South African stranded in China

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South African stranded in China

CHANON LECODEY MERRICKS ONLINE_EDITOR©®™

An urgent situation involving a young stranded in , has been brought to our attention, raising serious concerns about his immediate safety, accommodation, and ability to return home.

, an emerging artist from , travelled to China after being offered what was presented as a . Upon arrival, promised documentation and contractual arrangements failed to materialise.

He has since been informed by hotel management that he must vacate his accommodation, while efforts to contact the liaison and agency involved have been unsuccessful. With no local support and no funds to secure alternative accommodation or return travel, he faces the very real risk of being left on the street in a foreign country.

The has acted swiftly to address this matter with the urgency it requires, ensuring his safe departure and return to , with arrangements now focused on securing immediate travel from China.

In parallel, as , I have been able to mobilise financial assistance to cover the costs associated return travel so that Austin can return safely. Support has been confirmed from party structures, and additional assistance has been coordinated to ensure that Hendricks can return home without further delay.

This intervention is about safeguarding a young person who pursued an opportunity in good faith and now finds himself exposed and vulnerable far from home. Ensuring his safety, dignity, and return is the immediate priority, and every reasonable step is being taken to achieve that outcome.

This incident serves as a caution to individuals, particularly young artists, to exercise due diligence when accepting , including verifying contracts, accommodation arrangements, and return travel before departure. Families are encouraged to seek independent confirmation and professional advice where possible to avoid similar situations.

We will also be lodging a with the appropriate authorities against the company involved to ensure that the circumstances surrounding this matter are thoroughly investigated.

The Democratic Alliance remains committed to leadership that acts decisively when residents of Nelson Mandela Bay are in distress, whether at home or abroad. The people of deserve leadership that responds with compassion, accountability, and practical action when it matters most.

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EXECUTIVE MAYOR COJ, CLLR DADA MORERO, ON THE TRAGIC KILLING OF DJ WARRAS

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CHANON LECODEY MERRICKS ONLINE_EDITOR©®™

EXECUTIVE MAYOR COJ, CLLR DADA MORERO, ON THE TRAGIC KILLING OF DJ WARRAS

, , mourns deeply upon receiving the heartwrenching news from the regarding the tragic passing of . The brutal and senseless murder of has profoundly impacted and the nation.

A beloved media personality, activist, businessman, and devoted citizen, DJ Warras cared passionately about the future of our city and its people. His departure leaves an irreplaceable void, touching not only his family and loved ones but also all who admired his bravery and dedication to .

Mayor Morero extends his sincere condolences to Warrick’s children, mother, siblings, extended family, friends, and colleagues in the media and entertainment fields. Our hearts and prayers are with the Stock family during this challenging time.

The calls for justice and urges the law to take its course. We join the family in kindly requesting privacy, allowing law enforcement agencies the space needed to conduct a thorough investigation.

May Warrick “DJ Warras” Stock’s soul find eternal peace, and may his family be surrounded by love, strength, and comfort in these sorrowful moments.

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PASSING OF MARHOOM ISMAIL MAHOMED AYOB (1942–2025)

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CHANON LECODEY MERRICKS ONLINE_EDITOR©®™

PASSING OF MARHOOM ISMAIL MAHOMED AYOB (1942–2025)

The () notes with deep sadness the passing of , a distinguished legal practitioner and courageous ally of the liberation movement whose work contributed meaningfully to the struggle against and the pursuit of freedom in .

He was a trained and completed his articles and practised as an attorney at a time when the legal profession was itself a contested terrain in the fight against racial injustice. He served as the legal representative of Mama , Mama and , President and in this capacity ,he was not only a lawyer but a trusted confidant, frequently visiting President Mandela during his incarceration and serving as a critical conduit of communication between the leadership in and the ANC leadership in exile in .

His role required courage, discretion, and an unwavering commitment to the ideals of freedom, dignity, and human rights.

Through his legal work and personal integrity, Marhoom Ayob demonstrated the vital role played by progressive professionals who used their skills in service of justice and liberation, often at great personal risk.

His contribution forms part of the broader tapestry of solidarity that sustained the movement during its most difficult years.

