BY PHUMLANI SAUL

Shocking twist Convicted of 600 Counts of Fraud, Former Fleet Administrator’s Sudden Death Raises Eyebrows

In a stunning turn of events, a former Volkswagen fleet administrator, convicted of an astonishing 597 counts of fraud, has died just two months into his prison sentence.

Christo de Juger 45-year-old convict, was found guilty earlier this year in an Eastern Cape court of swindling millions from the German automaker through elaborate fraudulent schemes.

Sources close to the investigation revealed that the former employee exploited company policies to approve fake invoices, manipulate vendor accounts, and siphon funds for personal gain.

“The extent of his deceit was staggering,” said a prosecution spokesperson. “He abused his position of trust, causing significant financial harm to Volkswagen.”

After a lengthy trial, the convicted fraudster was sentenced to 15 years imprisonment. However, his life behind bars was cut short when he succumbed to unknown causes.

The Department of Correctional Services confirmed the inmate’s death but refused to disclose further details, citing ongoing investigations.

“This is a tragic and unexpected development,” said a Volkswagen spokesperson. “We hope that justice will still be served, and that the circumstances surrounding his death will be thoroughly investigated.”

As authorities probe the circumstances surrounding the convict’s demise, many questions remain unanswered. Was his death related to his crimes, or was it a tragic coincidence?

The case has left many stunned, sparking debate about the effectiveness of South Africa’s justice system and the consequences of white-collar crime.

BY AZOLA MATROS

Gqeberha Blooms with Vibrant Heritage Celebration

Sunday, September 22, marked a spectacular display of Eastern Cape’s artistic heritage as the All-White Heritage Day Picnic painted Gqeberha white-hot with culture! As spring’s vibrant hues brighten up the Bay, this stunning event drew over 3,000 enthusiasts, previewing the excitement building up to December’s Ebubeleni Festival.

The impressive turnout at the picnic, presented by Ebubeleni Festival organizers, sets the stage for a phenomenal festival experience. This precursor event showcased the best of local talent, leaving attendees eager for more.

“The overwhelming response is a testament to our community’s passion for heritage and culture,” said Marc Mahambehlala . “We’re thrilled to build on this momentum for Ebubeleni Festival.”

“ Get ready for an unforgettable celebration of culture, music, dance, and art as the annual Ebubeleni Festival takes center stage in December. This extravaganza promises to usher in the new year with a bang!”

Don’t miss the ultimate cultural experience in Gqeberha!

Nokululeko Mondile (32) told Daily Kasi News The All-White Heritage picnic was a truly unforgettable experience! The energy, the music, the people – everything came together to create a magical atmosphere.”

“I loved how the event celebrated our heritage and culture. It was amazing to see so many people from different backgrounds coming together.”said Nonkululeko

Siyasanga Nkala (27) said ⁠”The picnic was a beautiful display of unity and diversity. I can’t wait for the Ebubeleni Festival in December!”

⁠”The music, the fashion, the food – everything was on point! It was an incredible celebration of our heritage.” – Siyasanga Nkala

BY PHUMLANI SAUL

Police are still searching for the gunman who shot and killed a 59-year-old man in front of the VW ATM in Kariega on Friday.

A brutal and senseless shooting outside an ATM in Algoa Road, near the VW factory, has left one person dead and sent shockwaves through the Kariega community.

According to Captain Andre Beetge, spokesperson for the South African Police Service (SAPS), the deceased, a resident of Kwanobuhle, had stopped at the ATM with a female passenger. As she exited the vehicle to withdraw cash, a green Chevrolet Spark pulled up in front of their Mercedes.

In a brazen and deadly attack, an unknown male suspect approached the driver’s side window and fired multiple shots, fatally injuring the driver. The female passenger fled towards the VW factory while the suspect escaped in the Chevrolet Spark, heading towards Kariega.

