Monday 24 February 2025 *MORNING NEWS UPDATES* _• USD: ZiG Official Exchange – Z$25.69_ • _Black Market Rate - Zig 30:USD1_ • _Innscor in-store – Z$35_ • _KFC, Slice, Eat'n'Lick – Z$35_ New members who wish to receive detailed local, regional and international news from Ignite Media Zimbabwe should "follow" our channel on the link below: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaASRLX6mYPM2XphWy2n *For advertising inquiries call, text or Whatsapp us on +263 778 242 692* *THE HEADLINES* *VP Chiwenga ignores President Mnangagwa 2030 question* *Journalist who interviewed Blessed Geza, Blessed Mhlanga says he will give himself up today by 9 am after police launch manhunt: Geza, had given Mnangagwa an ultimatum to step down* *Removing Mnangagwa will open Pandora's box! Ken Mufuka* *Govt starts allocating urban stands to war vets to silence them* *Village heads warned against selling State land* *Mandatory sustainability reporting for listed entities* *Journalist Maynard Manyowa goes after VP Chiwenga and First Lady over PhDs* *Tshabangu : I'm Not A Ncube Faction Member* *Deadly Rains: Zimbabwe Mourns 49 Lives Lost In Devastating Floods* *Zimbabwean Man Commits Suicide After Funding Wife’s UK Dream Ends In Heartbreak* *ZRP Launches Forensic Investigation Into Illegal Kombucha Production* *Stage 6 Load Shedding Hits South Africa* *South African Man Without A Penis Accused Of Rape, Awarded R800 000 In Damages By Court* *Russian intelligence-linked hackers attack Botswana* *Pope asks for prayers in message from hospital* *IGNITE SPORT* *FIFA Delegation Expected in Harare Today* *Liverpool marching toward Premier League title after statement win at Man City* *'Let's call it now - the title race is over, Liverpool will be champions'* *Modric wonder goal helps Real Madrid move level on points with Barcelona at the top of Spanish league* *Impressive Bayern beats Frankfurt 4-0 to stay eight points clear of Leverkusen in Bundesliga* *Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has urged the Old Trafford hierarchy to sign 17-year-old Portugal Under-21s winger Geovany Quenda from his former club Sporting for £35m* *Real Madrid remain keen on Jarrad Branthwaite but are reluctant to meet Everton's £62m valuation of the 22-year-old England centre-back* *Real Madrid want to keep Luka Modric and are ready to offer the Croatia midfielder, who turns 40 in September, a new contract* *THE DETAILS WITH IGNITE MEDIA ZIMBABWE* _*VP Chiwenga ignores President Mnangagwa 2030 question*_ Zimbabwe’s Vice President Constantino Chiwenga has avoided commenting on whether President Emmerson Mnangagwa should remain in power until 2030. His silence has fueled speculation about divisions within the ruling Zanu PF party. Chiwenga Dodges Key Question During a recent event, journalists asked Chiwenga about Mnangagwa’s possible extension of power. He refused to answer, instead shifting focus to unrelated matters. His silence has raised eyebrows in political circles. Some believe he is unwilling to publicly endorse Mnangagwa’s prolonged rule. Others think he is playing a strategic waiting game. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Provinces Call for Mnangagwa to Continue Until 2030 Several Zanu PF provincial structures have endorsed Mnangagwa’s leadership beyond 2028. They argue that his policies need more time to succeed. His allies insist he is the right leader to complete the nation’s transformation. The calls for his continued rule have come from key provinces, including Masvingo, Midlands, and Mashonaland Central. Party leaders in these regions have declared their loyalty to Mnangagwa. However, not everyone within Zanu PF is openly backing this push. Chiwenga’s Position and the Geza Factor Chiwenga remains tight-lipped about Mnangagwa’s 2030 ambitions. His reluctance to speak has led to speculation about his true position. Some believe he still harbors presidential ambitions. Others argue he is simply avoiding controversy. Meanwhile, key figures like Geza and other senior Zanu PF members remain divided. Some support Mnangagwa’s continued leadership, while others advocate for fresh leadership in 2028. Their silence or indirect statements indicate an ongoing power struggle behind closed doors. Growing Political Tensions Mnangagwa’s future remains a contentious topic within Zanu PF. His supporters push for continuity, while others hesitate to take a firm stance. Chiwenga’s refusal to comment only adds to the uncertainty. As 2028 approaches, the debate over Zimbabwe’s leadership will likely intensify. For now, Chiwenga’s silence speaks volumes about the hidden tensions within the ruling party. _*Journalist who interviewed Blessed Geza, Blessed Mhlanga says he will give himself up today by 9 am after police launch manhunt: Geza, had given Mnangagwa an ultimatum to step down*_ Alpha Media Holdings senior journalist Blessed Mhlanga on Friday said he will present himself to the police after law enforcement agency launched a manhunt for him for allegedly distributing content deemed harmful to the state. On Friday morning, police spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi called for information on the whereabouts of Mhlanga for allegedly contravening Section 164 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Part of the Act ‘focuses on the circulation, broadcast, or distribution of harmful data messages on a computer or information system. This computer system includes email, social media, online articles, websites, databases, digital audio, and electronic