As the world marks International Overdose Awareness Day, the Department of Social Development is highlighting the continued impact of substance-related harm on individuals, families and communities. This year’s theme, “25 Years On. Still Needed,” serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for awareness, prevention and support for people affected
Minister for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Sindisiwe Chikunga stated that the newly established National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide must strengthen efforts to combat the scourge and ensure government commitments translate into meaningful action. Chikunga briefed the media following the council’s inaugural meeting, stating that it will
By Odwa Bafana Mkentane Two teenagers have been arrested after allegedly being found in possession of a firearm on school grounds in Atlantis. The incident has once again raised serious concerns about the growing danger of learners carrying weapons at school and the potential consequences for pupils, teachers and the
Two teenagers, aged 16 and 18, have been arrested after an unlicensed firearm was found on the premises of a high school in Hermes Avenue, Atlantis. Western Cape police say officers conducted a search at the school on Friday after receiving a tip-off about a firearm. Police spokesperson Ndakhe Gwala
By Lee-Yandra Paulsen The Mowbray Muslim Cemetery Board election has concluded, with the 11 elected candidates now confirmed. The election was overseen by a court-appointed Independent Panel following a lengthy legal dispute over the governance of the cemetery. With the election process now complete, attention turns to the establishment of
Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia stated that South Africa recorded a decline in several serious crimes between April and June, including murder, carjacking, residential and business robberies, and cash-in-transit heists. However, he warned that crimes affecting women, children and other vulnerable groups remain a major concern. Briefing the media on
Parliament has taken a step towards restoring the Central Drug Authority by appointing a joint sub-committee to review and process nominations for vacancies on the board. The Portfolio Committee on Social Development and the National Council of Provinces’ Select Committee on Social Services established the joint body following months of
By Ragheema Mclean Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia says South Africa recorded declines in several serious crime categories between April and June, including murder, carjacking, residential and business robberies, and cash-in-transit heists. However, Cachalia says crimes targeting women, children and other vulnerable groups remain a major concern. He also identified
Security and policing expert Eldred De Klerk says the City of Cape Town needs to clearly demonstrate how granting municipal police investigative powers would strengthen its existing mandate and improve public safety. Speaking to VOC News, De Klerk says the debate should focus less on political disagreements and more on
VOC became the first Muslim radio station in South Africa when a special events license was granted to the station in Ramadan/January 1995. Subsequent temporary broadcast licenses were granted, permitting the station to broadcast for 24 hours.
