragic road crash has left seven people dead and several others injured after a fully-loaded minibus taxi collided with a bus in Kariega, sending shockwaves through the community.

According to the Eastern Cape Department of Transport, the taxi was transporting workers from KwaNobuhle to town when it allegedly made a sudden U-turn in front of an oncoming Algoa Bus, which was carrying only the driver at the time.

Department spokesperson Unathi Binqose said emergency teams treated 18 people at the scene.

“Two people suffered serious injuries, while several others sustained injuries of varying severity and were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment,” Binqose said.

Emergency services responded quickly, but for seven passengers, help came too late.
Investigations are underway to determine exactly what led to the deadly collision.

By Phumlani Saul

Nelson Mandela Bay – 3 May — Rugby supporters were treated to an exciting day of international Under-20 action at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on Sunday, as the young stars of South Africa national under-20 rugby union team and New Zealand national under-20 rugby union team delivered commanding performances in front of an energetic crowd.

Ultimate Rugby
South Africa national under-20 rugby union team 56 – 17 Australia U20

The headline fixture saw the Junior Springboks lock horns with Australia U20 in a bruising clash that showcased South Africa’s trademark physicality, pace and attacking flair.

Backed by vocal home support, the young Boks produced moments of brilliance on both sides of the ball, dominating key passages of play and underlining why they remain one of world rugby’s most exciting junior sides.

Australia showed resilience throughout, refusing to back down in a fiercely contested encounter, but South Africa’s intensity at the breakdown, powerful carries and sharp finishing proved decisive as the hosts stamped their authority on the match.

Earlier in the day, the Baby All Blacks put on a clinical display against Argentina U20, combining structure, speed and ruthless execution to outclass a spirited Pumas outfit.

Argentina national under-20 rugby union team 25 – 17 New Zealand national under-20 rugby union team

New Zealand’s youngsters looked polished in attack and composed under pressure, with their slick handling and tactical kicking game causing constant problems for Argentina.

Despite flashes of brilliance from the South Americans, New Zealand controlled possession and territory for long periods, once again showing the depth of talent coming through their rugby system.

Sunday’s double-header in Nelson Mandela Bay was a celebration of the future of international rugby — packed with passion, intensity and glimpses of tomorrow’s stars. For fans in the Bay, it was a reminder that the next generation of Springboks, All Blacks, Wallabies and Pumas is already knocking loudly on the door of the senior stage.

By Phumlani Saul

A suspected hit has left three cousins dead after they were carjacked, kidnapped and later executed in Nelson Mandela Bay during a long weekend soaked in blood.

The triple murder is one of several shocking violent incidents reported across the Bay, including a deadly shooting in Wells Estate on Sunday that left two dead and six seriously wounded, as well as a mob justice killing in Motherwell on Monday in which three men were killed.

According to residents, 38-year-old Thandekile Buzani and his cousins, Loyiso Mkhahluli, 29, and Lithembalamahlubi Tayi, 22, were sitting in a white Mazda 323 outside a rented house in Vukukhanye Street, KwaNobuhle, at about 8.30pm on Sunday when armed men struck.

Police say five suspects, two carrying firearms, approached the vehicle, demanded money and cellphones, and forced the three men away in their own car, leaving a fourth occupant behind.

Hours later, the Mazda was found abandoned in Algoa Road.
Then came the grim discovery.
Police were called to bushes near Old Uitenhage Road, close to Bethelsdorp, where the bodies of the three cousins were found riddled with bullets.

“Two victims were found lying close to each other, while a third was found a few metres away after police followed a trail of blood,” said police spokesperson Captain Sandra Janse van Rensburg.
Investigators have since confirmed they were the same three men kidnapped in KwaNobuhle.

Heartbroken relatives described Buzani as ambitious, generous and determined to build a better life. Family members said he had recently bought two sedans using a disability payout after suffering a serious hand injury in 2019. He launched a jikeleza taxi business and hired his two cousins as drivers.

“He was a generous person who loved his family,” said his grandmother, Julia Buzani. “He wanted to renovate our home and buy us a fridge.”
Buzani leaves behind a wife and three children.

Mkhahluli’s mother, Nomonde Hobeni, said her son had no criminal links and was a caring father devoted to his family.
A grieving grandmother, Nomathemba Thys, broke down repeatedly, crying that she had now lost all her grandchildren.

Tayi’s father, Khayalethu, said the pain was unbearable.
“They were cousins. We are devastated,” he said. “I hoped my son would carry the family name forward.”

