Here are the top stories from Africa. South Africa’s Special Investigating Unit raided businessman Hangwani Maumela’s luxury Sandhurst mansion, seizing Lamborghinis and art in its ongoing probe into the R2 billion Tembisa Hospital scandal
Meanwhile, police also raided suspended deputy commissioner Shadrack Sibiya’s home amid an alleged corruption investigation.
In sports, CAF president Patrice Motsepe confirmed AFCON 2025 will go ahead in Morocco despite nationwide protests.
Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee began hearings into Lieutenant-General Mkhwanazi’s explosive corruption allegations.
Meanwhile, the Presidency announced that the late ambassador Nathi Mthethwa will receive a state funeral on 12 October. In global news, Mandla Mandela returned home after six days in Israeli custody, and TV host Xolani Khumalo was named ActionSA’s mayoral candidate for Ekurhuleni, pledging a bold anti-crime agenda.
Check out all the top stories below:
SIU RAIDS MAUMELA’S SANDTON MANSION, SEIZES LAMBORGHINIS–AMID R2 BILLION TEMBISA HOSPITAL SCANDAL
High-end cars. Designer furniture. Rare art. That’s what law officials found when the SIU raided businessman Hangwani Maumela’s luxury Sandhurst home on Thursday.
The raid is part of an R820 million push to recover assets tied to alleged corruption at Tembisa Hospital.
SIU investigators, supported by locksmiths and trucks, seized Lamborghinis, designer furniture, a massage parlour, and valuable artwork.
The operation comes after an SIU report exposed over R2 billion in alleged fraud through procurement deals at the hospital.
The SIU confirmed that the raid was “part of implementing investigation outcomes and managing consequences,” confirming “an operation at a Sandhurst home connected to” the Tembisa Hospital Capture investigation.
Last week, the SIU confirmed that it had placed a hold on Maumela’s expensive assets — among them four Lamborghinis, a Bentley Continental GT, an Isuzu D-Max, a trailer, and a boat — via the Asset Forfeiture Unit.
The R300 million forfeiture case now underway includes Maumela and others believed to have benefited from the alleged hospital tender fraud.
Source: IOL
SAPS RAIDS SIBIYA’S HOME AMID ALLEGED CORRUPTION PROBE
Suspended Deputy National Police Commissioner for Crime Detection, Lieutenant-General Shadrack Sibiya, has accused his SAPS ( South African Police Service) colleagues of betrayal after his home was raided in Centurion on Thursday, 9 October 2025.
The high-profile raid formed part of ongoing investigations into alleged corruption and links to criminal syndicates within the police service.
The raid was conducted by the task force and National Intervention Unit (NIU).
Sibiya claims the move is an intimidation tactic ahead of his appearances before the Madlanga Commission, Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee on SAPS, and an internal disciplinary hearing.
Speaking after the raid, he said he felt targeted and unsafe, stating that “I’m under siege; my life is in danger and that of my family.”
Sources say the investigation into senior SAPS officials continues to widen, with Sibiya expected to testify in the coming days (at Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee and, the Madlanga Commission) — a moment that could expose deeper fractures within the police leadership.
SUSPENDED GENERAL SHADRACK SIBIYA TO APPEAR BEFORE THE PARLIAMENT AD HOC COMMITTEE
Lieutenant-General Shadrack Sibiya, the suspended Deputy National Police Commissioner for Crime Detection, alleged that Thursday’s raid on his home was intended to interfere with his readiness for appearances before Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee on SAPS, the Madlanga Commission, and an internal hearing.
Sibiya told reporters that “this search for today, it is meant to disrupt me,” explaining that the raid left him without access to his devices, making it difficult to research or communicate.
Still, he said he intends to appear before the Ad Hoc Committee on Monday, adding that his key submissions will be presented there.
MOTSEPE: “AFCON 2025 WILL GO AHEAD AS PLANNED” AMID MORROCCO PROTESTS
As Morocco faces waves of youth-led protests calling for change, CAF President Patrice Motsepe remains “absolutely confident” the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations will happen there, “as planned.”
The tournament is set for December 21 to January 18, with matches across nine stadiums and 24 teams taking part.
Motsepe, speaking in Kinshasa, said Morocco remains the only option for hosting, despite the unrest.
He noted CAF will continue to partner with the Moroccan government and local authorities to make sure everything stays on track. For Motsepe, political noise won’t disrupt preparations—he believes in Morocco’s readiness and resilience to host Africa’s biggest football event.
ESWATINI RECEIVES 10 DEPORTEES FROM THE U.S.
On Monday, Eswatini received 10 foreign nationals deported from the United States, adding to the five others it took in July. The country’s correctional department, HMCS, said in a statement, “We confirm the arrival of ten (10) third-country nationals from the United States of America.”
