Latest news with #TRC
The Citizen
3 days ago
- The Citizen
Foetus discovery draws rehab centre into spotlight again
IN A shocking turn of events, police have launched an inquest after a foetus and CCTV equipment were allegedly discarded in a roadside drain by a senior official at the Tetelestai Recovery Centre (TRC) on July 10. Also read: Luke Edwards' murder accused get bail Private investigator Brad Nathanson said a passing motorist, familiar with the official, witnessed him allegedly dumping items into a drain less than 10km from the centre. After the official drove away, the motorist investigated, recording a video on his cellphone before retrieving surveillance cameras, cables, and a blue plastic bag containing a foetus. Police spokesperson, Colonel Robert Netshiunda, confirmed the grim finding and said an inquest docket has been opened. 'On arrival at the scene, police found the lifeless body of a newborn baby. Investigations are underway to locate the parents, and no arrests have been made,' said Netshiunda. TRC's owner Donovan de Klerk referred all questions to his lawyer, Wesley Rogers, who denied his involvement. 'My client is not linked to this in any way whatsoever. We have confirmed that the foetus issue is an inquest docket and De Klerk is not a suspect. Reports otherwise are false and defamatory,' said Rogers. The centre is also under scrutiny following the April death of patient Luke Edwards, whose body was discovered on the grounds of a nearby old-age home. Four fellow patients were arrested earlier this month and released on bail pending further investigation. For more South Coast Sun news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok. Subscribe to our free weekly newsletter and get news delivered straight to your inbox. Do you have more information pertaining to this story? Feel free to let us know by commenting on our Facebook page or you can contact our newsroom on 031 903 2341 and speak to a journalist. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
Mint
3 days ago
- Business
- Mint
Earning global income as a freelancer? Key income tax provisions you must know
Freelancing is a growing pillar of India's digital economy, especially in the cross-border gig space. Many professionals now offer services—design, tech, consultancy, writing—to clients based overseas. But as the work goes global, so does tax compliance. Understanding how foreign remittances and freelance income are taxed in India is crucial to staying compliant and avoiding penalties. For Indian residents, all income—whether earned in India or abroad—is taxable in India. This includes payments received from foreign clients for freelance work. Such earnings are treated as 'Profits and Gains of Business or Profession', and tax is computed after deducting allowable expenses like laptops, internet costs, software subscriptions, salaries, etc. Simplified route: Section 44ADA To reduce paperwork, many freelancers opt for the presumptive taxation scheme under Section 44ADA. This section applies to professionals in fields like legal, medical, engineering, interior design, and other notified services. If annual gross receipts are up to ₹50 lakh (or ₹75 lakh, provided cash receipts stay under 5%), only 50% of the gross amount is deemed taxable income. If actual income is higher, the taxpayer must declare the actual figure. Although Section 44ADA exempts freelancers from maintaining detailed books or undergoing tax audits, it's advisable to keep basic records—such as invoices and receipts—to support claims if questioned by tax authorities. Advance tax must be paid by 15 March of the financial year, and freelancers opting for this scheme don't need to fill in a balance sheet or profit and loss account in their Income Tax Return (ITR). Audit under Section 44AB becomes mandatory if: Relief from double taxation: FTC Freelancers who earn income from countries that deduct taxes at source may be eligible to claim Foreign Tax Credit (FTC) in India. FTC is crucial in avoiding double taxation, but claiming it requires adherence to several formalities. Form 67 must be submitted online before the end of the assessment year in which the income is earned. Freelancers also need a valid Tax Residency Certificate (TRC), which can be obtained by filing Form 10FA with the local Assessing Officer. Upon verification, Form 10FB is issued, confirming the taxpayer's residency status. To benefit from reduced tax rates under the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA), freelancers must provide a TRC along with documents such as a No Permanent Establishment declaration, as required by the foreign jurisdiction. FTC is more than just a compliance checkbox—it serves as a vital relief mechanism for Indian taxpayers earning income abroad. Yet, despite its importance, considerable ambiguity continues to cloud FTC provisions under Indian tax law and various DTAAs. To minimise the risk of litigation, taxpayers need to navigate these provisions cautiously. This means not only understanding the interplay between Indian regulations and those of the source country, but also closely examining applicable treaties. Filing your return Freelancers can choose between ITR-3 and ITR-4, depending on the nature of their income and disclosure requirements. They must disclose all foreign income and assets in Schedule FA (Foreign Assets) of the return. If claiming FTC, additional details must be filled in Schedule TR (Tax Relief) and Schedule FSI (Foreign Source Income), which cover foreign tax paid and income earned abroad. If the total income exceeds ₹1 crore, freelancers must also disclose their assets and liabilities in Schedule AL (Assets and Liabilities). Importance of FIRC A Foreign Inward Remittance Certificate (FIRC) is another key document for freelancers receiving international payments. Issued by banks, the FIRC confirms that the payment originated from a foreign source and entered India via legal banking channels. This certificate is often essential to prove that the income qualifies for FTC or benefits under a DTAA. In case of scrutiny or enquiry by the tax department, an FIRC serves as reliable evidence to substantiate claims about foreign earnings. FIRCs are also useful for distinguishing genuine gifts from taxable income. When receiving money from relatives abroad, an FIRC—supported by a gift deed or declaration—helps establish the nature of the transfer, ensuring the gift is not wrongly taxed. Hitesh Kumar is a chartered accountant. The article reflects the author's views based on current tax laws and judicial precedents as of the date of publication. Readers are advised to consult with tax professionals before taking any action.
