Gugulethu Mtumane
(She/Her)
Port Elizabeth
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I cover a broad range of topics, including court reporting, crime, and lifestyle, bringing depth and clarity to each story I tell.
Articles by Gugulethu Mtumane
Nelson Mandela University coding project earns national recognition
GQEBERHA — A coding project that began at Nelson Mandela University has been recognised nationally for its academic and social impact. Professor Jean Greyling, head of Computing Sciences at Nelson Mandela University and founder of Tangible, presented the project at the Universities South Africa Higher Education Conference in Pretoria on Friday.
United Barbarians prepare for annual golf day
HANKEY – United Barbarians RFC is gearing up for its annual Golf Day, which will take place on 7 November. According to United Barbarians RFC secretary-general, Shannon Slabbert, this will be the fifth time the club has hosted the event. “Each year, we work on improving the event and offering new elements. Over the last five years, the event has been successful,” said Slabbert. United Barbarians RFC is preparing for its annual Golf Day on 7 November.
Law firm director summoned over alleged R433,000 trust funds theft
MTHATHA – A 56-year-old law firm director has been summoned to appear in the Mthatha Specialised Commercial Crime Court over the alleged theft of R433,000 in trust funds linked to a Road Accident Fund (RAF) compensation claim. The Mthatha Hawks’ Serious Commercial Crime Investigation team served the summons on the suspect on Thursday, 8 October, following a lengthy investigation into a case dating back to 2005.
Rhodes University classes disrupted by fee dispute
MAKHANDA – Academic activities at Rhodes University have been disrupted amid growing tensions between student leaders and management over a new fee payment protocol. The dispute centres on the university’s 2027 Protocol on the Payment of Student Fees, approved by the university council. The new protocol requires self-funded undergraduate students who have outstanding debt to pay at least 50% of what they owe before they can register.
ANC campaign trail hits KwaZakhele with community engagement
GQEBERHA – African National Congress (ANC) National Chairperson Gwede Mantashe, along with Nelson Mandela Bay Executive Mayor, Babalwa Lobishe, conducted a campaign trail in KwaZakhele on 20 September. They visited St Barnabas Church and held a community engagement. They skipped the door-to-door programme which was supposed to take place at 10:00 according to the ANC schedule.
Bail application for Gqeberha police constable accused of rape
GQEBERHA – A 32-year-old police constable is expected to appear in the Gqeberha Magistrates Court on Tuesday, 22 September, in connection with the alleged raped of a 15-year-old girl. The constable is expected to apply for bail during the proceedings after being remanded in custody at his previous appearance on Monday, 21 September. He was arrested on Saturday, 19 September, after police started investigations into the alleged rape of a minor at Mjiba Street in Greenfields, Gqeberha.
Hit plot revealed in court: Three charged with murder of motor-racing driver Robert Wolk
Three men accused of murdering well-known motor-racing driver Robert Wolk appeared in the Kempton Park Magistrate’s Court on Monday, where the state revealed an alleged plot to kill four employees at an unidentified company, Wolk among them. Khotso Richard Mashao, Hlangananani Shezi and Muziwethu Mthethwa face charges of murder, conspiracy to commit murder, attempted murder, robbery with aggravating circumstances, possession of a firearm and possession of ammunition.
Six suspects arrested following local Primary School robbery
GQEBERHA – The swift response and coordinated efforts by members attached to the KwaZakhele SAPS Social Crime Prevention Unit have resulted in the arrest of six suspects following a business robbery at a local primary school in KwaZakhele. According to SAPS spokesperson Captain Sandra Janse van Rensburg, it is alleged that on Tuesday, 28 July, at approximately 09:00, three armed suspects entered the principal’s office at a primary school in Tubali Street, KwaZakhele.
Eastern Cape on high alert ahead of anti-illegal immigration protests
The Eastern Cape Provincial Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (ProvJoints) has elevated its state of readiness across all eight districts ahead of the planned nationwide protests against illegal immigration on Tuesday, 30 June. The heightened state of readiness comes ahead of the planned nationwide protests against illegal immigration.
