Author: newsnote correspondent
A California judge has given Erik and Lyle Menendez, who had been sentenced to life in prison for the murders of their parents in their Beverly Hills home, a chance at freedom after 35 years behind bars.Judge Michael Jesic shortens the brothers’ sentences of life in prison without the possibility of parole to 50 years to life. They’re now eligible for parole under California’s youthful offender law because they committed the crime under the age of 26. They would still need approval from the state’s parole board to be released. Their lawyers say they are immediately eligible for parole, however…
The outcome of the Sean “Diddy” Combs sex trafficking trial is in the hands of the 12 individuals who have been selected as jurors. On Monday, the group of jurors – made up of eight men and four women – listened to opening statements from the prosecution and defence as the trial got underway in Manhattan, New York.The 55-year-old hip-hop mogul has strenuously denied the allegations against him and pleaded not guilty to five charges.They are: One count of racketeering conspiracy, two counts of sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion, and two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution.Members…
In a surprising move, President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday the lifting of long-standing sanctions on Syria, marking a significant policy shift amidst a backdrop of civil strife and international diplomacy. The announcement came during his trip to Riyadh, where he solidified a staggering $600 billion commitment from Saudi Arabia in investments aimed at bolstering the US economy. Trump’s decision to remove sanctions—which positioned Syria as a state sponsor of terrorism since 1979—signals a new chapter for the war-torn country. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had raised concerns regarding the previous sanctions, which were intensified after the outbreak of civil…
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has announced its intent to appeal the recent acquittal of controversial televangelist Timothy Omotoso, along with co-accused Lusanda Sulani and Zukiswa Sitho, who were cleared of 32 serious charges, including rape, racketeering, and human trafficking. This decision follows a thorough legal review by an internal team of experienced prosecutors, underscoring the complexities of the case that has drawn significant public attention and controversy. Last month, the Gqeberha High Court rendered its judgment in a case that has captivated South Africa, finding the trio not guilty on all counts. In light of the verdict, the NPA…
Police have stepped in to prevent violent clashes outside the East London Magistrates Court, where supporters of Nigerian pastor Timothy Omotoso faced off against members of various political parties. Omotoso, who was arrested on Saturday for allegedly breaching immigration laws, is at the centre of heated protests just a month after being acquitted of serious rape and sexual offence charges. Omotoso’s recent troubles stem from a decision made by the Minister of Home Affairs, which rejected his application to overturn an earlier ruling that marked him as a prohibited person in South Africa. Following this ruling, police apprehended him for…
It was a day of triumph for Team South Africa at the World Athletics Relays Championships in China, as they showcased their remarkable talent and determination, securing three valuable podium finishes and confirming their spots for the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo later this year. The action got underway with the Mixed 4x400m relay, where the South African team, featuring the dynamic duo of Shirley Shezi and Hannah Van Niekerk, fought valiantly against a field of formidable competitors. Despite a commendable effort, they finished fifth, clocking a time of 3:16.29, just behind the powerhouses of the USA, Australia, Kenya, and Great Britain. However,…
Durban’s dynamic tourism sector is set to receive a further boost as Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille announced that the Africa Tourism Indaba held last year contributed over R500 million to KwaZulu-Natal’s economy. The announcement was made during the opening of the second G20 tourism working group meeting in Durban, signalling the importance of tourism on the continent’s agenda.As the province prepares to host Africa’s Travel Indaba starting Tuesday, De Lille underscored the event’s potential to create job opportunities and foster economic growth. “In 2024, the Africa Travel Indaba generated R226 million in direct economic activity for Durban and an…
In a poignant and impassioned first address as pontiff, Pope Leo XIV appealed to world leaders for an immediate end to conflict, urging “no more war” during a gathering of thousands in St Peter’s Square on Sunday. With a profound commitment to peace, the newly elected leader of the Catholic Church emphasized the need for humanitarian action amid escalating global tensions, particularly regarding the ongoing war in Ukraine, the crisis in Gaza, and recent hostilities between India and Pakistan. Chosen just days prior during a two-day conclave following the death of his predecessor, Pope Francis, the Pope’s message resonates deeply…
law enforcement officials have apprehended a 42-year-old suspect in Petrus Steyn, Free State, on charges of fraud and impersonating the National Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI). The suspect is set to appear in the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court on Monday, following allegations of deceit involving a prominent Gauteng businessman.According to police reports, the suspect reached out to the businessman via WhatsApp last year, portraying himself as Lieutenant General Godfrey Lebeya, the Hawks’ national leader. Under the pretext of assisting with a supposed security breach, he claimed that the businessman’s mobile phone had been hacked and solicited sensitive…
Team South Africa had an exhilarating day at the World Athletics Relays Championships held in China on Saturday, achieving a remarkable feat as all four relay teams advanced to the finals scheduled for Sunday. More significantly, each team secured qualification for the upcoming World Athletics Championships in Tokyo later this year, marking a triumphant day for South African athletics. Across four high-stakes events—the men’s 4x100m, men’s and women’s 4x400m, and the mixed 4x400m—a total of 19 South African athletes showcased their skills and determination, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting championship run. Mixed 4x400m team sets…