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National police commissioner General Fannie Masemola could be heading back to work after the country’s top prosecutor withdrew all criminal charges against him, citing insufficient evidence. National Director of Public Prosecutions advocate Andy Mothibi said enrolling a weak case is not in the public interest. The charges, under the Public Finance Management Act, related to a contract worth roughly R228 million awarded to a company owned by Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala. Masemola was placed on precautionary suspension by President Cyril Ramaphosa after his initial court appearance.

In other news, North West police have dismissed social media claims that a suspected serial killer linked to the deaths of eight women in Kempton Park has moved to Potchefstroom. Police have found no report backing the viral message, which claims a large operation is under way in the university town. Eight women have been found dead in similar circumstances in Kempton Park over the past two months. Police have offered a R400,000 reward for information and urged residents not to spread unverified claims.

In international news, the United States has imposed targeted visa restrictions on South African officials involved in race-based discrimination and land seizures. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said those responsible for injustices against the Afrikaner minority have no place in the United States. The restrictions target specific individuals, not all South Africans. The move follows earlier US actions under US President Donald Trump’s administration, including prioritising Afrikaner refugees for resettlement. South Africa has denied the allegations, saying land reform addresses apartheid’s legacy.

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