Festive Season Operation Lungisa Delivers Strong Results in Jabulani

Jabulani South African Police Service has launched its Festive Season Operation Lungisa with a coordinated and highly visible crime-prevention drive across Soweto West. The operation was led by the Station Commander, Brigadier Lefa Tsotetsi, with Lieutenant Colonel Barlam serving as the Operational Commander.

The deployment included police officers, reservists, Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department by-laws officials, Community Policing Forum members and community patrollers, supported by several police vehicles. Their collective presence strengthened law enforcement visibility and ensured swift action against criminal activities.

Brigadier Tsotetsi emphasised the importance of maintaining safety during the festive period, noting that collaborative policing remains central to protecting residents. He stated that the operation demonstrates the station’s commitment to restoring order, reducing crime and improving public confidence through decisive action and community partnership.

The operation resulted in the closure of two illegal liquor outlets found trading without the required licences. Officers confiscated stock and shut down the unlicensed establishments as part of efforts to curb alcohol-related offences.

Several arrests were made for possession of drugs, including substances such as nyaope and mandrax. Multiple suspects were taken into custody after officers recovered drugs during searches and routine patrols.

One individual was detained for being in the country without proper documentation, reinforcing police efforts to ensure adherence to immigration laws.

Detectives from Jabulani SAPS continued to make progress on various cases, arresting suspects linked to crimes such as common assault, assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, malicious damage to property, pointing of a firearm and serious violent offences including murder and attempted murder.

As part of the Social Crime Prevention programme, Brigadier Tsotetsi participated in an interview on Jozi FM alongside representatives from the Community Policing Forum and community patrollers. The discussion focused on safety awareness and the importance of active community involvement in crime prevention.

Officers conducted stop-and-search operations across the precinct, during which vehicles and persons were searched. They also intensified patrols at key locations including Jabulani Mall, Jabulani Hostel, Inhlazane Railway Station and Merafe Railway Station. Areas known for vehicle hijackings were also closely monitored.

Brigadier Tsotetsi expressed appreciation to all participating stakeholders, highlighting that sustained joint operations are essential for a safer and more peaceful festive season in Jabulani.

Jabulani SAPS Achieves Success in Pre-Operational District Shanela

On December 3, 2025, Jabulani SAPS conducted a successful pre-operational district Shanela operation in Soweto West, Johannesburg. The operation was initiated following intelligence reports linking a suspect to a business robbery at Shoprite Zola. The suspect was reported to reside at Dube Hostel, Soweto.

Members responded promptly to the address with an informant and, while patrolling the area, spotted the suspect standing next to a shack. They then returned to Meadowlands SAPS to meet with the operational team. Before the team could reach Dube Hostel, the suspect was seen at a nearby shop and was approached and arrested. A search of his shack was conducted in an attempt to find a firearm, but none was recovered. The suspect identified himself and indicated he would lead officers to an accomplice at Jabulani Hostel.

Arriving at Jabulani Hostel, officers located and arrested another suspect. Both individuals were transported to Jabulani SAPS for detention. The suspects' details are as follows:

The first suspect resides at Dube Hostel, and was arrested on December 14, 2025. The second suspect was found at Jabulani Hostel, Block 16, Room 12.

Exhibits recovered during the operation include a Samsung cellphone, a pair of jeans and earrings, and a Toyota Etios vehicle with registration number provided.

The operation involved collaboration among various role players including Jabulani SAPS, Soweto West Trio, Shoprite Forensic Investigators, JMPD TRU, JHB District Crime Intelligence, and other stakeholders. Multiple patrols were conducted across strategic locations such as Jabulani Hostel, Jabulani Mall, Inhlazane Railway Station, and Merafe Railway Station. A total of 22 vehicles and 60 persons were searched during the operation, which also included patrols of key hotspots for carjacking.

Additional criminal cases include charges of assault GBH and business robbery against several suspects, with case numbers and dates specified.

Community engagement efforts featured stakeholder involvement through Men-For-Change, the NPA, GCIS, the Department of Mental Health, spiritual crime prevention pastors, and community members. The campaign also included stop-and-search operations, resulting in the search of 22 vehicles and 60 individuals.

The deployment for the operation consisted of one officer, ten members, four vehicles, and additional crime prevention and community patrol units. The overall command was led by Brigadier Tsotetsi, with operational oversight by W/O Thwala.

