By Luzuko Memela

A 32-YEAR-OLD woman facing charges of human trafficking, conspiracy to commit robbery, and giving false information to the police has abandoned her bail application in the Hankey Magistrates Court, in Hankey Eastern Cape.

The charges stem from allegations that the woman sold her two-year-old son to unidentified people on 10 November. 

Three days later, on 13 November, she reported a false case to the police, claiming her child had been kidnapped by unknown men in a car.

According to regional NPA spokeswoman Lumka Mahanjana investigations by law enforcement revealed inconsistencies in her account, and she later confessed to fabricating the kidnapping story. 

She was arrested on 19 November and has remained in custody since then. 

Despite extensive police efforts, the location of the two-year-old boy remains unknown.

The investigation to find him and bring those involved to justice is ongoing.

During her appearance, the matter was postponed to 27 January 2025 for further investigations. 

The accused has been remanded in custody until then. 

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has commended the ongoing investigative work by law enforcement and remains committed to ensuring justice for the victim in this distressing case.

By Nomalungelo Booi

Thugs Prey on Vulnerable Initiate

Thousands of young boys embark on a journey to manhood, but for some, the traditional initiation ritual has turned into a nightmare. In Nelson Mandela Bay, ruthless thugs are exploiting the vulnerable initiates, demanding protection fees from desperate families.

The extortion racket has left families outraged and fearful for the safety of their loved ones. The thugs’ demands are simple: pay up, or face the consequences. And for those who refuse or cannot afford to pay, the punishment is severe. Initiate’s are being robbed of their meager belongings and food, leaving them defenseless and destitute.

concerned parent, who wished to remain anonymous. Told Daily Kasi News ” This is a shameful and disgusting exploitation of our tradition,” said

“Our boys are supposed to be protected and guided during this sacred ritual, not preyed upon by heartless thugs.”

The initiation tradition is an important rite of passage in many South African cultures, marking a boy’s transition to manhood. However, the extortion scandal has cast a dark shadow over the ceremony, leaving many to wonder if the tradition is still safe and relevant.

As the authorities struggle to contain the situation, families are being forced to live in fear. The question on everyone’s mind is: what’s being done to protect our boys?

“We urge the authorities to take immediate action against these thugs,” said a community leader. “Our children’s safety and well-being are at stake. We cannot allow this exploitation to continue.”

As the initiation season continues, one thing is clear: something needs to be done to stop these heartless extortionists and ensure the safety and dignity of our young initiates.

By Phumlani Saul

NELSON MANDELA BAY, EASTERN CAPE – The beloved Ebubeleni Festival is back for its 13th edition, promising a memorable blend of entertainment, music, and cultural lifestyle experiences. Set against the stunning backdrop of the great blue South African summer skies, this open-air event will transform the picturesque Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium into a vibrant celebration on 29 December 2024.

This year, the festival proudly marks South Africa’s 30 years of democracy, celebrating unity and culture through music and art. As always, the event is committed to elevating local talent while showcasing the best of South Africa’s music scene.

The Ebubeleni Festival boasts a diverse and star-studded lineup, featuring a mix of national icons and Eastern Cape talent. Festival-goers can look forward to:

Zonke Dikana returns to her Eastern Cape roots, bringing her soulful hits and undeniable stage presence. Jazz master and storyteller Mandisi Dyantyis’ performance will undoubtedly strike an emotional chord with festival-goers. The BET award-winning Sjava will captivate with his rich blend of Afro-soul and hip-hop.

Cairo CPT & Mr Thela are guaranteed to get the crowd moving with gqom bangers, while Clint L is set to deliver seamless mix of beats from one of South Africa’s most versatile DJs. Amapiano sensation, Daliwonga will blaze the stage with his chart toping hits.

Rising Afro-soul star, Zuko SA is sure to mesmerise  the audience with his heartfelt melodies. A powerhouse vocalist and performer, Mawhoo is set to shine on the Ebubeleni stage. Rising star Zee Nxumalo will be wooing the crowds with her melodic Afro-pop sound.

The festival continues to champion homegrown talent with an impressive roster of Eastern Cape-based artists. Betusile, Joliza Bhacasoul, Nomabotwe, and Lindo Mtangayi will showcase the region’s rich musical heritage. DJs Korey G, XS, Hermanos, Malicon, Nicki Sandra, Sbhizo Mcwrist, and Xceedo will keep the energy high with their electrifying sets.

