Latest news with #R100m
The Citizen
5 days ago
- The Citizen
Former teacher arrested for operating fraudulent Matric school
More than 100 completed matric examination papers were found in the suspect's possession. A Northdale man has been arrested on charges of fraud, forgery and uttering, and theft by false pretences after allegedly operating a bogus finishing school that scammed adult students seeking matric qualifications. The students who fell for the scam were unaware that the school was illegal. According to the Mi7 National Group, the arrest, which took place on Friday, 13 June, was the result of a multi-intelligence-led operation. The operation was reportedly conducted by Pietermaritzburg Police in collaboration with Mi7 Crime Intelligence & Investigations, the uMgungundlovu District Crime Intelligence unit, Mountain Rise Visible Policing, and the KZN Department of Education. ALSO READ: Education department clears the air on school calendar 'changes' Matric makeshift classroom discovery When the combined investigative team arrived at the Innes Avenue address, they discovered what appeared to be a legitimate educational setup. A residential room had been transformed into a classroom complete with desks and a whiteboard where lessons were being conducted. 'They found a group of pupils, aged between 23 and 50, writing their matric examinations. Unbeknownst to them, the papers they were writing were fraudulent,' said Mi7 National group director Colin David. The suspect, believed to be a former educator, though this has not been immediately verified, had been charging admission and examination fees to approximately three dozen students who trusted him to provide legitimate matric education services. ALSO READ: 'Looting using matric papers': Why did NW printing job price jump by around R100m? Matric fraud evidence seized During the search of the premises, investigators uncovered extensive evidence of the fraudulent operation. 'In his possession, the team found more than 100 matric exam papers already completed, fraudulent letters of admission containing falsified details and signatures, falsified documents, and a receipt book for payments from pupils – among others,' David revealed. The team also discovered various fraudulent documents and a receipt book documenting payments collected from unsuspecting students who believed they were investing in their legitimate educational advancement. David praised the coordinated effort that led to the successful arrest. 'We commend the extensive effort by all role players which led to the arrest,' he said. Students left in limbo The Citizen's sister paper, The Witness, reported that the scammed learners had been writing their last exam paper, a Business Studies paper. According to information given to The Witness, the police halted the make-shift exam and collected the pupils' exam material as evidence. One student reportedly revealed that their relative was also a former student who received their matric certificate from this school, which led them to assume it was legitimate. Furthermore, the students reportedly stated that they were given Department of Education examination numbers, textbooks, past exam papers, and other study materials. KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Constable Theniswa Ngcobo confirmed that Mountain Rise police have arrested the 45-year-old. 'The suspect will appear before the Pietermaritzburg Magistrate's Court soon,' said Ngcobo. READ NEXT: Bela Act guidelines issued, minister accused of 'worthless' delays
The Citizen
6 days ago
- Health
- The Citizen
Free Health screenings boost wellness in Kempton Park
Kempton Park residents received free health screenings during a wellness initiative hosted by the Ken G Morka Foundation's Grassroots Movement on June 11. The event at the Unique Medical Centre promoted health awareness, preventative care and early detection of chronic conditions. Led by Sister Ceby Mthabela, attendees could have free tests for blood pressure, blood sugar levels, weight and height. ALSO READ: Ekurhuleni's spaza shop crackdown: Health and safety violations lead to closures Mthabela highlighted the importance of regular check-ups. 'Early detection helps identify potential health concerns before they become serious. Preventative care, such as vaccinations and screenings, significantly improves long-term health outcomes.' She also stressed the value of establishing a relationship with a healthcare provider. 'When people trust their provider, they're more likely to talk openly about health issues, which leads to better care,' she added. Community members at the event shared their reasons for prioritising their health. 'We lost a pastor at our church who didn't know she had diabetes. By the time it was discovered, it was too late. She slipped into a coma and sadly passed away,' said Blessing Nyakudzi. ALSO READ: Ekurhuleni's spaza shop crackdown: Health and safety violations lead to closures 'That experience made me realise how important it is to know your health status. Many conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes are silent killers.' Nyakudzi added that some people avoid getting tested out of fear, 'One person told me, 'I'd rather not know', but how can you protect yourself if you don't check? These conditions can be managed if caught early.' Emily Nyakudzi also shared her story, explaining how a seemingly minor issue in 2023 turned out to be life-threatening. 'I developed a swollen leg and was shocked to learn it was a blood clot. I was admitted for two weeks. That experience changed me, and I've since encouraged many, especially women, to go for regular check-ups.' She was thankful for the free services offered. 'My sugar levels were fine, but my blood pressure was high, probably due to stress. It's services like these that help save lives. The staff were friendly and supportive, and I urge everyone to take advantage when they can.' The founder of the Ken G Morka Foundation, Professor Ken G Morka, confirmed that similar health check-ups would be held regularly and are open to everyone, regardless of age. ALSO READ: Gauteng Health gets R100m boost to fix hospital equipment and laundry services 'Conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure no longer affect only the elderly; they're becoming more common in young people, too,' he said. This initiative forms part of the foundation's broader Grassroots Movement, which seeks to empower communities by addressing issues such as unemployment, poverty, inequality and illiteracy through sustainable, community-based programmes. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading! Stay in the know. Download the Caxton Local News Network App Stay in the know. Download the Caxton Local News Network App here