The deportees will remain in Eswatini’s correctional facilities until they are sent back to their countries of origin. HMCS noted they were in good health and undergoing admission.
The identities and nationalities of the latest arrivals have not been disclosed.
The deportations are linked to a broader crackdown by the Trump administration, which previously declared plans to remove “millions of illegal immigrants.”
The first five deportees included individuals from Vietnam, Jamaica, Laos, Cuba, and Yemen. One Jamaican has already been sent home, while two others await repatriation.
However, Eswatini’s cooperation with the U.S. faces legal pushback. Activists have filed a lawsuit questioning the legality of the arrangement, which remains mostly secret.
AD HOC COMMITTEE STARTS HEARINGS INTO MKHWANAZI’S ALLEGATIONS
The 11-member ad hoc committee tasked with probing allegations by KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi began its hearings this week, starting on Tuesday, 07 October, with the commissioner himself taking the stand as the first witness.
The committee, led by ANC NEC member Soviet Lekganyane, includes members from the ANC, DA, EFF, MKP, IFP, and FF+. It was formed in July after Parliament approved a joint report recommending its creation.
The hearing got underway with Advocate Norman Arendse, in his role as evidence leader, opening the proceedings.
The committee will focus on the below:
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Check for possible political interference.
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Investigate links between Police Minister Senzo Mchunu and businessmen Brown Mogotsi & Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala.
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Review irregularities in SAPS contracts — especially the R360 million deal with Medicare24 Tshwane and Matlala’s role.
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Look into whether IDAC officials interfered with police work or overstepped their powers.
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Probe claims of a drug cartel-led crime syndicate infiltrating justice system officials.
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Examine if any MPs leaked classified info or had ties to criminal groups.
A ‘LOVE TRIANGLE’ LEAVES 14 SOLDIERS DEAD IN SOUTH SUDAN
At least 14 soldiers were killed and several injured during a deadly shootout in South Sudan, believed to have started over a “love triangle.” The clash happened Monday at a market in the Abyei Box area, where forces loyal to President Kiir and Riek Machar are stationed under the Unified VIP Protection Force.
Army spokesperson Lul Ruai Koang explained there were “two conflicting accounts regarding the cause”… one says it was a “purely personal misunderstanding at a tea place, and the other says it was a love triangle.”
He added, “the two men reportedly quarreled after both were reported to be romantically involved with the same lady.”
When the Machar-aligned officer fired on his Kiir counterpart, it set off violence that quickly spread to checkpoints and barracks.
Koang confirmed 14 soldiers died — eight from the national army and six from Machar’s side — and five were wounded.
Source: cbsnews
PARLIAMENT HEARS MORE BOMBSHELLS FROM MKHWANAZI AT AD HOC COMMITTEE
Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee on Police Corruption heard explosive testimony this week from KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who took the stand on both Tuesday and Wednesday.
The hearings follow growing concerns over the sudden shutdown of the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT) in KwaZulu-Natal — a move Mkhwanazi labelled unlawful and politically motivated.
The hearings on Tuesday and Wednesday focused on claims of political interference and criminal infiltration within SAPS.
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Mkhwanazi said the disbandment of the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT) in KZN was “unlawful” and “politically motivated.”
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Minister Senzo Mchunu’s decision to shut down the PKTT was called irregular and “bordered on breaking the law” for interfering with SAPS’s independence.
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Mkhwanazi shared that President Ramaphosa likely had no knowledge of the PKTT disbandment.
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The PKTT, he testified, had been effective and necessary.
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Responding to questions about his family’s safety, he said, “I don’t have money to hire bodyguards… their safety can only be guaranteed by men and women in blue.”
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Mkhwanazi raised concerns about journalists being “handled” by crime intelligence.
- Mkhwanazi told MPs that the arrest of Lieutenant-General Dumisani Khumalo was “no coincidence” but a “project” aimed at disrupting key organised crime and drug investigations in Gauteng.
- Mkhwanazi alleged that Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala and Katiso Molefe are part of an alleged “Big Five” cartel, alongside three unnamed tender-linked businessmen.
The hearings continue as MPs begin directly questioning witnesses.
POLICE COMMISSIONER FANNIE MASEMOLA APPEARS AT AD HOC COMMITTEE AS 2ND WITNESS
National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola began his testimony on Thursday, appearing before Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee as the inquiry’s second witness, following Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.
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National Commissioner Fannie Masemola rejected claims that KZN Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi is involved in politics or has ambitions to lead the Hawks.
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He said Mkhwanazi is a principled officer who always speaks out against unfair treatment in SAPS and has no interest in politics.
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According to Masemola, internal groups “of people who know the system” are trying to manipulate processes to remove him as commissioner.
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Despite challenges, he insisted SAPS is under pressure but not in a state of crisis.