The ANC extends its heartfelt condolences to his son, Zayd, his daughter-in-law, Rabia, his grandsons, and his sisters, as well as to the extended Ayob family, friends, and colleagues.

We join them in mourning the loss of a principled man whose life reflected quiet courage and steadfast commitment to justice. In accordance with Islamic, will take place today, 17 December 2025, at 13h15 after , followed by burial at .

May the soul of Marhoom Ismail Mahomed Ayob rest in eternal peace, and may his legacy of service to justice and humanity continue to inspire future generations.

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SIU SECURES ORDER TO FREEZE R2.7 MILLION OF TINTSWALO CHAUKE’S DIVORCE SETTLEMENT

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CHANON LECODEY MERRICKS ONLINE_EDITOR©®™

SIU SECURES ORDER TO FREEZE R2.7 MILLION OF TINTSWALO CHAUKE’S DIVORCE SETTLEMENT

The has successfully obtained a preservation order from the , allowing it to freeze R2.7 million, including accrued interest, from the sale of land that received as part of her divorce settlement. Chauke was previously married to , a recipient of multiple grants from the National Lotteries Commission (NLC), until their divorce in 2021.

This order prohibits Chauke from withdrawing or transferring the funds until the SIU completes a review application to cancel the grant funding that enabled the purchase of the land, thereby ensuring that the potentially misappropriated funds are secured.

In 2018, the , chaired by Sigudla, received approximately R23 million in funding from the NLC for the construction of old-age homes in and the . However, evidence collected by the SIU reveals that, after receiving these funds, Sigudla transferred a portion to his own companies' bank accounts and subsequently used them to acquire two luxurious properties, namely in and .

Notably, the Midstream property has been frozen pending completion of the review application into the legitimacy of the grant funding to recover misused NLC funds.

The property in Copperleaf Golf Estate, purchased for approximately R800,000 using funds earmarked for community development, was co-owned by Sigudla and Chauke in 2018 and was subsequently transferred to Chauke as part of their divorce settlement. Further investigations have revealed that the proceeds from the sale of this property, amounting to R2,550,000, currently reside in Chauke’s bank account.

The primary mission of the SIU is to recover proceeds from beneficiaries of NLC grant funding who are involved in unlawful activities, thereby restoring the State’s financial losses.

Authorised by through , the SIU is dedicated to investigating allegations of corruption and maladministration within the NLC and to recovering financial losses incurred by the State.

The order from the Special Tribunal represents an important step in the SIU's ongoing efforts to combat corruption and ensure accountability and transparency

in the management of public funds.

The SIU is empowered to initiate civil proceedings in the High Court or a Special Tribunal to address any wrongdoing it identifies, in accordance with the .

Any evidence of criminal conduct uncovered during investigations will be forwarded to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further legal action.

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MAKE SOWETO GREAT

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CHANON LECODEY MERRICKS ONLINE_EDITOR©®™

MAKE SOWETO GREAT

Here is a deep dive into the specific economic and tourism landscape of Soweto.

1. Economic Data: The "Black Diamond" Economy

Soweto is the heartbeat of South Africa's emerging middle class (often termed "Black Diamonds").

It is no longer just a low-income settlement; it is a massive consumer engine that rivals many independent cities.

A. Retail & Consumer Spending

Retail Powerhouse: Soweto has evolved from small spaza shops to hosting "super-regional" malls.
- Maponya Mall: The crown jewel. It is one of the largest malls in South Africa, housing over 170 shops. It proved to major retailers that Soweto residents wanted premium brands (Woolworths, Truworths, Nike) locally, rather than commuting to Johannesburg CBD or Sandton.
- Jabulani Mall & Protea Glen: These malls cater to the expanding western suburbs of Soweto, further capturing local spend.
Spending Patterns:
- Grocery & Food: High volume spending on bulk staples, but with a rapidly growing "convenience" market for fast food (KFC, McDonald's, and local franchises like Chicken Licken).
- Building & Hardware: A massive sector. As residents upgrade from "matchbox" houses to double-storey homes, hardware stores in Soweto see higher turnover than many in suburban Johannesburg.