Police’s Provincial Serious and Violent Crime Investigation Unit is investigating charges of carjacking, kidnapping and three counts of murder. No arrests have yet been made.

.

By Phumlani Saul

Gqeberha police are investigating a case of
carjacking and kidnapping that ended in the
discovery of three murder victims in Bethelsdorp.

Police spokesperson Capt Sandra Janse van
Rensburg said the bodies of the victims. aged
between 23 and 37, were discovered near Salt
Dams, Salt Lake Bethelsdorp, on Monday
morning She said two victims were found lving close to
each other. while a third was located a few metres
away after police followed a trail of blood.

“On Sundav at about 8.30pm a complainant
reported at SAPS Kwanobuhle the kidnapping and
carjacking in Vukukhanye Street, Kwanobuhle.

“It is alleged the complainant was seated inside a
white Mazda 323 with other occupants when they
were approached by five unknown males. two of
whom were armed with firearms.

“She said the suspects allegedly threatened the
victims at gunpoint and demanded money and
cellphones. “One suspect took control of the vehicle and drove
off with three occupants inside. while the
remaining victims were left at the scene.

“The suspects fled with the vehicle and two
cellphones. No shots were fired during the
incident. The vehicle was later recovered
abandoned in Algoa Road.”

Janse van Rensburg said the next day police were
called to a scene next to Old Uitenhage Road near
Salt Dams where the bodies of three adult males
were discovered with gunshot wounds.
“Preliminary investigations have confirmed the
three deceased are the same victims who were
kidnapped during the Kwanobuhle carjacking
incident.

“Cases of carjacking. kidnapping and triple
murder are under investization. No arests has
been made, and the suspects remain unknown at this stage.”

Anyone with information that could assist in the
investigation is urged to contact Lt-Col Monde
Sithole on 082-457-2812 or Crime Stop on 086-
001-0111.

By Akhona Naliti

Two Killed, Six Wounded in Mass Shooting in Gqeberha’s Wells Estate

Fear and shock have gripped residents of Gqeberha’s Wells Estate after a deadly mass shooting claimed the lives of two men and left at least six others wounded on Sunday afternoon.

Police confirmed that detectives have launched an investigation into a case of double murder and multiple attempted murders following the brazen attack, which unfolded at approximately 4:30pm in Masinga Street, Wells Estate.

According to police spokesperson Captain Sandra Janse van Rensburg, officers were on duty when they received reports of gunfire in the area and rushed to the scene.
“Upon arrival, police discovered the bodies of two adult men who had sustained multiple gunshot wounds. Both victims were declared dead at the scene,” said Janse van Rensburg.

Preliminary information gathered by investigators indicates that at least six other people were injured in the shooting, sending panic through the neighbourhood as emergency services and private vehicles scrambled to transport victims to nearby medical facilities for urgent treatment.

“The injured were taken to hospitals by ambulance services as well as by members of the community using private transport,” Janse van Rensburg confirmed.
Authorities have not yet released the identities of the deceased, pending formal identification procedures and notification of next of kin.

The motive behind the attack remains unclear, with police yet to make any arrests. Investigators are exploring all possible leads, including whether the shooting may be linked to ongoing criminal activity in the metro.

Sunday’s bloodshed has once again raised serious concerns over violent crime in parts of the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro, where communities continue to grapple with gun violence and deadly attacks.

Residents in Wells Estate described scenes of chaos and terror as multiple gunshots rang out, leaving families shaken and fearful.
One resident, who asked not to be named, said: “People started running in all directions when the shots went off. It was terrifying. We are tired of living in fear and violence in our community.”

Community leaders have called for greater police visibility and urgent intervention to tackle the escalating violence.
“Enough is enough. Our communities deserve safety and peace. Those responsible for this horrific act must be brought to justice,” a local community representative said.

Police are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who has information that could assist the investigation to come forward.

As detectives continue combing through evidence, grieving families are left mourning yet another tragedy — while an entire community waits anxiously for answers.
No arrests had been made at the time of publication, and investigations remain ongoing.

By Phumlani Saul

GQEBERHA – Eastern Cape Fashion Week’s first-ever POP UP Edition made a striking impression, drawing a strong turnout and creating a vibrant platform for local designers to shine in a more intimate and engaging setting on Sunday.

Designed as a fresh extension of the annual Eastern Cape Fashion Week showcase, the POP UP Edition offered a stripped-down yet powerful celebration of fashion, creativity, and innovation.

The event focused on giving both emerging and established designers an opportunity to present their work to potential clients, industry buyers, and fashion enthusiasts, while building recognition for the talent emerging from the province.

