The National Motorist Association of South Africa has warned drivers against traffic officers allegedly pressuring them to pay outstanding fines on the spot at roadblocks, amid heightened festive-season enforcement. CEO Bobby Gage said the association has received numerous complaints of motorists being threatened with arrest for refusing immediate payment. “The short answer is no – you do not have to pay immediately,” Gage stated. “It’s a convenience, not a legal requirement.” He claimed nine out of 10 motorists face intimidation,…

Police in Embalenhle, under the Gert Sibande District, have launched an investigation into two counts of murder following a shooting incident at a tavern in Extension 15 on Thursday night. According to police, officers were alerted by community members to a shooting at the tavern at around 23h00 on 1 January 2026. Upon arrival, police found two men lying on the ground inside the premises, covered with blankets, while members of the community had gathered outside. Both victims, who are…

A South African maternal rights organisation has highlighted the persistent issue of teenage pregnancies following reports of multiple births to young mothers on New Year’s Day 2026. In the Eastern Cape, health and social development authorities reported that 21 babies were delivered to teenage mothers aged 15–19 by midday on 1 January 2026, out of 84 total births recorded in public facilities at that time. Some reports noted the number rising to 23 by later in the day. This comes…