South African authorities are on high alert as the Easter long weekend approaches, with a focus on reducing road fatalities. Traffic officials will be targeting reckless drivers, those driving under the influence of alcohol, and unroadworthy vehicles. Special attention will be given to light delivery vehicles (bakkies) and public transport due to their increased presence on the roads during this period. Law enforcement will be deployed on major routes such as the N1, N2, N3, and N4, conducting vehicle inspections and ensuring driver compliance to address issues such as speeding, drunk driving, pedestrian safety, and unroadworthy vehicles.
In other news, National Assembly Speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula has been granted a week reprieve amid legal tensions. Facing potential arrest by the State, she has postponed any action until after an impending court ruling. Mapisa-Nqakula denies the charges against her, claiming they are unfounded and the prosecution’s tactics are illegitimate. Her legal team argues for her to be summoned to court rather than arrested, citing a violation of her right to legal representation. The State accuses her of forming a corrupt relationship with a defense contractor and using bribes for home renovations, sparking debates over the credibility of a key witness and the handling of the case by law enforcement officials.
On a more positive note, police have successfully rescued kidnapped cousins Mohamed Bataviya, 19, and Zahraa Mohamed, 17, who were abducted nearly three weeks ago in Brits. The cousins were taken in front of a primary school, leading to arrests in Klipgat near Ga-Rankuwa. While details are limited, the cousins are reported to be in good health and undergoing medical examinations. It is unclear if a ransom was demanded, but initial reports suggest armed suspects forced the cousins into a separate vehicle before fleeing the scene. One suspect has been previously arrested in connection with the incident.
Stay tuned for more updates on these developing stories and other news from South Africa.
