Ramaphosa appoints independent panel to probe controversial “Will of Peace” naval exercise
Category: News
President Cyril Ramaphosa has ordered an urgent investigation into a controversial multinational naval exercise after instructions to exclude Iran’s navy were allegedly ignored. The Presidency confirmed on Thursday that an independent investigative panel has been established to probe events surrounding Exercise MOSI III – Will of Peace 2026, which took place in South African waters under Chinese leadership. The inquiry will be chaired by retired judge Bernard Ngoepe, supported by Justice Kathleen
The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness says it is closely monitoring meningococcal meningitis cases in the province as part of ongoing disease surveillance, while urging parents to ensure children are fully immunised. A total of 11 confirmed meningococcal disease cases, including one death, were recorded between 1 January and 22 February 2026. Eight cases were reported in the Cape Town Metro, two in the Cape Winelands District, and one in the
The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, has confirmed that two South Africans have been killed on the front lines of the Russia–Ukraine conflict. The department says this is separate from the 17 South African men who were recruited and safely repatriated after being lured into the conflict through suspicious recruitment tactics. The Ministry says it is deeply concerned by the ongoing “suspicious circumstances” and predatory recruitment tactics used to
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has confirmed that no explosive devices were found at the Wynberg Magistrate’s Court, following a tip-off about a bomb reportedly planted inside a car, outside the court today. Image: Supplied SAPS says a bomb threat case is being investigated by the Wynberg police. “According to reports, the anonymous caller told the police that there would be a car with a bomb outside the Wynberg Magistrate’s
City of Cape Town officials are warning that the window to avoid water restrictions later this year is narrowing as dam levels continue dropping, amid high-level consumption. The City maintains that there is no drought, but concerns are rising, with dam levels currently on 55%. This is roughly 19% lower than at the same time last year. Updated projections shared on Wednesday indicate that dam storage could drop to as low as 40% by May, if current usage persists and if rainfall is average in