documents,” according to one prominent law firm. “Having read the @PoliceZimbabwe statement, (and) having presented myself twice after being requested. I have called Commissioner Nyathi (and) assured him that I will be at CID by 9 am on Monday as I am currently unwell. I am not on the run. I have always complied (with) lawful orders,” Mhlanga wrote on his X handle on Friday afternoon. This development comes after Mhlanga recently interviewed Zanu PF central committee member and war veteran Blessed Geza, who gave President Emmerson Mnangagwa an ultimatum to step down. This week armed security details visited HSTV studios twice looking for Mhlanga. On Thursday, three armed individuals visited the HSTV office, looking for him, and triggering panic in the newsroom. Later in the evening, Mhlanga posted on his X handle that he had been hospitalised, quoting the famous line from rapper DMX’s song, Slippin. “I tripping, I am falling and I can’t get up.” My health is failing me, my mind spinning. I am in a hospital right now. But I am grateful for the support that I have received from you, my employers, and my family. This is a trying time for me. All I am doing is my job.” Earlier this month, he was called to the Harare Central Police Station regarding a six-year-old case involving former Finance deputy minister Terrence Mukupe. Newsday _*Removing Mnangagwa will open Pandora's box! Ken Mufuka*_ Whether we are in the Diaspora or in the homeland, events unfolding in Zimbabwe will affect us all. The story of Pandora comes from the Greek poem, Theogony by Hesiod circa 700 BC. Once a certain stage has been reached in human events, the future becomes inexorable and unpredictable. Looking back to our story in Zimbabwe, as early as 1990, the last of the great white missionary fathers, Sir Garfield Todd, reminiscing loudly in the book, Through the Storm, said that his greatest regret in being part of a new Zimbabwe was that "Robert Mugabe has corrupted everybody." This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Mukuru (otherwise lovingly known as ED by his supporters) sat at the feet of the great Houdini himself, Robert Gabriel Mugabe. It was Mugabe who conflated his family fortunes, the state, the war veterans into a formidable compromised organ, each organic cell feeding on its neighbour. ED was a good learner, and today he is blamed for a situation he inherited from the great one. The great questions of the day originate from the fact that while Zimbabwe has stupendous sovereign wealth under its soils; most of it alluvial so that even a child with a hoe can dig two feet deep into the soil and find rare minerals. The fact that liberation heroes find themselves, after 43 years of independence, the most miserable and poverty stricken in such a situation, is not historically unknown. I want to put this in context. The Iranian nationalist, Muhammad Mossadegh (1953) discovered that the Anglo-Iranian Oil Companies were willing to share Iranian oil proceeds in the ratio of 80-20 in their favour. Unless he could see the books, there was no knowing that the 20% was "real." Secondly, secret sources told him that the Saudis had a 50-50 share arrangement. The overthrow of Mossadegh by the US Central Intelligence created distrust which has remained to this day. Zimbabwe instituted a Community Share Ownership Trust program entered into between the mining companies and the communities within their resource areas. I have traced these arrangements as far back as 2013. In that year Zimplats in Ngezi "released US$4.1 million" (their words) to the Zvimba community. Zimplats released US$1.9 million in 2016 and US$2.2 million in 2017. In 2023, Zimplats built Turf School at US$300 000. Zimplats promised a birthing sum of US$10 million when the Act was passed in 2007 and has generally been unsurpassed in its generosity. Mthuli Ncube-a sell out! While the CSOT (Community Share Act) 2007 is a small attempt to harness sovereign wealth and that it affected 60 mining companies, it was a good start. But two of Mossadegh's issues were never addressed. In fact, in the Budget Act 2018 Professor Mthuli Ncube withdrew two of the articles that had made the arrangements compulsory. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. A parliamentary report reads: "The statute, as amended, and in some cases removed key provisions of the IEEA, leading to withdrawal of funding by most qualifying companies. The result, the majority of CSOT's collapsed." (Parl. Report 2024). I have said before that brother Ncube is a traitor. But he is not alone. It appears that the activities of theses Community Share Authorities were taken over by Zanu PF stalwarts. Their expenditures and contracts (tenders) went unaudited. The land issue. The point I am making is that once you open Pandora's box be prepared to find some really stinking stuff. Sir Garfield's complaint was that Mugabe had corrupted everybody. We know, from divorce submissions that Bona Mugabe had 21 farms. I can reveal that a saint in my church, a retired teacher, came home to the news that "Amai wanted his Mazowe farm. The saint, died from shock. Whether ED should take all the blame, I am uncertain. Once we open the Pandora box, I am certain that we will find that "all have sinned and have fallen short of the glory of God." According to the British Guardian, Mugabe and his wife (30 November 2010) own 14 farms. In addition, the Guardian article says that while the majority of resettled black farmers own on average 10 hectares, 40 percent of all