The Citizen
3 days ago
- The Citizen
Rehab or cult? Ex-patients look towards collective civil case
Locals claimed online that the centre is 'not a rehab but something sinister". Following The Citizen's investigation and article on Tetelestai Recovery Centre (TRC), a string of disturbing allegations has emerged online, with more former patients and community members accusing the facility of abuse, financial exploitation and psychological manipulation disguised as treatment. TRC owner accused of major abuse and manipulation One account described how a young man was allegedly sent to the centre for a minor addiction to cigarettes and, after being caught smoking, was locked in a cell 'no bigger than a toilet'. He was reportedly forced to scrub the small space with a brush for hours each day as punishment. Locals claimed online that the centre is 'not a rehab but something sinister', with rumours of other illegal activities linked to the property mulled by concerned people. Another former patient alleged he was humiliated and made to sit in one spot from 6am until 9pm, digging a hole with a teaspoon for three weeks, exactly as witnesses had told The Citizen. He claimed a volunteer at the facility called him a racial slur too nasty to print and stole R7 000 in cash. He has rallied a group of witnesses who say they are willing to testify to anyone about what really goes on inside. ALSO READ: Tetelestai Recovery Centre founder denies abuse claims Calls for an investigation into rehab Calls for police intervention have grown louder, with some urging victims to lay formal charges. More serious accusations have been made by others, who claim they were trapped in the centre against their will. One woman, who claimed she escaped after a week despite paying six months' fees upfront, described De Klerk as 'a manipulator' who uses religion as a weapon to break people down, rather than help them heal. She accused him of unethical and abusive practices, including shaming patients with religious teachings, refusing to let them leave and exploiting families for financial gain by prolonging stays. She also alleged inappropriate sexual behaviour. De Klerk denied this previously. Others alleged the owner routinely vilified patients, telling them they were 'monsters' undeserving of forgiveness. Alleged racial slurs, forced isolation and public humiliation were repeatedly mentioned. Community members have called for the facility to be shut down, while those affected are urging others to come forward to build a collective civil and criminal case. Many victims insist the facility operates more like a punitive cult than a rehabilitation centre, preying on vulnerable families desperate for help. Brad Nathanson, retained by the Edwards' family to investigate the circumstances of Luke Edwards' death at, or because of, treatment at TRC, said that nothing shocks him any more about De Klerk and his attorney. 'This is in keeping with everything I have been told by so many about him and his God complex. You can't make this up, and why would anybody do so? I am repulsed,' said Nathanson. READ NEXT: Newborn baby found dumped in storm drain in Ekurhuleni
Daily Maverick
4 days ago
- Sport
- Daily Maverick
Brilliant Junior Boks claim first U20 World title in 13 years
The Junior Springboks won the 2025 World Rugby U20 World Championship title with a 23-15 victory over New Zealand in Rovigo. South Africa's Under-20s were deservedly crowned world champions in northern Italy on Saturday night thanks to a gritty win over old rivals New Zealand in the final on a sweltering evening. It was the first time since 2012 that the Junior Boks have won the world title and only the second time in this format since it was inaugurated in 2008. advertisement Don't want to see this? Remove ads As under-21s the Junior Boks won the 1999, 2002 and 2005 world championships (1999 was technically not a world title), but since becoming an U20 event, it was only the class of 2012 that were victorious – until Saturday. The class of 2025 now joins the likes of Handrè Pollard, Pieter-Steph du Toit and Steven Kitshoff from that 2012 crop as world champions. After laying waste to all their previous opponents in three pool-stage matches, and Argentina in the semifinals, the contest against the Baby Blacks was much closer. It was an uncompromising battle in the greatest traditions of clashes between these two archrivals and was a fitting finale to a tournament of high quality. This was not the same free-flowing performance of the pool stages that saw the Junior Boks score 178 points in three games against Australia, England and Scotland. It could never be against opponents as skilful and proud as New Zealand. The Junior Boks though, under the captaincy of lock Riley Norton and the coaching of Kevin Foote, are littered with generational talent that should strike fear into the rugby world. 