MOROCCO SIGNS NEW ANTI-CORRUPTION DEAL AFTER PROTESTS
Following widespread youth-led protests, Morocco has signed a new anti-corruption deal aimed at improving transparency and institutional cooperation. The protests, led by the “Generation Z 212” movement, had pushed for reforms in health, education, and government accountability. Although the group has paused demonstrations until October 9, public pressure remains strong.
In response, the National Authority for Probity, Prevention, and the Fight against Corruption (INPPLC) signed an agreement with both the General Directorate for National Security (DGSN) and the General Directorate for Territorial Surveillance (DGST). The government says this move “reflects Morocco’s determination to strengthen its internal front against corruption through an integrated framework of cooperation.”
The deal aims to boost coordination between institutions, improve corruption investigations, and offer specialised training programs to increase capacity. According to officials, this initiative will “enhance the effectiveness of corruption-related investigations” and build long-term resistance to future risks.
Authorities hope this step will reinforce trust and signal progress on much-needed reform.
NATHI MTHETHWA TO RECEIVE STATE FUNERAL SET FOR OCTOBER 12
President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced a Special Official Funeral Category 2 for the late Ambassador Emmanuel Nkosinathi “Nathi” Mthethwa, who passed away in Paris on 30 September 2025 at the age of 58.
The funeral will take place on Sunday, 12 October, in KwaMbonambi, KwaZulu-Natal.
His mortal remains are expected to arrive at OR Tambo International Airport on Friday, then be flown to King Shaka International Airport in Durban.
Mthethwa, serving as South Africa’s Head of Mission in France since December 2023, previously held four ministerial posts over 15 years — including Police, Safety and Security, and Arts and Culture — following a long history in political leadership.
The Presidency confirmed that “the President assures the families of the nation’s appreciation for the diverse roles in which Ambassador Mthethwa served the country.”
Ramaphosa also expressed “deepest condolences to Ambassador Mthethwa’s wife, Ms Philisiwe Buthelezi, and the extended Mthethwa and Buthelezi families.”
As part of the tribute, the National Flag will fly at half-mast until the evening of the funeral, and SAPS will perform official ceremonial duties.
CONGO’S PRESIDENT CALLS FOR PEACE WITH RWANDA
Speaking at the EU’s Global Gateway Forum in Brussels, Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi made a direct appeal to Rwanda’s Paul Kagame, calling for urgent steps to end the violence in eastern DRC. He told Kagame, “I’m using this forum to extend my hand to you, Mr. President, so that we can make peace. Today, we are the only two capable of stopping this escalation.”
Tshisekedi asked Kagame to order M23 rebels—allegedly backed by Rwanda—to stop fighting. “It is time to put an end to this and instead focus on peace and development,” he said, suspending calls for sanctions to prove that Congo “is not belligerent.”
Kagame didn’t respond publicly. However, Rwanda’s Foreign Minister, Olivier Nduhungirehe, dismissed the remarks as “political theatrics,” adding that Tshisekedi had “made public threats to bomb Kigali.” He argued, “He alone can end this war… by ending his threats and his collaboration with FDLR.”
Despite a ceasefire deal signed in July, fighting continues. M23 rebels still hold key areas like Goma and Bukavu. While the UN and DRC accuse Rwanda of supporting the group, Kigali denies this.
Tshisekedi insists peace is still possible—if both leaders act now.
RAMAPHOSA HEADS TO IRELAND AND BELGIUM TO BOOST TRADE AND INVESTMENT
President Cyril Ramaphosa is out of the country visiting Ireland on 8 October and Belgium on 9 October 2025 to strengthen South Africa’s global trade and diplomatic ties.
In Ireland, Ramaphosa will hold formal talks with President Michael D. Higgins and Prime Minister Micheál Martin. The goal is to build a strategic partnership focused on trade, investment, education, science, and innovation. Ramaphosa will also engage with major Irish companies to promote South African investment opportunities.
Ireland’s historical support during apartheid and shared democratic values make it a key ally. The visit aims to elevate the relationship to a stronger and more structured level.
In Belgium, Ramaphosa will attend the Global Gateway Forum in Brussels — a high-level event hosted by the European Union. This forum is crucial for boosting South Africa’s partnerships with Europe and advancing projects that support sustainable development.
Overall, the visits are expected to deepen cooperation and open new economic doors for South Africa.
MINISTER ANGIE MOTSHEKGA APPOINTED AS ACTING PRESIDENT RAMAPHOSA TRAVELS
With President Cyril Ramaphosa visiting Ireland and Belgium this week, Defence Minister Angie Motshekga has been named Acting President of South Africa.
The Presidency announced her appointment on Wednesday, citing Section 90(1) of the Constitution, which allows the delegation of presidential authority when both the President and Deputy President are absent.
Ramaphosa is attending bilateral meetings in Ireland before heading to the Global Gateway Forum in Brussels.