The event will be hosted by a dynamic lineup of crowd-favorites with Somizi, returning for the third time will bring his signature charisma and flair to Ebubeleni. The darlings of the airwaves Mafa Bavuma from Umhlobo Wenene FM, Slujah from Tru FM, and Makaziwe Tsako from Nkqubela FM will add their vibrant personas to the event.

As South Africa celebrates 30 years of democracy, the Ebubeleni Festival honors this milestone by highlighting the cultural tapestry that binds us. It’s more than just a music event—it’s a platform to reflect on our journey as a nation, while enjoying a day filled with exceptional talent in a festive picnic setting.

Gates open at 10am and tickets are available at Webtickets, Pick n Pay and Boxer stores nationwide. Brought to you by: Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, National Department of Sport, Arts & Culture, National Arts Council, Eastern Cape Parks & Tourism Agency, SAMPRA and Mahambehlala Communications.

By Xolelwa Sakwe

THEIR luck ran out during the execution of their plan for the day.  

One thug has died, and police apprehended nine others following a failed kidnapping attempt. 

On Tuesday, 26 November, 10 tsotsis had their luck turn on them after cops managed to foil their kidnapping plans in Kirkwood.  

The police were also able to seize three firearms, and a vehicle used during the commission of the crime. 

One of the suspects was shot dead during a shoot-out with the police. 

Police spokeswoman Lieutenant-Colonel Amanda van Wyk said according to the preliminary report, a team comprising of members from the SAPS’ anti-kidnapping unit, crime intelligence, Eastern Cape highway patrol, Local Criminal Record Centre (LCRC), SAPS Kirkwood, Eastern Cape Traffic, and various private security companies operationalised information on an attempt to kidnap a businessman based in Gqeberha. 

She said the syndicate was successfully intercepted when one suspect attempted to evade arrest.  

By Asanda Mkhululi

A daring robbery at a KwaZakhele clinic took a deadly turn when police shot and killed one suspect and arrested another. According to police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Siphokazi Mawisa, three suspects allegedly stormed into the clinic on Wednesday, demanding cellphones, car keys, and cars from patients and staff.¹

The robbers made off with several vehicles, including a VW Tiguan and a Toyota Hilux Bakkie. However, their joyride was short-lived, as police were hot on their heels. Members of the flying squad spotted the stolen vehicles in the same area and gave chase.

In the ensuing chaos, one suspect ran into the yard at Dora Nginza Hospital, while another fled the scene on foot. The third suspect was fatally wounded in the shootout with police.

Police recovered all the stolen vehicles and belongings, including a black and silver Taurus 9mm short pistol, cellphones, and keys. A 40-year-old suspect is set to appear in the New Brighton Magistrates Court on charges of business robbery, hijacking, and possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.

By Phumlani Saul

A crucial meeting was held at the Babs Madlakane Community Hall today,in KwaNobuhle near Kariega.

Where spaza shop owners were educated on the compliance requirements they must meet as business operators. The meeting was hosted by the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality COO’s Office, led by Nompumelelo Mrubata, along with representatives from various departments.

Shop owners were informed about the necessary certificates they need to obtain to operate legally. Residents renting out their homes to spaza shop operators were also warned about the potential consequences they may face if compliance is not upheld.¹

The meeting emphasized the importance of registration and compliance with the Municipality’s requirements. Shop owners were instructed to visit their nearest police station to obtain the necessary forms for registration.

Failure to comply may result in serious consequences, including fines and even closure of the business. The Municipality is urging all spaza shop owners to take immediate action to ensure they meet the required standards.

Don’t get left in the dark! If you’re a spaza shop owner, make sure to register your business and obtain the necessary certificates to avoid any penalties.

By Phumlani Saul

Residents in Panic as Eskom Recoding Deadline Looms!

KWANOBUHLE – With only 72 hours to go, KwaNobuhle residents are in a state of panic as they scramble to recode their Eskom prepaid electricity meters.

The recoding deadline, set by Eskom, is fast approaching, and worried residents fear that failure to comply will result in a complete power cut-off and hefty fines.

Nombulelo Mafilika (56) told Daily Kasi News “I’m worried and panicking I don’t want to see myself sitting in the dark,”

“I don’t know what I’ll do if my power is cut off. I have a family to feed and bills to pay.”said Mafilika

Another resident, Thembelani Ngwendu (27) told DK News team “ I’m frustrated with this process. “The recoding process is complicated and time-consuming. I’ve tried to recode my meter, but the system is not working. I’m not sure what to do.” Said Ngwendu

Eskom officials have warned that residents who fail to recode their meters by the deadline will face the consequences.