'I'm quite emotional, but I'm just so proud,' Norton said after the match. advertisement Don't want to see this? Remove ads 'The amount of work that we put in after not a great TRC (U20 Rugby Championship), our backs were against the wall and we just came out and gave it everything. 'The group is unbelievable, the management, the coaches – we all pulled into a common idea. It wasn't easy at times. This is the greatest day of my life. 'We had to show up physically. That's our DNA. That's where we South Africans get our passion and our energy from. The set-phase, the maul, the scrum, the hits – the guys did that for 80 minutes and that's where we get our DNA from. Of course (Vusi) Moyo with his unbelievable boot always putting us on the front foot and kicking those penalties, it's just unbelievable.' Control They were always in control at Stadio Mario Battaglini in Rovigo, from scoring early to adding the final flourish late in the game. The Junior Bok pack dominated scrums, were strong in contact and laid a good foundation for the excellent halfback duo of Haashim Pead and Moyo to operate. advertisement Don't want to see this? Remove ads South Africa opened the scoring in the third minute when flank Xola Nyali went over for a try from close range. Moyo converted from wide out to give the Junior Boks the perfect start on a humid and slippery evening. From that stage on New Zealand were always playing catch-up and although they struck back with a try from lock Jayden Sa from a rolling maul just minutes later, it was as close as they came to the lead for the entire match. advertisement Don't want to see this? Remove ads New Zealand also lost prop Sika Pole to the sin bin in the 22nd minute when he clattered into Junior Bok lock JJ Theron. It was later upgraded to red on review. At this tournament though, red cards are only 20 minutes and New Zealand were able to introduce a replacement soon after halftime. South Africa also had their own disciplinary issues. Ten minutes after Pole's card, Junior Bok centre Albie Bester was yellow-carded for a dangerous cleanout at a ruck. That evened things out as Moyo added two first-half penalties to give the Junior Boks a 13-5 halftime lead. There were two periods in either half when the Junior Boks were forced to defend their line for multiple phases. In fact, they were pinned in their 22m area for a full five minutes at the start of the second period as they repelled wave after wave of New Zealand attacks. advertisement Don't want to see this? Remove ads In the end it only cost them three points from a second penalty by flyhalf Rico Simpson which shrunk the lead to 13-8. It was a moral victory for the Junior Boks. 'Defence is all about character, and there were moments when New Zealand were right on our line, but we held firm,' Foote said after the match. 'From a coach's perspective, you can't ask for more than that. It was a real South African defensive effort and gees (spirit) that won it for us today.' Foote, who took over as Junior Bok head coach at the end of last year, also described his winning squad as a special group of young rugby players. 'I love our country and the Springboks, and I love working with this age group,' he said. advertisement Don't want to see this? Remove ads 'To see these young men grow from training in December to what they've achieved now is amazing. Being on this journey with them has been incredibly special, and I'll never take it for granted.' Soon after though, Moyo's superb boot landed a third penalty to keep the Baby Blacks two scores behind. That was significant. As the game wore on South Africa increasingly exerted control. Pead went over for a try but it was disallowed due to Junior Bok flank Batho Hlekani pulling New Zealand scrumhalf Dylan Pledger back, denying him the chance to make a tackle on Pead. advertisement Don't want to see this? Remove ads Despite that let-off, the Junior Boks camped inside NZ territory for much of the last quarter and it was Pead who stamped his class on proceedings to finally break the Baby Blacks' resistance. Pead stabbed through a perfectly weighted kick for fullback Gilermo Mentoe to race on to and score the game-defining try with only three minutes remaining. The Junior Boks led 23-8. There was no way back. New Zealand scored a consolation try almost from the restart when impressive wing Maloni Kunawave finished, but it was too little, too late for the New Zealanders. Bigger picture Foote deserves special praise because he meticulously planned the team's progress to peak in Italy. It came at a cost though because the Junior Boks lost two of their three U20 Rugby Championship matches hosted in South Africa in May. One of those defeats was a 48-45 loss to New Zealand and the other was a 29-24 setback to Australia. In the opening game of this tournament, the Junior Boks smashed Australia 73-17. They played nine games in all before this tournament, which was crucial to building cohesion and for players to understand their roles. 'We learnt a lot about our leadership group in the U20 Rugby Championship,' Foote told Daily Maverick. 