Department says 74 Nelson Mandela Bay land claims remain outstanding
GQEBERHA – The Department of Land Reform and Rural Development says 74 outstanding land claims in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro still need to be processed. The update was shared during a ministerial stakeholder engagement at the Nangoza Jebe Hall in New Brighton today, 22 June.
Man accused of killing five Motherwell teenagers to apply for bail
GQEBERHA – The formal bail application of Takudza Magwenzi (28), a Zimbabwean national accused of murdering five teenagers in Motherwell last month, is set to begin on 25 June. Magwenzi briefly appeared in the Motherwell Magistrate’s Court again on 18 June. Magwenzi was arrested on 5 June following an investigation by the Provincial Serious and Violent Crimes Unit in Gqeberha.
US fugitive wanted for rape, to start bail bid on 7 July
GQEBERHA – Alleged United States fugitive Robert Lee Redd Junior (56) is expected to formally apply for bail in the Gqeberha Magistrate’s Court on 7 July, as his extradition proceedings continue against him. Redd’s legal representative, Danie Gouws, told the court that he had been in contact with prosecutor Marius Stander regarding the documentation required for the extradition process.
25 years behind bars for Le Grange in De Jager killing, claims abuse in relationship
GQEBERHA – Estelle le Grange (58) pleaded guilty in the Gqeberha High Court today, 10 June, to all four charges she faces in connection with the killing of her long-time partner, businessman Danie de Jager, telling the court that years of alleged abuse, emotional distress and financial dependence contributed to the circumstances surrounding the offence.
US Fugitive wanted for sexual assault claims police assault
GQEBERHA – Alleged United States fugitive Robert Lee Redd Junior claimed in the Gqeberha Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, 3 June, that he was assaulted by police officers during his arrest at his Westbrook home on 27 May. Redd, who is facing extradition proceedings, alleged that officers stomped on and kicked him while taking him into custody.
Anke Mari Cilliers pleads guilty in drug-fuelled murder of Danie de Jager
GQEBERHA – Anke Mari Cilliers (39) pleaded guilty in the Gqeberha High Court on Monday, 2 June, to her role in the murder of Gqeberha businessman Danie de Jager (65), who was killed at his Newton Park home on 13 October last year while she and her boyfriend, Lee-Roy Scholtz, were under the influence of crystal methamphetamine. The drug-fueled murder was triggered by a heated dispute over scrap metal, during which De Jager allegedly accused Scholtz of theft and threatened them with eviction.
Hawks to leave province as Tracy Brown murder investigation continues
GQEBERHA – Investigators from the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), commonly known as the Hawks, will have to travel outside the Eastern Cape as part of ongoing investigations into the murder of Gqeberha prosecutor Tracy Brown. This emerged during today’s proceedings at the Gqeberha Magistrate’s Court, where prosecutor Cheswin King told the court that investigations remain incomplete and requested a further remand of the matter.
US fugitive to remain in custody at St Albans as extradition process begins
GQEBERHA – Alleged United States fugitive Robert Lee Redd Junior is expected to remain in custody as South African authorities prepare to file an extradition application next week. Redd, 56, appeared in the Gqeberha Magistrate’s Court on 29 May, where discussions focused on arrangements for consultations between the accused, his legal representative Danie Gouws, and the State ahead of extradition proceedings.
Dubai-based witness delays PRASA rail theft case in Gqeberha court
GQEBERHA – The PRASA rail theft matter was postponed at the Gqeberha Regional Court on Wednesday, 27 May, to allow the State to bring a formal application to secure testimony from a witness currently residing in Dubai. The delay follows the unavailability of state witness Adrian Samuels, who was unable to travel from the United Arab Emirates, where he is now employed.
Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality hopes to restore water in Kariega areas by weekend
GQEBERHA – The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality says it hopes to restore running water to Tiryville and surrounding areas by this weekend as residents continue to raise concerns over prolonged water shortages and electricity outages following the devastating floods that damaged large parts of the metro earlier this month.
Kama Primary learners benefit from new food garden in New Brighton
GQEBERHA – Learners at Kama Primary School in New Brighton will now benefit from a vegetable and fruit garden was launched on Monday, May 26, as part of Kellogg’s South Africa’s Better Days Gardens programme, an initiative aimed at improving access to food in vulnerable communities across the Eastern Cape.
