By: Edwards Wallace -- Head of FinTech and Digital at Financial Services Provider | The Unlimited You find a financial product online. The website looks polished. The offer makes sense. The sign-up process is quick. It feels legitimate. That’s exactly the point. As more South Africans turn to digital platforms to compare, buy and manage financial products, scammers are getting better at mimicking the real thing. What once looked suspicious is now often well-designed, well-worded, and increasingly difficult to distinguish from legitimate providers. The Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) continues to warn consumers about impersonation scams, fake investment schemes and unregistered financial services providers. In many cases, victims only realise something is wrong after money has been paid or personal information has already been shared. Edward Wallace, Head of FinTech and Digital at Financial Services Provider, The Unlimited, says the rise in digital access has created a double-edged sword for consumers. “Online access has made financial services more convenient than ever, but it has also made it easier for bad actors to operate,” he says. “Scammers rely on urgency and confusion. They want people to act before they’ve had time to stop, ask questions and verify what they’re seeing.” He adds that in an environment where trust is low, even legitimate providers are sometimes questioned, which makes it all the more important for consumers to know what to look for. Wallace encourages consumers to use the following checks before engaging with any financial services provider online: 1. Check that the company is registered One of the most important checks you can make is whether the provider is properly licensed. In South Africa, any business offering financial services must be registered with the relevant regulator. The Unlimited, for example, is an authorised Financial Services Provider with the FSCA under FSP No. 21473. If a company cannot provide a valid registration number, that is a clear red flag. 2. Check who the underwriter is A legitimate financial product should clearly state who the underwriter or insurer is. This matters because the underwriter is the licensed entity carrying the insurance risk and backing the policy. If that information is vague, missing or difficult to find, proceed with caution. The Unlimited’s products clearly identify the underwriter in the policy wording, with relevant underwriter details visible on its platforms. 3. Verify the official website and contact details Fraudsters often pose as trusted brands or build fake businesses that look convincing online. Check web addresses, spelling, contact details and email domains carefully, and make sure they align with the company’s official channels. If anything feels inconsistent or difficult to verify, do not continue or share personal information. 4. Check what you are being asked to approve or pay Take your time when accepting payment requests, debit order approvals or DebiCheck prompts. Before accepting anything, make sure the company name, amount and payment terms match exactly what you agreed to. If anything looks unfamiliar or unclear, stop and verify it directly with the provider through its official channels. 5. Look for consistency beyond the first impression A legitimate provider should be easy to trace across multiple platforms. Look for consistent contact details, credible media coverage, regulator listings and a visible business presence beyond a single website or profile. Scam operations often look convincing at first glance, but do not hold up when you dig deeper. “Scam operations are designed to look real on the surface, but they rarely stand up to basic checks,” Wallace says. “A legitimate provider should be easy to verify and easy to contact. Taking a few extra minutes upfront can prevent significant financial loss.” Watch out for financial scams online. Photo taken by Nataliya Vaitkevich SIGNING UP FOR FINANCIAL SERVICES ONLINE? HERE’S HOW TO AVOID COSTLY SCAMS

By: Dylan Naidoo The 1st of April 2026 marks exactly 50 years since the opening of the Richards Bay Coal Terminal (RBCT), one of South Africa’s leading coal export terminals and a leading coal export terminal in the entire world. The terminal first started out in 1976 with an original capacity of 12 million tons per annum (Mt/a) but has now quickly grown to 91 Mt/a, thanks to advanced 24-hour operations. As such, this has grown the RBCT to being a grand juggernaut as a coal export terminal. The terminal also maintains a strong relationship with Transnet, a leading railways services company in South Africa, and assists RBCT with providing railway services for coal mines and shipping co-ordination. As such, the Richards Bay Coal Terminal celebrates 50 years of world-class service CEO of RBCT, Alan Waller, shared a statement regarding this milestone, expressing his enthusiasm for this great milestone, explaining that this achievement remains true to their purpose for the RBCT. He commented, “Our goal remains unwavering: to deliver a reliable and efficient service to our customers, ensuring that South Africa remains a preferred destination for export coal.” Waller continued his speech, citing that this achievement was done with the commitment and dedication of having a fleet of skilled employees and reinforcing a strong, resilient culture. As such, Waller reaffirms that the RBCT will retain this culture for the people, highlighting that the employees remain the “single, best value and asset” to the company. Waller mentioned that with current automation methods being used at the terminal, he firmly believes that this can position for foreign investment opportunities. He commented:, “I firmly believe that RBCT is in a good position to ensure that coal remains a major foreign exchange earner for the country” RBCT remains a world-class coal export terminal, serving a majority of the African continent as well as a majority of Asia and Europe. As such, this celebration is more than just a milestone, it is a reflection of the hard work and dedication that reflects the working hands of South African employees and business leaders. The RBCT celebrates 50 years of service. Image by Andre Meyer Photography