“The motive behind this senseless killing is still unknown,” Captain Beetge said. “A case of murder is currently under investigation by the SAPS.”

The SAPS has urged anyone with information that could aid the investigation to come forward.

Unknown person who don’t want to be named told Daily Kasi News “ The incident has left the Kariega community and the Volkswagen workers reeling, with many expressing concern about the escalating violence and crime in the area.”

“This senseless killing is a tragic reminder of the dangers faced by our community,” said local resident.

“We urge the authorities to take swift action and bring the perpetrators to justice. It’s a first time people got shot near VW and we don’t feel safe anymore “

The incident raises concerns about the safety of ATMs and public spaces in the area.

“The SAPS will increase patrols and visibility in the area to ensure public safety,” Captain Beetge assured.

Appeal for Information

Anyone with information about the incident or the suspect’s whereabouts is urged to contact the Kariega police station .

BY Lolwethu Leeu

The Afrika Unite Cultural International Festival that was scheduled to take place this Saturday at East London has been postponed due to the Metro’s security cluster being stretched out of resources by the Chippa United FC vs Richards Bay FC game on the 21 September 2024. 

 

The event organizer, Luzuko Khohli expressed disappointment and said he understood the inconvenience that this will cause to the many loyal and new patrons that had “already made plans to celebrate their heritage with us” 

 

According to Khohli, numerous meetings were held with the security cluster, and they did indicate the capacity challenge and tried their level best to rescue the situation but unfortunately it didn’t work out. 

 

Speaking on behalf of the Stadium Management Group, the stadium manager Bongani Tobadi confirmed that “indeed the Afrika Unite team had booked the venue on time and the necessary arrangements had been made to be able to host the two events simultaneously. Both teams did everything possible to ensure that both events take place but unfortunately, due to the above-mentioned circumstances the event had to be postponed. However, the stadium management is still looking forward to hosting the festival upon confirmation of their new proposed date.” 

 

Khohli and his team has set 16^th December 2024 as the new proposed date of the event and promised that they have communicated with all the artists and stakeholders about this date, as a result of this, “we will keep 90% of the line-up and have started making calls to see which other artists we can add to accommodate a vast audience. It must be noted though that as much we have consulted with stake holders on the date, the date will only be formerly communicated after all necessary considerations by parties. Khohli said that “at Afrika Unite, we always strive to do better, we will maintain this mantra” 

 

Ticket holders have the option of claiming their refunds via the same platform they used to purchase their tickets or to keep the tickets for the proposed 16^th of December. 

 

“Speaking on behalf of the entire Afrika Unite organizing team, we wish to thank all the people who continue to support us, this includes our partners and funders in Department of Sports, Arts and Culture and the Eastern Cape Parks and Tourism Agency. We also thank our media partners who assisted us in spreading our message.” said Khohli.

 

BY NOMAWETHU TYIBILIKA

Andile Nyoka, the man accused of gunning down Eastern Cape police officer Sergeant Mario Nel last year, has shown his true colors once again. This time, he allegedly assaulted a doctor who examined him shortly after the incident.

According to sources, Nyoka was described as “combative and uncooperative” by the doctor who tried to treat him. This shocking display of aggression has raised concerns about the defendant’s behavior and his potential threat to others.

Nyoka is currently facing charges for the murder of Sergeant Nel, a dedicated officer who lost his life in the line of duty.

Zukiswa Nokhamandana (45) told Daily Kasi News “ The community is still reeling from the loss, and Nyoka’s latest outburst has only added to the outrage.

“As the case against Nyoka continues to unfold, one thing is clear: justice must be served for the fallen officer and his loved ones.”said Nomakhamandana

STAY TUNED FOR FURTHER UPDATES ON THIS DEVELOPING STORY

Lieutenant Colonel Furrier Gouged said the investigation still continues Andile Nyoka still in custody

BY AZOLA MATROSS

Imbizo Events is thrilled to announce the 18th Annual ICT
Summit, a premier event dedicated to exploring the evolution and future of the Information
and Communication Technology (ICT) sector.