"Thanks to the collective efforts of all involved, the operation marked a significant success in maintaining safety and combating crime in the area," said Jabulani SAPS Station Commander Brigadier Lefa Tsotetsi 

Benoni Sergeant's Rigorous Investigation Secures 10-Year Explosives Conviction

Pictured: Investigating officer Sergeant Kgetsi Tom Mankge of Saps Benoni

On Friday, 23 February 2024, a significant arrest was executed in Benoni, South Africa, which has now culminated in a substantial prison sentence. Vispol members apprehended a 38-year-old suspect on Snake Road, Benoni, at approximately 16:00, following an incident of possession of explosives.

The case was promptly registered at the South African Police Service (SAPS) Benoni station and assigned to Sergeant Kgetsi Tom Mankge of the Benoni Detectives unit. Sergeant Mankge immediately initiated a thorough and meticulous investigation, diligently collecting all pertinent evidence to build a robust case. His efforts were maintained until the matter was brought before the court for trial.

The persistence and dedication displayed by the detective came to fruition on 19 November 2025. The accused, identified as Trueman Madondo, a Zimbabwean national, was convicted on two serious charges. He received a sentence of 10 years imprisonment for the possession of explosives and a further 12 months for the contravention of the Immigration Act. The court ordered that these sentences run concurrently. Furthermore, Madondo was declared unfit to possess a firearm.

Ekurhuleni District Commissioner, Major General Anna Sithole, has expressed her unreserved welcome of the conviction. She extended her sincere applause to Sergeant Mankge for his exceptional investigative work, acknowledging that his diligence has made a profound and positive impact in addressing crime within the Ekurhuleni District.

Police Seize Multiple Illegal Firearms and Make Numerous Arrests During District-Wide Operations

The police in the Johannesburg district have successfully recovered five unlicensed firearms and ammunition during a comprehensive operation conducted across the district from the 4th to the 7th of December 2025.

Over 360 suspects were apprehended for various offences during crime suppression initiatives within the district. These interventions included Operation Shanela II, Safer Festive Season, High Density, Station, and Vispol Commanders' Operations.

In a notable operation in Roodepoort on 7 December 2025, officers recovered unlicensed firearms and ammunition abandoned at illegal mining sites in Durban Deep. The recovered items include:

- One shotgun  

- Eleven shotgun rubber rounds  

- Four rounds of unknown calibre with blue tips  

- Thirty live rounds of 5.56 R5 ammunition  

- Twenty-eight rounds of unknown calibre  

- One rifle magazine  

- One nine-millimetre magazine  

- A pair of silver handcuffs  

- Fifteen nine-millimetre rounds  

- A brown side bag  

- A green side bag  

Furthermore, law enforcement agencies arrested approximately 100 suspects during Operation Shanela II, which targeted areas including Eldorado Park, Jabulani, Sandringham, and Norwood. The suspects face charges ranging from illegal possession of firearms, hijacking, drug possession, theft, unlicensed liquor dealing, malicious property damage, to illegal immigration. During the Eldorado Park operation, one individual was detained for possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.

In addition, about 23 suspects were apprehended in high-density operations. In Johannesburg Central, another suspect was arrested for illegal possession of firearms and ammunition. Overall, 36 suspects were detained during Safer Festive Season operations across the district, and an additional 46 suspects were taken into custody during station commander's operations at various stations.

Detectives also traced and arrested around 172 suspects during operations targeting various crimes, including contact crimes, property-related offences, and other serious criminal activities.

Johannesburg District Commissioner Major General Nonhlanhla Kubheka commended all stakeholders and law enforcement personnel for their efforts in removing illegal firearms from the streets and for their dedication to ensuring the safety and security of Johannesburg residents.

Tshwane Police Crackdown Nets 347 Suspects in High-Impact Operation

A recent multidisciplinary policing initiative in Tshwane has yielded significant results, with 347 suspects arrested and liquor seized during Operation Shanela on Saturday, 6 December 2025. The operation, led by Tshwane District Commissioner Major-General Samuel Thine, involved multiple SAPS units and partner stakeholders, including the Department of Home Affairs, Tshwane Metro Police Department, and local Community Policing Forums.