Grant Adlam ------------------------------ When I sat down with Melanie Veness back in 2020, the air was thick with the uncertainty of a world in lockdown. At the time, we spoke about survival—how businesses in Pietermaritzburg and across South Africa could possibly weather the storm of a global pandemic. Melanie was already a fierce advocate, but she was playing defense, holding the line for a business community under siege. The Architect of Resilience: Melanie Veness and the Great Business Fightback Fast forward to 2026, and the "Melanie Veness" of our 2020 interview has undergone a remarkable evolution. She isn't just defending anymore; she’s leading a national and global renaissance. From Local Hero to Global Voice The most inspiring chapter of this story is Melanie’s recent appointment to the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) World Chambers Federation General Council. It is a prestigious leap. The woman who was fighting for the shops on Chief Albert Luthuli Street is now sitting at the table in Paris, representing South Africa on the world stage for the 2025–2028 term. It’s a powerful reminder that local grit can command global respect. The "BizNews" Blueprint: Action Over Agony In her recent appearances with BizNews, Melanie has become the face of what she calls the "Business Fightback." If 2020 was about asking for help, 2026 is about taking charge. She has become a vocal leader in the movement where the private sector no longer waits for the state to fix a water pipe or a pothole—they simply do it themselves. "If we all stand up and we all just do something," she recently noted, "we can have the South Africa that we were promised." The Full Circle Looking back at our 2020 interview, the seeds of this transformation were already there. Her passion for the Pietermaritzburg & Midlands Chamber of Business (PMCB) wasn't just about commerce; it was about community. Today, as the Chair of the Association of South African Chambers (ASAC), she is scaling that local passion into a national strategy for recovery. The Takeaway Melanie Veness’s story since 2020 is a masterclass in active hope. She has moved from navigating a crisis to architecting a solution. For those of us who followed her journey from that first interview, her rise isn't just a personal success—it’s a blueprint for how South African business can lead the way forward, one fixed pipe and one global council seat at a time. ------------------------------ Grant Adlam www.kzntopbusiness.com The Architect of Resilience: Melanie Veness and the Great Business Fightback

The 2026 Annual Information Meeting (AIM) of the KwaZulu-Natal Joint Municipal Pension Fund (NJMPF) once again underscored the Fund’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and meaningful engagement with its members. Hosted at the prestigious Durban International Convention Centre, the event brought together members, pensioners, trustees, and stakeholders for a comprehensive update on the Fund’s performance and strategic direction. A Platform for Transparency The AIM remains one of the most important dates on the NJMPF calendar, providing members with direct access to the Fund’s leadership and key decision-makers. Through detailed presentations, attendees were guided through the Fund’s financial performance, investment strategies, and long-term sustainability outlook. With retirement security at the forefront, the NJMPF leadership team unpacked how global and local economic conditions continue to influence investment decisions. Members were given valuable insight into how the Fund navigates these complexities to protect and grow their retirement savings. Strengthening Member Confidence Beyond financial reporting, the meeting served as a platform to reinforce trust. Transparency in governance and open communication were key themes throughout the session. Updates from the Board of Trustees and actuarial experts highlighted the Fund’s stability and its proactive approach to risk management. Importantly, the AIM created space for open dialogue. Members were encouraged to ask questions and engage directly with Fund representatives, ensuring clarity on benefits, processes, and any changes that may impact their future. Focus on Long-Term Sustainability A central focus of the 2026 meeting was the Fund’s long-term sustainability. As economic landscapes evolve, pension funds must remain agile and forward-thinking. NJMPF emphasised its ongoing efforts to strengthen its financial position while maintaining a balanced and diversified investment portfolio. This approach not only safeguards current members but also ensures that future generations can rely on the Fund for secure retirement outcomes. Empowering Members Through Information The NJMPF Annual Information Meeting is more than a compliance requirement—it is a vital engagement tool. By equipping members with clear, relevant information, the Fund empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their retirement planning. As the 2026 AIM concluded, one message stood clear: informed members are confident members. Through initiatives like this, the NJMPF continues to set a benchmark for transparency and member-focused governance within South Africa’s pension fund sector. NJMPF Annual Information Meeting 2026 Strengthens Transparency and Member Engagement

