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Latest News in South Africa – Friday, 12 August 2022

• Bheki Cele concedes police alone can’t deal decisively with illegal mining. 
• It’s a matter of survival for All Blacks coach Steve Hansen.
• Tristan Thompson returns to Instagram feeling “wiser.”

The police cannot deal with zama zamas on its own, Cele tells Parliament – News24

Police Minister Bheki Cele conceded that the police, on its own, will not be able to deal decisively with illegal mining activities, reports News24. 

On Thursday, Cele and Mineral Resources and Energy Minister Gwede Mantashe briefed the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) on interventions to curb illegal mining.

“Illegal mining destroys the social fabric of the mining industry through bribery, corruption, and threats of violence against mineworkers and management. Illegal mining gives rise to prostitution, child labour, substance abuse and other crimes that adversely affect mining communities,” said Cele. Read more here

Foster on ropes in South Africa as All Blacks seek end to dismal run – EWN

As he prepares for a test that might determine his fate, the New Zealand Herald has described struggling All Blacks coach Ian Foster as a “decent guy” who is out of his element in a harsh profession, reports EWN. 

“New Zealand tackle arch foes South Africa in the Rugby Championship in Johannesburg on Saturday, and a sixth loss in seven Tests will almost certainly spell the end for likeable but beleaguered ‘Fossie’.” Read more here

Tristan Thompson Posts About Getting “Wiser” After Welcoming Son With Khloe Kardashian – E! News

Tristan Thompson returns to Instagram feeling “wiser.”

The NBA star published his first Instagram post after the news of the birth of his son through surrogacy to ex-girlfriend Khloe Kardashian and their second kid together broke.

“I never switched sides, I switched lanes. I got wiser and realize we aren’t all built the same #DontTryMe,” Thompson said. Read more here

Here are the top trending stories of the day. 

Headline: Marikana massacre 10 years on: Have we thrown the lessons from the tragedy away? – News24

Headline: Kim Kardashian SPITS OUT Her Shot at Kylie Jenner’s Birthday – E! News!

Headline: Kathy Hilton Mistook Lizzo For The Fictional Character ‘Precious’ – Huffinton Post

Headline: Sundowns legend Hlompho Kekana still has plenty to offer SA football – TimesLIVE (for subscribers)

Headline: Premier League: 10 things to look out for this weekend – The Guardian

Weather: Cold front expected over parts of Northern Cape, Western Cape – News24

Image credit: Gallo Images

• Seven people from the West Rand were charged with rape concerning the alleged group rape of eight women.
• Serena Williams concedes defeat on her farewell tour. 
• The breakdown of the divorce between Somizi and Mohale airs on ShowMax. 

Seven suspects in the Krugersdorp mine dump attack charged with rape – TimesLIVE

According to TimesLIVE, last month’s gang rape of eight victims in Krugersdorp was connected to seven suspects. 

The women were filming a music video in an abandoned mine on the West Rand on July 30 when they and the film crew were attacked by dozens of men wearing Basotho blankets. The article further states that five of the eight models were raped collectively. It was suspected that the assailants were zama zamas working in the neighbourhood.

“The seven charged with rape appeared in the Krugersdorp magistrate’s court alongside their co-accused, where they faced additional charges of robbery and the contravention of the Immigration Act on Wednesday.” Read more here

‘Terrible at goodbyes’: Serena Williams begins farewell tour with Canadian Open defeat – The Guardian 

Serena Williams’s farewell tour didn’t last long. According to The Guardian, she lost to Belinda Bencic in the second round of the Canadian Open 6-2, 6-4, just one day after she said she was going to quit tennis.

Williams got a standing ovation when she walked onto the court, and the full crowd cheered for her the whole 77-minute match. 

“It’s been a pretty interesting 24 hours … I’m terrible at goodbyes. But, goodbye Toronto. I always had amazing times here both on and off the court. I’ll be coming back just as a visitor to the city but otherwise it’s been remarkable,” said Williams. Read more here

End of The Road: Somizi and Mohale’s divorce gets its own doccie – The Citizen

Somizi and Mohale: End of the Road is a new Shomax documentary that explores their relationship, its public collapse in the wake of the leaked recording of Mohale accusing Somizi of abuse, and what this meant to fans and the greater LGBTQIA+ community in South Africa, The Citizen reports. Read more here

Here are the top trending stories of the day. 