The Citizen
14-06-2025
- Health
- The Citizen
Gauteng Health MEC issues urgent food safety warning after poisonings
Communities in Gauteng have been alarmed by several cases of children admitted to healthcare facilities after consuming poisonous food. In response, on World Food Safety Day (June 7), MEC for Health and Wellness Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko emphasised the urgent need to ensure food safety for all. 'This day is a call to action and a reminder of our shared responsibility to protect our communities,' said Nkomo-Ralehoko. ALSO READ: Gauteng Health gets R100m boost to fix hospital equipment and laundry services 'Foodborne illnesses are a serious public health concern worldwide, and Gauteng is no exception. In 2024 alone, over 700 cases have been recorded in our communities and schools, leading to tragic losses — including 30 children, with Naledi recording the highest number of deaths. Ten lives were lost in Soweto due to consumption of a harmful pesticide. This is a wake-up call for all of us.' The department has launched a year-long campaign with various stakeholders to combat this crisis, but the MEC stressed that food safety is everyone's responsibility. 'Together, we must educate ourselves on safe food handling, proper cooking, and the importance of clean food preparation areas. If you see expired or contaminated food being sold, report it immediately. Your actions protect your family and community,' she said. ALSO READ: Gauteng Health adjusts tariffs for patients Nkomo-Ralehoko urged practical steps to ensure food safety, including: • Washing hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling food, after using the bathroom, and after touching animals. • Storing perishable foods in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking or purchase. • Cooking food thoroughly to kill harmful bacteria. • Separating raw and cooked foods using different utensils and cutting boards. • Always checking expiry dates before purchasing or consuming food. 'I urge all Gauteng communities to take these steps and help create a safer food environment for themselves, their families, and their neighbours,' said Nkomo-Ralehoko. 'Remember that food safety is everyone's business. Let us educate, inspire action, and work together for a safer future.' At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
IOL News
05-06-2025
- Business
- IOL News
SA Rugby in the pound seats as international rivals struggle to make ends meet
Saru CEO Rian Oberholzer was happy to report a R100m profit for the union this week. Photo: Supplied Image: Supplied South African rugby is set to buck the global trend and report a profit of more than R100 million for 2025, clearing 2024's losses and ensuring the 15 member unions receive their full funding, while support for the Springboks and all national teams continues unchecked. This good news emerged from the annual meeting of the South African Rugby Union (SARU) in Cape Town on Thursday. Last year, South African rugby recorded a loss of R93 million due to its investment in northern hemisphere rugby competitions, but SA Rugby has already wiped out that deficit with a strong start to 2025. This is in contrast to many rival countries, who are under severe financial pressure. Other international federations have lost as much as R913 million, with five other Tier One nations reporting losses of between R588 million and R181 million. The next 'best' performance after South Africa's was a loss of R126 million, members at the meeting were told. SA Rugby's continued investment into membership of northern hemisphere competitions led to a group loss in 2024, but the organisation had already wiped out that deficit with a strong start to 2025 - more here: 👍 — Springboks (@Springboks) June 5, 2025 Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading Rian Oberholzer, CEO of SA Rugby, said that participation in the United Rugby Championship (URC) and European Professional Club Rugby (EPCR) came at a net cost of R124 million in 2024. 'We have been investing in the long-term future of South African rugby to become full members of the URC for the best part of eight years,' said Oberholzer. 'It has come at a significant cost to the sport, but there is no doubt that it has been the right thing to do. 'Once we fulfil certain membership obligations this year, we will begin to reap the on- and off-field rewards of such investment. 'If we had not undertaken this journey, we would have been reduced to playing only domestic competitions, which would have had catastrophic high-performance as well as financial ramifications for rugby in South Africa. 'It has been a tough financial road, but we have annually outperformed our global peers since the pandemic, while taking on the unusual cost of our investment into the URC and EPCR. 'Reporting a loss can never be desirable, but the irony is that we are more than satisfied with our position,' said Oberholzer. 'We had budgeted for a loss in 2024 in the expectation that the members would approve the private equity transaction that they had sought, releasing funds to cover the deficit. 'When that did not happen, we continued with our planned commercial reset and other revenue generation plans, which have borne fruit. We are in the very rare position among our international peers of continuing to be debt-free and confident of posting a surplus in 2025.'