State seeks postponement in Abigail Prins murder case over address verification
GQEBERHA – The State has requested a postponement in the murder case involving six-year-old Abigail Prins to allow investigating officer Sergeant Zukiswa Feni to verify the residential addresses provided by accused Christine Prins (25) ahead of a formal bail application. Prins and her boyfriend, Teboho Ramanki (31), are both facing murder charges, while Prins is also charged with kidnapping relating to the disappearance of her niece.
Schedule 6 murder case: Abigail Prins’ aunt, boyfriend appear in court
GQEBERHA – The matter involving the murder of six-year-old Abigail Prins has now been classified as a Schedule 6 offence. The child’s aunt, 25-year-old Christine Prins, and her boyfriend, 31-year-old Teboho Ramanki, appeared in the Motherwell Magistrate’s Court today in connection with the alleged murder. A Schedule 6 offence is regarded as one of the most serious charges under South African law and requires the accused to prove exceptional circumstances before bail may be granted.
Three decades of impact, reimagined: Engen Maths & Science Schools launches bold new blended learning platform
Since its inception in 1987, the Engen Maths & Science Schools (EMSS) programme has been a lifeline for South African learners striving to excel in Mathematics and Physical Sciences, helping to close the country’s STEM skills gap, one learner at a time. In a milestone for the long-standing programme, Engen has unveiled a revamped EMSS model built around a modern blended learning approach.
Paddlers to tackle Freedom Paddle for children’s smiles, ocean conservation
CAPE TOWN – The Prescient Freedom Paddle, which held on 27 April annually, is more than an elite surfski race around Robben Island; it serves a far greater purpose of bringing life-changing surgeries to children while also supporting ocean conservation. Every stroke paddlers take on the iconic journey around the world-famous landmark shows how sport can drive real-world change.
The hidden reach of crude oil: From fuel pumps to fertiliser and your phone
The ongoing war in the Middle East has driven crude oil prices to record highs, with some benchmarks surpassing $100 per barrel this week. But while motorists feel the immediate sting at fuel pumps, the true reach of crude oil extends into nearly every corner of modern life, from the fertiliser that grows food to the plastic in mobile phones. When refineries process crude oil, they create far more than just petrol and diesel.
Msikaba Bridge delays linked to steel sector challenges, completion set for 2029
LUSIKISIKI, Eastern Cape – Motorists will have to wait until 2029 for the completion of the Msikaba Bridge, as construction delays continue to affect the flagship South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) project. SANRAL Media Relations Manager, Lwando Mahlasela, said the multi-billion-rand Msikaba Bridge project was previously scheduled for completion in March 2025, but a revised timeline has been submitted following construction delays.
Cyril Ramaphosa named on apartheid assassination list, Eugene De Kock tells court
GQEBERHA – Former apartheid-era police commander Eugene de Kock has told the Gqeberha High Court that President Cyril Ramaphosa was reportedly included on a list of individuals targeted for assassination by apartheid security structures.
Ramaphosa named on apartheid assassination list, De Kock tells court
GQEBERHA – Former apartheid-era police commander Eugene de Kock has told the Gqeberha High Court that President Cyril Ramaphosa was reportedly included on a list of individuals targeted for assassination by apartheid security structures.
No Percocet found in Vicki Terblanche’s system, as trial resumes in February
GQEBERHA – Businessman Arnold Terblanche is expected to appear in the Gqeberha High Court for the continuation of his murder trial in connection with alleged involvement in the murder of his estranged wife, Vicki Terblanche. Judge Nyameko Gqamana confirmed that the trial will resume on 1 February 2027 and continue until 26 February.
Eastern Cape child murderer Robin Clarke’s sentencing postponed
GQEBERHA – The sentencing of convicted child murderer Robin Clarke was postponed again in the Gqeberha High Court today. Clarke was convicted in December 2025 of killing his 19-month-old stepdaughter, Krisley Dirker, in 2013. The matter was set down for argument on sentence today. However, prosecutor Marius Stander told the court there was a hiccup with the probation officers’ reports.