Headline: Phala Phala saga: Parliament to probe claims of Zizi Kodwa cover-up, abuse of secret funds – News24 (for subscribers)

Headline: How SA’s most notorious thugs got out of jail free and killed 24, including two Hawks officers – TimesLIVE

Headline: Will Smith Applauded by Oscar Producer Will Packer for ‘Being So Transparent’ in Chris Rock Slap Apology – Billboard

Headline: TS Galaxy stun defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns at Loftus – TimesLIVE

Headline: Kylie Jenner Shares Glimpse Into 25th Birthday Brunch – E! News

Weather: Fire warnings for Eastern Cape, Free State and Northern Cape – News24 

Image credit: Pixabay

• Details of Ramaphosa Phala Phala burglary emerge.
• The first win of the season for Chiefs as they beat Maritzburg United at FNB Stadium.
• Pete Davidson is seeking professional help following Kanye West’s harassment.

Phala Phala theft: The Dubai buyer, a buffalo and the stolen $600 000 – News24 (for subscribers)

News24 reported that in February 2020, thieves took cash worth about $600,000 from President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Phala Phala farmhouse. This was much less than the millions of dollars that were first thought to have been taken.

Hendrik von Wielligh, who runs Ramaphosa’s farm, was paid about R9 million for the sale of one buffalo, News24 reported.

“News24 believes the buyer was from Dubai, but the name of the person who paid in cash remains unknown, although it has been submitted to the Public Protector. The money was also not hidden under a mattress or couch cushion as has been widely speculated, but was stored in a cupboard.” Read more here

First win of the season for Chiefs as they wallop Maritzburg United at FNB Stadium – TimesLIVE

Tuesday night at FNB Stadium in Johannesburg, Kaizer Chiefs earned their first win of the season by beating Maritzburg United 3-0 in their DStv Premiership encounter.

“Ashley du Preez and Keagan Dolly scored for Chiefs in the first half while 18-year-old Mduduzi Shabalala came off the bench late in the second stanza to put the final nail into United’s coffin.” Read more here

Pete Davidson Is in “Trauma Therapy” After Being Harassed Online by Kanye West – Harpers Bazaar 

According to Harpers Bazaar, Pete Davidson is going for trauma counselling after being harassed by Kanye West. 

Soon after Kardashian and Davidson’s separation over the weekend, Kanye West posted a menacing image on Instagram with the caption “Skete Davidson Dead at Age 28.”

According to People, Kardashian and Davidson’s representatives contacted Instagram about removing the image, which has already been removed. The insider said that Davidson’s team and Kim’s have consistently asked Instagram to make the platform safer. Read more here

Here are the top trending stories of the day. 

Headline: UPDATE | Prison torture case: Inmates sue justice minister for almost R10 million – News24

Headline: They couldn’t touch her: how Serena Williams became a rare legend – The Guardian

Headline: ‘It is a problem of men’: Ramaphosa, political parties make GBV focus of Women’s Day – News24

Headline: DJ Zinhle confirms she is married to Murdah Bongz – The Citizen

Headline: Ronaldo leaving Real Madrid made me more ambitious, reveals Benzema – Goal

Weather:  SA Weather, 10 August 2022 – SABC News

Image credit: Gallo Images

• The South African Defence Force is placed on standby due to an increase in “criminality”. 
• Bok captain Kolisi throws praise at the Springbok supporters.
• Kim Kardashian and Pete Davidson have called it quits after nine months of dating.

Army placed on standby for possible deployment due to ‘SA deteriorating into unrest’ – TimesLIVE (for subscribers) 

The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has ordered 200 troops to be on standby for deployment because South Africa is steadily degenerating into civil unrest as a result of crime.

“It is foreseen that the SANDF might be called to play their secondary role to go on 24-hour standby in anticipation of further unrest.”

TimesLIVE reports that military generals were reminded that all units must immediately maintain maximum security in light of the rising number of violent occurrences. Read more here

Bok captain Kolisi full of praise for the support they received in Mbombela – TimesLIVE

On Saturday, the Springboks defeated the All Blacks 26-10 in the Rugby Championship. According to TimesLIVE, the Springboks’ captain, Siya Kolisi, was full of admiration for the fans who filled Mbombela Stadium and motivated the team to victory.

“I just don’t know how SA people do it. The way they turn up with everything that’s going on in our country. People who can afford it come along and fill up the stadium for us and it means the world to us as a team.”

Kolisi continued saying that this win was the starting point in a lengthy campaign. The Springboks still have 5 games to go. Read more here

Kim Kardashian and Pete Davidson Broke Up Because the ‘Spark Faded’ Between Them – Elle Magazine 

Kim Kardashian and Pete Davidson’s breakup after nine months of dating was confirmed by Entertainment Tonight. 

