Latest News & Developments
kidnapping
Woman arrested for perjury after fake rape and kidnapping report
This case serves as a powerful reminder of the vital importance of integrity in reporting crimes, especially in the sensitive area of sexual violence, where real victims often struggle to be heard amidst a backdrop of scepticism from society.
Community outraged as missing nine-year-old girl found in parolee's home in Hanover Park
A desperate search for a missing nine-year-old girl ends in chaos as she is found in the home of a recently paroled man, igniting community outrage in Hanover Park.
WANTED: Police seek suspects in the murder of journalist Aserie Ndlovu and partner
Police are urgently seeking two suspects in the shocking murder of journalist Aserie Ndlovu and his partner, Zodwa Mdhluli.
End of May sentencing for those convicted in Joshlin Smith kidnapping
Three offenders convicted in the kidnapping of six-year-old Joshlin Smith are set for sentencing at the end of May, with the hearings taking place close to the community affected by her disappearance.
Sentencing set for end of May in Joshlin Smith kidnapping case
Sentencing for the three convicted kidnappers of six-year-old Joshlin Smith is set for late May, as the community of Diazville seeks answers and justice for the missing child.
Life imprisonment for Nelspruit pensioner who kidnapped and raped lover
A 63-year-old man has been sentenced to life and 10 years imprisonment by the Nelspruit Sexual Offences Court for kidnapping and raping his 53-year-old lover, whom he held captive in his home for over two weeks in 2018.
23-year-old woman linked to kidnapping investigation in Eastern Cape
A 23-year-old woman from the Eastern Cape faces kidnapping charges in Qonce Magistrate’s Court, as authorities investigate a shocking abduction case involving armed suspects.
Commissioner Masemola confirms fifth arrest in case of missing journalist Aserie Ndlovu and partner
National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola confirms five arrests in the case of missing journalist Aserie Ndlovu and his partner Zodwa Mdhluli, with investigations still ongoing.
Three suspects arrested in connection with the kidnapping and murder of a nurse in Limpopo
A 60-year-old woman and two others have been arrested in connection with the March 2025 kidnapping and murder of Limpopo nurse Morudi Frank Phetla.
KwaZulu-Natal woman arrested for kidnapping two-week-old baby
A woman from KwaZulu-Natal has been arrested for allegedly kidnapping a two-week-old child.
The tragic case of Joshlin Smith: A call for parental responsibility and community vigilance
The disappearance of Joshlin Smith, 6, has sparked outrage and discussions about parental responsibility and community vigilance in South Africa. Following the conviction of those involved in her kidnapping, leaders urge collective action to protect vulnerable children.
Joshlin Smith's disappearance exposes the vulnerability of South African children
One of the strong themes that emerged from the Joshlin Smith kidnapping trial was the vulnerability of South African children
Verdict imminent in the Joshlin Smith kidnapping trial
Judge Nathan Erasmus confirms that a verdict will be delivered on Friday in the high-profile Joshlin Smith trial, where the accused face serious charges of kidnapping and human trafficking.
Kelly Smith's lawyer challenges key witness in human trafficking trial
In a gripping trial, Racquel ‘Kelly’ Smith's lawyer casts doubt on a key witness's credibility, raising critical questions about the evidence in the case of her missing daughter, Joshlin.
Lawyer criticises State's case as speculative in Joshlin Smith trial
In the ongoing Joshlin Smith trial, Advocate Nobahle Mkabayi argues that the State's case against Steveno van Rhyn is riddled with speculation and lacks compelling evidence, raising questions about the integrity of the prosecution.
Judge questions State's evidence in Joshlin Smith trial
Judge Nathan Erasmus scrutinises the State's case in the disappearance of six-year-old Joshlin Smith, revealing significant contradictions in witness testimonies that could impact the trial's outcome.
Digital evidence reveals chilling details of Sandra Munsamy's kidnapping
A digital forensic expert testified in the Durban High Court about the evidence collected from the cellphones of the accused in the kidnapping case of Sandra Munsamy, shedding light on the events surrounding her abduction.
Judge Erasmus raises concerns over evidence in Joshlin Smith abduction case
Judge Nathan Erasmus scrutinises key witness testimonies in the complex and emotional case of six-year-old Joshlin Smith's disappearance, revealing inconsistencies that challenge the prosecution's narrative.
Defence questions reliability of key witness in Joshlin Smith case
The Joshlin Smith trial intensifies as the defence exposes contradictions in the main witness's testimony, questioning her credibility just before the final arguments.
Judge scrutinises evidence in Joshlin Smith's disappearance trial
Judge Nathan Erasmus raises critical questions about the State's evidence in the trial concerning the disappearance of six-year-old Joshlin Smith, highlighting major inconsistencies in witness testimonies that may influence the trial's outcome.
Judge questions State's evidence in Joshlin Smith trial
Judge Nathan Erasmus scrutinises the State's case in the disappearance of six-year-old Joshlin Smith, revealing significant contradictions in witness testimonies that could impact the trial's outcome.
The Joshlin Smith case: A pivotal moment in South Africa's battle against child trafficking
Senior State Advocate Zelda Swanepoel presents a compelling case in the tragic disappearance of six-year-old Joshlin Smith, highlighting the complexities of child trafficking in South Africa.
Joshlin Smith case: A landmark trial in South Africa's fight against human trafficking
The trial of six-year-old Joshlin Smith, missing since February 2024, represents a critical turning point in South Africa's approach to child trafficking. As the state presents its case, the implications for justice and legal reform are profound.
Joshlin Smith case nears verdict following disturbing testimonies
Judgment is imminent in the Joshlin Smith trial, where chilling testimonies reveal disturbing details about the disappearance of the six-year-old girl from Saldanha Bay.
Five suspects arrested in Wilkoppies for house robbery, kidnapping, and murder
Police have arrested five suspects in Wilkoppies for the shocking murder of Hasani Daniel Maluleka, recovering his body and stolen vehicles in a dramatic investigation.