Deputy Minister of Higher Education Nomusa Dube-Ncube's home TORCHED
The blaze, which destroyed the property's garage, also consumed three vehicles, two motorbikes, and two quad bikes, according to police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda.
'It is reported that the owner of the property parked her vehicle inside the garage, but was later alerted to smoke coming out of the garage,' Netshiunda said.
'The suspects are unknown at this stage, and the motive is being investigated.'
Videos and images of the fire began circulating on social media on Monday, coinciding with the announcement of Dube-Ncube's new appointment as Deputy Minister of Higher Education.
The incident has sparked concern over the timing and possible intent behind the blaze, although authorities have not confirmed any link between the fire and her new government role.
Police have not reported any injuries, and investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing.
Dube-Ncube was the premier of KwaZulu-Natal from 2022 and 2024.
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1
Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The South African
2 hours ago
- The South African
Will Mkhwanazi accept gift of cows from the public?
KwaZulu-Natal provincial commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi has been promised two cows from a fundraising initiative that raised close to R50 000 by his supporters. But is he permitted to accept it as a gesture of gratitude? Earlier this month, notorious X troll Chris Excel launched a crowdfunding initiative to gift Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi two cows as a 'token of appreciation.' The initiative was a hit, raising R44 000 for the top cop who went public with allegations of corruption within the police department. While some have claimed that accepting the gift would equate to 'bribery', officials say otherwise. KZN police spokesperson, Colonel Robert Netshiunda, told The South African that police may accept gifts, for any reason, provided that they declare that it is not a gratification. 'There is a gift register in the SAPS that police officers sign to declare all gifts', he said. According to Excel, the BackaBuddy funds will be released once Mkhwanazi publicly acknowledges the gesture. Meanwhile, Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi has garnered widespread support – from the public to political parties – around South Africa. 'Hands off Mkhwanazi' has been a trending topic on social media, with many publicly pledging to support the KZN commissioner. South Africans have even threatened to riot and loot should any action be taken against him. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 . Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp , Facebook , X, and Bluesky for the latest news.
The South African
7 hours ago
- The South African
New clues see SAPS rush back to Saldanha Bay in search of Joslin Smith
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has launched renewed search operations in Saldanha Bay as efforts to locate Joslin Smith continue, nearly 18 months after her disappearance. A heavy police presence was seen in the Middelpos informal settlement on Friday afternoon, with officers methodically sweeping through the area. The operation follows the emergence of new information that investigators believe could be crucial in the ongoing case. Joslin was first reported missing in February 2024, prompting widespread national concern and a large-scale search across the Western Cape. Despite arrests made in connection with the case, the young girl's whereabouts remain unknown. While authorities have not disclosed the specifics of the new lead, sources suggest it was compelling enough to warrant a renewed physical search of the Middelpos area – close to where Joslin was last seen. Police have declined to comment further, citing the sensitivity of the investigation. Residents of Saldanha Bay continue to cling to hope as the search enters yet another chapter. Friday's police operation brought a fresh sense of urgency and attention to a case that has weighed heavily on the local community and the nation at large. Joslin's story captured the hearts of many across South Africa, with calls for justice and clarity echoing for months. Posters bearing her image still line shop windows and lamp posts – a stark reminder of the unanswered questions that remain. As police continue their investigation, the country waits anxiously for a breakthrough that might finally bring Joslin home. Authorities have urged the public to report any relevant information, no matter how small, to local police stations or crime hotlines. No official statement had been issued by SAPS at the time of publishing. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
The South African
8 hours ago
- The South African
Kenny Kunene tenders immediate resignation
Kenny Kunene, Deputy President of the Patriotic Alliance (PA), has stepped down from his role as Proportional Representation Councillor and as a Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Transport in the City of Johannesburg, following mounting public scrutiny over his alleged association with an accused murder syndicate member. In his resignation letter, Kunene cited a commitment to public accountability as the reason for his decision: 'I regret to inform you that I have tendered my resignation, effective immediately. I am stepping aside from public life, for a period, while my party satisfies itself as to certain allegations that have been raised against me.' He maintained that the allegations were unfounded but agreed it would be in the public interest to withdraw from public office while an investigation is underway. The move comes days after Kunene was linked to Katiso Molefe, an alleged kingpin arrested in connection with the 2022 murder of DJ Sumbody. Kunene insists he has no personal relationship with Molefe, claiming he was caught at the suspect's home while accompanying a journalist for an interview. In a formal statement, PA President Gayton McKenzie confirmed Kunene's temporary exit from political duties. 'He has agreed to cooperate with an investigation… led by a competent legal team. Until fully cleared, he will not serve in any official capacity within the party,' McKenzie said. McKenzie urged party members to stay focused and trust the process, stating that the appointment of investigators was already in motion. Kunene, often a controversial public figure, expressed pride in his contributions to Johannesburg's transport portfolio. He thanked colleagues and constituents, leaving the door open for a potential return once his name is cleared. The resignation marks a significant development for the Patriotic Alliance, which has grown its presence in South African municipal politics in recent years. As the investigation unfolds, political observers are closely watching how this episode will affect both Kunene's career and the PA's public image. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