Speaking about the vision behind the event, organisers described the POP UP Edition as a way to keep momentum alive between the main annual showcases while continuing to elevate designers and other creative voices in the fashion space.

Director Eastern Cape Fashion Week Busisiwe Nxele Told Daily Kasi News  “This is about creating a platform where designers  especially up-and-coming talent  can showcase their work, be seen by potential clients, connect with industry buyers, and receive the recognition they deserve,” Busisiwe said.

” Unlike previous editions, this showcase was intentionally crafted as a more intimate experience, allowing designers and guests to engage directly. Beyond the runway, attendees had the opportunity to interact with creatives, learn about their brands, and appreciate the craftsmanship behind each collection.” she added.

While the setting was more personal, the quality and passion remained unmistakably Eastern Cape Fashion Week — bold, elegant, and deeply rooted in creativity.

This year’s theme, “Fashion in the Age of AI,” added a forward-thinking dimension to the event, exploring how technology and artificial intelligence are beginning to influence design, production, and the future of fashion, while still preserving the artistry and originality at its core.

With a successful debut and overwhelming support from the fashion community, the POP UP Edition has positioned itself as an exciting addition to the Eastern Cape’s growing fashion calendar — proving that style, innovation, and local talent continue to thrive.

Mfundo Phama Fashion designer Told DK team” Eastern Cape Fashion Week is more than a runway — it is a platform that nurtures creativity, opens doors for emerging designers, and celebrates the rich fashion identity of the Eastern Cape.

” Through events like its first-ever Pop-Up Edition in Gqeberha, the initiative continues to create opportunities for local talent to be seen, recognised, and connected with industry leaders, buyers, and fashion lovers.” said Phama.

Siphokuhle Mehlo (27) ” Eastern Cape Fashion Week was inspiring. The event was more than just a fashion showcase — it was a celebration of creativity, culture, and the incredible talent emerging from the Eastern Cape.

” From the energy on the runway to the originality of each design, it created an atmosphere that made everyone in the room feel part of something special. It’s exciting to witness a platform that is truly uplifting local designers and giving them the recognition they deserve.”said Mehlo

By Phumlani Saul

Eastern Cape Fashion Week (ECFW) is set to break new ground with the launch of its first-ever Pop-Up Edition, taking place on Sunday, 26 April 2026, at The Gallery on Produce in Gqeberha.

Positioned as a prelude to the fourth official Eastern Cape Fashion Week, the pop-up event signals the continued growth of one of the province’s most influential fashion platforms.

Over the years, ECFW has carved out a reputation for elevating emerging designers, connecting them to wider markets, and showcasing Eastern Cape creativity on both local and national stages.

This latest edition introduces a fresh and immersive concept — a curated fashion market. The space will bring together designers, crafters and retailers in an interactive setting where guests can experience, engage with, and purchase local fashion directly from creators.

Organisers describe the event as more than just a showcase. “It’s a movement of creativity, culture and innovation,” they say, highlighting the platform’s ongoing mission to create opportunities and build meaningful connections between designers, buyers and audiences.

Among the featured highlights is Gqeberha’s renowned fashion brand, Hombakazi, known for its distinctive aesthetic and strong local identity.
Visitors can expect a lively atmosphere, complete with a vibrant fashion marketplace, local food vendors, music, and a style-conscious crowd.

This year’s theme, “Fashion in the Age of AI – A Glitch in the Stitch,” explores the intersection of technology and human creativity. It reflects on how artificial intelligence is reshaping the fashion industry, while celebrating the imperfections and authenticity that define human craftsmanship.

The concept embraces the idea that flaws and “glitches” can spark innovation and originality in an increasingly digital world.
A selection of designers from across the Eastern Cape will present collections inspired by the theme.

These include talents from Nelson Mandela Bay, Buffalo City Metro, Chris Hani District, Joe Gqabi District and OR Tambo District, reflecting the province’s diverse and dynamic fashion landscape.

The event programme will begin with the opening of the fashion market at 15:00, followed by the main fashion show at 17:00. Tickets are priced at R250 and are available through Webtickets, Pick n Pay and Boxer stores.

The Pop-Up Edition is supported by key partners, including the National Arts Council and the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, with additional backing from sponsors such as Woolworths Beauty (Walmer Park), The Legends Barber, Sunrise Hotel and Audi Nelson Mandela Bay.

With its blend of innovation, culture and style, the Eastern Cape Fashion Week Pop-Up Edition promises to deliver a bold and memorable fashion experience.