“We urge all prepaid electricity users to recode their meters as soon as possible to avoid any disruptions to their electricity supply,” said Eskom spokesperson, Sipho Ngwema.

With time running out, KwaNobuhle residents are advised to act quickly to avoid being left in the dark.

RECODE NOW OR RISK BEING CUT OFF!

By Phumlani Saul

IT’S A travelling roadshow for punani lovers. 

Viewing is allowed and so is touching. 

AND WHOEVER SHOWS THE SWEETEST PUNANI GETS THE MOST BEER. 

These are women who don’t let their unemployment get in the way of having fun – and drinking all the booze they can handle.

They travel around the kasi and arrive wearing miniskirts, short dresses and bum shorts, with sexy make-up and trendy hairstyles.

Last Saturday the girls arrived at Tsananag Tavern in , KwaLanga, near Kariega where a stokvel was being hosted.

Newcomers are often shocked by what they see but the regulars never miss an opportunity to appreciate the show.

“We dance to entertain,” said one of the girls.

“And we don’t have a problem with dancing naked.”

It’s like a contest. They show their stuff to make it easy for the customers.

Soon the beer starts flowing fast and the one with the best bum gets the most beer.

One of the girls said: “They buy booze for us, and yes, sometimes we end up in a bed we’ve never seen before.”

One of the women said they don’t take any notice if there are jealous women in the tavern.

“Men appreciate us and if we like them we don’t mind being touched. If they buy the booze, we provide the entertainment,” she said.

A woman who said her name was Brenda said they don’t appreciate other women taking to the dance floor.

“We get jealous when women we do not know dance. We don’t want them stealing our men. Without our partners these places would be no fun,” she said.

“We don’t mind people talking badly about us, because we are starring here. We are the main attractions and it feels good. 

“Sometimes men fight over us and then we get to choose the one who buys the beers and the ciders.”

Abel Sizani said his friends visit him constantly these days because they all attend the gatherings.

“They like what they see. What can I say? But we all enjoy the show. It’s unusual and it’s free,” he said.

By Phumlani Saul

Get Ready for the Ultimate Celebration of Tech Innovation!

East London, Imbizo Events is proud to announce the 18th Annual ICT Summit, a spectacular event that will bring together the brightest minds in the tech industry!

This year’s Summit, themed “30 Years of ICT Excellence: Reflecting on the Past, Shaping the Future,” promises to be an unforgettable experience. The event will take place from today 19-21 at the prestigious East London ICC.

TECH LEGENDS TO BE HONORED!

The Summit will pay tribute to the pioneers who have shaped the ICT sector over the past three decades. Get ready to be inspired by their stories of innovation and perseverance!

KEY HIGHLIGHTS:

Innovative presentations from new and influential leaders
Honoring ICT legends who have made a lasting impact
Networking opportunities with industry peers and thought leaders
Comprehensive discussions on current trends and future outlooks in ICT

DON’T MISS OUT!

Join us for this landmark event that promises to be both inspiring and insightful. Register now and be part of the ICT Summit experience!

For more information, visit our website or contact us at 041 818 9898.

Let’s celebrate 30 years of ICT excellence and shape the future of technology together!

By Nomalungelo Booi

Armed Thugs Use ‘Magic’ to Steal Wheels and Get Away with It!

THEY target cars that have no shelters.  

They come armed with bricks and tools. 

Heartless thugs, suspected of using muthi, are not even heard by car owners as they carry out their evil deeds.  

Car owners wake up shocked in the morning to find their cars on bricks.  

It happened to one car owner on Thursday, 14 November, in Khayamnandi Dispatch

At about 5am, he was preparing to leave for work when, to his shock and horror, found his new car sitting on bricks.  

The mag wheels and rims were gone.

“I’m shocked because this is not what I expected. I was going to work in the morning, and finding my car without wheels broke me,” he said.

He said he’s yet to open a case. 

However, he was not the only victim. 

A community leader said since the beginning of this week, they’ve received complaints from eight car owners whose tyres have been stolen. 

On Thursday, a group of residents went around ekasi searching for the thieves.  

According to the community leader, four suspects were found and assaulted.  

The tsotsis were released on a warning. 

“One of them was unlucky and was captured on camera from one of the houses he stole tyres from. We’re tired of these criminals. We work hard, but they just come and take. Police arrest them, and tomorrow they’re back in the streets. We prefer to whip them up before taking them to the police,” said the community leader. 

Captain Nelda Oliphant advised victims to open cases for investigations to get underway.