Taxi Driver Arrested After Soweto Marathon Runner Injured in Hit-and-Run

The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) has confirmed the arrest of a 39-year-old taxi driver following a serious incident during the annual Soweto Marathon on Saturday, 29 November 2025. The driver allegedly struck a female runner near the intersection of Soweto Highway and Main Road/Mooki Street in Orlando East and Noordgesig, where JMPD officers were deployed to manage traffic for the event.

According to JMPD, officers were alerted to the collision while directing traffic. It is alleged that the driver attempted to flee the scene but was swiftly apprehended before he could escape. The 37-year-old runner sustained severe injuries and was transported to Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital for urgent medical care.

Upon arrest, the driver was suspected of being under the influence of alcohol. A breathalyser test confirmed this, recording a reading of 0.26 mg/l, which is significantly above the legal limit of 0.10 mg/l for professional drivers in South Africa. The suspect has been charged with Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol and Hit and Run (Failing to Stop and Render Assistance). He is currently detained at Orlando SAPS, and a case docket has been opened for further investigation.

JMPD spokesperson Superintendent Xolani Fihla expressed strong condemnation of the incident, stating: "This reckless behaviour during a major public event is unacceptable. We urge all motorists to obey traffic laws and exercise caution, particularly in areas hosting large gatherings. Our officers remain committed to enforcing the law and ensuring the safety of all residents and visitors to Johannesburg."

The JMPD has extended well wishes to the injured runner for a full and speedy recovery and reiterated its appeal for responsible driving to prevent such tragedies.

Fifth Arrest in Hawks Crackdown on Foreign Military Recruitment

The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) has confirmed the arrest of a fifth suspect in connection with an ongoing investigation into the facilitation of South African nationals into the Russia–Ukraine conflict.  

The latest arrest follows the detention of four individuals on 28 November 2025 at OR Tambo International Airport. These suspects were intercepted after a tip-off indicated they were en route to Russia via the United Arab Emirates.  

Preliminary inquiries revealed that a South African woman allegedly played a key role in recruiting and arranging travel for the group to join the Russian Federation military. A search and seizure operation subsequently uncovered electronic devices and personal items believed to be linked to the recruitment network.  

The fifth suspect, who is alleged to have assisted in facilitating the travel of the group and another individual already in Russia, was apprehended upon arrival at OR Tambo International Airport on 27 November 2025.  

All five suspects are expected to appear before the Kempton Park Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 1 December 2025, facing charges under the Regulation of Foreign Military Assistance Act, 15 of 1998.  

Colonel Katlego Mogale, spokesperson for the Hawks, stated:  “This arrest marks a significant step in dismantling a network suspected of recruiting South Africans for foreign military involvement. Our coordination with intelligence and international partners continues to ensure that any further threats to national security are addressed.”

Investigations remain ongoing to determine the full scope of the operation and any additional individuals involved.  

Explosives Seized from Woman during Atteridgeville Police Operation

A woman driving a Mercedes-Benz was stopped by members of the Atteridgeville SAPS on Saturday, 29 November 2025 at approximately 9am after officers observed her speeding towards Hartbeespoortdam. The incident occurred during a routine crime prevention patrol along the R511.  

“The officer managed to bring the vehicle to a halt, and the members approached it tactically. The occupants were requested to step out with their luggage for inspection,” said Tshwane District spokesperson Captain Johan Van Dyk.  

During the search, officers discovered several explosives and explosive components inside the bag of a female passenger. She was unable to provide a valid explanation for being in possession of the items and was immediately arrested.  

Van Dyk confirmed that the SAPS Bomb Disposal Unit was called to the scene, where the explosives were secured and removed for safe keeping.  

A case docket has been opened, and investigations are ongoing to establish the origin and intended destination of the explosives.  

The suspect has been formally charged with the illegal possession of explosives.  

SAPS Tshwane District Commissioner Major-General Samuel Thine praised the officers for their vigilance and swift response, noting that their actions played a crucial role in safeguarding the public.  

Hawks Arrest Four in Alleged Foreign Military Recruitment Plot

The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), commonly known as the Hawks, has confirmed the arrest of four suspects who are expected to appear before the Kempton Park Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 1 December 2025. The arrests follow allegations of contravening the Regulation of Foreign Military Assistance Act, 15 of 1998.

According to the Hawks, the suspects were apprehended on Friday, 28 November 2025 after a tip-off from OR Tambo SAPS. The individuals were intercepted at the boarding gate while en route to Russia via the United Arab Emirates. They were flagged as suspicious and referred to the Hawks’ Crimes Against the State (CATS) section for further investigation.

Preliminary inquiries revealed that a South African woman had allegedly facilitated the travel and recruitment of these individuals into the Russian Federation Military. A search and seizure warrant was subsequently obtained for an additional suspect believed to have played a role in the facilitation process, including arrangements for a fifth individual who had already departed for Russia.

Upon the suspect’s arrival at OR Tambo International Airport on 27 November 2025, investigators conducted an interview which uncovered further evidence. This development led to the arrest of three more male suspects on 28 November 2025. Electronic devices and two backpacks were seized during the operation for forensic analysis.

Colonel Katlego Mogale, spokesperson for the Hawks, stated:  “These arrests demonstrate our commitment to safeguarding national security and upholding the law. The Regulation of Foreign Military Assistance Act exists to prevent unauthorised involvement in foreign armed forces, and we will act decisively against any breaches. Coordination with intelligence structures and international counterparts is ongoing to determine the full scope of this network and any potential threats to South Africa’s security.”

