By Akhona Maseti

Constable Callan John Andrews Laid to Rest

TRIBUTES POUR IN FOR SLAIN POLICEMAN

Thousands of mourners gathered to bid a final farewell to Callan John Andrews, a 29-year-old policeman brutally murdered in Gqeberha’s Helenvale on New Year’s Eve. Affectionately known as “Superman,” Andrews served as a police officer for just two months before his tragic death.

Andrews’ coffin was draped with the South African flag as he received an official state funeral. During the emotional service, his uncle Jeremy Andrews delivered a heartfelt eulogy, periodically asking the congregation to “Say his name,” which was met with a loud and proud response: “Callan John Andrews.”

Jeremy Andrews remembered his nephew as a well-mannered gentleman and jokester who loved hot chips and family time. He shared stories of Andrews’ determination to join the South African Police Services (SAPS), having applied five times over five years. Andrews’ dream was to follow in his father’s footsteps and serve his community.

The investigation into Andrews’ murder has led to the arrest of three suspects, including a 17-year-old alleged gang member. Police Minister Senzo Mchunu has vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice, saying they were confident that the right suspects were behind bars.

As the family continues to grapple with the loss of their loved one, they remain confident that justice will prevail. The Democratic Alliance has also called for a government reward for information leading to the successful conviction of those responsible for Andrews’ murder ¹.

By Phumlani Saul

A dramatic accident occurred on Charles Goodyear Road behind Volkswagen on Tuesday when a truck overturned while trying to avoid a speeding VW Polo Vivo.

Fortunately, no one was injured in the incident, which happened when the truck driver lost control of the vehicle while attempting to avoid the speeding car.

The truck, which was carrying automotive parts, came to rest on its side, causing significant disruption to traffic in the area.

Mzolisi Kula (45) told Daily Kasi News “I was driving behind the truck when it happened. The Polo Vivo came out of nowhere, speeding like crazy. The truck driver tried to avoid it, but lost control. It was a miracle no one was hurt.”said Kula

Eric Booysen (26) “I was in the car with my family when we saw the truck overturn. We were shaken up, but thankfully we were far enough away that we weren’t involved. It was a really scary moment.”said Eric

Details of the incident are still emerging, but it is understood that the driver of the Polo Vivo was speeding when the truck driver took evasive action to avoid a collision.

The incident serves as a reminder of the dangers of speeding and the importance of defensive driving.

Police and emergency services attended the scene, and an investigation into the incident is underway.

By Phumlani Saul

A man was killed instantly on Thursday after allegedly jumping in front of a moving train in Kariega

Nelson Mandela Bay police have opened an inquest docket after a man was killed when he was hit by a train in Kariega on Thursday morning.

It is suspected the victim, who has not yet been identified, jumped onto the tracks.

Police spokesperson Captain Andre Beetge said he was killed instantly.

He said the harrowing incident took place at about 6.30am, near the De Mist train station.

The train was on its way to Gqeberha and could not stop in time, Beetge said.

The incident is under investigation.

By Luzuko Vena

A Makhanda woman appeared before the city’s magistrate’s court on Monday in connection with the killing of her boyfriend, Sindile Peter.

It is alleged that Nosiphiwo Mbonda, 30, fatally stabbed Peter, 34, during a heated argument at their rented flat in Joza Location on January 4.

Members of the community filled the court gallery when Mbonda briefly appeared in connection with the murder.

Mbonda was remanded and the case was postponed to Thursday for a bail application.

Police spokesperson WO Majola Nkohli said the couple had argued at about 10pm on Saturday.

“Information in police records indicate that on Saturday 4 January 2025 at about 10pm, a couple at a house in Extension 6, Joza, was involved in a quarrel which led a woman allegedly stabbing him with a knife,” Majola said.

“The victim was declared dead at the scene.”

By Phumlani Saul

THE two women thought they could bring a movie to reality. 

Without any help from men, they robbed a business using toy guns and thought they had succeeded.

Just like in the 1996 American movie Set It Off, starring Queen Latifah and Jada Pinkett-Smith, their luck ran out after being nabbed by cops.

