News 07:00

BULLETIN 15 March 7 am

Good morning. I am……..

In this bulletin:

# US declares South Africa’s ambassador persona non grata in comment on social media platform
#  Project Big-Bang cuts ATM bombings by 30.7-percent
# And rugby: Scotland hopes to spoil the French party in Paris

# US secretary of State Marco Rubio yesterday declared Ebrahim Rasool, South Africa’s ambassador to the US, persona non grata. Rubio said on the social media platform X, Rasool is  a “race-baiting politician” who hates America and president Donald Trump. Rubio’s comment followed news reports in Washington about a lecture Rasool had given on Friday to a South African think tank, in which he claimed Trump was leading a global white supremacist movement. South Africa’s Department of International Relations said in response they will engage through diplomatic channels.

# The latest report from Project Big-Bang, an industry-wide task team, has cut ATM bombings in South Africa by 30.7-percent between November 2024 and January 2025. Established in May 2024, the initiative led to 46 arrests and the seizure of explosives, vehicles, firearms, and 400-thousand-rand in dye-stained cash. Project manager Mischa Theron praised industry collaboration and data-driven intelligence for the success. She said the project has set a precedent for future crime prevention efforts in South Africa.

# Defence and Military Veterans deputy minister Bantu Holomisa has emphasised the need for a careful, phased withdrawal of troops from the Democratic Republic of Congo following a decision by SADC leaders. Holomisa stated that the process may take months and will involve negotiations with M23 rebels for safe passage. He stressed the importance of ensuring stability in the region and noted that the withdrawal is not due to fear or lack of resources:

# Rugby: Scotland fly-half Finn Russell says his team would be motivated by the chance to disrupt France’s bid to seal the Six Nations title today in Paris. Scotland could deny France their second Six Nations triumph in four years at the Stade de France, with England and Ireland hoping to put the pressure on Les Bleus earlier in the day. The visitors’ title chances are all but over due to their far inferior points difference to France, but Russell hopes they can spoil the party in the French capital. Kick-off is at 10 tonight.

# And the Cape Town Carnival is gearing up to sparkle today, celebrating its 15th anniversary with over one-thousand performers showcasing massive floats and intricate costumes. The parade will light up Green Point and Somerset Road, and an entertainment village will offer music and food trucks. Mayoral committee member for Safety and Security, JP Smith, says the event is free to watch, with VIP seating available for a premium experience:

Stay tuned for more news………….