It’s Thursday, 19 February 2026, and this is News Bite, your fast, reliable update on South Africa and the world, with Marcelle Gordon.
Suspended deputy police commissioner Shadrack Sibiya continues to deny any links to alleged crime kingpins Cat Matlala and Katiso Molefe as his testimony before the Madlanga Commission resumes.
Sibiya admits professional ties to Witness F but denies close relations with crime kingpins, maintaining that allegations against him form part of a coordinated smear campaign.
His testimony took an unexpected turn when he addressed claims that General Hila Senthumule allegedly received a Brazilian Butt Lift funded by Matlala — a revelation that caused audible gasps inside the commission room.
Parliament descended into chaos after International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola accused former president Jacob Zuma of selling South Africans to Russia.
Parliament erupts after Lamola claims Zuma sold South Africans to Russia, referring to the 17 citizens recruited to fight in the war in Ukraine. Lamola argued it was President Cyril Ramaphosa who ultimately had to intervene and speak to Russian President Vladimir Putin to secure their return.
The debate triggered heated exchanges on the floor, with MK Party MP Des van Rooyen taking sharp exception to Lamola’s remarks.
Rape allegations have shaken a primary school community in KuGompo City in the Eastern Cape.
A 14-year-old pupil has been accused of repeatedly raping a nine-year-old girl at school. The case has inflamed tensions, with claims of preferential treatment because the accused is white.
Full report: Teen pupil accused of raping nine-year-old
The son of former Zimbabwean president Robert Mugabe has been arrested after a shooting at his Hyde Park home in Johannesburg.
Police confirmed that a gardener was shot and left in critical condition following a dispute. The firearm allegedly used in the shooting has not yet been recovered.
Chatunga Mugabe was taken into custody.
Britain’s former Prince Andrew has been arrested on suspicion of misconduct linked to his time as a trade envoy.
The UK police arrest ex-Prince Andrew on suspicion of misconduct, amid intensified investigations related to the Jeffrey Epstein files. Andrew — now known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor; had previously been stripped of his royal titles.
IN OTHER NEWS
· The United States is preparing to withdraw most of its remaining troops from Syria, following agreements with Syrian authorities to assume greater responsibility for combating terrorism.
· Meanwhile, South Africa secures re-election to the UN Human Rights Council for the 2026 to 2028 term; a move described as a vote of confidence in the country’s role in promoting human rights and international law.
SPORT
· Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso says his team are staying focused after beating Orlando Pirates 2-1 at FNB Stadium. The result narrows the gap at the top of the table to three points.
· In England, Arsenal squandered a 2-0 lead against Wolves, drawing 2-2 in stoppage time; tightening the Premier League title race.
· And in rugby, the Sharks have named JP Pietersen as permanent head coach following his interim stint.
That’s your News Bite for 19 February 2026.
For developments on these stories and more, visit enca.com or watch eNCA on DStv Channel 403.