According to the police, there was a breakthrough with the arrest of two female suspects involved in a business robbery in Brakpan on Friday, 3 January 2025.

Police spokesman Constable Audrey Booi said the cops swiftly responded to a tip-off about an imminent business robbery.

“The members immediately proceeded to the scene, where they met a crowd of witnesses who provided valuable information about the suspects. 

“The suspects, aged 36 and 43, were apprehended and found in possession of replica firearms, a stolen voucher worth R1 500, and other incriminating evidence. A case of business robbery was opened. Both suspects will appear before the magistrates court soon,” said Booi.

By Akhona Maseti

IN a heartbreaking turn of events, a young police officer’s life was cut short in Gelvandale. 

Constable Callan Andrews (29) was fatally shot while on duty in the Eastern Cape on New Year’s Eve, 31 December 2024.

Lieutenant-Colonel Siphokazi Mawisa said: “It’s alleged that at about 5.35pm, two police officers were on routine patrol in Gelvandale when their vehicle stalled on Kobus Road, Helenvale.”

While residents assisted them in restarting the vehicle, a gunshot rang out.

The driver discovered that Constable Andrews had been shot in the head. Tragically, he later died in the hospital.

The constable’s firearm was missing, leading to an intensive investigation.

“An investigation is underway, and no arrests have been made. The DPCI has taken over the case for further examination,” Mawisa said.

Provincial police commissioner Lieutenant-General Nomthetheleli Mene condemned the attack, urging the public to assist in the pursuit of justice.

“The recent killing of a police constable is deeply condemned. We call on the community to provide information leading to the arrest of those responsible,” she said.

DA member of provincial legislature Yusuf Cassim expressed outrage at the senseless murder of the officer, who was stationed at Gelvandale cop shop. 

“We cannot allow the tragic and brutal killing of a police officer with a bright future ahead of him to become a mere statistic. Crime in the Northern Areas has been spiraling out of control for years, creating an abnormal situation that has claimed countless innocent lives,” Cassim said.

He highlighted the dire situation in the Northern Areas and Nelson Mandela Bay, where police are under-resourced.

“I’ve written to authorities requesting a significant reward for the identification and conviction of those responsible for this heinous crime,” added Cassim. 

By Phumlani Saul

“BAY ROCKS TO THE BEAT!”

Ebubeleni Festival Smashes Records, Brings in the Crowds!

In a spectacular showcase of music, culture, and community, the 13th annual Ebubeleni Festival took the Bay by storm on Sunday! About 15 thousand of fans flocked to the Nelson Mandela Bay stadium, transforming the lawns into a sea of singing, dancing, and revelry.

MUSIC ROYALTY TAKES THE STAGE!

This year’s instalment boasted an incredible lineup of national stars, including Daliwonga, Mandisi Dyantyis, Zonke, Mawhoo, and Forcalistic. Each performance was met with thunderous applause and cheers, as the crowd sang along to every hit.

TOURISM BOOST FOR THE BAY!

The Ebubeleni Festival has once again proven itself to be a major drawcard for the region, bringing in visitors from far and wide. Local businesses are rejoicing at the influx of tourists, with many reporting a significant boost in trade.

A DAY TO REMEMBER!

As the sun set over the stadium, the crowd reluctantly said their goodbyes, already counting down the days until next year’s festival. If you missed out on the fun, don’t worry – we’ve got the highlights right here!

Stay tuned for more updates, and mark your calendars for Ebubeleni 2025 – it’s going to be BIGGER and BETTER than ever!

By Phumlani Saul

Gang Members Busted While Counting Loot!

ALLEGED protection fee gang bust.

This after they allegedly collected money on Saturday, 14 December and counted it in front of a spaza shop owned by a Somali national. It’s believed that they had also collected money from the same spaza shop.

However, the gang of six was disrupted by cops who were busy with Operation Shanela.

The gang members tried to run in different directions when the cops pounced, but the officers managed to chase and arrest one of them who was found with a firearm as well as money.

A community leader from Area 11 Gunguluza in KwaNobuhle , Kariega told Daily Kasi News the gang frequented their area when it was time for collections.