The operation's success can be attributed to intensive suspect tracing, high-visibility policing, and targeted patrols in hotspot areas. Notable arrests include five suspects wanted for murder, one for attempted murder, two for armed robbery, and two for rape. Additionally, 74 individuals facing gender-based violence-related charges were taken into custody.

Key highlights of the operation include:

- 508 searches of persons and 268 vehicle searches

- 35 illegal immigrants arrested and handed to immigration officials

- Eight liquor outlets inspected, with one closed and fined

- 15 750 ml of liquor confiscated

- 20 drivers arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol

- Seven suspects arrested for possession of drugs

Major-General Thine commended participating law enforcement for their commitment to creating safer communities in Tshwane.

Nation Awaits Answers as Police Step Up Probe into Murder of Key Commission Witness

South Africa’s security and justice landscape was shaken this week as the murder of a protected witness from the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry moved into a critical phase of investigation. The killing of Marius van der Merwe, known publicly as Witness D for his safety, triggered an urgent response from the highest ranks of the South African Police Service and intensified scrutiny over the protection of individuals linked to high stakes national inquiries.

On Monday evening, 8 December 2025, the National Commissioner of SAPS, General Fannie Masemola, visited the Van der Merwe family at their home in Gauld Street, Brenthurst, Brakpan. His arrival was followed by a detailed media briefing outside the residence, where he outlined the latest developments and assured the public that investigators were closing in on those responsible.

The Commissioner’s visit came two days after the fatal shooting on 6 December. According to the preliminary investigation, Van der Merwe arrived home with his wife shortly after 20:30. As he stepped out to open the gate, a vehicle pulled up behind his car. He was shot several times in the upper body and died at the scene. His wife, who remained in the car, was unharmed. Police confirmed that nothing was taken from him, with his firearm, wallet and mobile phone still in his possession, ruling out robbery and suggesting a deliberate and targeted assassination.

Within hours of the shooting, multiple specialised units converged on the crime scene. Crime scene experts, ballistics analysts, crime intelligence officers and members of the serious and violent crime unit worked through the night, gathering evidence and mapping the events that unfolded. Forensic confirmation that an AK47 rifle was used added a striking indication of the level of planning involved.

General Masemola announced that investigators believe two vehicles were used in the attack. A critical breakthrough came when a white Chevrolet bakkie was found abandoned in Alexandra less than 24 hours after the murder. Its colour and make matched a vehicle captured on surveillance footage trailing Van der Merwe on the night he was killed. The bakkie, discovered on a gravel dead-end road among informal structures, was abandoned by two men on Saturday morning. It has since been taken to SAPS forensic laboratories for comprehensive analysis.

Although police are still searching for the second vehicle, believed to be a sedan also observed lingering near the home that evening, the recovery of the bakkie marks a significant step forward. The Commissioner confirmed that three persons of interest had already been identified, with one undergoing questioning. He emphasised that detectives are closing in as the probe reaches what he described as an advanced and sensitive stage.

General Masemola also revealed that investigations now include two related cases. The first is a 2022 murder case in Duduza, handled by IPID, involving an African man found dead in a dam. The second is the attempted murder of Van der Merwe in September 2025, when he reported being followed by two white men in a Mahindra bakkie. Whether these earlier events tie directly to his murder remains under examination, but their inclusion signals the widening scope of the inquiry.

During his briefing, the Commissioner highlighted that possible motives remain under active investigation. He cautioned against public speculation while acknowledging that investigators are exploring multiple angles, including allegations linked to Van der Merwe’s work, previous testimony and possible criminal networks with broader interests. The Commissioner stressed that no motive would be publicly confirmed until arrests are made and evidence is thoroughly tested in court.

The murder has reignited critical discussions about the safety of witnesses and officials involved in the Madlanga Commission. General Masemola confirmed that he will personally brief Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga on the investigation’s progress and hold discussions on enhancing security measures. He has directed the NATJOINTS Co-Chair, Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili, to convene an urgent meeting to reinforce protection strategies for commission personnel and witnesses.

Over the recent weekend, the NATJOINTS Structure met with commission officials to refine and finalise an enhanced security plan. The Commissioner noted that protection would be provided where needed, but each case would be assessed carefully to avoid undermining ongoing investigations.

