Category: South Africa Government

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has expressed serious public safety concerns after 40 people were reported to have been hit by lightning around Majaneng, a rural village in the Hammanskraal area, near Pretoria, earlier this month.

The lightning observation map for 3 January 2026 (12 pm to 10 pm) showed intense thunderstorm activity over the northern parts of Gauteng, with a high concentration of cloud-to-ground (CG) lightning strikes in and around the highlighted region of interest. 

“This period coincides with the timeframe during which fatalities and multiple hospitalisations were reported at the troupe event. These incidents serve as a critical reminder that lightning poses a real and significant danger, particularly in the eastern half of South Africa, which is one of the most lightning-prone countries in the world” SAWS said on Wednesday.

READ | Condolences for victims of North West lightning bolt incident 

The weather service report indicates that activity peaked between 5pm and 6pm, with 713 strikes (39%). 

“The events were mostly negative cloud-to-ground strokes (1764 negative vs 66 positive), with a mean amplitude of −13.73 kA, though some strong positive strokes reached 54.9 kA, indicating mature storm stages and surface hazard. 

“The negative strokes were much stronger, with maximum of -179.7 kA recorded, indicating an exceptionally powerful lightning strike during the period,” the weather service said.

Lightning occurred at a mean distance of 14.5 km, but the closest strike was 1.4 km, showing direct risk to the settlement.

“The highest lightning densities occur over the north-eastern interior, particularly Mpumalanga, Limpopo and parts of northern KwaZulu-Natal, where values locally exceed 15 to 20 flashes per square kilometre. These regions frequently experience intense summer thunderstorms, driven by strong surface heating, deep atmospheric instability and an influx of warm, moist air from the Indian Ocean,” it said.

Much of the central interior, including Gauteng, the Free State and North West, show moderate lightning activity of approximately five to 10 flashes per square kilometre. 

This reflects the Highveld’s climatology, where afternoon and evening convective storms are common during the summer rainfall season.

Lightning is strongly associated with deep convective clouds, which develop most readily in warm, moist and unstable environments, conditions that are far less common in the western parts of the country.

The public is urged to take lightning warnings seriously. 

“If thunder is heard, it means lightning is close enough to pose a danger. Outdoor activities should be stopped immediately, and people should seek shelter in fully enclosed buildings or inside vehicles with closed windows. 

“People should avoid open fields, hilltops, trees, metal fences, poles, water bodies, and temporary structures. If no shelter is available, individuals should spread out, crouch low with feet together, minimise contact with the ground, and avoid lying flat,” SAWS said.

After a thunderstorm, activities should only resume at least 30 minutes after the last sound of thunder. 

The SAWS said it is important to note that lightning strike victims do not carry an electrical charge, and it is safe to assist them. 

Emergency services should be contacted immediately, and CPR should be administered if trained to do so.

Lightning-related injuries and fatalities are largely preventable through awareness, preparedness, and timely action.

The South African Weather Service will continue to closely monitor evolving weather and climate conditions and will provide weekly updates and early warnings where necessary to support public safety and preparedness. –SAnews.gov.za
 

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Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, is expected to meet with the leaders of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and the Special Investigating Unit (SIU).

This after current SIU Head, Advocate Andy Mothibi, was appointed as the National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP) at the NPA.

“The Minister will, in the days to come, convene a meeting with the leadership and relevant teams within the National Prosecuting Authority and the Special Investigating Unit to ensure a smooth transition, and to implement the decision of the President [to appoint Mothibi],” a statement from the department noted.

Mothibi’s appointment was announced this week, with effect from February, at the retirement of current head, Advocate Shamila Batohi.

“Minister [Kubayi] also welcomes the appointment of Mr Leonard Lekgetho as the Acting Head of the Special Investigating Unit.

“The Minister notes the confidence expressed by the President in both Advocate Mothibi and Mr Lekgetho, and wishes them well in the execution of their constitutional and statutory responsibilities, which are central to the strengthening of the rule of law and the effective functioning of the criminal justice system,” the department said in a statement. – SAnews.gov.za

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As the holiday season comes to an end, the South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Northern Cape is urging all motorists and travellers returning home to prioritise road safety and responsible driving.

