ENCA Today
Why the Alison Botha Attackers' Parole Sparked Outrage in South Africa
South Africa's parole board infuriated the public by granting conditional release to Alison Botha's attackers, who were flagged as a long-term risk to women. The decision was quickly overturned by the Correctional Services Minister, reigniting a heated debate on whether the system truly protects survivors of gender-based violence.
Bayern Munich Crushes Grasshopper Zürich 4-0 as Olise Scores Debut Goal
Bayern Munich overwhelmed Grasshopper Zürich 4-0 in their final pre-season friendly as Michael Olise netted his first goal for the club. Harry Kane doubled the lead, Mathys Tel dazzled with a superb finish, and Thomas Müller capped things off. The convincing win showed Bayern’s dominance ahead of the Bundesliga season.
SASSA Delays Grants for 210,000 Recipients Due to Heightened Income Checks
More than 210,000 SASSA grant recipients are seeing delayed payments in June 2025 as the agency ramps up income verification and fraud prevention efforts. Beneficiaries are being told to report for reviews, and those who don't comply risk losing their grants. New applicants face stricter biometric checks, and oversight has sharpened due to tighter Treasury rules.
Joshlin Smith Kidnapping Verdict: Parents and Accomplice Face Sentencing After Conviction
Kelly Smith, Jacquen Appollis, and Steveno van Rhyn were convicted for the 2024 kidnapping of six-year-old Joshlin Smith in Saldanha Bay. The Western Cape High Court found the crime involved careful planning and a 20,000 rand payment. Sentencing hearings are focusing on the defendants’ parental roles and the deep harm caused.
Cobrizi Spin-off Brings Cobra’s Grit and Redemption to Johannesburg in 2025
Cobrizi dives into Cobra’s struggle for change as he moves to Johannesburg. With familiar faces and fresh cast members, the series tackles real-life hardship and hopes as Cobra faces up to his past and tries to carve out a new future. The show hits Mzansi Magic in March 2025.
Presley Chweneyagae, Star of Tsotsi and South African Film Icon, Dies at 40
Presley Chweneyagae, breakout star of the Oscar-winning film Tsotsi, has died suddenly at 40 in Pretoria. His remarkable career spanned film and television, inspiring a generation and winning international recognition for South African storytelling. Tributes from leaders and fans reflect his profound influence on cinema.
RCB Chooses to Bowl First: Patidar Remains Key Impact Player in IPL 2025 Clash with LSG
Royal Challengers Bengaluru decided to bowl first against Lucknow Super Giants in a critical IPL 2025 league game, relying on Rajat Patidar as their Impact Player. Patidar’s continued role strengthens RCB’s middle order, while the team’s bowling unit looks to keep LSG’s strong batting lineup in check. The outcome could shape RCB’s playoff hopes.
Liverpool Parade Crash: Over 50 Injured as Driver Plows Into Victory Crowd
A 53-year-old man named Paul Doyle was arrested after driving into a crowd celebrating Liverpool FC's Premier League victory, injuring over 50 people. The crash, which police say isn't terror-related, left several people trapped beneath the car and has shaken the city. Investigations are ongoing as the community and officials respond.
Rulani Mokwena Leaves Wydad AC After Record-Breaking Run, Seeks New Coaching Challenges
Rulani Mokwena has ended his stint as Wydad AC's head coach, highlighting his record 14-game unbeaten streak and renewed qualification for African competition. Despite psychological pressures, Mokwena leaves with pride and gratitude, eager to continue his coaching journey and passion for developing players and clubs.
Young Elephant Seal 'Rocky' Begins Remarkable Voyage to Cape Town
Rocky, a juvenile southern elephant seal, set off for Cape Town in March 2025. Though details about his journey's specific purpose are limited, the move highlights interesting conservation and research possibilities for southern Africa's marine wildlife. Experts are closely watching this unique relocation.
SASSA Denies June 2025 Double Payment Rumors and Confirms Social Grant Amounts
SASSA has put a stop to viral rumors about double payments in June 2025, confirming all grants will be paid as usual and at standard rates. The agency urges beneficiaries to trust only official updates and ignore social media misinformation about increased payments or new rules.
MK Party Faces Resignations and Infighting as Leadership Denies Crisis
The MK Party is pushing back against reports of leadership clashes amid internal disputes, resignations, and allegations of autocratic management. Despite high-profile departures and growing public disagreements, party leaders insist their goals to lead South Africa remain strong in the face of mounting scrutiny.