“They had tons of chemistry, and still do, but she kind of wants to be single and date. Kim still adores Pete and will always be friends with him. She still thinks he’s the nicest and sweetest guy in the world and there’s no drama or anything weird between them now,” a source said. 

It was reported that the distance was too much for Kardashian, who has four children and many businesses. Read more here

Here are the top trending stories of the day. 

Headline: Eskom bleeds 13 000 years’ collective knowledge in months as execs debate skills crisis – News24 (for subscribers)

Headline: Worst of SA food price crisis could be over, says agriculture expert – Fin24 (for subscribers)

Headline: ‘We’ll get them’: Zwane vows after Kaizer Chiefs suffer third loss in a row against Royal AM – TimesLIVE

Headline: Former Man Utd star Giggs goes on trial for assault – EWN

Headline: Khloé Kardashian Has Reportedly Broken Up With Her Private Investor Boyfriend – Elle Magazine

Weather: Heavy rains expected to batter Eastern Cape coastal areas – News24 

Image credit: Gallo Images

• Mpumalanga police commissioner is determined to find the suspects who killed Anton Mzimba and “put them behind bars”. 
•  The wait is over. Finally, #Beyonce releases her 7th studio album, “Renaissance.”
• Thandi Moroka adds R500,000 to Banyana Banyana’s bonus kitty. 

Manhunt for 3 men who shot, killed ranger Anton Mzimba and wounded wife – News24

Three suspects are still free after shooting and killing game ranger Anton Mzimba and wounding his wife near Bushbuckridge on Tuesday night.

News24 reported on Thursday that the assailants shot Mzimba’s weeping wife in the stomach after she saw them killing her husband for his anti-poaching efforts.

“Mpumalanga police spokesperson Brigadier Selvy Mohlala said they could not speculate on the motive for the shooting and this would form part of their investigation.” Read more here

Beyonce’s ‘Renaissance’ Officially Arrives, Singer Calls Out Leakers – Variety 

Beyonce’s seventh solo album, “Renaissance,” was released as planned at midnight on Friday. The singer and businesswoman praised her followers on Instagram for their patience and support.

“So, the album leaked, and you all actually waited until the proper release time so you all can enjoy it together,” she wrote on Instagram. “I’ve never seen anything like it. I can’t thank y’all enough for your love and protection.

“I appreciate you for calling out anyone that was trying to sneak into the club early,” she continued. “It means the world to me.”

Listen to the album here:

Limpopo govt adds further R500 000 to Banyana bonuses for Limpopo-born stars – News24

Thandi Moraka, the Limpopo MEC for Sport, Arts, and Culture, made the news on Thursday during a ceremony honouring the players who helped South Africa make history in Rabat. Moraka added R500,000 to the bonuses of Banyana Banyana players born in Limpopo, News24 reports.

“Hildah Magaia, who netted the winning double in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon) final to beat Morocco, Noko Matlou, Lebogang Ramalepe, Nomvula Kgoale and Amogelang Motau will each pocket R100 000 for their exploits in Morocco.” Read more here

Here are the top trending stories of the day. 

Headline: EFF key to sinking ANC as DA deal to take over Nelson Mandela Bay falls short of votes – News24 (for subscribers)

Headline: Selena Gomez Thanks Fans for “Growing Up With Me” in EMOTIONAL TikTok – E! News

Headline: Beyoncé Shares Rare Glimpse Of All 3 Kids In Never-Before-Seen Photo – Huffington Post

Headline: Rilee rampant as Proteas right all the wrongs to emphatically square T20 series – News24

Headline: F1 rivals pay tribute to Vettel – Speed Cafe

Weather: Damaging winds warning for parts of Eastern Cape on Friday – News24 

Image credit: Getty Images

• A game ranger who exposed wildlife crime was gunned down after receiving many death threats. 
• It’s official: Wayde Jooste and Orlando Pirates part ways.
• Lamar Odom says Khloé Kardashian should’ve hit him up if she wanted a second baby.

‘Whispers of death threats’: Game ranger Anton Mzimba was in danger, but insisted on doing his job – News24 (for subscribers)

Anton Mzimba, was murdered on Tuesday evening while serving as chief ranger at the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve in Mpumalanga for 25 years. According to News24, Mzimba received many death threats for his anti-poaching approach but refused alternate housing.