The Citizen
05-06-2025
- Business
- The Citizen
SA Rugby's financial future looking rosy
The South African Rugby Union (Saru) is set to buck the global trend and report a profit of more than R100m for 2025. South African rugby's continued investment in membership of northern hemisphere rugby competitions led to a R93m group loss in 2024, but the organisation had already wiped out that deficit with a strong start to 2025, the annual meeting of Saru was told in Cape Town today. Saru's reported profit in 2025 would ensure the 15 member unions receive their full funding, while support of the Springboks and all national teams would continue unchecked. In the last reporting cycle, other international federations had lost as much as R913m, with five other tier-one nations reporting losses of between R588m and R181m. The next 'best' performance after South Africa's was a loss of R126m, members were told. SA Rugby CEO Rian Oberholzer said that the investment in participation in the Vodacom URC and European Professional Club Rugby (EPCR) had come at a net cost of R124m in 2024. 'We have been investing in the long-term future of South African rugby to become full members of the URC for the best part of eight years,' said Oberholzer. 'It has come at a significant cost to the sport but there is no doubt that it has been the right thing to do. 'Once we fulfill certain membership obligations this year, we will begin to reap the on and off field rewards of such investment. 'If we had not undertaken this journey, we would have been reduced to playing only domestic competitions, which would have had catastrophic high performance as well as financial ramifications for rugby in South Africa. 'It has been a tough financial road, but we have annually outperformed our global peers since the pandemic, while taking on the unusual cost of our investment into URC and EPCR.' Oberholzer said the turnaround in 2025 was being achieved by a reformatting of SA Rugby's offering to partners, featuring enhanced rights at enhanced values, as well as the creation of a new commercial delivery model. Overall, in 2024, group commercial revenues exceeded R1.5b for the first time (R1.552b), up from R1.440b in 2023. Total income with the addition of grants (principally from World Rugby of R186m) took total income to R1.76b. Revenues for 2025 are forecast to exceed R2b. The 7.8% increase in revenues was attributable to increased broadcast revenues in a non-world cup year, competition sponsorships and a strong performance in merchandising receipts which more than doubled from R30m to R62m. Expenses increased from R1.816b to R1.871b. The 2.9% increase was put down to investment in hosting three World Rugby tournaments (R133m), a R24m increase in player image rights (to R148m) and the costs associated with the mooted private equity transaction (R13m). Total expenditure attributable to the northern hemisphere international franchise competition was R446m while SA Rugby was still able to make a full distribution to member unions. Spending on the No 1-ranked Springboks, and other national teams, was R433m, a reduction of R27m on the world cup winning year of 2023 (R460m). 'Reporting a loss can never be desirable but the irony is that we are more than satisfied with our position,' said Oberholzer. 'We had budgeted for a loss in 2024 in the expectation that the members would approve the private equity transaction that they had sought, releasing funds to cover the deficit. 'When that did not happen, we continued with our planned commercial reset, and other revenue generation plans, which have borne fruit. We are in the very rare position among our international peers of continuing to be debt-free and confident of posting a surplus in 2025.' ALSO: SA Rugby defends Bok ticket prices Oberholzer said the financial outlook beyond next year was equally healthy with strong revenues forecast for 2026 with new competition formats in the pipeline. 'The income that SA Rugby generates all goes back into supporting the growth and promotion of rugby in the country,' he said. 'It allows us to fund Springbok campaigns, expand women's rugby programmes and fuel our other national teams. It pays for our members' activities in their communities, as well as their professional teams. It underwrites our rugby safety programme BokSmart; supports referee and coaching development and our age group competitions, as well as development programmes and allows us turn on sell-out Test match entertainment and our domestic competitions. 'Ultimately, every rand that we earn goes into powering the game in some shape or form and after a challenging 2024 we have a good news story to tell our South African rugby community as we look ahead.' The post SA Rugby's financial future looking rosy appeared first on SA Rugby magazine. Breaking news at your fingertips… Follow Caxton Network News on Facebook and join our WhatsApp channel. Nuus wat saakmaak. Volg Caxton Netwerk-nuus op Facebook en sluit aan by ons WhatsApp-kanaal.