captured white-owned land has been distributed among the chefs. Limit your vision. I have tried to show you that ED is only the face of a compromised system, which we might concede, he was able to maneuver and extend its reach beyond the boundaries set by Mugabe, his tutor. Nevertheless, removing him, without a limited vision of what can be accomplished within a short space of time, will actually make a bad situation worse, as indeed happened in 2019. The sovereign wealth issue can be dealt with easily and swiftly because one is dealing with blood -thirsty foreign companies. There are role models of social corporate responsibility to copy from; the Saudis, the Iranians and Iraqis. But going beyond that area, say to land distribution, one will find out that judges, the generals you have recruited in the overthrow of the Second Republic and some superior judges have more than one farm. A bishop friend of mine threatened to hand me over to Lucifer if I mentioned the fact that he has two farms. The overthrow of ED will allow you no more than six months before all these beneficiary sinners regroup against the new dispensation. The US has witnessed a similar situation. The Department of Justice, the Judiciary, and the prosecutors as well as newspapers were compromised in order to get rid of Trump. Politico newspaper was paid US$8 million dollars and the great Reuters were given sums estimated at US$40 million. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Corruption, therefore, was lucrative to certain powerful groups. When Zimbabwe starts to dismantle the corrupt state, I assure you that the corrupt institutions which benefitted from the Second Republic tender-entrepreneur system will regroup and appeal to the corrupt courts in the name of the rule of law. When everything failed, Trump escaped three attempted assassinations by divine intervention. Peace. Ken Mufuka is a Zimbabwe patriot. He writes from the US. _*Govt starts allocating urban stands to war vets to silence them*_ Government has started allocating urban stands to war veterans, a crucial element of its strategy to promote social justice and address historical imbalances. The programme will be implemented across the country’s 10 provinces, allowing war veterans to establish homes and embark on entrepreneurial ventures. In addition, the stands can be used as collateral for bank loans, offering veterans a pathway to financial empowerment. Last Friday, 63 veterans from the Midlands Province received their title deeds at a ceremony in Gweru presided over by the Minister of Veterans of the Liberation Struggle Affairs, Monica Mavhunga. Addressing the war veterans and Government officials, Minister Mavhunga said the urban land allocation marks a significant step towards improving their livelihoods. This development comes after a section of the war veterans gave Mnangagwa an ultimatum to resign. State Media _*Village heads warned against selling State land*_ Village heads or traditional leaders found selling or facilitating the sale of State land will be considered land barons and will face arrest, a Cabinet Minister has warned, urging anyone with concrete evidence to come forward. The announcement follows revelations that village heads, particularly in peri-urban areas such as Domboshawa, Seke, Nyabira, Rusape, and Chesa Farm, have settled over 10 000 people through an illicit syndicate. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. The syndicate reportedly involves ordinary villagers selling their land and sharing the profits with the village head, who admits home seekers into the village, forges documents, and facilitates their authentication up to the chief, who reportedly also receives a share of the spoils. Standing in for Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe during a question and answer session in the National Assembly last week, Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister, Professor Amon Murwira, said: “If there are village heads selling land, we call them land barons. “It is illegal, with regard to law; they are supposed to be arrested. That is Government policy or that is the law. If there is anyone with concrete evidence like what the Honourable Member alluded to, these people must be arrested, that is Government policy.” Prof Murwira was responding to the chairperson of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Local Government, Public Works and National Housing, Cde Albert Nyakuedzwa, who wanted to know Government’s policy on village heads selling land in peri-urban areas, claiming that they had settled over 10 000 people. In a supplementary question, another Member of Parliament alleged that some Government workers responsible for overseeing the issue of village heads parcelling out land were aware of the illegal settlements, but failed to prevent them. However, Prof Murwira said if Government workers were knowingly allowing such illegality to occur, it should be deemed corruption. “The issue that he is raising is that there are people that work for the Government and local authorities who may know what is happening and all that. “That is what we call corruption, and that is why we have laws that deal with corruption, which must prosecute those people who commit corruption. The question again is, is there such law? The law is there. “Firstly, they are not supposed to sell land illegally. If they do that, they will be prosecuted. Secondly, people who see people selling land illegally and just keep quiet are also involved in corruption; they will