Investigations continue as authorities work to establish whether additional individuals or entities are linked to the recruitment scheme.

Police Launch Intensive Manhunt After Two Officers Fatally Shot in Ivory Park

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has initiated a large-scale manhunt following the brutal killing of two police officers in Ivory Park, Johannesburg, on Friday evening, 28 November 2025.

According to SAPS, the officers—a Sergeant and a Constable attached to Ivory Park Police Station—were conducting crime prevention patrols in Extension 9 when they were ambushed and fatally shot by unknown assailants. The suspects fled the scene on foot, taking with them two SAPS pistols, an SAPS rifle and two mobile phones. No arrests have yet been made, and investigations are ongoing.

The Gauteng Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni, visited the scene shortly after the incident and has appointed a team of seasoned detectives and specialised units to track down the perpetrators and recover the stolen state firearms. The Station Management and Employee Health and Wellness teams are providing psychosocial support to the families and colleagues of the deceased officers.

National Commissioner of SAPS, General Fannie Masemola, condemned the attack, stating that the continued killing of law enforcement officers undermines the authority of the state. He emphasised the importance of vigilance and operational readiness among officers, noting that between 1 April and 30 September 2025, six police officers were killed in the line of duty.

“We are doing everything possible as management to ensure members are always operationally ready to respond to the call of duty by providing them with resources and ensuring they attend refresher courses and regular maintenance shooting exercises. To all our law enforcement officers out there, don’t die with the resources that we have given you. Always be vigilant and act decisively when your life or the lives of the communities we serve is under threat,” said General Masemola.

Authorities have urged anyone with information that could assist in the investigation to come forward. The search for the suspects continues as SAPS vows to bring those responsible to justice.

Justice Served as Mbombela Sergeant Sentenced for Attempted Murder

The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has welcomed the conviction and sentencing of a Protection and Security Services Sergeant who recklessly endangered lives in Mpumalanga.

A 32-year-old officer, Sergeant Martin Twala, was sentenced by the Kwanyamazane Magistrate’s Court to five years’ imprisonment for attempted murder and two years for negligent discharge of a firearm. The court ordered the sentences to run concurrently, meaning Twala will effectively serve five years behind bars. He was also declared unfit to possess a firearm.

The incident occurred on 11 January 2020 when Twala, under the influence of alcohol, discharged his service firearm towards a group of people while driving along the Main Road in Kanyamazane. One man, identified as Ngoako Mbokane, sustained a gunshot wound to the stomach. Twala fled the scene after instructing the victims not to open a case and later attempted to falsely report a carjacking against them.

IPID investigated the matter thoroughly, leading to Twala’s arrest and subsequent conviction.

IPID spokesperson Lizzy Suping commented:

“This sentence sends a strong message that law enforcement officers are not above the law. The reckless actions of Sergeant Twala could have cost an innocent life, and such behaviour will never be tolerated. IPID remains committed to ensuring accountability and restoring public trust in policing.”

The conviction underscores IPID’s mandate to uphold justice and protect communities from unlawful conduct by members of the police service.

Unified Policing Blitz Nets Hundreds in Tshwane Crime Crackdown

A sweeping law enforcement operation in Tshwane has delivered a major blow to criminal networks, with 380 suspects arrested, a stolen vehicle recovered and illegal goods seized during a high-impact deployment in Pretoria Moot and Garsfontein on Thursday, 27 November 2025.

The success of Operation Shanela was driven by a coordinated effort led by Tshwane District Commissioner Major-General Samuel Thine, supported by multiple SAPS units and partner agencies. The operation drew on a broad coalition of law enforcement entities, including the Department of Home Affairs, Tshwane Metro Police Department, Gauteng Traffic Police, the Department of Community Safety and local Community Policing Forums.

Detectives launched intensive suspect-tracing on Wednesday evening ahead of the main deployment, resulting in 286 arrests. Among those detained were two suspects wanted for murder, nine for attempted murder, seven for armed robbery and four for rape. A further 92 individuals facing gender-based violence charges were also taken into custody.

High-visibility policing followed, with roadblocks, inspections and patrols aimed at strengthening community safety and enforcing legislation. Officers conducted 626 person searches, 328 vehicle searches and verified 20 vehicles to confirm they were not stolen. Sixty-seven illegal immigrants were arrested and handed over to immigration officials for processing.

Two liquor outlets were fined for violating the Liquor Act, while two second-hand goods dealers faced penalties under the Second-Hand Goods Act. Traffic authorities issued 147 AARTO infringement notices totalling R130,700, and 10 taxis were impounded for contraventions of the Road Traffic Act.

Targeted patrols in 17 hotspot areas uncovered ongoing drug-related activity. Five suspects were arrested for possession and dealing in drugs, with officers seizing 50 ziplock bags containing various substances, a large bag of dagga, one Mandrax tablet and cash linked to illegal transactions. Motor vehicle crime was also addressed when three suspects were arrested after being found in possession of a stolen silver Hyundai, while a BMW used during the commission of the crime was confiscated.

Major-General Thine praised all participating agencies, stressing that coordinated policing remains vital for building safer communities in Tshwane. The operation stands as a clear message that law enforcement will continue to tighten its grip on crime.