Latest news with #Myeni
IOL News
5 days ago
- IOL News
SAPS refutes false claims of raid at Dudu Myeni's residence
Former SAA chairperson Dudu Myeni's home in Richards Bay became the centre of a fake news story that rapidly did the rounds on social media platforms this week Image: Independent Newspapers Archives SAPS has firmly denied claims of a raid by its National Intervention Unit (NIU) at the home of the late South African Airways chairperson Dudu Myeni, stating that no such operation took place. Social media reports on Wednesday evening falsely suggested that R18 million was discovered at Myeni's residence in Richard's Bay. As the rumour mill gained momentum, further claims circulated on various social media platforms, including a WhatsApp voice note asserting that luxury vehicles, including a Rolls Royce, accompanied by jewellery worth millions, were found at the premises. Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, the SAPS spokesperson, appealed to the public and social media users alike to refrain from spreading unverified information, warning of the potential harm it could inflict. 'The SAPS calls for responsible social media reporting and for users to verify information first before sharing. "The SAPS, therefore, confirms no raid was undertaken by any of its units, including the National Intervention Unit (NIU),' Mathe stated. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. 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Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ The rapid dissemination of such instances of "fake news" has become part and parcel of living presently in the digital age. Unathi Dlamini, a legal expert from Shepston and Wylie, echoed Mathe's caution, elaborating on the implications of unchecked news sharing. 'Disseminating information happens so quickly; the downside is that not enough time is taken to interrogate the information and confirm the correctness. Unfortunately, the need to trend overtakes every other consideration,' she remarked. Dlamini outlined methods for identifying fake news, emphasising careful reading and critical thinking. Key indicators included assessing the credibility of the source, examining contextual clues that align with the content, being wary of sensationalist language, and applying simple common sense to determine the plausibility of claims. 'If you find something difficult to believe, dig deeper,' she advised, suggesting online tools like Google Image Search to verify images. In a digital landscape fraught with misinformation, Dlamini also noted that individuals sharing false information could face legal repercussions under the Cybercrimes Act, which criminalises certain types of harmful communication. Furthermore, breaches of personal information could invoke the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA), while defamation claims against individuals spreading falsehoods remain a viable recourse. As news continues to spread rapidly across social platforms, vigilance and responsible sharing remain paramount in our collective fight against misinformation. Fake news in South Africa goes far beyond being an online annoyance. It poses serious threats to democracy and human rights. Misinformation distorts conversations, erodes trust in public institutions, and sometimes leads to real-world violence. Stories about social grants, false claims that stoke xenophobia, and digitally altered media can all have damaging effects. Seshni Moodley, director of Seshni Moodley Attorneys incorporated, specialising in digital and human rights law, said the issue of fake news was alarming because it deepens existing divisions such as poverty, inequality, and widespread political scepticism. Moodley said with most South Africans relying on social media as a source of information, misleading stories can spread rapidly, making it hard for the truth to catch up. "It's not just about bad journalism; it's about dignity, safety, and informed participation in society,' she concluded. Cape Argus
IOL News
5 days ago
- IOL News
No raid on Dudu Myeni's home: SAPS addresses fake news
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has called on social media users to refrain from spreading fake news. This comes after reports claimed that the police's National Intervention Unit (NIU) raided the home of the late former South African Airways chairperson, Dudu Myeni. The reports claimed the house in KwaZulu-Natal was raided. The house is currently owned by Myeni's son, Thalente Myeni. Reports on social media claimed the NIU allegedly discovered R18 million in cash stored in a safe. The national spokesperson for police, Brigadier Athlende Mathe, cleared the record and said no raid ever took place.