B. Income & Demographics

The "Dual" Economy: Soweto is economically split.
- Middle Class: Approximately 20% of households earn above R13,000/month. This group drives the property market and vehicle finance sector.
- Lower Income: A significant portion (approx. 20%) still earns below R6,500/month, relying on social grants and the informal economy.
Property Wealth: Soweto is the "wealthiest" township in South Africa by asset value. The average property value is approx. R585,000, which is significantly higher than other major townships like Khayelitsha (R350,000) or Umlazi.

2. Major Tourism Operators & Experiences

Tourism in Soweto has shifted from "poverty tourism" (looking at shacks from a bus) to "immersive tourism" (cycling, eating, and sleeping in the township).

A. Adventure & Adrenaline

Soweto Outdoor Adventures (Soweto Towers):
- Location: The iconic decommissioned Orlando Power Station.
- Activities: They operate the 100m Bungee Jump between the two cooling towers (a bucket-list item for thrill-seekers). They also offer SCAD freefall, paintball inside the towers, and base jumping for pros.
- Target Market: Youth travelers and adrenaline junkies.

B. Cultural & Immersive

Lebo's Soweto Backpackers:
- Focus: The pioneer of "interactive" tourism. Instead of a bus, they put tourists on bicycles or Tuk-Tuks.
- Activities:
  - Cycle Tours: Guided rides through Meadowlands and Orlando, greeting locals and visiting shebeens.
  - Storytelling: Evening sessions around a fire at their "Lebo-Land" park.
  - Camping: They offer the unique experience of camping safely within Soweto.
MoAfrika Tours:
- Focus: Reliable, structured day tours often preferred by international travel agents. They cover the "Big 3": Mandela House, Hector Pieterson Museum, and the Apartheid Museum.

C. Premium Hospitality

Soweto Hotel & Conference Centre:
- Location: Walter Sisulu Square in Kliptown (where the Freedom Charter was signed).
- Offering: A 4-star boutique hotel experience. It caters to business travelers and government officials who need high-end accommodation within the township, proving that luxury exists in Soweto.

3. Strategic Insight

The biggest opportunity currently being exploited is the "Night Economy." Previously, tourists left before sunset. Now, operators like Vilakazi Street Restaurants ( Sakhumzi, Nambitha) and Konka (a high-end nightclub in Pimville) are keeping money in Soweto until late at night. Konka, in particular, has become famous for selling expensive champagne (Dom Pérignon, Ace of Spades) to Johannesburg's elite, reversing the flow of money: rich people from the suburbs now drive into Soweto to party.

End :
Source : Gemini

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Brutal Murder of DJ Warras

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CHANON LECODEY MERRICKS ONLINE_EDITOR©®™

Brutal Murder of DJ Warras

The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Gauteng extends deepest condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of DJ Warras, known to his audience as Warrick Stock.
DJ Warras was outspoken, fearless, and unapologetic in his views. He was a leader in his own right, someone who used his voice, platform, and lived experience to speak honestly about the realities facing our communities. Whether people agreed with him or not, he stood firmly for what he believed in and was never afraid to confront difficult issues.
His senseless and brutal killing is a devastating loss, not only to those closest to him but to our society. It highlights the rising wave of brutal targeted violence in our country, leaving citizens in constant fear as lives are taken with impunity.
His murder further lays bare how unsafe our country has become, and how shockingly easy it is to take a human life in broad daylight without fear of accountability. It challenges law enforcement agencies to act decisively to bring an end to this relentless cycle of violence that has already claimed so many lives.
The DA in Gauteng strongly condemns his killing and calls for swift investigation and accountability. We will be closely monitoring this case to ensure that those responsible are held accountable and that justice is served.
No family should have to bury a loved one because crime has been allowed to spiral out of control. May his family find strength during this painful time. Rest in peace, DJ Warras.

End:

Crezane Bosch MPL - DA Gauteng Shadow MEC for Community Safety

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SAPS 16 066 suspects arrested for serious crimes

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CHANON LECODEY MERRICKS ONLINE_EDITOR©®™

SAPS 16 066 suspects arrested for serious crimes

16 066 suspects arrested for serious crimes including 178 rape suspects, 150 unlicensed firearms as well as 984 dangerous weapons seized during nationwide operations

PRETORIA - The SAPS continues to register commendable progress in the fight against crime through its nationwide Safer Festive Season Operation, running alongside Operation Shanela II to ensure safety and security ahead of the festive season. These intensified police operations carried out between 17 and 23 November 2025 led to the arrest of 16 066 suspects across the country.