SAPS expects a significant increase in traffic volumes on major routes, as families and holidaymakers make their way back.

Road users are advised to plan their trips carefully, allow sufficient time for travel and ensure their vehicles are in good condition before embarking on their long journeys.

“SAPS hereby reminds drivers to obey traffic laws at all times, adhere to speed limits, and avoid reckless and negligent driving behaviour, such as overtaking on dangerous parts of the road and curves.” 

According to police, fatigue remains a major contributing factor to road accidents. 

“Drivers are encouraged to take regular rest breaks and to share driving responsibilities where possible.” 

SAPS reiterated that driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs will not be tolerated. 

“Law enforcement officers will maintain an increased presence on the roads through ongoing high-visibility operations, including roadblocks and vehicle checks, to ensure compliance and promote safer roads,” the statement read. 

Pedestrians are also urged to exercise caution when crossing roads, particularly in high traffic areas and to wear visible clothing when walking at night. 

Passengers are also encouraged to always wear seatbelts and to report unsafe driving to the authorities.

“The SAPS calls on all road users to work together in ensuring that everyone reaches their destinations safely. Responsible behaviour on the roads can save lives.” – SAnews.gov.za
 

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The Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy, and Deputy Minister, Mkhuleko Hlengwa, have welcomed the High Court’s declaratory order that sets aside the appointment of IDEMIA as a preferred bidder for the driving license card machines tender.

On Tuesday, the Gauteng North High Court declared that the tender was irregular, invalid, unlawful and unenforceable. 
Consequently, the tender has been set aside by the court. The Department of Transport has been ordered to re-advertise the tender within 30 days.

“Pending the appointment of a successful service provider under the re- advertised tender, the department has also been allowed by the court to outsource the services of printing and issuing of driving license (cards) to the Department of Home Affairs,” the department said on Wednesday.

The court’s declaratory order is based on the department’s court application, following the findings of the Auditor-General of South Africa (AGSA) that pointed out irregularities in the tender process.

Reacting to the court’s declaratory order, the Minister said that the court outcome is a vindication of the department’s commitment to the transparency and legitimacy of tender processes with the decision to approach the court for guidance on the matter as a necessary step for effective regulation.

Meanwhile, on 9 December 2025, the Driving Licence Card Account (DLCA) agency cleared the backlog of driving license cards that were outstanding for printing, following the breakdown of the printing machine from February to May 2025.

As a result, from 8 May to 8 December 2025, a total of 2 239 456 driving license cards were printed by the DLCA.

The State Security Agency has approved the prototype driving licence card designed by the Government Printing Works (GPW).

“The establishment of the network connection between the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) and GPW was successfully tested. This will allow the transfer of data/files required by GPW to print the driving license cards.

“A Cabinet process will soon be undertaken to sought Cabinet approval of the prototype card design,” the department said. –SAnews.gov.za

 

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Current Head of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Advocate Shamila Batohi, has expressed confidence in Advocate Andy Mothibi’s ability to “take the NPA to greater heights”.

Mothibi is expected to take over the reins at the prosecutorial body from next month when Batohi retires from the position.

“Advocate Mothibi is a person of integrity, who comes with a great track record and who knows what it means to fight for the rule of law in the country. 

“As the head of the SIU, and as a key stakeholder and partner in the law enforcement environment, he is no stranger to the work of the NPA and the criminal justice system. I have every confidence that Adv Mothibi will take the NPA to greater heights,” Batohi said.

She described the fight for justice as an “ongoing battle”. 

“There is much to be done, and I have no doubt that with Adv Mothibi at the helm, the staff of the NPA remain resolute in their dedication to his leadership in advancing justice and the rule of law, and that together, they will strengthen the role of the NPA at the heart of our constitutional democracy in the service of the people of South Africa,” Batohi said.

The prosecutorial body assured that a handover report has been compiled to “ensure a smooth transition”.

“[The] report… will be shared with the President, the Minister, the Chairperson of the Justice Portfolio Committee and Advocate Mothibi.