“Ruben de Kock and his wife Marianne claimed Mzimba was the target of a syndicate because of his anti-poaching efforts.”

News24 claims that the police have yet to establish what transpired. Read more here

Another Pirates Player Departure Confirmed – Soccer Laduma

Several players have left the club since the last season ended, including Happy Jele, Ntsikelelo Nyauza, and Thulani Hlatshwayo. The Siya crew has learned that Wayde Jooste has also left the Buccaneers, Soccer Laduma reports.

“This is an excellent opportunity for Wayde to push for regular game-time. Wayde is a model professional, both on and off the pitch and I believe this is a case of one team’s loss is another team’s gain in my opinion,” Kieran Brown of the Sprint Management Group LTD said. Read more here

Lamar Odom Jokes Khloé Kardashian ‘Could Have Hollered at Me’ for Second Child – Complex 

Lamar Odom joked that he would have been willing to help Khloé Kardashian have a baby if she had asked him about it.

When asked what he thought about Khloé Kardashian and her on-and-off boyfriend Tristan Thompson having their second child via surrogate, the former NBA player responded with “she could have hollered at me for that”. 

Odom also expressed concern “about their relationship status”. Read more here

Here are the top trending stories of the day. 

Headline: Whistle-blower tells of Mkhwebane’s heavy hand and ‘reckless litigation’ – Daily Maverick

Headline: We should not expect fireworks at the ANC’s policy conference – Daily Maverick

Headline: BeyHive Is Up in Arms About Beyoncé’s ‘Renaissance’ Leak: ‘Respect Her Wishes & Wait’ – Billboard

Headline: Soyizwapi optimistic as ‘excited’ Blitzboks aim for Birmingham podium – News24

Headline: Stubbs sparkles, bowlers belted as Proteas fall in opening England T20 – News24

Weather: Fire warnings for parts of Western Cape, Northern Cape on Thursday – News24 

Image credit: Flickr

• One suspect in the Hillary Gardee murder case had plotted to kill a witness.
• Banyana Banyana captain dedicates victory to South Africans.
• The nominees for the 2022 MTV Video Music Awards have been announced.

Suspects in Hilary Gardee murder case plotting to kill witness, court hears – EWN

According to EWN, on Tuesday in Nelspruit Magistrate Court, it was revealed that one of the people suspected of killing Hillary Gardee had planned to kill one of the witnesses.

“Investigating officer colonel Thamsanqa Mkhaliphi, told the court that the trio accused of killing Gardee were overheard by several inmates to be colluding to murder the witness.” 

On Tuesday, Mkhaliphi disclosed this information during his court testimony. Read more here

Champions Banyana Banyana welcomed back home – eNCA

On Tuesday, the Banyana Banyana players returned home to a joyful greeting at OR Tambo International Airport with a massive celebration and awards presentation. According to eNCA, Refiloe Jane, the captain of Banyana Banyana, has dedicated their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations victory to South Africans.

Throughout the tournament, the team felt the love, support, and prayers, according to an emotional coach, Desiree Ellis.

“A R5.8-million incentive bonus was awarded to the team by Sports Minister Nathi Mthethwa.” Read more here

Your 2022 VMA Nominations Are Here: Jack Harlow, Kendrick Lamar, Lil Nas X Lead The Pack – MTV

The 2022 MTV Video Music Awards are coming up in just one month, and Jack Harlow, Kendrick Lamar, and Lil Nas X are all nominated for the most awards.

According to MTV, the three rappers have a total of seven nominations, with Lil Nas X and Harlow being nominated in five different categories for their hit duet “Industry Baby.” “Family Ties” and “N95” are two of Lamar’s music videos that have been nominated for Best Cinematography. Doja Cat and Harry Styles are tied for second place with six nominations each. Read more here

Here are the top trending stories of the day. 

Headline: Babita Deokaran tried to stop ‘secret’ Tembisa Hospital payments to ANC leader – News24 (for subscribers)

Headline: Instagram CEO RESPONDS After Kardashian-Jenner Backlash – E! News

Headline: ‘We didn’t look for body, he took us straight’: Meghan Cremer murder accused told cop he ‘killed a person’ – News24

Headline: Drake Explains That Controversial 14-Minute Private Flight He Reportedly Took – Billboard

Headline: Captain fabulous Refiloe Jane’s journey to Banyana glory: ‘She showed you can do it’ – Sports24

Weather: Thundershowers forecast for parts of Gauteng on Wednesday – News24 

Image credit: Flickr