Staff Writer

A New Mexico court ordered Meta to pay $375m for misleading users over the child safety of its platforms, Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp. The Jury found the platforms endangering children and exposing them to sexually explicit material and contact with sexual predators. A spokeswoman for Meta said: “We work hard to keep people safe on our platforms and are clear about the challenges of identifying and removing bas actors and harmful content. We remain confident in our record of protecting teens online.” The company disagrees with the verdict and intends to appeal.

The Rand has become increasingly volatile as markets react to shifting signals from US President Donald Trump and escalating conflict involving Iran. Analysts say uncertainty over interest rates, inflation and oil prices is driving sharp currency swings. The situation has left the rand highly sensitive to geopolitical developments and global investor sentiment.

South Africa plans to introduce stricter safety and quality checks on imports from China, targeting concerns over substandard goods entering the market. The new rules aim to protect consumers and local industries from unsafe or unfairly priced products. Officials say the measures form part of broader efforts to strengthen trade regulation and enforcement, with increased inspections expected at ports of entry.

Security forces are intensifying operations in gang-affected areas of the Cape Flats after 23 murders were recorded in just 11 days, underlining persistent violence in the region. The SANDF and police are mapping crime hotspots and increasing patrols in a bid to stabilise communities. Residents and officials say deeper social and economic interventions are needed to address the root causes of gang activity.

Home Affairs is accelerating plans to phase out the green barcoded ID book, widely regarded as one of the most forged identity documents on the continent. The department aims to replace it with more secure smart ID cards to curb fraud and identity theft, though roughly 16 million people still rely on the outdated system. Officials warn the transition will require significant administrative capacity to ensure all citizens are reached.

An investigation has alleged that senior ANC figures, including secretary-general Fikile Mbalula, were linked to covert meetings with Russian influence operatives seeking to shape political outcomes in southern Africa. Leaked documents suggest efforts to support “friendly” governments through disinformation campaigns, funding and election interference across countries including South Africa, Namibia and Madagascar. The claims point to a broader strategy by Moscow-linked networks to expand influence and counter Western interests on the continent.