Police arrest three suspects for murder victim found in Dawn Park

Source: Government of South Africa

Police arrest three suspects for murder victim found in Dawn Park

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has made a breakthrough in the murder investigation of the ninth victim in the series of murder cases involving women currently under investigation in Gauteng.

Three suspects, comprising one man and two women, were arrested over the weekend by members of the Gauteng Murder and Robbery Unit in connection with the murder. 

Police discovered the body of a ninth woman on Thursday (17 September 2026) morning in Dawn Park, Boksburg. Her body was found following the discovery of eight bodies in Ekurhuleni over the past two months. 

The trio is expected to appear on Monday before the Boksburg Magistrates’ Court.

The Acting National Commissioner of the SAPS, Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane, said police are seized with all nine murder cases, with each case receiving priority attention.

“We remain committed to ensuring that these investigations are pursued with the urgency and determination they require. Our investigators are following all available leads and are working tirelessly to bring those responsible to justice,” said Lieutenant General Dimpane.

Further details regarding the case will be ventilated in court. 

After the woman’s body was found, police appealed to community members to share any information that may assist with the investigations by calling the Crime Stop Line at 08600 10111 or by providing anonymous tip-offs on MySapsApp, which can be downloaded on any smartphone. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin

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No renewed widespread sardine deaths: DFFE

Source: Government of South Africa

No renewed widespread sardine deaths: DFFE

As the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) continues to monitor the 2026 sardine mortality event, no renewed widespread mortality has been observed.

“No renewed widespread mortality has been reported. The only new report during the past week was an isolated fresh sardine stranding near Mbotyi on the northern Wild Coast on 11 September 2026,” the department said in a statement on Monday.

The department said the temporary precautionary fisheries measure implemented on 11 September 2026 remains in force until 2 October 2026.

“During this period, each right holder may land no more than 25% of its outstanding 2026 directed sardine total allowable catch. The measure applies west and east of Cape Agulhas while monitoring and scientific work continue,” the department said.

The available evidence did not indicate that the mortality had reduced the sardine population sufficiently to warrant complete closure. 

The current measure in place is precautionary and time-limited, and can be reviewed sooner if conditions deteriorate.

According to the department, the industry confirmed that strong winds prevented recent fishing west of Cape Agulhas and that fishing opportunities in Algoa Bay were also limited by the weather. 

Only one catch of sardine, amounting to 26 tonnes, has been taken since the beginning of September.

“Pilchard herpesvirus (PHV) remains the strongest identified biological factor associated with the event and has been confirmed in affected sardines from the Western Cape and Algoa Bay. Monitoring, sampling and laboratory investigations are continuing.

“Earlier KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) samples tested negative for PHV, but only a small number were tested. Additional samples are expected and are important for determining whether that result is consistent across a broader sample. 

“If these also test negative, this will support, but not prove, that the event did not extend into KZN, consistent with the reported mortality front ending before it reached the province. No effects on sardine-dependent seabirds or marine mammals have been confirmed,” the department said.

PHV is a fish virus and is not known to infect people. Commercially produced sardine products released through regulated channels remain safe. 

The department said members of the public should nevertheless not collect or consume dead or dying sardines found on beaches or floating near shore, feed them to pets, or use them as bait.

The Small Pelagic Scientific Working Group will meet on 29 September 2026 to review the available evidence and reconsider management of the fishery before the temporary measure ends. 

The planned October/November hydroacoustic survey will provide the first fisheries-independent estimate of sardine biomass and distribution following the event. –SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle

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Condolences on passing of retired Judge Frans Kgomo

Source: Government of South Africa

Condolences on passing of retired Judge Frans Kgomo

The Office of the Chief Justice (OCJ) has expressed its condolences to the family and friends of the late Judge Frans Kgomo.

“The Chief Justice of the Republic of South Africa, Justice Mandisa Maya, on behalf of the Judiciary, expresses deep sadness at the passing of retired Judge Nare Frans Kgomo, formerly a Judge of the Limpopo Division of the High Court.

“Judge Kgomo dedicated many years of his life to the administration of justice, serving in various capacities before his elevation to the Bench,” the OCJ said in a statement.

Kgomo rose through the ranks of the judiciary over several decades, serving first as a Public Prosecutor, Sheriff/Messenger of the Court, court interpreter, and clerk of the court, and later as a Magistrate before going into private practice.

He was then appointed as Judge of the Gauteng Division of the High Court in 2008.