General Masemola dismissed claims that intelligence structures had failed, emphasising that intelligence resources cannot shadow every individual at all times. He pointed to other successful intelligence-led operations on the same day as evidence that systems remain functional and effective.

As the nation watches this case closely, the Commissioner affirmed that the SAPS remains resolute in its pursuit of justice for Van der Merwe and his family. Monday night’s visit was both an act of compassion and a public assurance that the investigation continues with urgency and determination.

For now, South Africans await answers. Investigators continue to piece together the truth behind this calculated and chilling murder, determined to bring those responsible before the courts and restore confidence in the protection of all who step forward to serve justice.

United in Strength: Germiston Officers Rally Against Gender Based Violence

Members of the South African Police Service gathered at the Germiston SAPS Hall on Friday 5 December 2025, standing shoulder to shoulder in a powerful show of unity during the annual observance of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence. Led by the Women’s Network and supported by Men For Change, the event highlighted the organisation’s commitment to safeguarding the rights, dignity and wellbeing of women, children, men and vulnerable persons across the country. This year’s theme, United to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls, underscored the growing need to address emerging forms of abuse in an increasingly connected world.

Gender based violence continues to rank among the most urgent human rights crises of our era. Its impact is far reaching and deeply personal, tearing at the fabric of families, weakening communities and robbing survivors of their sense of safety and belonging. Against this backdrop, the strong turnout of members, proudly wearing purple to symbolise determination and peace, sent a clear message of solidarity. Purple remains a national symbol of the fight against domestic violence and embodies the collective resolve to confront physical, emotional, mental, sexual and financial abuse.

The event drew a range of stakeholders who contributed to the day’s activities. Health professionals offered on site screenings, giving attendees an opportunity to prioritise their wellbeing. Financial institutions also hosted information stalls and provided valuable guidance on financial management, a critical support element for those facing hardship.

A moving candlelight prayer brought the hall to a moment of reflection. Members honoured the resilience of survivors and remembered those whose lives have been shattered or lost as a result of violence. The soft glow of candles served as a reminder of the light carried by every survivor and the responsibility borne by the community to protect it.

National Women’s Network Champion Major General Anna Sithole shared a heartfelt message addressing the growing concern over incidents of self harm and violence involving police members. She acknowledged the profound emotional and psychological pressures faced by officers and emphasised that while these pressures can never excuse harmful actions, they reveal an urgent need for stronger support structures. Major General Sithole urged members to make use of the Employee Health and Wellness offices and to prioritise mental health as an essential part of their wellbeing.

The Women’s Network reinforced this message by encouraging all members to confront the stigma surrounding mental health. Reaching out for help is an act of courage and a crucial step in building a resilient, compassionate police service.

As the event drew to a close, compassion extended beyond the hall. Five families from the Dukathole Informal Settlement were gifted Christmas hampers, bringing hope and relief ahead of the festive season. Their gratitude reflected the spirit of service that defines the SAPS community.

The day concluded with a renewed sense of purpose, reminding all present that the fight against gender based violence depends on unity, empathy and unwavering commitment.

Taxi Association Official Gunned Down in Woodmead Amid Turf War Fears

Lt. Col Mavela Masondo, SAPS GP spokesperson 

Gauteng police have launched a murder investigation following the fatal shooting of a taxi association official in Woodmead, Sandton. The incident occurred on Thursday evening, 4 December 2025, at approximately 10:30 PM.

According to police reports, the victim, a 52-year-old man, was in a parking lot in Woodmead when he and another male were approached by two assailants. The assailants fired multiple shots at the pair, using automatic rifles. Emergency services declared the victim dead at the scene.

Gauteng SAPS spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo indicated that preliminary findings suggest the attack may be linked to ongoing conflicts between taxi associations in the Alexandra area. Authorities are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

Police are urging anyone with information that could assist in the investigation or aid in the apprehension of the suspects to contact their nearest police station or call Crime Stop on 08600 10111. Community cooperation is vital to bringing those responsible to justice and ensuring safety in the region.

Fatal Shooting in Raslouw During Domestic Dispute

Tshwane District spokesperson Captain Johan Van Dyk 

Police in Wierdabrug responded to a tragic incident on Tuesday evening, 2 December 2025, after receiving reports of a shooting in Baard Street, Raslouw. The call came in at approximately 22:45.