The Summit will take place from the 19th to
the 21st of November 2024 at the prestigious East London ICC, with various exciting
activities and segments planned to engage industry leaders, professionals, and enthusiasts/.

This year’s Summit, themed “30 Years of the ICT Sector: Reflecting on Current Trends
Towards Artificial Intelligence (AI) Future Insights within the ICT Sector,” will not only
showcase new and emerging leaders in the ICT field but also celebrate the contributions of
pioneering figures who have shaped the industry over the past three decades.

The event promises to offer invaluable perspectives on the evolution of technology and its trajectory in
the coming years.

Event Schedule:

Event: Date: Time: Venue:
Golf Day 19/11/2024 11:00 – 16:00 E.L Golf Course

Golf Cocktail 19/11/2024 18:00 – 21:00 E.L Golf Club

Summit Day 1 20/11/2024 08:00 – 15:30 E.L ICC

Gala Dinner 20/11/2024 19:00 – 22:00 E.L ICC

Summit Day 2 21/11/2024 08:00 – 15:30 E.L ICC

The Summit will feature keynote speeches, panel discussions, and networking opportunities
with top industry experts.

Attendees will gain insights into the latest trends, technological
advancements, and future directions of the ICT sector.

Special segments will honour
trailblazers who have significantly impacted the industry, reflecting on their achievements and
the transformative changes they have driven.

Key Highlights:

• Innovative Presentations: Hear from new and influential leaders shaping the future
  of ICT.
• Honouring Legends: A segment dedicated to celebrating the achievements of key
  figures who have been instrumental over the past 30 years.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with industry peers, thought leaders, and
  innovators.
• Comprehensive Discussions: Engage in discussions about current trends and future
  outlooks in ICT.
  We invite industry professionals, stakeholders, and technology enthusiasts to join us for this
  landmark event that promises to be both inspiring and insightful. For more information and to
  register for the Summit, please visit our website ICT Summit or contact us at 041 818 9898 .
  Join us in celebrating three decades of ICT excellence and discovering the future of technology!

BY PHUMLANI SAUL

FOR months cops had been struggling to work out who was stealing cattle in KwaNobuhle, Kariega. 

Not once did it cross their minds that the cheap meat sold at the popular Posh’s Place could be stolen.

After all, the shisa nyama was a stone’s throw away from the police station and some of the cops were allegedly regulars there. 

Police spokeswoman Captain Gerda Swart said an increase in complaints of stock theft led to a door-to-door raid of shisa nyamas in the area.

“We had several stock theft complaints in the Rocklands area. Three weeks ago we received another about seven stolen cows,” she said.

On Tuesday their investigations led to Posh’s Place in KwaNobuhle. 

Upon searching the place, they recovered raw meat from four of the seven stolen cows. 

It was being stored under a bed.

Additional information led police to the crossroads behind the multi-purpose sports ground and Despatch bush. 

“This is where the cows were being slaughtered. 

“We found the other three alive. Two farmers identified their cows.”

A patron told the Daily kasi news that they no longer buy meat at a butchery. 

The stolen meat was being sold as delicious umxhaxho and qadidi at R20 a plate. 

“The meat here is fresher, cheaper and more delicious. Everyone ekasi was crazy about it. Even cops in uniform came here for a delicious plate of meat.

“I never thought it was stolen because the shisa nyama is close to the cop shop.”

Farmer Zongezile “Mvala” Stokwe was reduced to tears when he saw his cows. 

“I lost two pregnant cows. But I thank God the police managed to recover another three of them. These are ruthless thieves. 

“They killed my pregnant cows with pangas. The unborn calves were everywhere,” he said.

Police have arrested a co-owner of the tavern and four other men.

They will appear in court on Friday for stock theft.

Swart said: “I cannot deny or confirm that cops were buying meat there.”