IOL News
20-07-2025
- General
- IOL News
Kennedy Road fire tragedy: Community receives aid after devastating loss
At the Kennedy Road Informal Settlement, eThekwini Deputy Mayor, Councillor Zandile Myeni, and the City's Disaster Management teams distributed essential relief supplies. These provisions, including food parcels, blankets, and sponges, were given to those impacted by the recent fire. Image: eThekwini Municipality Kennedy Road Informal Settlement residents have been given food parcels, blankets and sponges following the deadly fire which claimed two lives in the early hours of Saturday morning. EThekwini Municipality Deputy Mayor Zandile Myeni provided the items during her visit to assess the damage on Saturday. Myeni also visited the families of the deceased, a 25-year-old woman and a toddler (19 months old), where she expressed her heartfelt condolences and encouraged the community to assist where they can, embodying the spirit of Ubuntu. She also appealed to the public to donate food, clothing, bedding, building materials and other essential items that could help those affected. 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Next Stay Close ✕ EThekwini Deputy Mayor Councillor Zandile Myeni (second from left) and the City's Disaster Management teams provided essential relief items including food parcels, blankets and sponges to Kennedy Road Informal Settlement fire victims. Image: eThekwini Municipality Myeni also urged community members to remain vigilant and avoid leaving open fires and candles unattended. The fire destroyed more than 100 informal structures and left 150 residents displaced, who will temporarily be housed in a community hall as arrangements are made for long-term accommodation. The eThekwini Municipality said disaster management teams are engaged in efforts to restore water and electricity services that were disrupted during the fire. About 122 informal structures were destroyed when a fire spread through Kennedy Road Informal Settlement on Saturday. Image: Department of Transport and Human Settlements KwaZulu-Natal Transport and Human Settlements MEC Siboniso Duma said he is in talks with Human Settlements Minister Thembi Simelane on the incident. Duma said a total of 122 shacks were destroyed in a fire that was caused by a burning candle. 'We wish to report that a roving team involving officials from the national department of human settlements, the provincial department of human settlements, and the eThekwini Municipality is already working out a plan to speed up the delivery of building material,' Duma said. 'We will await the finalisation of the verification process by disaster teams from eThekwini and Cogta (Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs).' Nonhle Mbango, 25, died in the Kennedy Road Informal Settlement fire. Image: Supplied Duma said officials from his office met the deceased's families. 'We send our deepest condolences to the families following the sad passing of the following souls: Nonhle Mbango and Bandile Zulu. 'At this stage, our focus is to ensure that extended families in Mount Frere and Umzimkhulu are properly informed about the tragedy.' Nineteen-month-old Bandile Zulu was killed in the Kennedy Road Informal Settlement fire. Image: Supplied Duma said Mbango buried her father weeks ago. He said they are working with Ward 25 councillor Themba Mkhize to help families bury their loved ones. KZN Cogta MEC Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi deployed disaster management teams, accompanied by the social partners, to provide relief to the community. Buthelezi extended his condolences to the bereaved family and assured the family of the department's full support during this difficult time. On Saturday, a fire swept through the Kennedy Road Informal Settlement, destroying approximately 122 informal structures. Image: KZN Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Disaster teams are on the ground, conducting assessments, offering immediate relief, and coordinating any assistance for the victims. Given the cold front bringing rain and low temperatures this weekend, Buthelezi advised the community to exercise caution when using fire for warmth. 'On behalf of the provincial government, we extend our deepest condolences to the grieving family. As a department, we are deeply concerned by this incident, which is the fourth of its kind in this area during the current winter season,' Buthelezi said. 'We urge communities to exercise extreme caution, especially during colder days when the use of open flames, such as izimbawula and heaters, significantly increases the risk of fires.'
The South African
14-07-2025
- The South African
Wrongful death trial begins for ex-KZN rugby player killed by police in Hawaii
The civil trial into the death of former KwaZulu-Natal rugby player Lindani Myeni began on Monday in Honolulu, over three years after he was fatally shot by police in the US state of Hawaii. Myeni, 29, originally from Empangeni, was unarmed when he was shot four times during a confrontation with police officers in April 2021. At the time, officers claimed they were responding to a 911 call reporting a suspected burglary. Myeni's widow, Lindsay Myeni, an American citizen, has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the City and County of Honolulu, alleging that police officers failed to identify themselves and that their actions were racially motivated. Despite public pressure, prosecutors declined to charge the three officers involved, citing that their use of deadly force was justified. The trial proceeds after the Honolulu City Council opted not to vote on a proposed $1.4 million (R26 million) settlement, following objections from local law enforcement. According to local outlet Honolulu Civil Beat, the council's decision was delayed after Honolulu police officers expressed strong opposition to the payout. The case has drawn attention both in the US and South Africa, reigniting debates around racial profiling, police accountability, and justice for victims of police violence. Myeni was a father of two and had settled in Hawaii with his family before the fatal incident. 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.