Upon arrival, officers discovered an adult male who had sustained fatal injuries. Preliminary investigations suggest that an argument between a father and son escalated during a domestic dispute. It is alleged that the son produced a firearm and shot his father.

Crime Scene Management was summoned to process the scene, and the firearm involved will undergo forensic analysis as part of the ongoing investigation.

The suspect, identified as the son of the deceased, was arrested at the scene. A case of murder has been opened and is currently under investigation. The suspect is expected to appear in court on Thursday, 4 December 2025.

Captain Johan van Dyk, spokesperson for SAPS Tshwane District, commented: "This is a deeply concerning incident that highlights the devastating consequences of domestic disputes. Our officers acted swiftly to secure the scene and ensure the suspect was apprehended. We urge families to seek help when tensions arise to prevent such tragedies."

Jabulani Festive Season Operation Lungisa Delivers Major Crime Prevention Success

On Thursday, 27 November 2025, the Jabulani Festive Season Operation Lungisa was launched in Johannesburg District, Soweto West, under the leadership of Overall Commander Brigadier Lefa Tsotetsi and Operational Commander Lieutenant Colonel Rajesh Balram. The operation aimed to strengthen law enforcement visibility and tackle crime hotspots ahead of the festive season.

The deployment included officers from Jabulani SAPS, Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department Bylaws Unit, Crime Prevention Wardens, Community Policing Forum representatives, and community patrollers. Resources mobilised for the operation comprised multiple vehicles and a significant personnel presence to ensure maximum impact.

Key Achievements:

- Illegal Shebeen Closed: One unlicensed establishment was shut down.

- Arrests of Illegal Immigrants: Several individuals were apprehended during compliance checks.

- Liquor Confiscations: Four cases of alcohol were seized.

- Detective Interventions: Suspects linked to common assault and business burglary were taken into custody.

- Vehicle Recoveries: A silver Toyota Fortuner and a blue Hyundai Atos were successfully recovered.

Stop and Search Operations:

- 23 vehicles searched  

- 66 individuals searched  

- Patrols conducted at Jabulani Mall, Jabulani Hostel, and Inhlazane Railway Station  

- Carjacking hotspots monitored to deter criminal activity  

The operation demonstrated a united front between law enforcement and community stakeholders, reinforcing safety measures and restoring public confidence. These efforts form part of an ongoing strategy to maintain order and security during the festive season.

City of Johannesburg Urges Residents to Stay Alert Against Fraudsters

The City of Johannesburg has issued a strong warning to residents, businesses and account holders to remain vigilant as criminal syndicates continue to target municipal customers with fraudulent schemes disguised as official City communication.

These scams involve individuals posing as City officials, debt collectors, electricity technicians, meter readers or revenue agents to solicit money, steal personal information or gain unlawful access to homes and businesses.

Common Scams Reported:

- Fake disconnection threats demanding immediate EFT payments to avoid electricity or water cut-offs  

- Impersonation of City officials using forged ID cards, uniforms or vehicle markings to request property access  

- False SMS notifications claiming outstanding debt and directing customers to non-City banking details  

- Fake meter replacement or inspection visits used to collect “call-out fees” or gain entry into homes  

- Email phishing scams using City logos to trick customers into clicking harmful links or providing account details  

Important Reminders from the City:

- All legitimate payments must be made through official City of Johannesburg banking accounts or authorised platforms such as EasyPay, SA Post Office, Pick n Pay or www.joburg.org.za  

- City officials never demand cash payments at your door  

- Disconnection teams carry full identification, official job cards and branded vehicles, and will never request on-the-spot payments  

- SMS messages from the City originate from verified platforms and will never include non-City bank account numbers  

- Meter inspections and replacements are conducted only by authorised contractors with accreditation and job cards  

How to Protect Yourself:

- Verify any communication by contacting the City’s 24/7 Call Centre on 0860 56 28 74  

- Report suspicious account numbers, emails or SMS messages immediately  

- Do not allow anyone into your property without proof of appointment and identification  

- Cross-check City information on official digital channels, including the Joburg website and social media pages  

- Register on e-Joburg to access your municipal statements and reduce reliance on third-party communication  

Kgamanyane Maphologela, Director of Communications and Stakeholder Management, warned that criminal syndicates are misrepresenting themselves as City officials, issuing fake disconnection notices and circulating fraudulent banking details to deceive customers into making illegitimate payments.  