Until he returns, “Minister Motshekga will accordingly serve as Acting President,” said the statement.
NIGERIAN BILLIONAIRE JITE TESIGIMOJE MARRIES 19TH WIFE, SPARKS NATIONAL DEBATE
Jite Odeworitse Tesigimoje, a billionaire oil magnate from Nigeria’s Delta State, is making headlines after marrying his 19th wife. The 43-year-old’s wedding went viral, reigniting discussions around love, culture, and masculinity.
Tesigimoje, in an interview with The Nation newspaper, defended his lifestyle by stating, “Colonialists told us monogamy is the best way of life… Yet those same people are caught daily in scandals. Why sneak around? Why live in lies?” He believes polygamy is more transparent and respectful.
His wives come from Igbo, Yoruba, Fulani, and Itsekiri communities. Each has a five-bedroom house in Lagos and receives equal financial support. Tesigimoje claims, “Once I do something for one wife, all of them must get the same treatment.”
While praising unity and fairness, he admitted polygamy isn’t for everyone and requires “financial strength and emotional intelligence.” Critics, however, say his lifestyle reinforces outdated gender roles. Despite the backlash, Tesigimoje hinted he may soon marry again.
MANDELA BACK HOME AFTER SIX DAYS IN ISRAELI CUSTODY
After spending six days in Israeli custody, Activist Mandla Mandela arrived back in Johannesburg on Wednesday with four other South Africans. He had joined the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF), aiming to deliver aid to Gaza, when Israeli forces intercepted their boat last Thursday.
Before setting sail, Mandela recorded a video in case of trouble. “I’m a citizen of the Republic of South Africa. If you are receiving this video, it means that we have been intercepted and have been abducted by the state of apartheid Israel,” he said. “I call you to request our government to exert pressure for my immediate release.”
At OR Tambo airport, Mandela described being “handcuffed with cable ties tied tightly behind our backs, taken off our boats, put on the platform and paraded for all … to see.”
Despite the ordeal, he remained focused on Gaza, saying, “But it’s nothing compared to what Palestinians have been subjected to on a daily basis.”
MALAWI’S NEW PRESIDENT PETER MUTHARIKA SWORN IN, DECLARES: “THE HONEYMOON OF LOOTING IS NOW OVER”
Arthur Peter Mutharika was sworn in as Malawi’s seventh president on Saturday after a landslide victory in the September 16 election.
At 85, the former law professor began his new term with a strong warning to party members and public officials, saying “the honeymoon of looting is now over.”
He vowed to “go after” anyone involved in corruption, promising to “bring sanity and restore discipline” across government.
At the colourful ceremony in Blantyre—marked by military parades and traditional dances—Mutharika said Malawi was facing “a serious crisis” and urged citizens to join him in rebuilding the nation.
He cautioned that recovery would require “hard work and patience,” not “milk and honey.”
Mutharika, who first led the country in 2014, returns after his 2019 re‑election was nullified for “massive irregularities.”
The event was attended by regional leaders, including Zimbabwe’s Emmerson Mnangagwa and Mozambique’s Daniel Chapo, while former presidents Joyce Banda and Bakili Muluzi also attended.
Mutharika wasted no time after his inauguration, appointing part of his Cabinet just a day after being sworn in.
Among key appointments:
- Enock Chihana of the Alliance for Democracy, his election partner, was named second vice president.
- Joseph Mwanamveka takes the finance portfolio, George Chaponda will head foreign affairs, and
- Alfred Gangata is now state minister.
- For security, Mutharika appointed Lt. Gen. George Jafu as the new Malawi Defense Force chief and
- Richard Luhanga as head of the Malawi Police Service.
- Mutharika was officially inaugurated on Saturday after winning the September 16 elections in a landslide, defeating incumbent President Lazarus Chakwera, who was seeking a second five-year term.
SIZOK’THOLA’S XOLANI KHUMALO APPOINTED AS ACTIONSA’S EKURHULENI MAYORAL CANDIDATE
ActionSA has officially named TV host and anti-drug activist Xolani Khumalo as its mayoral candidate for Ekurhuleni on Saturday.
Known for leading Sizok’thola on Moja Love, where he confronts alleged drug dealers, Khumalo vowed to clean up the city if elected.
He promised to create an “independent anti-crime unit” and an “anti-corruption unit that has teeth and cannot be captured.”
Speaking in Thembisa, he reminded supporters that tackling crime comes with pressure, but said, “When you do something with passion, it’s from the heart.”
Khumalo’s appointment marks a bold political move, placing him at the frontlines of ActionSA’s anti-crime mission.
Source: eNCA
The post Top Stories in AFRICA this week: Ad Hoc Committee, Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, Maumela’s Sandton mansion raided, Sibiya’s house raided appeared first on YOMZANSI. Documenting THE CULTURE.