“This report not only documents progress, including on a number of strategic initiatives, but also identifies key risks, opportunities and unfinished work in the process of continued rebuilding and reform. We are also scheduling a programme of briefings to Advocate Mothibi before he assumes duty on 1 February,” the NPA said. – SAnews.gov.za

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The Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional Development has welcomed the appointment of current Special Investigating Unit (SIU) head, Advocate Andy Mothibi, as the new National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP) of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA).

Mothibi was announced as the new NDPP by President Cyril Ramaphosa on Tuesday and is expected to begin his tenure next month.

“The NDPP plays an essential role in ensuring that the prosecuting authority operates independently, without fear, favour or prejudice.

“We trust that the newly appointed NDPP will prioritise efficiency, integrity, and transparency in leading the National Prosecuting Authority,” committee chairperson Xola Nqola said in a statement.

Mothibi will replace current NDPP Advocate Shamila Batohi at the helm, as she is expected to retire later this month.

“Advocate Mothibi’s reputation and successes as head of the Special Investigating Unit speaks for itself. The committee takes comfort in the fact that he has shown exceptional leadership skills. 

“We will, however, continue to do vigorous oversight over his work and that of the National Prosecuting Authority. We look forward to working with the new NDPP and the leadership of the justice system to advance accountability, justice and constitutional democracy,” he added.

READ | President Ramaphosa announces new head of the NPA

The chairperson noted that President Ramaphosa also appointed current SIU Chief Operations Officer Leonard Lekgetho as the acting head of the corruption-busting unit from February.

“We will continue with our mandate to provide oversight over the SIU to monitor the work of the organisation under its acting head,” Nqola said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Deputy Minister of Police, Cassel Mathale, has advised community members against harbouring illegal foreign nationals.

Speaking at the Inter-Ministerial Crime Prevention Community Engagement held at the Mmabatho Civic Centre in Mahikeng, North West, on Tuesday, the Deputy Minister reminded the community that it is illegal to shelter undocumented foreign nationals. 

He emphasised that if illegal immigrants commit crimes, it becomes difficult to trace, apprehend, and bring them to justice.

“Anyone accommodating undocumented foreign nationals must be arrested; if you are found to be renting back rooms and taking rent from them, you must be arrested. [This includes] people who rent their spaza shops to illegal undocumented foreign nationals in possession of fraudulent documents,” said the Deputy Minister, adding that business owners who hire undocumented foreigner nationals must be arrested.

Mathale instructed the police to take a firm stance against illegal shebeens that sell illicit alcohol, emphasising that they should not be sympathetic to those involved in activities that harm others.

“We must not negotiate with people who break the law.” 

Tuesday’s high-level engagement brought leadership, stakeholders, and the community together with a shared commitment to addressing challenges through collaboration, dialogue, and decisive action.
The crime prevention ministerial imbizo, which focused on strengthening unity, coordination and service delivery, stands as a symbol of progress, accountability, and purposeful leadership. 

According to the Police Ministry, it set a strong foundation for coordinated action.

The imbizo aimed at creating a platform for effective interaction between police, provincial leadership, and communities to address gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), and other crimes prevalent in the area. This is in efforts to find lasting solutions and interventions to ensure safety and security. 
 
The South African Police Service (SAPS) Divisional Commissioner for Visible Policing and Operations, Lieutenant General Maropeng Johanna Mamothethi, said crime is a shared challenge.

“We need the community to assist in the fight against crime; the police will integrate law enforcement with social crime prevention,” Mamothethi said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Eskom has moved to assure South Africans that there are no new or emerging breaches to its Online Vending System (OVS).

In December 2024, the power utility disclosed, as part of its full-year 2024 financial results, a forensic report detailing the breach of its OVS which had led to the generation and distribution of fraudulent prepaid electricity tokens.

The power utility denied media reports that it “did not respond to a question regarding the OVS”.

“As part of Eskom’s turnaround strategy, we remain committed to being transparent with the South African public and working with the media to ensure that the facts are always well-presented. 

