First Take SA

The United Democratic Movement in the Western Cape is calling for an urgent, coordinated crackdown on organized crime following a deadly weekend of shootings in Langa, Gugulethu and Khayelitsha that left eleven people dead. The party says repeated condemnations are no longer enough, warning that gangsterism, illegal firearms, drugs and extortion have evolved into a deeply entrenched criminal economy. It's also raising serious concerns about mistrust between communities and police, arguing that fear of retaliation is preventing residents from coming forward with information. We spoke to Bulelwa Zondeka, Chairperson of the UDM in the Western Cape.

A known gangster out on bail has been taken in for questioning following the brutal murder of two Gauteng Anti-Gang Unit constables and two civilian women in Reiger Park, Boksburg. A high-level, multi-disciplinary police team made the breakthrough on Sunday following intense weekend tracing operations at the KwaDukathole informal settlement in Germiston. Law enforcement teams recovered two stolen SAPS R5 rifles during the operation. Police have vowed to relentlessly pursue those targeting officers and communities. SABC News Reporter Refilwe Mekoa filed this report..We also spoke to Shadrack Sheti Mdluli, Community Advocate and Servant Leader.

The government is warning the public to remain vigilant as adverse weather conditions trigger widespread travel disruptions across multiple provinces. The National Disaster Management Centre is monitoring high-risk zones. Motorists have been advised to postpone non-essential long-distance travel, respect all official road closures and keep vulnerable people and livestock sheltered from the extreme cold. We spoke to William Baloyi, Deputy Government Spokesperson.

The ANC in Gauteng is mourning the sudden death of its provincial spokesperson, Mzikayifani Elias Khumalo, who passed away at the age of 54 yesterday. Khumalo reportedly collapsed at his home in Ruimsig, Johannesburg and later passed away in hospital. For more on Mr. Khumalo's life and Journey into politics we spoke to Sochayile 'Socks' Khanyile, Provincial Coordinator of the ANC Gauteng Provincial Task Team.

A look at the current top African economic stories with Victor Kgomoeswana, author of Africa Is Open For Business and Africa Bounces Back