Defence argues no struggle in Terblanche murder case
GQEBERHA – More state witnesses took the stand on the seventh day of the murder trial of businessman Arnold Terblanche, who faces life imprisonment for his alleged involvement in his estranged wife’s death. The state accuses Terblanche of orchestrating his estranged wife’s death with the assistance of her boyfriend at the time, Reinhardt Leach. The couple, who married in 2006 and share one child, lived in Westview Villas, an upmarket housing complex in Gqeberha.
Defence argues no struggle in Terblanche murder case
GQEBERHA – More state witnesses took the stand on the seventh day of the murder trial of businessman Arnold Terblanche, who faces life imprisonment for his alleged involvement in his estranged wife’s death. The state accuses Terblanche of orchestrating his estranged wife’s death with the assistance of her boyfriend at the time, Reinhardt Leach. The couple, who married in 2006 and share one child, lived in Westview Villas, an upmarket housing complex in Gqeberha.
Defence argues no struggle in Terblanche murder case
GQEBERHA – More state witnesses took the stand on the seventh day of the murder trial of businessman Arnold Terblanche, who faces life imprisonment for his alleged involvement in his estranged wife’s death. The state accuses Terblanche of orchestrating his estranged wife’s death with the assistance of her boyfriend at the time, Reinhardt Leach. The couple, who married in 2006 and share one child, lived in Westview Villas, an upmarket housing complex in Gqeberha.
WATCH | Terblanche trial postponed for digital photo processing
GQEBERHA – The murder trial of businessman Arnold Terblanche was postponed until next Monday after his legal team requested that photographic evidence be converted to digital albums for better judicial review during proceedings. The businessman briefly appeared today at the Gqeberha High Court. Terblanche’s legal representative, Peter Dauberman, stated they had acquired additional images of the apartment where Reinhardt Leach resided around the time of Vicki Terblanche’s death in 2021.
Terblanche trial gains momentum as state witnesses take stand
GQEBERHA – The murder trial of businessman Arnold Terblanche finally gained momentum today after a slow start earlier this week, with three state witnesses taking the stand at the Gqeberha High Court on 12 March. The Gqeberha businessman is accused of conspiring to murder his estranged wife and mother of his son, Vicki Terblanche. The wealthy businessman is currently out on R1 million bail and faces life imprisonment for his involvement in Vicki’s death.
Arnold Terblanche murder trial postponed over judge conflict
GQEBERHA – The murder trial of Gqeberha businessman Arnold Terblanche was postponed until tomorrow after concerns arose during court proceedings that presiding Judge Nyameko Gqamana may have been involved in Arnold and Vicki’s divorce proceedings. The judge wants to ensure he did not see any documentation involving their divorce during 2020-2021. Vicki Terblanche had filed for divorce from Arnold in December 2020.
Arnold Terblanche murder trial postponed over judge conflict
The murder trial of Gqeberha businessman Arnold Terblanche was postponed until tomorrow after concerns arose during court proceedings that presiding Judge Nyameko Gqamana may have been involved in Arnold and Vicki’s divorce proceedings. The judge wants to ensure he did not see any documentation involving their divorce during 2020-2021. Vicki Terblanche had filed for divorce from Arnold in December 2020.
Arnold Terblanche murder trial postponed over judge conflict
GQEBERHA – The murder trial of Gqeberha businessman Arnold Terblanche was postponed until tomorrow after concerns arose during court proceedings that presiding Judge Nyameko Gqamana may have been involved in Arnold and Vicki’s divorce proceedings. The judge wants to ensure he did not see any documentation involving their divorce during 2020-2021. Vicki Terblanche had filed for divorce from Arnold in December 2020.
Tracy Brown murder case remanded as forensic tests continue
GQEBERHA – Cell phone analysis, DNA tests, and fingerprint tests are still outstanding in the murder case of Gqeberha Public Prosecutor Tracy Brown, who was brutally killed near her home in July 2025, the Gqeberha Magistrate’s Court heard on 3 March. The Gqeberha mother was shot on 31 July in front of her partner at her Young Park home after the suspects allegedly followed her home from the New Brighton Magistrate’s Court, where she worked at the time.