BY PHUMLANI SAUL

INNOCENT Ncube from Zimbabwe worked as a painter at a house in Despatch Eastern Cape.

And when his madam said she wanted a gardener, he suggested his son, Matron Mpala (19).

But Matron’s excitement of getting a job was short-lived as he was bitten by the madam’s dogs three weeks into his job.

The two dogs allegedly attacked him in front of his employer on 28 August.

The dogs bit Matron on the head, right eye, both legs and hands.

Matron said: “I am still in pain. I cannot talk much and I struggle to walk.”

Innocent (45) from Khayamnandi , north of Despatch, said: “My son is in serious pain. After the attack, his boss fired him.

He said the boss opened for the dogs and they didn’t waste time to attack Matron. 

“She tried to stop the dogs, but they were vicious. She, however, managed to stop them but my son was already injured. The boss never even paid for my son’s medical treatment and transportation for check-ups at Provincial Hospital. 

“She dumped him there and told me to fetch him,” said Innocent. The accused boss, Reuphillan Telsershe, confirmed there was an incident with the dogs, but said the family must stop harassing her as the matter was in the police’s hands.

Despatch police spokeswoman, Colonel Peite Smith , said: “The case is failure to prevent an animal from causing an injury to another person. No one is arrested.”

BY LOLWETHU LEEU

One United Africa” festival, coming to the Buffalo City Stadium on September 21st! This unforgettable event promises to unite thousands of music enthusiasts and culture lovers alike, featuring an incredible lineup of award-winning musicians from across the country.

One United Africa” is the primary purpose behind Afrika Unite Cultural International Festival
(AUCIF), where the festival is a crucial initiative aimed at uniting Africans. The recent tensions
between South Africa and Nigeria underscore the urgent need for such efforts to promote
understanding, cooperation, and solidarity across the continent.
The Afrika Unite Cultural International Festival (AUCIF) is a growing annual music event celebrating
South African heritage and fostering unity. Inspired by xenophobic attacks, AUCIF aims to bring
people together through music and cultural experiences. Organized by C-Tone Productions since
2015, the festival has consistently attracted large audiences and sold-out shows.

The upcoming initiative is supported by the Department of Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture and
other partners.

Featuring a stellar lineup of South African artists, including Ami Faku, Nkosazana Daughter, Lwah
Ndlunkulu, Mr Thela, Jaziel Brothers, Dumza Maswana, MXO, Ikhona, Yamke, Luckeez Mfowethu,
Volo Da Saint, Dj Cue, and Blackman and more, AUCIF will deliver an unforgettable experience for
music lovers of all ages. The festival aims to create a platform for social cohesion and diplomacy
among African nations while showcasing the rich cultural diversity of the continent.

Luzuko Kohli the festival organizer, expressed his excitement about the event, stating, “AUCIF is
more than just a music festival. It’s a celebration of our African heritage and a platform for fostering
unity and understanding amongst African’s. “

“ We’re proud to contribute to the cultural and creative
industries of the province.
The event has been growing immensely over the years and continues to bring people together and
transform lives through its unique employment opportunities, said Khohli”

Sinethemba Gayiza Event Media Relations Manager explains “ The Africa Unite Music Festival is a vibrant celebration of the continent’s rich cultural tapestry. As
‘Africa is a unique place where diverse
cultures and languages converge.”

“Our festival aims to bring people together through music, food,
and fashion. By showcasing a variety of African cuisines and clothing, we hope to foster a sense of
unity and pride during Heritage Month.”

“Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to experience the power of music and the spirit of
unity. Join us at AUCIF and let’s celebrate Africa together!” said Gayiza

• Date: Saturday, 21st September 2024
• Venue: Buffalo City Stadium, East London
• Time: 13:00 to 02h00
• Tickets: R200 (Web Tickets & Computicket)
• Cooler Box: R100.00 (no cooler box after 18h00