also be arrested. Corruption is illegal; selling land is illegal,” he said. National Housing and Social Amenities Minister Zhemu Soda said traditional leaders have no authority to parcel out State land. “The Constitution says on availability of resources, Government is supposed to do that work. So, if the resources are limited, that is when you discover that there will be slow progress and all those people expected to get accommodation and stands may not get them timeously,” he said. He warned those illegally parcelling out land of long jail sentences. “Land barons will not be asked to make any contribution except that they will be directed to go to prisons,” said Minister Soda. Herald _*Mandatory sustainability reporting for listed entities*_ In a landmark move towards enhanced corporate transparency and environmental responsibility, Zimbabwe has made sustainability reporting mandatory for all entities listed on the Zimbabwe Stock Exchange (ZSE) and the Victoria Falls Stock Exchange (VFEX). A joint statement released by the Public Accountants and Auditors Board (PAAB), ZSE, and VFEX on February 20, 2025, outlined the new requirements. Effective for companies’ financial years commencing on or after January 1, 2024, all listed entities must submit sustainability reports in compliance with Statutory Instrument 134 of 2019. “The requirement to submit sustainability reports ensures that companies remain accountable to stakeholders while providing clear and reliable information on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues,” the statement read. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. The country’s decision aligns with international trends, following its adoption of the International Financial Reporting Standard (IFRS) Sustainability Disclosure Standards issued by the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) in November 2022. However, IFRS S1 on General Requirements for Disclosure of Sustainability-related financial information and IFRS S2 on Climate-related Disclosures is not yet mandatory. “While the adoption of the ISSB standards is a significant step forward, we are currently developing an implementation roadmap to guide companies through this transition,” PAAB noted. Industry experts have welcomed the move, citing its potential to enhance investor confidence and improve corporate governance. “Mandatory sustainability reporting will compel companies to integrate ESG considerations into their business strategies. Investors want to see long-term value creation, and transparency in sustainability efforts is now a key factor,” said Tichaona Mabungu, an investment analyst. Sustainability reporting has become a critical tool for businesses and investors worldwide. Sustainability reporting is the disclosure and communication of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals—as well as a company’s progress towards them. Through disclosing ESG performance, companies demonstrate their commitment to ethical business practices, risk management, and long-term financial health. Mr Farai Kashamba, a corporate governance expert noted, “In today’s world, businesses are expected to go beyond profit-making. Investors, customers, and regulators want to understand how companies manage their impact on society and the environment. Failure to report on sustainability could pose reputational and financial risks.” Furthermore, sustainability disclosures are instrumental in addressing climate-related risks, social inequalities, and corporate ethics. Companies that embrace these principles often experience better stakeholder engagement, increased investor trust, and improved operational efficiencies. While sustainability reporting is now compulsory, the assurance of these reports is not currently mandated. This means that while companies must prepare and submit their reports, third-party verification remains optional. Arguments that independent assurance will eventually be necessary to ensure credibility have also been proffered. “Without external verification, there’s a risk of ‘greenwashing,’ where companies exaggerate or misrepresent their sustainability efforts. Over time, regulatory authorities may need to introduce assurance requirements to strengthen the reliability of these disclosures,” Mr Kashamba added. As businesses adapt to the new reporting obligations, the local regulatory authorities have urged companies to engage with relevant bodies for clarification and guidance. The introduction of mandatory sustainability reporting is expected to drive improvements in corporate accountability, risk management, and sustainable growth. With sustainability now firmly on the agenda, local companies must embrace this shift, ensuring they meet stakeholder expectations while contributing to a more sustainable future. Herald _*Journalist Maynard Manyowa goes after VP Chiwenga and First Lady over PhDs*_ Veteran investigative journalist Maynard Manyowa, the lead producer of Dug Up, has announced his intention to investigate the academic credentials of Vice President Constantino Chiwenga and First Lady Auxilia Mnangagwa. This comes after Dug Up gained widespread attention for exposing alleged fake PhD holders in Zimbabwe. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Manyowa's latest target was revealed through social media interactions. Responding to political activist Ali Naka on Twitter, Manyowa indicated that his team needed resources and support to scrutinise the First Lady's doctorate. Similarly, on Facebook, he responded to Licious Murwisi, expressing willingness to investigate General Chiwenga's PhD - provided that resources were made available. _*Tshabangu : I'm Not A Ncube Faction Member*_ Sengezo Tshabangu sacked by Welshman Ncube says he was never a member of the Ncube faction. Tshabangu now faces recall. Tshabangu said the terms of office of the CCC leadership expired on May 27, 2024 according to the party’s constitution hence it had no president. “Senator Tshabangu is not and has never been a member of CCC-Green and, as the record will show, he was not nominated or deployed as a Senator in Parliament by CCCGreen or by any of its officials, not least by the embattled Ncube,” Tshabangu’s spokesperson Nqobizitha Mlio said. “It is a matter of the public record, which is very easy to confirm or to verify that Senator Tshabangu has never ever attended any meeting of any party structure of CCC-Green nor has he ever belonged to any party structure of CCC-Green from which he can be lawfully expelled by CCC-Green. “Indeed, even the court record in which Prof Welshman Ncube and Senator Tshabangu have been litigants against each other since 3 October 2024 will clearly show that they belong to different party formations CCC.” He accused Ncube of claiming CCC leadership to gain control of the party funds under the Political Parties (Finance) Act. “The CCC-Green led Prof Welshman Ncube, whose current preoccupation is grabbing party finances by any means available, and which is largely if not exclusively composed of former members of MDC-Green, and which has particularly become active in the courts and noisy in the media from around 3 October 2024 when Prof Ncube and his cronies started eying to loot party finance due to CCC under the Political Parties (Finance Act),” Mlilo said. Standard _*Deadly Rains: Zimbabwe Mourns 49 Lives Lost In Devastating Floods*_ Forty-nine people have lost their lives across Zimbabwe since the beginning of the rainy season, as torrential downpours continue to wreak havoc. Authorities warn that more heavy rains are expected, increasing the risk of flash floods, landslides, and lightning strikes. Speaking to The Sunday Mail, Department of Civil Protection chief director Nathan Nkomo said: This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. “Weather advisory forecasted heavy rains across all the country’s 10 provinces starting from February 19 to 24, 2025. The downpours have the potential to cause flash flooding, riverine flooding, landslides, mudslides, and lightning, posing danger to communities, especially those in low-lying areas.” The severe weather has led to extensive destruction of property and infrastructure, with damages estimated at over US$330,000. Reports indicate that 992 homes and 139 schools have been affected, forcing many families to seek alternative shelter. Flash Floods And Tragic Deaths Flash floods have been a major contributor to the fatalities. One of the worst incidents occurred in Kwekwe on February 18, where floods swept through Mbizo and nearby areas, damaging homes and leaving many stranded. Nkomo confirmed the loss of lives due to drowning. In Shurugwi, a 50-year-old man drowned in the Mutevekwi River on February 16. His body was retrieved two days later by the police sub-aqua unit. “A devastating flash flood struck Kwekwe on February 18, 2025, causing widespread destruction to households in Mbizo and surrounding areas. The floodwaters inundated homes, resulting in significant property damage. An assessment is currently underway to determine the full extent of the damage, including the number of households and properties affected.” In Buhera, two five-year-old children from Mudinzwa village drowned in a stream. Their bodies were recovered later by the police. Meanwhile, in Chipinge, 15 people were stranded on Lisungwe Island after floodwaters cut them off. A rescue mission saved 13 of them, but two individuals refused evacuation. “A successful two-day rescue operation, coordinated by the district civil protection unit, with assistance from Mahenye Chilo Gorge Lodge and Gonarezhou Conservation Trust, resulted in the rescue of 13 individuals. However, two people reportedly remain on the island, refusing evacuation. Law enforcement has been engaged to intervene on the issue of the two who remained on the island.” Collapsing Homes And Mining Disaster The heavy rains have not only caused floods but have also led to infrastructure failures. In Beitbridge, a newlywed couple tragically lost their lives when their home in Tshaswingo village collapsed on Valentine’s Day due to continuous downpours. “This incident was attributed to heavy rains that weakened the structure of their house,” said Nkomo. Meanwhile, a mining disaster unfolded in Mhondoro after persistent rains caused a shaft to collapse at Magodo Mine on February 16. Ten miners were trapped underground, but five managed to escape. Rescue operations for the remaining five are still ongoing. Adding to the devastation, on February 17, a six-year-old girl named Promise Ncube was swept away by a flooded stream near Donkwedonkwe Primary School in Matobo. Sadly, she did not survive. With more rains expected, authorities are urging residents in flood-prone areas to evacuate to safer locations. The Department of Civil Protection continues to monitor the situation closely. _*Zimbabwean Man Commits Suicide After Funding Wife’s UK Dream Ends In Heartbreak*_ Tafadzwa Marwise, a Zimbabwean man, commits suicide after facing rejection from his wife, Tariro Mahachi. Marwise had financially supported Mahachi’s university education in the United Kingdom, a gesture that ultimately led to emotional turmoil and tragedy. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Marwise had invested heavily in Mahachi’s education, a common practice among Zimbabwean families seeking better opportunities abroad. However, their relationship began to deteriorate after Mahachi returned from the UK. Man commits suicide after wife dumps him Reports show that Tafadzwa invested US$5,000 in his wife’s education in the hope of a better future for his family. However, after receiving the financial support, Mahachi dumped her husband. The emotional strain of their failing relationship is believed to have been a significant factor in Marwise’s tragic decision to take his own life. Sad💔💔 Tafadzwa Marwise akazviuraya mushure mekunge arambwa nemukadzi waakaendesa kuUk kuUniversity Tariro Mahachi Community Reactions and Calls for Education The death of Tafadzwa Marwise has been met with mixed reactions on social media. Many people are warning men against empowering their wives or girlfriends. However, others warn people from making drastic decisions while dealing with heartbreaks. Below are the comments from social media: @OkaPhusisa There is nothing helping your girlfriend or wife go to University. The mistake is thinking that people will always feel the same about you or always love you the way you love them. It’s taking risks, they might one day not love you just accept it and heal @TBChigz The number of suicide cases regarding love is now alarming. Something needs to be done about this. @GenNguyen1 I’m sorry. The issue is that, we guys don’t share our problems. He cud have got counselling from elders and friends. Its a sad development _*ZRP Launches Forensic Investigation Into Illegal Kombucha Production*_ The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has launched a forensic investigation into the illegal production of kombucha. This comes after the ZRP’s Drug and Narcotics Unit arrested a suspected illegal brewer accused of producing kombucha under unapproved conditions. ZRP National Spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, told ZBC News that police have seized samples of the suspected illegal brew and are conducting forensic tests with the assistance of experts. Said Nyathi: Firstly, we want to thank the public for their cooperation in aiding the ZRP in fighting crime across the country. The suspect has already appeared before the court and was remanded in custody until February 25. The ZRP’s forensic department is working tirelessly to ensure that the recovered samples and exhibits are thoroughly analysed by experts who include specialists within the police system as well as collaborators from the Ministry of Health and Child Care. _*Stage 6 Load Shedding Hits South Africa*_ The Minister of Energy and Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa apologised to South Africans as the country faces Stage 6 load shedding. Addressing the media on Sunday morning in Pretoria, Gauteng Ramokgopa said: "Please accept our sincerest apologies. With the greatest level of humility, I want to say to the country that we regret that there is a setback." Eskom announced that Stage 6 load shedding would continue on Sunday due to multiple trips at Camden Power Station. The national power utility said Stage 6 would continue until further notice. He added that the ministry is guided by the Energy Action Plan that the president unveiled to the country in July of 2022. "We suffered a setback on February 1, 2025, after over 300 days of consecutive supply of electricity and in uninterrupted fashion and again now. We are coming back to you while we have another bout of load shedding which has a greater intensity." Ramakgopa went on to say that five generation units were lost at Majuba power station which is Eskom's second-largest power plant. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. "This resulted in us initiating Stage 3 load shedding to allow us to replenish the reserves, to allow the team to understand what the root cause was at Majuba, and have an appreciation of how long it will take for us to return those units. "At about 1.30 am at Camden, we lost four units, which is another outlier...The constellation of that resulted in us upping the levels of load shedding to Stage 6. We have been able to record some successes in return of the units," he said. Ramakgopa rubbished claims of sabotage at the stations. "I have heard several queries regarding some underhand activities. I want to say to the rest of the country; that this is a technical issue. We must not find any reason to manufacture explanations of why we are at Stage 6. We are hoping to get back to normal by the end of the week. There is no sabotage." He added that the ministry will work hard to do everything possible to curb load shedding because it also affects the country financially. "On the agitation, anger, disappointment that the country is registering, we should not accept load shedding at any Stage...We have made decisions that are in the interest of the great...We understand the anger; we feel your pain; we can hear your cries. We will resolve this problem," Ramakgopa said. IOL _*South African Man Without A Penis Accused Of Rape, Awarded R800 000 In Damages By Court*_ South Africa’s Police Minister has been ordered by a court to pay a man R800 000 in damages after he was wrongfully arrested on a charge of raping a neighbour’s child, despite the man having no penis, which had been severed