IOL News
09-06-2025
- General
- IOL News
Lower Illovo residents protest against 400-unit homeless shelter
Residents of Illovo and surrounding areas took to the streets in protest against the building of a 400-unit homeless shelter. Image: Supplied RESIDENTS of Lower Illovo claim their pleas to the eThekwini Municipality to halt the building of a 400-unit homeless shelter in their community, had fallen deaf ears. The residents said while they are not opposed to shelters being built for those in need, the community had not been consulted prior to it being approved. They said they have raised various concerns with the city including safety, the high unemployment and poor infrastructure in the community. Armed with placards, scores of residents took to the streets in protest against the building of the shelter on Saturday. eThekwini Deputy Mayor Zandile Myeni is expected to meet the affected communities today (Wednesday), to listen to their concerns and provide more details on the project. 'This shelter is unique because the homeless would receive rehabilitation, psychological services and development programmes that could lead them to reunite with their families. The focus is to take them out of homelessness. Also, the people we bring to the centre would be profiled,' said Myeni. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. 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Kimeshen Raman, a representative for the concerned residents of Illovo, wrote to eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba, calling for an urgent response to clarify how the project aligned with the Safer Cities mandate. 'As the head of the Safer Cities Programme, the mayor's role is pivotal in ensuring that urban developments, particularly those intended to support vulnerable populations are designed, implemented, and managed in a manner that enhances public safety, promotes social inclusion, and strengthens communities. 'However, the project currently underway in Illovo appears to contradict the core principles of the Safer Cities initiative, which emphasises that community engagement is essential to fostering ownership and trust. But there was zero community consultation. Illovo residents were not informed or consulted before the construction of a 400-person shelter, a complete departure from participatory planning ideals. 'While the Safer Cities framework speaks of technology, good governance, participatory design, and a holistic approach, what is currently unfolding in Illovo feels imposed, reactive, and poorly coordinated,' he said. Raman said while the residents were not opposed to helping the homeless, they supported 'well-managed, transparent, and properly resourced solutions' that protect everyone's dignity and safety. 'We are now requesting a public consultation meeting with Illovo residents, school representatives, and relevant stakeholders. 'We also ask that there be a pause on construction until a proper impact assessment and engagement process is completed and for a review of the shelter location to determine its suitability in light of these serious risks,' he said. The POST also spoke to residents, who had been protesting at the development site since early last week, demanding that the construction be halted until they received their answers. Pastor Kuben Govender, a community leader in Lower Illovo, said the residents had not been consulted. 'The community at large was not made aware of the plans prior to it being approved. There should have been advertisements calling for our input prior to any meetings with the ward councillor and ward committee. We would have raised objections even before it got to that stage. We also only found out when work started on the site around January this year. 'It was history repeating itself. The municipality had previously - on the exact same spot - opened a facility which housed about 45 men. It failed. It was also during this time we saw an increase in crime, and there was a murder that took place right outside this place. A community member was killed. Residents were also getting robbed. We cannot allow this to happen again,' he said. Govender said there was no transparency. 'We heard that this facility will be used for the homeless people from central Durban, and that it is for flood victims. We also don't know exactly how many people will be brought into the area - 400, 500, or a thousand? Furthermore, what type of facility will it be- permanent residence, or will they have to leave in the day and can only return in the afternoons. 'If that is the case, where will they go during the day? People are already unemployed in the community and struggle to find jobs, what will the new people then do? So, we have a lot of questions, but sadly, no one is providing us with these answers,' he said. Govender said despite their demand for construction to be halted, it has continued. Deena Gounden, who is a member of the Lower Illovo neighbourhood watch, said residents previously had an increase in car theft, which they managed to curb. 'There was an outside syndicate operating in the area. However, we banded together with local security companies to keep crime low in the community. While we do still have some petty crime, it is not out of control. However, it is concerning that if there is an influx of people, some who may be unemployed or have drug addictions, we could see crime increase. Previously, when the other facility was in the area, we couldn't keep our clothes on the line or any tools in our yards. 'We also don't have a police station in our area - the closest one is about 12kms away in the surrounding area. We want to know what security measures will be put in place with more people being brought in?,' he said. Venilla Ramalingam, a SGB member of the Lower Illovo Primary School, said they were opposed to the shelter being built just a few metres away from the school. 'Many of our children will have to walk past this shelter to get to the school entrance. Some children, who travel from far, arrive early and wait outside the school - or sit in the nearby park. We are concerned about their safety and will do anything to protect them. 'Also, instead of building a shelter, why didn't they consider opening a library as it is right next to the school. We have many young people, who have completed their matric, but aren't able to afford further studies. Why not build a skills development centre?,' she said. Dineshni Govender, another resident, said they were already battling with failing infrastructure and poor service delivery. 'We are currently faced with the ongoing issue of sewage overflow into our properties. The infrastructure is old and not upgraded to handle the increasing number of residents over the years. The roads are also in bad condition, as there are potholes. 'We are also faced with water and electricity outages on a regular basis. Why are these issues not addressed first before putting more people in the area?,' she said. Gugu Sisilana, the city's spokesperson, said the ward councillor was informed of the project, and he had consulted the ward committee. 'Public participation happens within the ward through the councillor, as part of community meetings. If issues raised require further explanation, municipal officials are invited to provide responses.' Sisilana said the primary recipients will be homeless individuals within the municipality who have been identified as vulnerable and in need of shelter. She said the facility was not a 'night shelter'. 'The facility is intended to provide temporary accommodation for homeless individuals while ensuring they receive the necessary support services. These include medical treatment, psychological care, and access to developmental programmes aimed at rehabilitation, social reintegration, and long-term pathways out of homelessness. 'The individuals accommodated will not reside at the facility permanently. They will be reintegrated into society or reunited with their families, based on assessments and recommendations made by qualified social workers,' she said.
