The Midday Report with Mandy Wiener

This episode investigates the Midlanger Commission's findings regarding extrajudicial killings by KwaZulu-Natal police and the alleged links between the tow truck industry, drug trafficking, and corruption. The discussion also covers the DA's call for police body cameras to improve accountability and transparency in high-crime areas. Additionally, the episode explores the unexpected costs of repatriation efforts from Malawi and Zimbabwe, listener reactions to police brutality, and the impact of a cold front on KwaZulu-Natal. We also feature 'The Hope Dealers' series, highlighting City Kids School in Johannesburg as a model for community-driven education.

This episode explores pressing legal and security issues in South Africa, including allegations of a police hit squad in KwaZulu-Natal linked to the tow truck industry and updates on the AKA murder case and Duduzile Zuma. The discussion also covers the security risks posed by informal settlements encroaching on military bases and the impact of underfunding within the Department of Defence. Additionally, the episode examines labor disputes involving Pikitup casual workers in Johannesburg and their potential impact on waste collection services. Finally, cricket umpire Marais Erasmus joins to discuss his memoir, 'The Rock and Roll Years,' reflecting on the challenges of international umpiring and the introduction of the DRS.

In this episode of the Midday Report, host Mandy interviews renowned cricket umpire Marais Erasmus about his new memoir, The Rock and Roll Years: Cricket in an Umpire's Orbit, written by journalist Telford Weiss. The conversation explores Erasmus's career on the international stage, covering the transition into the era of the Decision Review System (DRS) and the impact of technological changes on officiating. Erasmus shares various anecdotes from his time on the field, including humorous customs incidents in Dubai and reflections on high-stakes moments like the 2019 World Cup final. The discussion also touches upon his philosophy of accountability in umpiring and the methodology behind selecting his personal all-time best XI players based on his experience as a neutral official.

An interview with Temba Magoda, spokesperson for Pick It Up casual workers, regarding the recent refuse collection crisis in Johannesburg. The discussion explores the tension between casual workers and Deputy Mayor Loyiso Masuku, addressing allegations of political agendas and the impact of worker stay-aways on community sanitation. Magoda clarifies that while depots are currently open, the potential for future protests remains if labor disputes regarding permanent employment and public defamation are not resolved.

This episode examines the growing security threat posed by encroaching informal settlements on South African National Defence Force (SANDF) military bases. The discussion features Dakota Le Chouete, Chairperson of the Defence Portfolio Committee, who details how these settlements lead to the theft of electrical infrastructure, copper cables, and military equipment, while also creating significant safety risks due to the proximity of ammunition depots containing weapons of mass destruction. The conversation highlights a 15-month delay in constituting an interdepartment of working group intended to facilitate the diplomatic relocation of these communities to proper housing. Furthermore, the episode addresses the critical underfunding of the Department of Defence and the strategic dangers posed by civilian populations living near military targets during potential conflicts.

This report covers testimony from the Midlanger Commission of Inquiry regarding allegations of extrajudicial killings by the KwaZulu-Natal police. Gregory Loftus, father of deceased tow truck operator Bevan Loftus, alleges that a 2.5 million Rand hit was placed on his son by a business rival, Clive Naika, and executed by a police CIT task team under the guise of a legitimate operation. The report explores the alleged nexus between the tow truck industry, drug trafficking, and police corruption, while examining evidence suggesting that police-led shootouts may involve officers firing first rather than acting in self-defense.

The Midday Report with Mandy Wiener features an update from EWN reporter Karinda Jagmohan regarding significant ongoing court cases in KwaZulu-Natal. The report covers the postponed trial of suspects accused in the murder of AKA and Tibbs, detailing the upcoming trial phases and the heavy reliance on video evidence and expert testimony. Additionally, the segment provides updates on the trial of Duduzile Sambandla-Zuma, who faces charges related to inciting terrorism and public violence during the July 2021 unrest.

