Newly deployed members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) have arrested several suspects in Rietvallei on the West Rand after they were found in possession of goods believed to be used for illegal mining activities. The arrests were made during a coordinated operation targeting areas suspected to be harbouring illegal miners, commonly known as zama-zamas. Authorities also seized an undisclosed amount of cash that was found with some of the suspects. During the operation, soldiers made a significant…

The City of Johannesburg says it is investigating a strong sulphur-like smell that has been reported by residents in several areas. People living in Sandton, Randburg, Roodepoort, Fourways, and other nearby areas first noticed the smell on 16 January 2026. The odour was reported again on 9 March. The City’s Environment and Infrastructure Services Department (EISD) started an investigation after receiving complaints from residents. City Manager Dr Floyd Brink says protecting residents’ health remains the City’s priority. He says teams…

Members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) have undergone special training to prepare them for interacting with civilians during crime-fighting operations. This was revealed by Athlenda Mathe during a joint operation between the army and the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Westbury, west of Johannesburg. The deployment forms part of government’s broader plan to tackle gang violence and illicit mining in several crime hotspot areas. The initiative follows a directive by Cyril Ramaphosa for the police and…