A 25-year-old woman accused of defrauding the Emfuleni Local Municipality of approximately R424,000 has been denied bail after the court found that her release would not be in the interests of justice.

Motorists will face higher petrol prices from Wednesday, while diesel, paraffin and LP gas users are set to benefit from significant price reductions following the latest fuel price adjustments announced by the Department of Petroleum and Mineral Resources.

Former SAPS Special Task Force member Mathipandile Sotheni will remain behind bars after the Brakpan Magistrate’s Court denied his bail application, citing concerns that he could evade trial and interfere with the administration of justice.

A 35-year-old man has been arrested after police uncovered crystal meth valued at approximately R3 million during an intelligence-driven operation in Diepsloot. The drugs were found hidden under a mattress, while investigations into a second suspect continue.

Gauteng Health and Wellness MEC Faith Mazibuko will reopen newly refurbished wards at Kopanong District Hospital and unveil an upgraded psychiatric facility at Sebokeng Regional Hospital as part of efforts to improve patient care and increase bed capacity.

Police in Limpopo have seized dagga worth an estimated R11 million and arrested three suspected drug traffickers after intercepting two vehicles transporting the illicit consignment through Hoedspruit.

Bafana Bafana are set to travel to North America on Monday after visa delays forced the postponement of their scheduled departure, prompting Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie to demand accountability for the administrative setback.

Zimbabwean businessman Frank Buyanga Sadiqi has spent nearly three years in South African custody as legal proceedings continue, with his lawyers raising concerns about delays, his deteriorating health and the handling of his case.

Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson has called for an independent investigation into a controversial R70 million lease agreement for a Pretoria building that allegedly had no tenant, following findings of procurement irregularities and accountability concerns.

Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Sindisiwe Chikunga has called on women and girls to prioritise their safety when using e-hailing services following growing concerns over crimes targeting both drivers and passengers.

More than 2,300 South African-owned spaza shops have been approved for support under the R500 million Spaza Shop Support Fund, with government allocating R179.6 million so far. However, compliance challenges, including licensing and verification issues, continue to prevent many applicants from accessing the funding.

The Ghanaian government has received the first group of nationals evacuated from South Africa, pledging continued support and assistance as they begin rebuilding their lives back home.

The Madlanga Commission has submitted its second interim report to President Cyril Ramaphosa as the inquiry into alleged criminality, political interference and corruption in the criminal justice system prepares to resume public hearings next week.

The Collen Mashawana Foundation has provided relief to 141 families in the Sonskynhoekie Informal Settlement north of Pretoria, donating food parcels, blankets, mattresses, clothing and toys. Founder Dr Collen Mashawana also pledged two houses and solar panels to support vulnerable residents facing poverty and inadequate living conditions.

Retail giant Woolworths says no injuries were reported after explosive devices detonated at two of its stores in Pretoria and Bloemfontein this week, prompting heightened security measures and a Hawks investigation.