when he was 12 years old. As reported by IOL, the man, who is not identified to protect his dignity, turned to the KwaZulu Natal High Court in Pietermaritzburg to claim damages for his unlawful arrest and detention. He had spent 54 days in a filthy cell before the national prosecuting authority withdrew the charges against him. While the court turned down his claim for malicious prosecution against the NPA, reasoning that the charge was withdrawn before the prosecution proceeded, it was noted that the investigating officer was aware the man had no genitals. Despite this, the 26-year-old man remained in jail. The claimant told the court that on March 26, 2020, he was unlawfully arrested by Ezakheni police at his home in Ladysmith, KZN, on a charge of rape. He appeared in court four days later and was denied bail. Initially held at the local police station’s holding cells, he was transferred to Ladysmith Correctional Centre until his release on May 18, 2020, when the charge was withdrawn. The police defended the damages claim with a bare denial of the facts, apart from acknowledging his arrest. However, when the matter went to trial, the SAPS did not present their case. The claimant reported that after his arrest, he was kept in a tiny cell with a non-flushing toilet due to lack of water, and the cell was so crowded he had to sleep on a blanket on the floor. Although he was accused of rape, he did not inform the SAPS at the time that he could not commit the act as he does not have a penis. During his first court appearance, his father informed the investigating officer that his son had been kidnapped in Soweto in 2013 and his genitals had been emasculated. The investigating officer neither investigated this claim nor informed the prosecution, keeping silent instead. Only after nearly two months in jail did a doctor confirm that the man had no genitals, leading to the withdrawal of the charge. The court, in assessing the amount of damages to be awarded, noted that while not much evidence was presented about the filthy conditions in the holding cell, it is undisputed that South African prisons are severely overcrowded, causing inhumane conditions for prisoners. The court criticized the investigating officer’s neglect to confirm that the man was incapable of committing the offence and to inform the prosecution. This led to his unlawful detention. The court accepted that he did not commit the rape and noted he never received an apology or an explanation from the police. The police did not appear in court to explain themselves. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. _*Russian intelligence-linked hackers attack Botswana*_ GABORONE, Botswana – The Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority (BOCRA) has raised the alarm over a dramatic increase in botnet infections tied to the infamous Moobot botnet, which is allegedly controlled by APT28, a hacking group with suspected links to Russian military intelligence. The revelations, detailed in BOCRA’s recently released 2024 annual report, highlight a growing threat to Botswana’s cybersecurity infrastructure, with several critical systems already compromised. The report underscores the severity of the situation, noting that the surge in Moobot infections has exposed vulnerabilities in the nation’s digital defenses. Botnets, which are networks of infected devices controlled remotely by hackers, can be used to launch large-scale cyberattacks, steal sensitive data, and disrupt essential services. In this case, the Moobot botnet has reportedly infiltrated key systems across Botswana, raising concerns about the potential impact on government operations, businesses, and private citizens. APT28, also known as Fancy Bear, has long been associated with high-profile cyberattacks targeting governments, corporations, and critical infrastructure worldwide. The group’s alleged connection to Russian military intelligence has made it a focal point of international cybersecurity investigations. While Botswana has not traditionally been a primary target for such advanced cyber threats, the recent spike in infections suggests that the country is increasingly in the crosshairs of sophisticated hacking operations. BOCRA’s report emphasizes the urgent need for enhanced cybersecurity measures to protect Botswana’s digital ecosystem. “The rise in botnet infections is a clear indication that our cybersecurity infrastructure requires immediate strengthening,” the report states. “We must prioritize the development of robust defenses to safeguard our critical systems and ensure the security of our citizens’ data.” _*Pope asks for prayers in message from hospital*_ Pope Francis has asked Catholics to pray for him, as he continues to receive treatment in hospital for double pneumonia. The pontiff was unable to deliver the traditional Angelus prayer in person for the second Sunday running. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. But in a message written over the last few days, he said he was "confidently continuing" his hospitalisation at Rome's Gemelli Hospital and "carrying on with the necessary treatment". *IGNITE SPORT* _*FIFA Delegation Expected in Harare Today*_ A FIFA delegation is expected in Zimbabwe today to induct the new ZIFA executive committee headed by Nqobile Magwizi. David Fani of Botswana, a veteran football administrator, will be the facilitator and will be assisted by FIFA consultant Stewart Regan. The ZIFA media office confirmed that they would be here for four days. The ZIFA executive committee will be assisted to have an appreciation of their roles and responsibilities. The executive committee ensures what is passed as policy by the Assembly is implemented by the secretariat and other operational arms of Zimbabwe football. _*Liverpool marching toward Premier League title after statement win at Man City*_ At the home of Manchester City, Liverpool produced a performance worthy of champions to move 11 points clear at the top of the Premier League. A 2-0 win at the Etihad on Sunday extended Liverpool’s lead over second-placed Arsenal and consigned four-time defending champion City to another humbling defeat in an ever-worsening season. On Wednesday a 3-1 loss to Real Madrid sent Pep Guardiola’s team crashing out of the Champions League. Back to domestic matters on Sunday and City was powerless to slow down Liverpool’s march toward the title. Newcastle scored four goals in 11 minutes against Nottingham Forest, but still had to withstand a late fightback to seal a 4-3 win. _*’Let's call it now - the title race is over, Liverpool will be champions'*_ Liverpool's rain-soaked, jubilant supporters called it with 90 seconds remaining of a statement win over Manchester City. "We're going to win the league" echoed around a sea of empty sky blue seats at Etihad Stadium, as Liverpool closed out the win that leaves them 11 points clear at the top of the table. And they are right. Liverpool are going to win the league. Head coach Arne Slot's seamless transition from Jurgen Klopp will be rewarded with the prize Liverpool's great old managers such as Bill Shankly, Bob Paisley and Joe Fagan coveted above all others, the "bread and butter" as they called it. The 2-0 win here, bolted on to Arsenal's loss at home to West Ham on Saturday, means that, although there can be thousands of words spent on dancing around the subject, this season's title race is done and dusted. Etihad Stadium has witnessed many title celebrations in recent seasons. This looked and sounded like another one. The difference being this was Liverpool's fans chanting "hand it over" rather than the playing out of another addition to Pep Guardiola's roll of honour. The race may not be run mathematically and football can be a strange, unpredictable game. It is not, however, so strange and unpredictable that a remorseless Liverpool team who have lost only one league all season, at home to Nottingham Forest in September, will lose an 11-point advantage with only 11 matches left. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. And seven of those games are at Anfield. The game is up for Arsenal. Their game in hand carries decreasing significance. Liverpool can now afford some slip-ups, not that Slot will want that, and even if they do, Arsenal will have to win almost every game, something that looks beyond a side with a propensity to slip under pressure. Slot says lead 'not comfortable' - but history disagrees Slot, understandably, was cautious. "In every other league, having a lead like would be very comfortable, but not in this league," he said. "There is a challenge in every game. We even saw Plymouth Argyle challenging us in the FA Cup. "The fans can sing what they want but we know how hard we have to work. Someone asked me after we drew at Aston Villa whether we were having a dip. I never believed that and I'm not going to say anything now." Seemingly insurmountable leads have been surrendered at the top of the Premier League in the past, but very few as big as the one Liverpool now hold. Not at this stage of the season. The only one bearing any comparison was during the 1997-98 campaign, when Manchester United were 11 points clear of Arsenal on 2 March and were reeled in. However, they had already lost five games at that point and had proved they were far from infallible. Liverpool have that Forest defeat as the only blemish on their league record. And the wonderful Arsenal side under Arsene Wenger that chased United down were a very different proposition to the current crop under Mikel Arteta, who are destined to be the title race's nearly men again. Guardiola declined the opportunity to crown Liverpool champions, but effectively answered the question with two more questions: "How many points are they away from Arsenal? How many games have they lost?" Say no more. He made a point of warmly congratulating Slot at the final whistle before seeking out every Liverpool player for a handshake. Guardiola knows a title-winning side when he sees it, and he was looking at one right here. Speaking to BBC Sport, former England goalkeeper and Match of the Day pundit Joe Hart said "there's no way back" for Arsenal in the title race. "They can do what they want, they can win every game from here, but I still don't think it will be enough," he added. Ignite Media Zimbabwe sports tits bits: *Modric wonder goal helps Real Madrid move level on points with Barcelona at the top of Spanish league* *Impressive Bayern beats Frankfurt 4-0 to stay eight points clear of Leverkusen in Bundesliga* *Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has urged the Old Trafford hierarchy to sign 17-year-old Portugal Under-21s winger Geovany Quenda from his former club Sporting for £35m* *Real Madrid remain keen on Jarrad Branthwaite but are reluctant to meet Everton's £62m valuation of the 22-year-old England centre-back* *Real Madrid want to keep Luka Modric and are ready to offer the Croatia midfielder, who turns 40 in September, a new contract* This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production.