FAKE FIREARMS, REAL THREATS

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.

Set It Off: Two women have been arrested after robbing a business with toy guns. Photo supplied

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 toy guns that were found in their posession.

“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.

COP KILLED IN COLD BLOOD

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.


Constable Callan Andrews was shot dead on New Year’s Eve. Facebook photo

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. 

EBUBELENI ELECTRIFIES THE BAY!

By Phumlani Saul

BAY ROCKS TO THE BEAT!”

Ebubeleni Festival Smashes Records, Brings in the Crowds!

The voice of heaven! Amazing performance by the talented Mandisi Dyantyis at Nelson Mandela Stadium photo by Lolwethu Leeu

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.

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, photos by Lolwethu Leeu

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.

Executive Mayor of Nelson Mandela Metropolitan and Ntandokazi Capa MEC of Health enjoying performances at Nelson Mandela Stadium on Sunday Photo by Lolwethu Leeu

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!

CAUGHT RED-HANDED COUNTING MONEY!

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.

The gang members tried to run in different directions when the cops pounced, photos by Phumlani Saul

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.

Cops nabbed an alleged protection fee gang counting money in front of a spaza shop.

“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.

Horror crash shocks MEC 

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 scene of the deadly accident involving a minibus taxi and an SUV in the Eastern Cape. Photo supplied

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.

SUNDAY CHILL OF THE YEAR: AFRICA UNITE FESTIVAL READY TO ROCK!

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.

Nomvula hit maker Nathi Mankayi singer-songwriter will boasts this year’s Festival photo supplied

“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!

Ultimate musical experience as the Afrika Unite Cultural International Festival takes over the Jan Smuts Stadium East London this Sunday! Photo supplied

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.

KARIEGA BRIDGE BACK IN BUSINESS!

By Phumlani Saul

MAYOR KEEPS PROMISE: CUYLER BRIDGE REOPENS AFTER R3.8M REPAIRS

In a major win for the community, Nelson Mandela Bay mayor Babalwa Lobishe has delivered on her promise to reopen the Cuyler Bridge and the Gibbon and Durban Street intersection in Kariega.

Nelson Mandela Bay mayor Babalwa Lobishe has delivered on her promise to reopen the Cuyler Bridge Photo by Phumlani Saul

After October’s devastating floods damaged the bridge, contractors worked tirelessly to get the job done. And on Tuesday, Mayor Lobishe, accompanied by officials, officially reopened the Cuyler Bridge, marking a major milestone in the city’s recovery efforts.

floods damaged the bridge.Mayor Lobishe, accompanied by officials, officially reopened the Cuyler Bridge photo by Phumlani Saul

The repairs came with a price tag of R3.8 million, but for motorists and residents, the reopening of the bridge is priceless. Kudos to Mayor Lobishe and her team for keeping their promise and getting the job done!

MEYIWA CASE ROCKED BY DEATH

By Daily Kasi News Correspondent

DEATH haunts the Senzo Meyiwa murder case.

The lawyer representing two of the accused in the trial of the former Bafana Bafana goalkepper has died.

Advocate Thulani Mngomezulu’s death was confirmed by his family in a brief statement on Tuesday, 10 December.

The statement read: “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing our beloved husband, father and son. We confirm his untimely passing in the early hours of 10 December 2024 inVosloorus.”

Defence lawyers, Advocate Thulane Mngomezulu and Attorney Sipho Ramosepele during the Senzo Meyiwa murder trial. Photo supplied

Family representative, Dumisile Mngomezulu asked for space as they try to deal with the advocate’s passing.

“In this time of grief, we ask for your compassion, space and time to congregate as a family to decide in the upcoming days. We thank you for the love and support in advance and ask that you continue to keep us in your prayers,” said Dumisile.

Mngomezulu joined Meyiwa’s case last year to help Attorney Sipho Ramosopele as defense counsel for accused number one and two, Muzi Sibiya and Bongani Ntanzi.

Mngomezulu had to seek medical assistance in November after falling ill and never returned to court.

This is a developing story.

SIX IN CUSTODY AFTER DRAMATIC HEIST

By Xolani Mngibe

SIX SUSPECTS NABBED AFTER DRAMATIC CASH-IN-TRANSIT HEIST

A daring cash-in-transit robbery in Gqeberha turned into a chaotic shootout between police and the armed gang on Monday. The Hawks have confirmed that six suspects were arrested following the dramatic heist.

A daring cash-in-transit robbery in Gqeberha turned into a chaotic shootout between police and the armed gang on Monday. Photo Supplied

According to Hawks Eastern Cape spokesperson, Captain Ndiphiwe Mkhlakuvana, the G4S security vehicle was attacked on the M17 at Motherwell around 16:20. The gunmen, traveling in two bakkies, fired shots at the vehicle, forcing it to stop. Explosives were then used to blow open the armoured vehicle.

The gang made off with an undisclosed amount of money, fleeing in different directions. However, a multi-disciplinary team was hot on their heels, and a confrontation ensued when the suspects opened fire on the police as they fled towards Kwazakhele.

In a desperate bid to escape, the suspects abandoned their vehicle and hijacked a motorist. However, they jumped out of the car just a few meters away and fled on foot.

The Hawks eventually apprehended six suspects, with four of them sustaining injuries. A haul of rifles, pistols, cell phones, balaclavas, and hand gloves were recovered from the suspects.

G4S security vehicle was attacked on the M17 at Motherwell around 16:20. Photo supplied

The security officers injured in the attack were taken to the hospital for treatment, and a firearm taken from one of the security officers was recovered.

BLOODY HEIST: CASH-IN-TRANSIT GUARDS GUNNED DOWN

By Xolani Mngibe

Motherwell Robbery Turns Deadly as G4S Vehicle Ambushed

A daring daylight robbery in Motherwell turned into a bloodbath yesterday afternoon when a G4S cash-in-transit vehicle was ambushed by heavily armed robbers.

A daring daylight robbery in Motherwell turned into a bloodbath yesterday afternoon photo: supplied

Eyewitnesses described the chaotic scene on the M17 near the Sasol Garage, where three G4S guards were left injured and bleeding after being shot during the heist.

“I heard the sound of gunfire and saw the guards running for their lives,” said one eyewitness. “It was like something out of a movie.”

Social media reports suggest that some of the robbers may have also been injured during the shootout, but this has not been confirmed.

The Hawks are investigating the incident, but have yet to release an official statement.

The brazen robbery has left the community of Motherwell in shock, with many calling for increased security measures to prevent such incidents in the future.

STAY TUNED FOR UPDATES ON THIS DEVELOPING STORY