“This level of collaboration will ensure that we do not raise unnecessary alarms and resist the urge to recycle and present old news as new,” the power utility said.

Recapping the work done since the discovery of the initial breach, Eskom said it had implemented a “comprehensive review and intervention strategy to mitigate vulnerabilities” and to restore the integrity of the system.

“Decisive actions were taken to curb OVS fraud, secure systems, protect revenue and safeguard customers. 

“As stated in the progress update provided on 18 September 2025, key actions [were] implemented as part of a multi-layered approach strengthening physical security, cyber resilience and operational controls,” the power utility said.

These actions include:

• Tighter physical access controls to secure vending environments. 
• Enhanced cybersecurity tools and monitoring to prevent unauthorised access. 
• Stronger user-access controls with weekly dashboards flagging irregularities. 
• Expanded investigative measures, conducted in collaboration with law enforcement, have been concluded for some of the implicated employees (and are underway for all implicated employees), with the internal process resulting in their dismissal. Certain elements have been referred to the authorities, and the company will cooperate fully. 
• Deployment of detection tools to highlight risk areas and enable early intervention. 
• Rollout of smart meters and reconciliation methods to validate fraud levels monthly. 
• Acceleration of a new, secure vending platform to replace the current OVS. 

“As the investigation into the OVS breach continues with law enforcement, and vending fraud is now reduced to very low levels, Eskom is proving that stronger systems, smarter technology, and decisive action are protecting revenue and ensuring secure, reliable electricity for all South Africans,” Eskom said. – SAnews.gov.za

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The Commissioner of the Border Management Authority (BMA), Dr Michael Masiapato, has commended the successful interception of a cigarette smuggling operation at the Beitbridge Port of Entry through the use of advanced drone surveillance technology.

“This interception demonstrates that the BMA is adapting to increasingly sophisticated criminal methods by leveraging modern surveillance technologies. Despite limited resources, our officers remain resolute and proactive in protecting the country’s borders,” the Commissioner said on Tuesday.

As part of the BMA’s intensified law enforcement operations under the 2025/2026 Festive Season Security Plan, the aerial drone detected suspicious movement within the border law enforcement area near the Beitbridge Port of entry.

Real-time drone footage enabled BMA officers to swiftly track and intercept suspects attempting to smuggle illicit cigarettes to the value of R42 797 into the Republic of South Africa.

“The interception confirms the growing effectiveness of technology-driven border management interventions, particularly at high-risk and vulnerable areas along the borderline. The seized cigarettes have been secured, and the suspects were handed over to the South African Police Services for further processing in line with the criminal legislation,” Masiapato said. –SAnews.gov.za

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The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has reiterated that while the mass fish mortality observed in the Hartenbos Estuary in Mossel Bay is not linked to the red tide, it is also not due to a sewerage spillage. 

Through engagements with the Mossel Bay Municipality, it has been determined that this incident can be attributed to a combination of interacting factors, including, but not limited to:
•    Elevated nutrient inputs from multiple sources, leading to eutrophication.
•    Reduced freshwater inflow due to water abstraction and dam development within catchments, resulting in slower water movement and increased susceptibility to algal blooms; and
•    harmful algal bloom and high phytoplankton biomass.

“These are some of the conditions that lead to eutrophication and ammonia toxicity, which the recently released National Biodiversity Assessment and earlier studies highlight as key contributors to fish mortalities in South African estuaries – especially in smaller and temporarily closed systems, such as Hartenbos. 

“The DFFE cautions members of the public against handling or consuming any washed-up marine organisms. Such organisms may pose serious health risks and are not safe for consumption, regardless of the suspected cause of mortality,” the department said on Tuesday.

Furthermore, the DFFE’s Water Quality Monitors, with other relevant local authorities and stakeholders, have since confirmed that the oxygen levels in the water have normalised and the situation is under control. 

Earlier, the department had said that the event where large numbers of dead white mussel, whelks and other shellfish were washed out at St Helena Bay and Elandsbaai on the West Coast has remained confined to those two areas. 
READ | Department gives update on West Coast red tide

–SAnews.gov.za

 

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