Latest news with #Gqeberha-based
The Citizen
31-07-2025
- The Citizen
Police slam misleading reports about busienssman Jerry Boshoga
Police have urged social media users to 'spare a thought for the family'. The South African Police Services (Saps) have slammed irresponsible social media posts after reports emerged online that respected farmer and businessman Jerry Boshoga was found dead. Boshoga was kidnapped in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) in November 2024. His kidnappers were reportedly sending his family videos of him, where they were seen allegedly assaulting him and demanding R10 million ransom for his release. Posts shared on social media on Wednesday claimed that the search for Boshoga, who was reported missing, had ended, as he had been found deceased. Social media reporting Police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe called for responsible social media reporting around the kidnapping case of Boshoga. 'In the last 24 hours, unverified social media accounts have shared misleading and false information claiming that Mr Boshoga has been found deceased. 'The Saps can confirm that the investigation into his kidnapping is still at a very sensitive stage, and the businessman has not been found alive or deceased. We therefore call on all social media users to stop the spread of unverified information,' Mathe said. ALSO READ: Police rescue kidnapped Pakistani businessman in Evaton Misleading information Mathe urged social media users to 'spare a thought for the family of Boshoga'. 'The spreading of such misleading information has caused unnecessary trauma, panic and anxiety for the close family members, including his mother, wife and children. 'The Saps are in close contact with the family, and if there are any developments in the case, the family will be the first to be notified by the investigating team,' Mathe added. Pakistani kidnapping Earlier this month, the Gqeberha-based Serious Organised Crime Investigation team of the Hawks successfully opposed bail for six suspects accused of kidnapping a 55-year-old Pakistani businessman. Two former police officers from the Western Cape were among the four people arrested when Gauteng police rescued the Pakistani businessman more than 776km from where he was kidnapped. Bail ruling Hawks spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Avele Fumba said during a closed court session, the Hawks presented a compelling argument against their release. 'The court sided with the state, denying bail and keeping the suspects in custody. The matter has been remanded to 4 August 2025 for further court proceedings. The bail ruling, which was handed down this week in the Graaff-Reinet Magistrate's Court, has been welcomed. NOW READ: Woman nabbed at OR Tambo airport with 10kg of cocaine
The Citizen
17-07-2025
- The Citizen
Hawks strike major blow in kidnapping of Pakistani national
The Pakistani businessman was rescued more than 776km from where he was kidnapped. The Gqeberha-based Serious Organised Crime Investigation team of the Hawks has successfully opposed bail for six suspects accused of kidnapping a 55-year-old Pakistani businessman. Two former police officers from the Western Cape were among the four people arrested when Gauteng police rescued the Pakistani businessman more than 776km from where he was kidnapped. The bail ruling, which was handed down this week in the Graaff-Reinet Magistrate's Court, has been welcomed. Bail Hawks spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Avele Fumba said during a closed court session, the Hawks presented a compelling argument against their release. 'The court sided with the State, denying bail and keeping the suspects in custody. The matter has been remanded to 4 August 2025 for further court proceedings. ALSO READ: Police rescue kidnapped Pakistani businessman in Evaton Kidnapping Fumba said the accused, comprising both South African and Pakistani nationals, are currently facing serious charges related to an alarming February abduction in Graaff-Reinet. 'According to initial reports, the victim was allegedly approached by individuals impersonating police officers. Under the false pretence of official business, they persuaded him to accompany them to a nearby station, and he never returned home. 'A multidisciplinary team, including the Hawks in the Eastern Cape, National Crime Intelligence, Soweto Flying Squad and private security partners, launched a high-priority operation,' Fumba said. Breakthrough Fumba added that the operation led to a breakthrough on 13 March 2025, when the Pakistani national was successfully rescued in Evaton in Gauteng, hundreds of kilometres from where he was kidnapped. 'Four suspects were arrested across various locations, and police seized a vehicle believed to have been used in the abduction, as well as an unlicensed firearm. 'Ongoing investigations later led to the arrest of two additional suspects, bringing the total number of accused to six,' Fumba said. ALSO READ: More than 2 600 wanted criminals linked to violent crimes arrested in South Africa
The South African
11-07-2025
- Sport
- The South African
Pirates news: Loan deals progressing, search for new striker