“While based in Gauteng, he was regularly deployed to Limpopo and Mpumalanga for circuit court duties. He was subsequently appointed to the Limpopo Division of the High Court on 28 November 2016, where he served until his discharge from active service on 1 October 2022.

“His career reflected an enduring commitment to justice and public service; from the court offices in which he began his professional life, to the Magistracy, legal practice and ultimately the Bench. 

“His journey through these different facets of the justice system gave him a wealth of institutional knowledge and experience that he brought to his judicial service,” the OCJ statement read.

The OCJ expressed sadness at Kgomo’s passing.

“His passing will be deeply felt by his colleagues in the Judiciary, members of the legal profession, court officials and all those whose lives he touched during his long career.

“The Chief Justice, on behalf of the Judiciary, extends heartfelt condolences to the Kgomo family, his friends, former colleagues and all those who knew and worked with him, during this difficult time,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB

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Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Announce Launch of "Doha Investment" Platform

Source: Government of Qatar

New York, September 20, 2026

HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani announce the launch of “Doha Investment” platform, a dedicated platform to manage and grow the Qatar Investment Authority’s (QIA) domestic investment portfolio and accelerating long-term value creation within the Qatari economy.

In his opening remarks at the Qatar Economic Forum – Powered by Bloomberg, held Sunday on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, His Excellency said that the launch of the platform follows Qatar’s successful three-decade-long effort to build world-class infrastructure, institutions, and companies. The mission now is to leverage the full potential of these pillars and support the next phase of Qatar’s economic development.

His Excellency added that, through this platform, the State of Qatar aims to expand private sector participation to serve as a driver of economic growth. The platform will support leading companies, help startups grow, deepen capital markets, and attract international capital and expertise to contribute to these efforts.

His Excellency noted that the platform would contribute to enhancing governance and developing capabilities, thereby making companies more competitive and better prepared for expansion. He further indicated that the platform’s success would be measured by the extent of its contribution to building a more competitive, resilient, and diversified Qatari economy in which the private sector plays a greater role.

His Excellency emphasized that over the next five years, the State of Qatar is expected to launch new infrastructure projects valued at approximately USD 38.5 billion, including public-private partnership projects, with the initial tendering processes commencing immediately. He added that, in parallel, separate projects in the real estate and hospitality sectors are expected to attract private investments totaling USD 22.5 billion. This includes the Simaisma Beach project, which is projected to draw investments of around USD 5.8 billion, with further projects to be announced in due course.

HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs emphasized that these projects and investment opportunities, combined, represent a value exceeding USD 60 billion over a five-year period.

His Excellency said that the goal is to combine public infrastructure projects with private capital and international expertise. He noted that Qatar is seeking partners who possess technological innovation and market access, and are prepared to build long-term partnerships.

HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani emphasized that the State of Qatar does not underestimate the current state of uncertainty, yet it will not allow short-term disruptions to dictate its long-term direction.

His Excellency asserted that the State of Qatar works to enhance regional stability through diplomacy, while advancing reform, strengthening resilience, and creating growth opportunities through investment.

His Excellency added that for the State of Qatar, diplomacy and economic stability are closely linked, as diplomacy safeguards the conditions that enable individuals to engage in trade and investment and plan for the future. He emphasized that the foundations of sustainable security cannot be established through recurring cycles of escalation and retaliatory responses, nor through arrangements that leave any state permanently vulnerable to insecurity.

Regarding the current crisis in the region, HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs said that discussions during the crisis would begin with the topics of security and de-escalation, subsequently moving on to issues concerning energy supplies, shipping routes, and the fate of investment plans.

His Excellency emphasized that the region requires a framework grounded in respect for the principle of sovereignty, where no state poses a threat to another. He stressed that the State of Qatar will remain a committed partner in mediation efforts, a reliable energy supplier, and a long-term investment partner.

His Excellency described the events the region has witnessed recently as an “earthquake,” with aftershocks extending far beyond its borders, challenging prevailing assumptions about security and stability.

HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs noted that Doha has worked with regional and international partners to keep channels of communication open, de-escalate tensions, and support diplomatic understandings, highlighting Qatar’s recognition that economic resilience requires preparedness, institutions, infrastructure, and partnerships established prior to the onset of crises.

His Excellency said that the crisis put these fundamental pillars to the test, as activities were disrupted and costs rose. Yet, the Qatari financial system continued to operate and companies carried on with their functions. He added that this resilience reflects years of preparation and planning under the leadership and vision of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani.

HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani affirmed that Qatar’s economic fundamentals remain robust. He noted that the expansion of the North Field would reinforce the country’s position as a reliable energy supplier and support its economic diversification efforts; for energy is the source of its strength, diversification is the secret to its resilience, and technology is its future. 

Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs: Qatar Emerged Stronger, Following Various Challenges

Source: Government of Qatar

New York, September 20, 2026

HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani affirmed that the State of Qatar has faced numerous challenges, emerging from each one stronger than before.
Speaking during a panel discussion at the Qatar Economic Forum – powered by Bloomberg – held on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly on Sunday, HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs said that regardless of the challenges faced during this war and the accompanying uncertainty, Qatar’s pledge to its people is to emerge stronger and build greater resilience for the future.
His Excellency added that during the current regional crisis, which he described as an “earthquake”, Qatar’s foundations regarding security and supply chains were put to the test and proven to be strong and robust. What Qatar has built over the past years has proven highly effective, succeeding in safeguarding its citizens and ensuring the continued flow of supplies to its people. Consequently, the institutional response was highly effective: financial aid continued, the banking sector remained operational, and cash flow was maintained.
His Excellency added that the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) has continued, and will continue, to invest actively in the global market. The QIA’s mission is to diversify the state’s revenue base and preserve wealth for future generations. Qatar wanted to ensure that the legacy it leaves behind enables the next generation to enjoy the same standard of living and lifestyle.
Responding to a question about the economic impact of declining oil and gas revenues on government spending, HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs said that when looking at the situation and what Qatar has experienced, we find that Qatar has maintained complete transparency from the very beginning, which is precisely what Qatar expects from its business partners as well. Undoubtedly, the situation has affected Qatar and the surrounding region, causing significant economic disruption; however, “upon closer examination, we find that this disruption is circumstantial rather than structural.”
His Excellency added that Qatar has built a solid foundation that has successfully withstood the test of time; what truly matter are the priorities realized and the achievements made for the benefit of the people. “Consider Qatar’s own experience: looking back at its history, before we focused on natural gas, people called us mad and claimed we would gain nothing from that investment, yet we went on to become the world’s leading supplier of liquefied natural gas. Similarly, when we bid to host the World Cup, everyone said we wouldn’t win the rights; when we did win, everyone predicted failure, yet we delivered an exceptional tournament that the world still talks about to this day,” he said.
His Excellency added that Qatar’s story centers on precisely that, transforming the impossible into a tangible reality. This is Qatar’s approach to dealing with the challenges and turbulence it faces today. we believe that the future will be far better for our people. Qatar has emerged stronger from every crisis it has encountered – a fact we have demonstrated to our people and the entire world. We are confident that we will overcome this period of turbulence and emerge even stronger, ushering in a new era for the State of Qatar. We hold this belief firmly and are focused on building a solid foundation for the next phase of Qatar’s journey.
Regarding reports of a potential 30 percent cut in government spending, HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani stated that in reality, there is some misinformation on this matter. “It is important to clarify that the spending cuts, which were necessary, were limited to operational expenses and did not affect capital projects. For instance, all capital projects listed under ‘Chapter Four’ remained untouched, as did ‘Chapter One,’ which covers human resources, salaries, and citizens’ living standards; these were left entirely unaffected. Our focus is on managing our budgets with high efficiency under these circumstances. Naturally, every crisis also presents future opportunities; when examining government operations, one often finds ‘fat’ or excess expenditure that can be trimmed. We must seize such crises as an opportunity to eliminate this inefficiency and redirect our investments toward areas that benefit the country and its citizens.
Responding to a question about Qatar’s investments in artificial intelligence, His Excellency said that Artificial Intelligence (AI) represents the future. Qatar believes that if we wish to be part of this future, we must be present from the early stages. Therefore, Qatar collaborates with companies and partners to ensure responsible investment and to work with firms that adopt responsible practices. From a government perspective, we view this as a new development regarding which governmental views diverge: while some nations speak of regulating this pioneering field, others advocate for completely freeing it from restrictions.
His Excellency added that AI is a new tool that can be harnessed for the good of people and humanity as a whole, yet it can also be used in harmful or destructive ways. He believes that we are currently at a stage where everyone is beginning to consider what the future will look like in the age of AI, making this the right moment to reflect responsibly. In this context, Qatar has launched a pioneering national entity for AI; it will focus primarily on leading this field and establishing the appropriate mechanisms and frameworks to ensure safety and security, while preserving the cultural identity of its people.
Regarding Qatar’s mediation efforts to secure a ceasefire and end the suffering of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, His Excellency said that What Qatar is doing, and striving to achieve, is facilitating peace talks and acting as a mediator between the conflicting parties, while consistently maintaining open channels of communication and utilizing them when necessary. This approach has proven highly effective. While this type of engagement may not appeal to some around the world, Qatar does not ask them to accept or embrace it; rather, it asks them to understand it and recognize the benefits realized when it is put into practice.
HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs emphasized that much could be said regarding the peace process and mediation, stressing that peace is not limited to mediation or bringing parties together to celebrate the signing of an agreement that might not subsequently be implemented. He said that everyone is currently witnessing examples of this in Gaza; regrettably, we are dealing with a situation where one party acts recklessly and reneges on its obligations, persisting in killing and blocking the entry of humanitarian aid, while the world fails to take sufficient action. It is abundantly clear that the obligations stipulated in the agreement have not yet been met, and we call upon the Israeli government to fulfill its commitments. 

Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs Meets President of Sierra Leone

Source: Government of Qatar

New York, September 20, 2026

HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani met Sunday at his residence in New York with HE President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Dr. Julius Maada Bio.

Discussion during the meeting dealt with cooperation relations between the two countries and ways to support and enhance them, in addition to a host of topics of mutual interest.

Qatar, ICRC Sign MoU on Mediation, Humanitarian Action, International Humanitarian Law

Source: Government of Qatar

New York, September 20, 2026

The State of Qatar and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) signed on Sunday a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on mediation, humanitarian action, and international humanitarian law, on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

The MoU was signed by HE Minister of State for International Cooperation, Dr. Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad and HE President of the ICRC, Mirjana Spoljaric Egger. 

HH the Amir Sends Written Message to President of Indonesia

Source: Government of Qatar

Jakarta, September 20, 2026

HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani sent a written message to HE President of the Republic of Indonesia Prabowo Subianto pertaining to bilateral relations and ways to strengthen and develop them.

The message was handed over by HE Ambassador of the State of Qatar to the Republic of Indonesia Dr. Sultan bin Mubarak Al Dosari during his meeting with HE Indonesian Minister for Foreign Affairs Sugiono.

Eritrea’s Strength Lies in Its Human Resources, Enriched through Education and Experience

Source: APO – Report:

At a symposium organized today, 20 September, at Asmara Palace Hotel in connection with the Golden Jubilee of the establishment of the Revolution School, President Isaias Afwerki said that Eritrea’s strength and resources lie in its people, whose capabilities are enhanced through education and experience.

Underlining that even before 50 years, Eritrea’s strength lay in its human resources, President Isaias emphasized the significance of working relentlessly to develop human resources to achieve the desired goals and, above all, secure the country’s future.

At the event, attended by Ministers, senior Government and PFDJ officials, Army Commanders, religious leaders, and invited guests, Dr. Halima Mohammed, Minister of Education, stressed that, beyond commemoration, the occasion calls for renewed commitment to nation building and nurturing a competent generation through quality educational opportunities. She also commended those who contributed to organizing the colorful event.

Ambassador Zemede Tekle, Commissioner of Culture and Sports, indicated that the Golden Jubilee of the establishment of the Revolution School had been celebrated inside the country and abroad with patriotic zeal, attesting to the farsighted decision made 50 years ago.

In a paper entitled “The Importance of Boarding Schools: What Lessons Can We Learn from the Revolution School?”, Mr. Osman Saleh, Minister of Foreign Affairs, said that despite challenging conditions, the consistent commitment of the EPLF, coupled with the dedication of guardians and teachers, had made it possible to nurture capable youth.

At the symposium, research papers were presented on “The Revolution School: From Where to Where,” “Equality of Eritrean Languages: Mother-Tongue Education,” as well as investment in education after independence for the period 2025–2030.

– on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

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Eritrean National Athletics Team Wins Gold and Bronze Medals

Source: APO – Report:

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Eritrea’s National Athletics Team won gold and bronze medals at the 2026 World Athletics Championships held in Denmark.

In the 5 km road race held yesterday, 19 September, in Copenhagen, Olympian Dawit Seare and Athlete Saimon Samuel won gold and bronze medals, respectively, for the Eritrean National Team.

Olympian Dawit finished the race in 12 minutes and 56 seconds, followed by a Norwegian athlete. Dawit’s winning time also set a new national record.

It is to be recalled that Olympian Dawit Seare won the gold medal in the 5 km race at the African Athletics Championships held in Accra, Ghana, earlier this year.

– on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.