Tracy Brown murder case remanded as forensic tests continue
GQEBERHA – Cell phone analysis, DNA tests, and fingerprint tests are still outstanding in the murder case of Gqeberha Public Prosecutor Tracy Brown, who was brutally killed near her home in July 2025, the Gqeberha Magistrate’s Court heard on 3 March. The Gqeberha mother was shot on 31 July in front of her partner at her Young Park home after the suspects allegedly followed her home from the New Brighton Magistrate’s Court, where she worked at the time.
Expert, parents back social media ban for SA's under-16s
More than two months have passed since Australia enacted legislation banning children under 16 from using social media, igniting global debate about whether other countries should follow suit. The Australian law requires major social media platforms to implement strict age-verification measures or face fines of up to AUD 30 million (approximately R338 million). The move positions Australia as the first country to pass such legislation, though several nations are now moving in a similar direction.
Knysna Municipality disputes Business Chamber's R16m festival loss claim
KNYSNA – The cancellation of the Oakhill Waterfront Chukka Festival which was supposed to take place in early February, has sparked a dispute between Knysna’s business community and the municipality over alleged economic losses, with the Business Chamber claiming a R16 million blow while municipal officials have refrained from confirming the figure. The Chukka Festival is one of the countries biggest water polo festivals.
SANDF deployment to Eastern Cape crime hotspots within nine days
GQEBERHA – Eastern Cape residents can expect to see South African National Defence Force (SANDF) members deployed to crime-stricken areas within the next nine days. Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia confirmed in Parliament this week, that a deployment plan would come into effect following President Cyril Ramaphosa’s directive to combat escalating crime in the province.
From a birthday celebration to a five-year love story
GQEBERHA – Their love story started with a birthday celebration in Cape Town. Lusanda Pepeta was turning 25 and through a mutual friend’s invitation, his future girlfriend Lisa Foslara joined the celebration, sparking a five-year love story that continues to flourish today. As Lisa recalls, “from that day, we couldn’t stop talking to each other.” What began as a chance encounter at a birthday party has turned into five years for the young couple.
WATCH: Academic activities suspended at NMU after student protests block access
GQEBERHA – Academic activities were suspended at Nelson Mandela University’s north and south campuses today, 12 February, after student protests over alleged registration and accommodation issues blocked access to both facilities. Nelson Mandela University spokesperson Zandile Mbabela noted that about 30 individuals blocked both entrances to the campuses.
'Beasty' claims second Red Bull Dance Your Style victory
GQEBERHA – Dancing sensation hailing from Gqeberha, Mason “Beasty” Booysen (18) has claimed victory once again at the Red Bull Dance Your Style Gqeberha Qualifier. He defeated his older brother Spidey (25) at the qualifiers on Saturday, February 7. In a heated sibling showdown, it was Beasty who emerged triumphant for the second time and secured his spot in the national finals at Shark Rock Pier in Summerstrand.
50 healthcare professionals appointed at Frere Hospital
KUGOMPO CITY, Eastern Cape – Fifty new healthcare professionals have been appointed at Frere Tertiary Hospital in KuGompo City, formerly known as East London, as part of efforts to strengthen clinical and management capacity in the Eastern Cape province’s key tertiary hospitals.
McKenzie misled the people, DA demands transparency on Eastern Cape name changes
The Democratic Alliance (DA) has accused the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, of lacking transparency during the process of changing names of geographical areas in the Eastern Cape. In a statement issued by DA MP Samantha Graham-Maré, she alleges that McKenzie misled the people of the Eastern Cape when, a year and a half ago, he told the media that he was not approving the name changes for Graaff-Reinet and that there were bigger issues that needed attention.
Swimmers warned against overestimating ability in dangerous waters
Lifesaving South Africa has issued a warning that the current heatwave, following intense flooding across various provinces, could create dangerous conditions that significantly increase drowning risks. The organisation cautions that individuals may struggle to properly assess both water hazards and their own swimming abilities before entering the water.
Social media divided as minister approves name changes for Eastern Cape towns
KUGOMPO CITY – Following the recent geographical name changes in the Eastern Cape approved by the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture on Monday, 26 January, Eastern Cape Geographical Names Committee chair Christian Martin reiterated that the South African Geographical Names Council’s (SAGNC) mandate is the transformation agenda.
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