Orlando Pirates have wasted no time in revamping their squad ahead of the 2025/26 season. The club has confirmed nine new signings, including standout names like Oswin Appollis, Sipho Mbule, and Sinoxolo Kwayiba. However, with such an influx of talent, Pirates are now working hard to trim the squad, finalizing loan moves and permanent exits for players who don't fit into head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou's plans. Goodman Mosele, who only made seven appearances last season after returning from a loan at Chippa United, looks set for another spell with the Gqeberha-based club. Reports suggest both clubs are closing in on an agreement. 'Loan deals help players stay sharp and gain experience while managing the squad's size,' a club official commented. Midfielder Azola Tshobeni also seems likely to depart temporarily after only three appearances last season and no starts. His absence from the pre-season training squad that traveled to Spain strongly hints at an impending loan. In contrast to the loan moves, Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo has left Pirates permanently after his contract expired on June 30. The 30-year-old closes the chapter on a successful stint with 65 appearances and four trophies to his name. Meanwhile, Pirates continue their search for a new striker, with insiders suggesting at least one forward currently on the roster will leave to make room. With many changes expected, fans are watching closely to see how Ouaddou will shape the team moving forward. The club's aggressive recruitment combined with strategic loan moves reflects a clear ambition to build a squad capable of competing for honors. Let us know by leaving a comment below or send a WhatsApp message to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X, and Bluesky for the latest news.
The South African
10-07-2025
- Sport
- The South African
Pirates news: Nine signings spark overhaul, loan deals underway
Orlando Pirates have wasted no time reshaping their squad this transfer window, confirming nine new signings including Oswin Appollis, Sipho Mbule, and Sinoxolo Kwayiba. This bold recruitment drive signals the club's intent to strengthen their ranks as they prepare for the upcoming season under the new head coach. However, with the squad now overloaded, Pirates are moving quickly to trim the roster through loan moves and permanent exits. Among the players set to leave temporarily is midfielder Goodman Mosele, who only featured seven times last season. Reports suggest that Pirates and Chippa United are close to agreeing on another loan deal for Mosele to return to the Gqeberha-based club. Similarly, Azola Tshobeni appears likely to go out on loan after a season with limited game time, as he was notably absent from the squad that traveled to Spain for pre-season training. Meanwhile, Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo has departed permanently, with his contract expiring on 30 June. The midfielder leaves after a solid stint with Pirates, contributing to 65 appearances and four trophies. His exit marks the end of an era but opens space for fresh talent. As Pirates continue their overhaul, insiders indicate the club is actively searching for a new striker. This means at least one current forward will have to make way to accommodate new arrivals, intensifying the squad changes. Given Orlando Pirates' past successes under coach Jose Riveiro, some fans question whether such sweeping changes are necessary. Only time will tell if this revamped squad can meet expectations. Let us know by leaving a comment below or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211. Also, subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
The South African
09-07-2025
- Sport
- The South African
Orlando Pirates transfers: Nine in and several out
Orlando Pirates have wasted no time revamping their squad, confirming nine signings already this transfer window. New recruits such as Oswin Appollis, Sipho Mbule, and Sinoxolo Kwayiba headline an aggressive strategy that has now turned towards trimming the squad. With the team now overloaded, the Bucs have started finalising loan moves and permanent exits for players who no longer fit into the new head coach's plans. Goodman Mosele, who only featured seven times last season after returning from a loan at Chippa United, looks set for another stint with the Gqeberha-based club. Reports suggest the two clubs are closing in on an agreement that would see the midfielder return to the Chilli Boys. Midfielder Azola Tshobeni also appears to be on his way out, temporarily. He made just three appearances last season and didn't start a single match. His absence from the squad that travelled to Spain for pre-season training hints strongly at an impending loan deal. In contrast to the loan exits, Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo has left the club permanently. His contract expired on 30 June, and Pirates have yet to announce a renewal. The 30-year-old departs after 65 appearances and four trophies, closing the chapter on a successful stint with the Soweto giants. With more changes expected, Pirates are also searching for a new striker. Insiders indicate that at least one forward currently on the club's books will make way to accommodate the incoming frontman. Are all the Orlando Pirates changes necessary given how successful they have been under Jose Riveiro previously? Let us know by leaving a comment below or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X, and Bluesky for the latest news.