In one week, 1 870 wanted suspects were tracked down and apprehended for serious and violent crimes, including murder, rape, car hijackings, house and business robberies, and drug trafficking.

NATIONWIDE BREAKDOWN OF ARRESTS ACROSS VARIOUS CRIME CATEGORIES:

- 143 suspects were arrested for murder. recorded the highest number of arrests with 38, followed by - 26, and then -25

- 178 suspects were arrested for rape, with the majority of arrests in KZN (39), followed by Eastern Cape with 25

- 170 suspects were arrested for attempted murder across multiple provinces

- 1 534 suspects arrested for assault GBH

- 2 778 suspects arrested for possession of drugs, with the recording the highest number of arrests with 1 649, followed by KZN with 390, and then - 287

- 283 suspects for dealing in drugs, with WC-77 and KZN- 48

- 99 suspects were apprehended for illegal possession of unlicensed firearms

- 600 suspects arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs

- 890 arrested for illegal liquor trade

- 449 for possession of dangerous weapons

Major seizures and recoveries

- 1 818 rounds of ammunition were seized during the same period

- 150 unlicensed firearms were seized

- 984 dangerous weapons were recovered

- worth more than R4 million were seized in the past week

- 61 stolen and hijacked vehicles recovered

Highlights of takedowns conducted across the country:

- North West:

Four suspects arrested after kidnapping and robbing a businessman at , , on 20 November 2025. During the tracing operation, police confiscated items, including two , a , power cables, and an iPhone.

- Gauteng:

Police successfully recovered a hijacked truck transporting medicine valued at R2.5 million in , , on 21 November 2025. A suspect was arrested on the scene.

Still on Gauteng, Gauteng. Gauteng , in collaboration with , conducted operations across the province and seized counterfeit and illicit goods worth R1.8 million.

- Limpopo:

Police in collaboration with private sector partners, executed an intelligence-driven operation in targeting suspected scrapyard linked to illicit vehicle activities and seized seven vehicles for further investigation.

- Western Cape:

Four armed suspects who were travelling in a were arrested, and one suspect was fatally wounded in a shootout with police at in on 19 November 2025. An Ak-47 rifle and two pistols with ammunition were seized on the scene.

Still on Western Cape, Provincial Counterfeit Unit, and brand protectors executed an operation and seized counterfeit and illicit items, including card games, branded products, tobacco products, and accessories worth R1 million.

- Free State:

Police arrested a wanted suspect linked to the murder of a 73-year-old woman, Senyora Mofokeng, who was found dead at her house after collecting her pension money on 03 December 2023.

Still on Free State, a joint police operation conducted at the tollgate led to the arrest of two suspects linked to armed robberies at jewellery stores in . Police intercepted the suspects’ vehicle at the tollgate and shootout ensued after one of the suspects pointed members with a firearm. Both aged between 27 and 35 years, sustained injuries and treated on the scene. Police seized two 9mm pistols, an AK-47 rifle with ammunition and jewellery believed to be stolen during recent robberies

- Mpumalanga:

A 42-year-old suspect arrested for kidnapping, robbery, and raping a 30-year-old woman at Bhamjee Sqautter Camp in on 17 November 2025.

- Eastern Cape:

Police arrested two more suspects at the Vaal Plaza in Gauteng who were linked to an armed robbery of a jewellery store at a shopping mall in on 18 November 2025. During the takedown at the toll plaza, a shootout ensued after one of the suspects pointing police with a firearm. Both suspects sustained injuries and arrested on the scene. Police seized two 9mm pistols, an AK-47 rifle with ammunition and jewellery believed to be stolen during recent robberies

Still on Eastern Cape, police intercepted an along the and arrested three suspects for conspiracy to commit abalone poaching. Police seized 17 , 05 torches, 17 pairs of , 17 pairs of , 14 backpacks, 14 waist bags, 17 chucking tools as well as a vehicle for further investigation.

Online Editor