
The Mpumalanga High Court has sentenced Mozambican national James Cumalo to a life term of 25 years, plus an additional 38 years, for the murder of angler John Wickham and other charges. Cumalo, an illegal migrant, pleaded guilty to murder, aggravated robbery, attempting to defeat the ends of justice, and unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition. The incident occurred in November 2023 in Dullstroom, where Cumalo invaded Wickham's guest house with the intention of robbery. After an altercation, Cumalo fatally shot Wickham and fled with stolen belongings. He was apprehended in January 2024 after investigators tracked Wickham's stolen cellphone. The National Prosecuting Authority NPA commended the investigative and prosecution teams, emphasizing its commitment to vigorously pursuing such cases to ensure accountability and deterrence.
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Residents in the Eastern Cape are experiencing electricity outages and water supply shortages following last week's storms. The New Horizon Library in Bitou Municipality is temporarily closed due to water leaking through electrical plugs. Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality's water supply system is under pressure from large amounts of sludge, affecting treatment works and leading to temporary water supply decreases for desludging. Bitou Municipality has periodically reduced night-time water production. While water supply and reservoir levels have improved in Kariega, areas like Tyrellville, Lapland, and Kamesh remain critical, with water trucks dispatched to ensure continuity. The Loerie Water Treatment Works was temporarily offline for filter maintenance, and water was shut down along the Chelsea system, affecting Chelsea and KwaNobuhle 4 reservoirs, though production has since been restored. A leak was also found in the water supply to Colchester. A planned electricity shutdown on 23 June 2026 will impact the Nooitgedagt Water Treatment Works for infrastructure improvements, though the rest of the municipal water supply is stable. The New Horizon Library's closure is due to safety concerns from water leaks in electrical infrastructure.
Must ReadAs the 31-member impeachment committee prepares to deliberate on President Cyril Ramaphosa’s fate in the Phala Phala farm saga, a new debate has emerged regarding proposals by the DA and ANC that only “fit and proper” Members of Parliament be allowed to serve on the committee. This move could potentially bar several members from the inquiry. Ramaphosa faces the possibility of removal from office, as MPs have established a committee to recommend whether he should be impeached. Last week, Ramaphosa did not address calls from opposition parties to clarify the Phala Phala Farm saga, despite the impending impeachment inquiry. The DA parliamentary leader, George Michalakis, argued that the committee requires integrity and higher ethical standards, proposing that the Speaker determine "fit and proper" assembly members, ensuring all parties are represented. ANC MP Mikateko Mahlaule supported this, noting that courts have defined "fit and proper." However, former President Jacob Zuma’s MK Party opposed the proposal, claiming it aims to sideline its leader, John Hlophe. MK representative Mzwanele Manyi warned that without a clearly defined decision-maker and procedure, the requirement could become arbitrary and susceptible to political manipulation. Advocate Andrew Breitenbach SC advised that an independent legal opinion might be needed. The subcommittee faces a tight deadline, with proposals due before the full rules committee on Tuesday and the National Assembly on Thursday. Other pr

A 47-year-old South African Police Service officer in the Free State allegedly shot five people, killing three and injuring two, before taking his own life. The incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday, June 7, 2026, near Hennenman. The officer reportedly went to Whittes Plot looking for his girlfriend. After failing to find her, he and the girlfriend's uncle went to another location where family members were gathered. An argument ensued when he was informed his girlfriend was not there, and he allegedly opened fire. The victims declared dead at the scene were the girlfriend's mother, her uncle, and a 25-year-old woman. Two others sustained gunshot wounds, with one transported to a hospital and the other treated at the scene for a graze wound. The officer then returned to his vehicle and shot himself. The motive for the shooting is currently unknown and under investigation. Free State Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Thabang Lesia condemned the incident, extending condolences to the affected families and wishing the injured a speedy recovery. A comprehensive investigation has been ordered, with cases of murder, attempted murder, and an inquest registered and handed to the Independent Police Investigative Directorate.