An interview with Siboniso Mungadi, the KZN Cogta spokesperson, regarding the impact of a significant cold front moving across South Africa. The discussion covers recent snowfall in parts of KwaZulu-Natal, including the far south and Midlands areas, and the resulting challenges such as poor network connectivity and road safety concerns. Mungadi discusses the department's vigilance regarding fire risks in informal settlements due to the use of open fires for warmth and provides updates on the status of mountain passes and road conditions.

Tulani Mavuso, Deputy Director General and Spokesperson at Home Affairs, discusses the South African government's efforts to seek reimbursement from various countries following a 300 million rand expenditure on repatriation efforts. The discussion covers the distinction between deportation and repatriation, the humanitarian reasons for providing transport via buses to prevent people from camping on streets, and the financial impact of costs being five times the original allocation for deportations. Mavuso also touches upon the role of the Department of International Relations in managing diplomatic channels for cost recovery and the scaling down of temporary facilities in Musina.

This episode covers testimony from the Madlanga Commission involving Mr. Len John, Deputy Director for Investigations at the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID). The report details alarming allegations regarding the KwaZulu-Natal police, specifically focusing on a surge in extrajudicial killings where over 300 cases were investigated, including 77 instances of task team shootings resulting in 149 deaths. The testimony also explores a suspected nexus between the KZN police, the tow truck industry, and criminal syndicates. Evidence suggests that certain police officers may receive commissions for directing traffic to specific tow trucks, creating a vulnerability where these vehicles are allegedly used for transporting drugs across the province.

Mzamo Billy, a member of the DA on the Select Committee on Security and Justice, discusses the urgent need for police body cameras in KwaZulu-Natal. The conversation addresses rising concerns regarding extrajudicial killings and the high number of suspects killed by police in the province compared to the national average. Billy highlights the importance of accountability and objective evidence to maintain public trust while protecting officers facing violent crime. The discussion also covers the limitations of IPID, noting that the police watchdog is undercapacitated and facing potential intimidation in KZN. The episode explores the tension between a public desire for swift justice through the elimination of criminals and the necessity of upholding constitutional democracy through lawful investigations.

This episode of the Hope Dealers series features an in-depth look at City Kids School, a non-profit organization located in the heart of Johannesburg's inner city. Founded in 2008 by property developer Rennie Plitt and AFCO Holdings, the school was established to provide high-quality education, including STEM, robotics, and the arts, for disadvantaged children amidst the urban renewal of the CBD. The narrative explores the school's origins in repurposing old buildings, its expansion into modern learning spaces like AI robotics classrooms, and its commitment to social responsibility through art and community service. The episode highlights the school's academic success in competitions and its vision for future growth, including a new high school and athletic facilities.

This episode covers a range of breaking news in South Africa, including the tragic discovery of 14 suspected illegal miners dead near Rustenburg and updates on recent snowfall affecting road conditions. The program also details proceedings at the Madlanga Commission, featuring testimony regarding crime intelligence investigations and judicial reprimands for late evidence submission. Additionally, the episode explores the economic landscape through an interview with the Statistician General regarding the rise in national unemployment to 33.6%. Further reports include the financial crisis facing Whistleblower House, recent political polling data from the Social Research Foundation, and the budgetary challenges facing the Department of Home Affairs regarding repatriation operations.

Statistician General Rasenga Maloleke discusses the official unemployment rate, which rose to 33.6% in the second quarter of 2026. The discussion covers the methodology behind national surveys and the distinction between polling and large-scale labor force surveys used by Stats SA. The episode details the drivers behind rising unemployment, including an increase of 345,000 people moving from outside the labor force into active job seeking. Maloleke also provides a breakdown of job losses across various sectors such as community and social services, mining, agriculture, and manufacturing, while addressing broader indicators of labor underutilization.

