eNCA News Bite - 4 December 2025

Stay informed in just a few minutes with News Bite, your fast, reliable update on South Africa’s top stories.

 

In today’s episode, suspended EMPD deputy chief Julius Mkhwanazi is back in the hot seat at the Madlanga Commission, where testimony centred on his dealings with Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala. While he confirmed giving Medicare24 and CAT VIP Protection operational space in Ekurhuleni, he insisted he did not kit out Matlala’s vehicles with blue lights. The exchange became tense as Mkhwanazi defended himself, joking that he “can’t go to jail for something he didn’t do.”

In Cape Town, two men were shot dead in Athlone within minutes of each other; one outside the magistrate’s court, the other just 200 metres away. It is the third such incident at the court this year, and police say investigations are under way.

Nationally, Treasury’s proposal to impose a 20% tax on online betting has sparked strong pushback from the gambling industry. Experts warn it could hurt consumers and drive bettors to illegal platforms. Treasury’s discussion paper is open for public comment until the end of January.

 

Subscribers may also face changes in the new year. Canal+ has warned that up to 12 DStv channels; including CNN International, Discovery Channel and Cartoon Network; could be cut after the broadcaster failed to reach a new carriage agreement with Warner Bros. Discovery.

 

We’re also keeping an eye on: 

• Former president Jacob Zuma and arms company Thales returning to the Pietermaritzburg High Court in the long-running arms-deal corruption case. 

• The Trump administration stepping up visa restrictions on Nigerians, citing disputed claims of Christian persecution; allegations the Nigerian government denies.

 

SPORTS 

The Proteas have levelled the ODI series against India with a confident chase of 358, powered by a superb century from Aiden Markram. Kaizer Chiefs drop crucial points after a goalless draw with Chippa United, while Mamelodi Sundowns are held by Bloemfontein Celtic in another stalemate. South Africa’s booming padel scene celebrates a milestone with the launch of the SA Grand Tour 2026, featuring 18 events nationwide.

 

AND FINALLY… 

Police in New Zealand are keeping a watchful eye on a thief who swallowed a diamond-encrusted Fabergé egg worth 20,000 US dollars. Inspired by the James Bond film Octopussy, the ornate locket remains unrecovered as officers wait - quite literally - for nature to take its course.

 

That is your News Byte for 4 December 2025. For updates on these stories and more, visit enca.com or watch us on DStv Channel 403.

 

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