Latest news with #NationalInterventionUnit
IOL News
24-07-2025
- 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. 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. Advertisement 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. 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
24-07-2025
- IOL News
SAPS denies raid on Dudu Myeni's home amid fake news frenzy
Late 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: Simphiwe Mbokazi THE South African Police Service (SAPS) has categorically dismissed claims pertaining to a raid conducted by its National Intervention Unit (NIU) at the residence of the late South African Airways (SAA) chairperson Dudu Myeni. They were emphatic that no such operation occurred. Reports flying wildly on social media on Wednesday evening suggested that R18 million was found stashed away at Myeni's Richard's Bay home. 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. 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. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading 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. 'When these falsehoods target vulnerable groups like migrants or those reliant on social assistance, the result is not just confusion. "It's not just about bad journalism; it's about dignity, safety, and informed participation in society,' she concluded. DAILY NEWS
The Citizen
24-07-2025
- The Citizen
Reports of R18m found in safe in KZN house fake news, Saps says
A post claimed that the money was found by Saps National Intervention Unit (NIU). The South African Police Service (Saps) says reports of R18 million found in a safe in a house in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) are fake news. A post shared on a social media platform on Wednesday claimed that the money was found by the National Intervention Unit (NIU). 'The National Intervention Unit (NIU) has raided Dudu Myeni's house and allegedly found R18 million in a safe. The house now belongs to Thalente Myeni, the son,' the post read. Fake news Police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said the post on X is fake news. 'The South African Police Service warns against the spread of fake news about an Saps National Intervention Unit (NIU) raid in which R18 million was found in a safe at a house in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal.' ALSO READ: Chief Justice Mandisa Maya impersonated on social media Responsible reporting Mathe has called 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, more so the National Intervention Unit (NIU),' Mathe said. Fake Mkhwanazi account Last week, several social media accounts purporting to be KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi surfaced on X, following explosive allegations of political interference in police operations by Police Minister Senzo Mchunu and Deputy National Commissioner for Crime Detection, Shadrack Sibiya. Since Mkhwanazi made the allegations, several fake accounts have appeared on social media, particularly on X, TikTok and Facebook, using the names and photographs of the top cop. Legal action KZN police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda said they have taken note of the fake social media accounts. 'Police in KwaZulu-Natal would like to inform the public that Lieutenant General Mkhwanazi does not have a social media account, and declare that all social media accounts bearing his name and photographs are fake. They are being used to deceive the public into believing that it is the provincial commissioner communicating via such platforms. 'Although police are contemplating taking legal steps against those who impersonate the provincial commissioner of KwaZulu-Natal to advance their personal agendas, the public is hereby informed that those profiles are fake and that neither the police in KwaZulu-Natal nor the provincial commissioner have endorsed such fake accounts,' Netshiunda said. NOW READ: No Grade 13: Basic education department dismisses claims as fake news
IOL News
03-07-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Missing in action: Dr Musa Mthombeni's hilarious social media love letter to his wife
Dr Musa Mthombeni shares a sweet and funny tribute to his wife, Liesl, while she enjoys her girls' trip in Paris. Image: Instagram. Dr Musa Mthombeni has never been one to shy away from expressing his love for his wife, Liesl Laurie-Mthombeni. In his latest post, he pulled out all the stops to let people know how much he misses his wife, who has been on a girls' trip in Paris, France. The radio and TV presenter has been enjoying her stay in the City of Love. She has been sharing the moments spent at different renowned parts of Paris with her girls on her Instagram feed, captivating her followers with her stunning, chic looks. While Liesel had been out and about for a couple of days, her loving husband was back home, missing her and struggling to keep it together. In his witty and dramatic nature, he took to social media to post a 'Missing' person picture of the presenter. Another picture has 'Wanted for stealing my heart' written on it. The jokester went as far as jokingly pledging a R1 billion reward for his wife's return. The caption of the post read: 'ALERT! General Mkhwanazi has issued an urgent public service announcement! The following people are both MISSING and WANTED by the National Intervention Unit. 'The suspects are extremely gorgeous and dangerous at the same time. If spotted, please contact Musawenkosiwesizwesethusamazulu Mthombeni! Reward- R100 000 000.' The two lovebirds got engaged in June 2021 and tied the knot in August 2021 have since been giving their followers a glimpse into their happy marriage with their social media presence. Musa, who is also known for his banter, has previously shared monthly celebrations of their love and union, calling them 'monthversary'. When they got married, the couple opted to wait to start a family, allowing them to enjoy their time together before having a full house. They have since been travelling the world together, celebrating their love for one other in different destinations such as Greece, Germany and Hong Kong to list a few.
Eyewitness News
24-06-2025
- Eyewitness News
AbaThembu royal house welcomes SAPS' effort to curb Mthatha West crime
JOHANNESBURG - The AbaThembu royal house has welcomed efforts by police in curbing rampant crime in the Mthatha West area. This followed a shootout between alleged extortionists and police on Monday night. Six suspects, who opened fire when they were stopped by law enforcement on the R61 road between Mthatha and Ngcobo, were all shot and killed. The royal house of AbaThembu said residents of Mthatha West have been terrorised by extortionists for years. The royal house advisor, Matthew Mpahlwa, said there were times when the area resembled a ghost town because multiple businesses and institutions would close their doors after they weren't able to pay protection fees. Mpahlwa said some schools in the area were pressured to pay up to R50,000 to continue operating. He added people there have been living in fear. 'They are very scared to speak up or to report these criminal elements to the police. In other words, it becomes a private contract between the shop owner and the said extortionist who comes at a specific time to collect money or the militant security guards would come and collect at a specified time, and that shop owner wouldn't dare tell the other one, but this is what is happening.' Mpahlwa said they are grateful for the work of the police's National Intervention Unit, which has been deployed in the area.