“We know these boys and have seen them before they were arrested. When it is the 15th, they walk around collecting and return to our area on the 30th or 31st of every month to collect the protection fee money.

We are happy the police came at the right time because people live in fear as these boys walk around brandishing their guns even in front of our children,” said the community leader.

Lieutenant-Colonel Malcolm Pojie said members of Public Order Police Kariega who are part of Operation Shanela were busy in the area. 

“The members were patrolling in Gunguluza area 11 on Saturday when they spotted a group of about six men counting cash in front of a Somalian tuck shop under suspicious circumstances. Upon approaching them, the suspects split up and ran in different directions.

“Police gave chase and apprehended one of the suspects who was found in possession of an undisclosed amount of cash and a Norinco pistol with the serial number filed off as well as eleven 9mm rounds of ammunition. The members arrested the 24-year-old suspect and confiscated the pistol,” said Pojie. 

He added that the suspect is expected to appear in the KwaNobuhle Magistrates Court soon.

By Phumlani Saul

A HORRIFIC head-on collision leaves Eastern Cape Transport MEC Xolile Nqatha in shock. 

This after a Toyota Quantum and SUV collided between Graaff-Reinet and Middleburg on Monday, 16 December, claiming 14 lives.

Nqatha said the cause of the crash remains unknown and is under investigation. 

He sent his condolences to the grieving families and wished the injured passengers a speedy recovery.

A HORRIFIC head-on collision leaves Eastern Cape Transport MEC Xolile Nqatha in shock. 

This after a Toyota Quantum and SUV collided between Graaff-Reinet and Middleburg on Monday, 16 December, claiming 14 lives.

Nqatha said the cause of the crash remains unknown and is under investigation. 

He sent his condolences to the grieving families and wished the injured passengers a speedy recovery.

He said: “I’m deeply saddened by the tragic passing of these passengers and as a province, we’re gravely concerned about the rising number of deaths on our roads. I urge all motorists to be patient with one another and to drive cautiously, especially as traffic the volume is expected to increase during this time of the year.”

Nqatha cautioned motorists to be vigilant on the roads this festive season.

Transport spokesman Unathi Bhinqose said a total of 13 people were confirmed to have died on the scene.

“An SUV with six occupants and a fully loaded minibus taxi from the Western Cape to the Eastern Cape collided head-on. All six occupants of the SUV died on the scene, along with seven occupants from the minibus taxi,” he said.

By Phumlani Saul

Get ready for the ultimate musical experience as the Afrika Unite Cultural International Festival (AUCIF) takes over the Jan Smuts Stadium this Sunday!

After a series of setbacks, including a date change and financial challenges, event founder and director Luzuko Khohli is thrilled to announce that the festival is finally ready to entertain the masses.

“We’ve been anticipating this day with huge excitement,” says Khohli. “Despite the challenges, we’re ready to bring the heat and unite Africans through music and culture.”

This year’s festival boasts a star-studded lineup, including Dumza Maswana, Nkosazana Daughter, Jaziel Brothers, Nathi Mankayi, Lloyiso, and Scotts Maphuma. Gospel fans will also be treated to the soulful sounds of Groovie Christ.

But that’s not all – the festival will also feature an exhibition match between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates fans, led by Man-B and Qhawe respectively.

Tickets are still available at Webtickets, Shoprite, and Checkers stores, as well as Computicket website, for R200 general. Gates open at 12pm, and the event starts at 3pm until late.

So, get ready to groove and unite with fellow Africans at the Afrika Unite Cultural International Festival this Sunday!

FESTIVAL BACKED BY PROVINCIAL HEAVYWEIGHTS

The Afrika Unite Cultural International Festival has received a major boost thanks to funding from the Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture’s Mzansi Golden Economy program. The festival is also proudly partnered with the Eastern Cape Parks and Tourism Agency (ECPTA).

According to ECPTA CEO Vuyani Dayimani, the partnership is a testament to the agency’s commitment to showcasing the Eastern Cape’s rich cultural heritage and tourism offerings. “By supporting events like Afrika Unite, we’re creating opportunities to highlight our stunning destinations, promote sustainable travel, and drive community engagement and economic growth in our province,” says Dayimani.