News24 uncovers disinformation network; Top cop arrested: Today's 7 stories in 7 minutes

News24

17 hours ago

News24 brings you the top 7 stories of the day.
Graphic: Sharlene Rood/News24
News24 brings you the top stories of the day, summarised into neat little packages. Read through quickly or listen to the articles via our customised text-to-speech feature.
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Luxury bakkies and fancy watches: Hawks now after financial advisor Mark Kretzschmar
- Financial broker Mark Kretzschmar is being investigated by the Hawks for allegedly defrauding a Limpopo businessman of R1.5 million, part of over R30 million he allegedly took from multiple clients.
- Kretzschmar gained investors' trust by displaying a lavish lifestyle and promising high returns, but then allegedly provided irregular statements, became difficult to contact, and ultimately vanished.
- The FSCA is also investigating Kretzschmar, and Freedom Capital, where he was a representative, claims he acted 'rogue' and misused their financial service provider number.
Philani Lushaba/Linkedin
Crime Intelligence CFO, co-accused granted bail in sex worker burglary cover-up
- A senior Crime Intelligence officer, Major General Philani Lushaba, and three other police officers were arrested for allegedly covering up the theft of Lushaba's laptop, cellphone, and firearm by a sex worker.
- The officers face charges including corruption, defeating the ends of justice, and perjury, with the case highlighting ongoing turmoil and power struggles within Crime Intelligence.
- Lushaba is also under scrutiny for allegedly using Crime Intelligence's Secret Service Account to purchase properties worth millions of rands, raising questions about corruption and maladministration within the division.
'They came to kill all of us': Naudé's co-accused tells how he survived AK-47 gunfire
- Andre Naudé was fatally shot in Parow, Cape Town, while with Sam Farquharson and a 'client,' who was also injured.
- Farquharson, who survived the attack, claims they were checking on construction work and denies any involvement in 'gangster shit'.
- Police are investigating the murder and attempted murder, with alleged Sexy Boys boss Jerome 'Donkie' Booysen also present at the scene.
X/@MkhontoweSizwex
ATM NEC members eye Parliament as part of MK Party partnership deal
- ATM NEC members are reportedly slated to fill MK Party's parliamentary vacancies, strengthening the Zuma-Nongqunga alliance.
- Vuyo Zungula's removal as ATM president is linked to differing views on merging with the MK Party, though ATM denies this was the reason.
- ATM spokesperson denies any NEC directive to fill MK Party roles, emphasising that cooperation between the parties is still in a developmental stage.
Web of deceit: How we traced India's 'Raju Singh' behind SA's viral fake news sites
- News24 uncovered a disinformation network, headed by Raju 'Raj' Singh in India, which spreads false stories in South Africa, India, Wales, and the US.
- The network uses fake news websites resembling local news outlets to publish fabricated stories on various topics, aiming to attract traffic and generate revenue through ads or affiliate links.
- By tracing digital clues like Google Analytics codes and profile picture metadata, News24 identified Singh and his digital marketing business, revealing a profit-driven motive behind the disinformation campaign.
Supplied/Paul Henman
Comrades Marathon Association condemns abuse directed at Israeli runners
- The Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) condemned the abuse directed at Israeli athletes during the race.
- The CMA emphasised its political neutrality and stated the race should unite people, not be a platform for discrimination.
- A video surfaced showing pro-Palestine protesters verbally abusing Israeli athletes along the marathon route.
- The premiere of Shaka iLembe season 2 celebrated African royalty with a golden carpet event at Montecasino, featuring stars in regal attire.
- Highlights included Zulu song and dance performances, stunning fashion creations like actress Nomzamo Mbatha's beaded dress, and an exclusive screening of the season's first episode.
- Attendees included stars like Lemohang Tsipa, Dawn Thandeka King, and King Misuzulu KaZwelithini, all showcasing diverse South African cultures through their outfits.