'We learnt about who can play Test match rugby. We learnt about different attacking styles that we haven't seen. 'For example, New Zealand 'stack-attacked' against us, and coming into this World Cup, Australia, England and Scotland all stacked, and we've defended well against that. 'That improvement comes from what we went through in the Rugby Championship. It has been a great learning process. 'But the biggest thing is actually just giving these guys game time together, and the synergy and cohesion that we got from those games is invaluable.' The introduction of the U20 Rugby Championship has been a significant building block, not only for the Junior Boks, but for all the southern hemisphere teams. New Zealand made their first final in six years, Argentina beat France to secure the bronze medal and Australia scored 68 points to claim fifth spot over England. DM Junior Bok results: Pool stage: South Africa 73 – 17 Australia (29 June – Calvisano) South Africa 32 – 22 England (4 July – Rovigo) South Africa 73 – 14 Scotland (9 July – Calvisano) Semifinal: South Africa 48 – 24 Argentina (14 July – Viadana) Final: South Africa 23 – 15 New Zealand (19 July – Rovigo) Final standings: South Africa (Champions) New Zealand (Runners-up) Argentina (Third place) France (Fourth place) Australia (Fifth place) England (Sixth place) Italy (Seventh place) Wales (Eighth place) Georgia (Ninth place) Scotland (10th place) Ireland (11th place) Spain (12th place).
IOL News
6 days ago
- General
- IOL News
Green Shoots: You're not a stone
Moving house forces you to clear out the junk you've been hoarding for decades. I came across a journal I kept in 1997. My colleagues had paid for a ticket for my new wife to join me in Ireland after I had finished a three-week business trip to Austria and England. As I read the reflections of my twenty something self, I cringed at some of the crap that occupied my thoughts back then. But I was also able to think about how we evolve as humans. I remember someone saying, 'You're not a stone, you can change'. Our world is changing so fast it makes a thinking person's head spin. It's hard enough keeping up with factual information that should shape one's thinking. We also have to deal with fake news and the incessant repetition of falsehoods by manipulative politicians and billionaires until the public start believing them to be the truth. And boy is there a never- ending torrent of information to process. I am grateful for having been exposed to information about life and our coexistence as species on this earth. You wouldn't believe it, but at one point in my life I was a homophobe. It took an evening of deep conversation with a certain Barney Beck that started me on the path to change. He helped a young and naïve me to learn about the inherent dignity that is present in everyone, regardless of station in life. And frankly, who made other people's sexuality my business? I was also quite sexist, I think. Some of my journal entries used pretty objectifying language to describe women. It's cringeworthy to read that stuff now. A lifetime of engagement since then with so many feminists, activists, and plain decent humans has certainly allowed me to find a more dignified way of relating to people. You may also not believe that I had dreams of being really rich, although the aspirations to a 3-litre V6 Ford Cortina might give the lie to that. I did want the nice things in life, and early on in my activism would often bunk organisational meetings to drink wine, eat pizza, and talk philosophical shite with my boujie friends at university. But in revisiting this old journal, I was happy to see that my general ideological outlook even then was – dare I say it - progressive. I mused about post-cold war Europe and 'how the East Europeans, who by and large have a strong church theology and embrace neo- liberalism – probably as a reaction to communism, will cope with integration into the EU.' And then in discussions on reconciliation and impunity, particularly in the context of our TRC, I bemoaned the preoccupation with 'technical and legal measures rather than political and human responses' to historical human rights abuses. In my work encounters, my assessment of the people I met was rooted in whether they were good for the socialist revolution or not. A bit simplistic, sure, but I'm quite happy that I've been able to keep the principles of justice, human rights, and dignity as key aspects of who I am, even as I've embraced the need to change other parts of me. It was John Patterson who said 'Only fools and dead men don't change their minds. Fools won't, and dead men can't .' We must be careful how we navigate this world and its demands. We must also embrace the principles that make us who we are. But when those beliefs marginalise others or foster injustice, then we cannot dig in our heels and resist change. We must be open to new experiences that may change what we believe. After all, we are not stones, and I certainly am neither a fool nor dead.