“We urge all customers to remain alert, verify information and report any suspicious behaviour immediately. Protecting our community is a shared responsibility,” said Maphologela.  

Reporting Fraud:

Residents can report fraud through any of the following channels:  

- City of Johannesburg Anti-Fraud Hotline: 0800 002 587  

- Joburg Call Centre: 0860 56 28 74  

- Email: anti-fraud@joburg.org.za  

- Nearest JMPD offices or SAPS station for criminal cases  

Mozambican Duo Arrested After Police Recover Stolen Firearms Linked to Ivory Park Murders

An intelligence-led operation has resulted in the recovery of two South African Police Service (SAPS) firearms stolen during the brutal killing of two officers in Ivory Park, Johannesburg, on Friday evening.  

The recovered weapons, an SAPS-issued 9mm pistol and an R5 rifle with several rounds of ammunition, were positively identified as belonging to Sergeant Rapetsoa and Constable Montja, who were attached to the Ivory Park police station. Both officers were disarmed before being fatally shot.  

Following the murders, SAPS mobilised maximum resources to track down the perpetrators and retrieve the stolen state-issued firearms. Crime intelligence officers, supported by the Sedibeng Tactical Response Team and the Hawks, conducted targeted operations in Tembisa and Mamelodi East, where the firearms were successfully recovered.  

Two Mozambican nationals have been arrested and will face charges of illegal possession of firearms and ammunition. Investigations into the murders are ongoing, and the search continues for additional suspects and a missing 9mm state pistol.  

SAPS National Commissioner General Fannie Masemola commended the team for their swift and tireless efforts, emphasising the commitment to bringing those responsible for the killings to justice.  

Heavy Rainfall Puts City Power Under Pressure as Outage Calls Surge

City Power is grappling with severe strain on its electricity network following last night’s intense thunderstorms and persistent rainfall across Johannesburg. More than 2,700 outage calls have been logged since early morning, signalling widespread disruption to supply.

The storms caused significant damage, including a lightning strike at the Northcliff Water Tower, which interrupted operations and affected supply. “Our teams have been dispatched urgently to attend to the incident,” said Isaac Mangena, City Power spokesperson.

Wet conditions have compounded the challenge, hampering restoration efforts as technicians struggle to access waterlogged areas. “The prolonged rainfall continues to affect our ability to respond timeously to faults and maintain a stable electricity supply,” Mangena explained. “Our teams are navigating hazardous terrain, limited access routes and unsafe working environments.”

Several roads remain closed by the Johannesburg Roads Agency due to flooded low-lying bridges, while fallen trees block routes in various parts of the city. “Before we can access some areas, we must wait for the clearing of routes and removal of debris,” Mangena added, noting that these disruptions have delayed response times.

The adverse weather has also led to a spike in underground cable faults caused by excess moisture seeping into the network. Fault detection is proving difficult as equipment cannot function effectively in waterlogged environments, and repairs are delayed where trenches are flooded.

According to this morning’s status report, Roodepoort is the hardest hit, with 906 open calls. Reuven follows with 402 calls, affecting Mulbarton, Glenvista and Soccer City. In the Inner City, outages linked to the loss of Observatory and Orchards substations have impacted areas such as Cheltondale, Linksfield, Orange Grove and Sydenham, with 309 calls logged. Other affected regions include Hursthill (317 calls), Randburg (288), Lenasia (253), Alexandra (209) and Midrand (99).

Despite unavoidable delays, City Power has deployed additional technical teams to accelerate restorations. “Safety remains our priority,” Mangena emphasised. “Technicians cannot operate in areas where there is a high risk of electrical flashover, unstable ground or exposed live infrastructure.”

Residents are urged to exercise caution near damaged or fallen electricity equipment and to keep appliances unplugged, as supply may be restored without prior notice. Those not affected by outages are asked to use electricity sparingly to avoid overloading the already constrained network.

“We apologise for the inconvenience and thank customers for their patience while we work urgently to restore supply across Johannesburg,” Mangena said.

Outage queries can be logged via citypower.mobi or by calling 011 490 7484.