Unati Binkose, spokesperson for the Eastern Cape Department of Transport, discusses the recent impact of snowfall on road networks in the Eastern Cape. While five mountain passes, including parts of the N6 and N9 national roads, were previously closed, all passes are currently open as the snowfall has subsided. However, officials warn that wet and slippery conditions persist, requiring extreme caution from motorists. The discussion also covers reports of minor vehicle accidents involving cars sliding out of control in the snow, noting that no fatalities or serious injuries have been reported. The episode concludes with listeners sharing personal memories of historical heavy snowfalls in Johannesburg and Gauteng.

Home Affairs Minister Dr. Leon Schreiber briefs the Portfolio Committee on the ongoing repatriation and deportation of undocumented foreign nationals. The report highlights discrepancies in figures between the Department of Home Affairs and the Border Management Authority, noting that while numbers are currently being scaled back, the expenditure has approached 300 million rand. The discussion covers the financial strain on the department, including the use of funds from the criminal assets recovery account and requests for repayment from the governments of Nigeria, Malawi, and Ethiopia. Additionally, the report details changes to infrastructure, such as the scaling back of the Messina repatriation center and plans for new courtrooms at both the repatriation center near Johannesburg and OR Tambo International Airport to handle immigration challenges.

An interview with Gabriel Mankin, Director of Research at the Social Research Foundation, discussing recent national and metropolitan polling data in South Africa. The discussion focuses on the shifting political landscape ahead of upcoming local government elections, specifically looking at support levels for the ANC, DA, MK, and EFF. The conversation highlights significant shifts in major metros like Johannesburg, Tshwane, and eThekwini. Mankin provides a breakdown of party percentages and discusses the complexities of coalition building, particularly regarding the DA's potential partners and the volatile voter pool shared between the ANC, MK, and EFF.

Ben Turon, CEO of Whistleblower House, discusses the critical financial crisis facing South Africa's only organization dedicated to whistleblower support. Due to a lack of funding, the organization has been forced to halt most legal, psychological, and security services, leaving only three months of operational costs remaining. The potential closure of the organization threatens the infrastructure necessary to protect individuals exposing corruption. Turon appeals for urgent donations via whistleblowerhouse.org to prevent staff retrenchment and the total cessation of services. He emphasizes that while corporate approaches are ongoing, individual contributions are vital to maintaining the essential legal and psychological support systems required for whistleblowers to function safely.

This episode of Cape Talk with Mandy Wiener covers weather reports from the East Rand and significant developments at the Madlanzaga Commission of Inquiry. The program begins with listener reports regarding snow and icy conditions in areas like Alberton and Heldenhuis Road. The main report focuses on the postponement of Fadil Adams' testimony before the Madlanzaga Commission due to the late submission of his affidavit. The coverage also details Advocate Trishanta Ramsami's ongoing testimony concerning IDAC's investigation into crime intelligence, specifically addressing allegations of a plot involving high-ranking officials and clarifying her statements regarding the involvement of MP Ian Cameron.

Mandy Weider hosts the Madeira Report, covering reports of sleet and snow in Johannesburg and the East Rand. The program addresses the current cold weather conditions and discusses the rising unemployment rate in South Africa, which stands at 33.6%. The episode features a breaking news report from EWN reporter Nkosikona Malinga Mnisi regarding the discovery of 14 suspected illegal miners found dead at an abandoned mine shaft in Nkaneng, near Rustenburg. The discussion explores the ongoing challenges of illegal mining in the North West province and the impact of law enforcement operations like Operation Valam Gordi.

A sports wrap-up featuring Mwanda Mateuza discussing recent football and rugby results. The discussion covers Kaizer Chiefs' performance in the MTN 8 against Golden Arrows, highlighting concerns regarding inconsistency and lack of urgency. The episode also explores the potential appointment of Pitso Mosimane as Bafana Bafana coach and the implications for South Africa's World Cup qualification hopes. Additionally, the segment reviews Banyana Banyana's elimination from the WAFCON quarterfinals following a loss to Morocco and their difficult path ahead through intercontinental playoffs. The wrap-up concludes with rugby analysis, covering the Springboks' recent match against Argentina and an emotional performance by the Stormers against the All Blacks at a full Cape Town Stadium.

