More than half of the country’s kidnapping cases are in Gauteng. Kidnapping remains a serious safety concern in South Africa, particularly in Gauteng, which accounts for more than half of reported cases nationally. According to the South African Police Service (SAPS) crime statistics for October to December 2025, 4 775 kidnapping cases were reported across the country during this period. Gauteng alone accounted for over 53% of these incidents.

More than half of the country’s kidnapping cases are in Gauteng

The communication manager at CrisisOnCall, Ruan Vermaak, explains, “Many people think kidnapping only happens in high-profile ransom cases. While some incidents involve organised criminal networks targeting specific individuals, many occur opportunistically during crimes such as hijackings or armed robberies. In other cases, criminals may monitor routines and target victims during everyday activities. This could activities such as commuting, arriving home, or leaving work.”

Ransom and extortion remain key drivers

Victims come from a wide range of backgrounds. Business owners, professionals, parents collecting children from school, and individuals travelling alone can all become targets when criminals believe there may be financial gain. In some cases, criminals gather information beforehand by observing routines, monitoring homes or workplaces, or using personal information shared online.

Warning signs people often overlook

Although kidnappings may appear sudden, warning signs sometimes exist beforehand. These can include unfamiliar vehicles repeatedly parked near a home or office, individuals asking unusual questions about schedules, or suspicious activity near entrances and parking areas.

“Criminals rely heavily on information,” Vermaak explains. “The more predictable someone’s routine or the more personal information that is publicly available, the easier it becomes to plan a crime.”

Security specialists therefore recommend limiting the sharing of personal details on social media and remaining alert to unusual activity in everyday environments.

Preparedness can improve response times

While no precaution can eliminate risk entirely, practical preparedness can help improve safety. Experts recommend reviewing home and workplace security arrangements, varying daily routines where possible, and ensuring family members know who to contact in an emergency. Technology can also assist during high-risk situations.

MultiChoice has announced plans to discontinue Showmax.

In a notice to clients this morning, 5 March 2026, MultiChoice, now part of French media giant Groupe Canal+, said following a comprehensive review, the Showmax Board made the decision to discontinue the Showmax service in the near future.

No date has been given for the final termination of the service, nor what might replace it.

The notice goes on to say that this decision reflects a “focus on strengthening our overall digital offering and ensuring long-term sustainability in an increasingly competitive streaming environment.”

For now, there will be no interruption to the current Showmax service for subscribers, and no action is required at this time.

Acknowledging the questions this would elicit from clients, MultiChoice issued an assurance that Showmax subscribers are a priority, and that the company is working on plans to “ensure clear communication and a smooth transition when the time comes.”

“We will share further details well in advance, including timelines and any future steps, should they be required.”

MultiChoice concluded by stating that streaming remains central to its strategy.

“We will continue to invest in premium content, technology innovation and partnerships to deliver the best possible entertainment experience to our customers.”

Competition from other streaming services reportedly contributed to the decision, as Showmax sustained substantial annual losses.

The decomposed body found inside a cupboard at the Sea View Flats in Hangberg, Hout Bay, two weeks ago has been formally identified as 17-year-old Amiena Swano. 

The confirmation was announced by the Hout Bay Community Policing Forum (CPF), following DNA testing conducted by the South African Police Service. 

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CPF Deputy Chairperson Roscoe Jacobs said the identification process had now been completed. 

“The identification follows the completion of DNA processes conducted by the South African Police Service,” the CPF’s statement read. 

The discovery of the body had sent shockwaves through the Hangberg community, where Swano’s disappearance had sparked concern among residents. 

“This confirmation brings devastating news to Amiena’s family, friends, and the broader Hangberg community. We extend our deepest condolences to her loved ones during this profoundly painful time,” he said. 

The CPF also appealed for privacy for the family as they begin to deal with the tragedy. 

Meanwhile, three suspects have already been arrested in connection with the case. 

According to the CPF, the accused have been charged with murder and remain in custody while investigations continue. 

The trio were arrested on 20 February and appeared in the Wynberg Magistrate’s Court on 4 March. 

Jacobs urged residents and the broader public to avoid spreading unverified information about the case. 

“Our focus now must be on supporting Amiena’s family, standing united as a community, and ensuring that justice takes its course. As the CPF, we remain committed to working closely with SAPS and all stakeholders to ensure accountability, calm, and healing in Hangberg.” 

Investigations into the circumstances surrounding Swano’s death are ongoing. 

South Africans could soon feel the economic impact of the escalating conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel, with economists warning that higher fuel costs, rising inflation and disrupted trade routes may follow if the war drags on.

StanLib Chief Economist Kevin Lings says the early impact is already visible in fuel price pressures.

According to Lings, the daily under-recovery on diesel on 3 March 2026 climbed to about 500 cents per litre, while petrol is about 266 cents per litre.

An under-recovery means fuel prices will increase.

“If those are the type of fuel price increases South Africa is going to experience in April, then inflation will move sharply higher, undermining the chance of further interest rate cuts,” he warned.

The Road Freight Association says rising diesel prices are already putting pressure on the transport industry, which relies heavily on the fuel to move goods across the country.

CEO Gavin Kelly says higher fuel costs will inevitably be passed on to consumers.

“Diesel is the primary source of fuel for most medium and heavy commercial transporters,” Kelly said, warning that freight companies will have to factor the increases into their pricing.

This could result in higher prices for everyday goods, including food and household products, as transport costs ripple through the supply chain.

The conflict is also creating uncertainty for exporters, particularly in the Western Cape.

Industry body Exporters Western Cape says shipping lines are beginning to review services to the Middle East amid rising tensions.

Chairperson Terry Gale says rising fuel prices and potential shipping disruptions are worrying exporters who supply fresh produce to markets in the Gulf.

The situation is complicated by the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, which handles roughly 20% of global oil supply and is a key trade route for the region.

If shipping routes are disrupted, exporters could face delays or financial losses, especially when agricultural products cannot easily be redirected to other markets due to strict import regulations.

Experts also warn that South Africa could face broader geopolitical and economic pressure depending on how the conflict unfolds.

According to Barend Prinsloo from North-West University, the most immediate effects will likely be felt through fuel prices and supply disruptions.

He says over time, the country could also face political and financial exposure, particularly if global powers scrutinise South Africa’s diplomatic relationships in the region.

Experts agree that a prolonged war could trigger sustained increases in oil prices, pushing up inflation and placing further pressure on South African consumers.