Five Arrested for Alleged Contravention of Foreign Military Assistance Regulations in Gauteng

The Hawks' Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation has announced the arrest of five individuals in Gauteng suspected of contravening the Regulation of Foreign Military Assistance Act. The accused, identified as Nonkululeko Mantula (39), Thulani Mazibuko (24), Xolani Ntuli (47), Siphamandla Tshabalala (23), and Sfiso Mabena (21), appeared before the Kempton Park Magistrates Court on charges related to the offence on Monday, 1 December 2025.

According to Hawks spokesperson Colonel Katlego Mogale, the arrests followed a tip-off from the OR Tambo SAPS concerning three males attempting to travel to Russia via the United Arab Emirates. The individuals were identified at the boarding gate and subsequently detained by Hawks’ Crimes Against the State unit. An initial investigation revealed that a South African woman was facilitating the travel and recruitment of these individuals into the Russian Federation Military.

Further investigations uncovered that a fourth suspect was apprehended upon her return from an international trip, while the fifth was arrested on Saturday, 29 November 2025. Search and seizure warrants were executed on the suspects believed to be involved in facilitating the travel of four individuals, with another suspect having already left the country for Russia.

On 27 November 2025, an individual arriving at OR Tambo International Airport was interviewed, revealing additional evidence that led to the arrest of three more male suspects on 28 November 2025. Electronic devices and two backpacks were seized during the operations for further forensic analysis.

The case has been postponed to 8 December 2025 for formal bail applications, with the five accused remanded in custody. Colonel Mogale confirmed that the Hawks are working closely with intelligence agencies and international law enforcement partners to uncover the full extent of the network and assess any potential security threats stemming from the investigation.

Joburg Celebrates Record-Breaking Success of the 2025 Soweto Marathon

The City of Johannesburg has expressed pride in the outstanding success of the 2025 African Bank Soweto Marathon, widely recognised as The People’s Race which took place on Saturday, 29 November 2025 in Soweto. The event reaffirmed Soweto’s status as one of South Africa’s most iconic sporting and cultural destinations.

This year’s marathon drew an impressive field of eighteen thousand runners, positioning it alongside major national races such as the Comrades Marathon. Participants from across South Africa, the continent, and abroad, including France, Lesotho, Zambia, and Kenya, brought vibrant energy to Soweto’s historic streets.

Johannesburg’s Executive Mayor, Cllr Dada Morero, underscored the event’s significance. He stated that the marathon is a vital occasion for both Johannesburg and Soweto, which boasts a rich history in South Africa’s struggle for liberation. The event’s growth demonstrates increasing global confidence in Soweto’s infrastructure and capacity to host major sporting events.

The Mayor also reaffirmed the City’s commitment to strengthening its long-term partnership with the marathon organisers, aiming to develop the event further in the coming years.

Despite challenging weather conditions at the start, including early rain, mist, and cloud cover, participants demonstrated remarkable resilience. Showers returned around 6.30am before clearing as runners crossed the finish line, exemplifying the enduring spirit that has made the Soweto Marathon one of the country’s most cherished sporting occasions.

Behind the scenes, meticulous coordination among the Community Development Department, Sports and Recreation Directorate, Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department, Emergency Medical Services, and various City agencies ensured a safe and well-organised event. Support from sponsors was also integral to the event’s success.

During the awards ceremony, Deputy President Paul Mashatile presented medals to the top three male and female finishers. MMC for Group Corporate and Shared Services, Cllr Sithembiso Zungu, joined to congratulate the athletes with bouquets and words of encouragement.

Official results were announced, with the male winners completing the 42-kilometre race in times of just over two hours. Khoarahlane Joseph Seutloali led with a time of 2 hours, 20 minutes, and 9 seconds, followed closely by Ntsindiso Mphakathi and Onalenna Khonkhobe. In the women’s race, Margaret Jepchumba secured victory with a time of 2 hours, 34 minutes, and 33 seconds, with Elizabeth Mokoloma and Gerda Steyn also placing prominently.

A historic moment was marked by veteran runner Julian Karp, who completed his thousandth marathon, adding to the event’s significance and inspiring participants.

As a formal partner of the marathon, the City is already planning to expand participation and elevate the event further. Mayor Morero expressed the aspiration for the race to grow significantly, encouraging every Sowetan to participate at least once in their lifetime.

The City wishes to extend its gratitude to all sponsors, organisers, runners, volunteers, and residents whose efforts and support made the 2025 People’s Race a resounding success.