This episode explores the ongoing debate within South Africa's electricity sector regarding the liberalization of the energy market and the establishment of an independent grid operator. Energy analyst Matthew Cruz discusses the friction between Eskom, which seeks to protect its assets and creditor relationships, and Independent Power Producers (IPPs) who advocate for rapid democratization and competition to lower electricity prices. The conversation covers the transition from a monopolistic model to a competitive market involving solar, wind, and battery facilities. The discussion also touches upon the historical relationship between Eskom and the South African government, the risks of asset transfer to creditors, and the unique geopolitical necessity of stabilizing the regional power supply in Southern Africa.

The Gauteng Education MEC discusses the interconnected challenges facing the provincial education system, including school violence, overcrowding, and resource shortages. The interview covers critical issues such as the need for 200 new schools, the logistics of feeding and transporting millions of learners, and the impact of theft on school infrastructure. The MEC outlines a multi-tiered intervention strategy involving short, medium, and long-term plans. Key initiatives include budget reprioritization, the implementation of 'triple P's' to achieve significant savings, and increased security measures like police raids and permanent patrols in schools facing crime and bullying.

This episode discusses the recent decision by the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to pursue criminal prosecution against Julius Malema regarding the Twekwe case. The discussion focuses on allegations made by Malema against school principal Jakub Petersa following social media reports of an alleged rape at a school in the Eastern Cape. Featuring AFRI Forum spokesperson Barry Bateman, the conversation details how the organization's representations to the NPA led to the decision to prosecute on charges of criminal in urea. The episode also touches upon ongoing investigations involving other political figures and the potential for private prosecution should the state decline further action.

Gauteng Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Tommy Mtumbeni provides an update on the investigation into recent gang violence in Rekha Park that resulted in the deaths of two police officers and two bystanders. The Commissioner confirms a breakthrough in the case, including the arrest of one suspect and the recovery of two R5 rifles used by the South African Police Service. The discussion covers the generational nature of local gangs, specifically mentioning groups such as Vatos Locos and Sour Boys involved in territorial disputes and drug trading. Mtumbeni also addresses community dynamics, noting both the protection of gang leaders by some individuals and the active support for police efforts from community figures like Pastor Lohoko and CPF chairperson Leo Busak.

Senior forecaster Tokelo Chilwane from the South African Weather Service discusses the current intense weather systems impacting South Africa. The discussion covers the simultaneous presence of a cold front and cutoff low, which have brought significant snowfall to KwaZulu-Natal, the Free State, and the Western Cape, leading to road closures in certain areas. The forecast details the progression of these systems, noting that while Gauteng, Mpumalanga, and Limpopo will experience increasing coldness, the current systems are expected to exit the country by Wednesday. The analyst provides insight into the seasonal nature of these weather patterns and the expected gradual improvement in temperatures following this period of extreme cold.

In an interview marking Women's Day, Cassandra Dorosamy, a campaigner at Amnesty International, discusses the ongoing struggles faced by women in South Africa. The discussion highlights the intersection of gender-based violence, femicide, and systemic failures in service delivery. Key issues addressed include high rates of reported rape, the lack of disaggregated crime data from the South African Police Services (SAPS), and how inadequate access to water, sanitation, and electricity exacerbates vulnerability for women living in informal settlements.

EWN reporter Annalisa Fandese discusses the record number of complaints received by the Consumer Ombud, noting a 26% increase to approximately 15,000 complaints in the year ending February. The report highlights that while the office recovered almost 13 million rand for consumers through refunds and replacements, non-cooperation from suppliers has forced the closure of 18 percent of eligible adjudication cases. The discussion identifies defective goods, fixed-term contract cancellations, delivery problems, and online shopping as primary areas of dispute. The segment also touches on the geographic distribution of complaints, with high volumes noted in Gauteng, Western Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal, and mentions ongoing efforts to work with the Department of Trade to enforce legislation.