Durban, 8 April 2026 – Cox Yeats is pleased to announce the appointment of Caitlin Slade as an Associate in its Construction & Insurance Team. Caitlin brings a solid foundation in litigation and a keen commitment to developing specialised expertise. She was particularly attracted to Cox Yeats due to the firm’s strong reputation in Durban and across South Africa, as well as its values-driven approach to legal practice, which closely aligns with her own professional aspirations. Caitlin completed her LLB degree at the University of Pretoria in 2022. She then gained valuable professional experience at The Sharks (Pty) Limited before commencing her articles of clerkship in 2024 at Pillay Cohen Attorneys Inc. in the Litigation Department, where she honed her skills in dispute resolution. She was admitted as an attorney of the High Court in 2026 and briefly served as an Associate in the Commercial and Litigation Department before joining Cox Yeats. With a strong interest in litigation, Caitlin thrives on the analytical demands of legal practice and the opportunity to engage deeply with diverse industries and subject matters to provide effective advice and representation to clients. She is particularly motivated by the continuous learning inherent in the legal profession and the challenge of mastering new areas of law. Her professional goal is to develop into a well-rounded and responsible attorney, with a particular focus on strengthening her litigation skills and building a respected professional reputation. Caitlin is committed to growing her knowledge in the construction and insurance sectors and contributing meaningfully to her team and clients. Guided by the belief that hard work and persistence lead to success, Caitlin approaches her career with dedication and an eagerness to learn. She looks forward to immersing herself in her new role at Cox Yeats, learning from senior colleagues, and contributing to the firm’s continued success. END Issued by: Cox Yeats Media Enquiries: Lerato Ramango, National Marketing & Brand ManagerEmail: lramango@coxyeats.co.za Website: www.coxyeats.co.za Caitlin Slade Joins Cox Yeats as Associate in Construction & Insurance

From our roots on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast to our position within South Africa’s leisure and hospitality sector, we are proud to be exhibiting at World Travel Market Africa 2026 in Cape Town this week from 13 to 15 April. With over 55 years in the leisure and hospitality industry, the Beekman Group has built a trusted reputation in family holidays, resort management and property development. As a proudly KZN-based, family-owned business, our approach is shaped by long-standing relationships, consistency and a genuine understanding of how South Africans travel. Beekman Holidays: Connecting Our Resorts to the Travel Trade Our portfolio includes a diverse collection of resorts designed to meet a wide range of travel needs. From popular coastal destinations along the coastlines to inland retreats and modern urban accommodation, each property reflects our commitment to quality, comfort and memorable holiday experiences across Southern Africa. Through our Beekman Holidays team, we bring these resorts to market via flexible rental opportunities and tailored travel solutions. This includes established world-renowned timeshare offerings, adaptable booking options and access to experience-led stays that cater to families, couples and multi-generational travellers. Our focus is on making holidays more accessible while maintaining the standards and consistency our brand is known for. A key focus at the World Travel Market Africa is our Standard Tour Operator partnerships, led by Grayson Ibrahim. These partnerships allow us to work closely with travel professionals to expand access to our resorts while creating reliable, high-quality holiday options for their clients. While our portfolio speaks for itself, the real value lies in the relationships behind it. World Travel Market Africa provides a unique opportunity to connect directly with our team, ask questions, explore partnership opportunities and gain a deeper understanding of how our offering can align with your business or travel needs. Connect With Us at World Travel Market Africa World Travel Market Africa remains one of the most important platforms for tourism and hospitality businesses, bringing together industry leaders, buyers and partners from across the globe. For us, it is an opportunity to showcase the strength of our KZN roots while engaging with the broader South African and international travel market. If you are attending and are interested in our resorts, rental opportunities or partnership potential, we invite you to meet us in person and discover how Beekman Holidays continues to represent our portfolio with a focus on quality, flexibility and long-term value. Visit us at World Travel Market Africa 2026 and connect with a proudly KwaZulu-Natal business shaping the future of travel and hospitality through trusted partnerships and experience-led holidays. For standard tour operators unable to attend, you are welcome to connect directly: Grayson Ibrahim Tel: 0861 266 566 Email: sto@beekmanholidays.co.za Learn more about the Beekman Group and Beekman Holidays by visiting our website and exploring our full range of resorts and travel solutions. Meet Us at World Travel Market Africa 2026

By: The Original Grain Company As the world marks Earth Day on 22 April 2026, this year’s theme, “Our Power, Our Planet,” highlights a powerful truth that meaningful environmental progress is not driven by policy alone, but by the everyday actions of individuals, communities, and industries working together. Agriculture is one of the most important, yet often overlooked, contributors to this global effort. From how food is grown to how land is managed, farming practices have a direct impact on soil health, biodiversity, water resources, and climate resilience. “Earth Day is a reminder that sustainability starts on the ground,” says Ryan New, Managing Director of The Original Grain Company. “Agriculture sits at the centre of that conversation because it has the potential to either deplete natural resources or actively restore them. The choices made at farm level matter, not only for food production, but for the long-term health of the planet.” Modern agricultural practices are increasingly shifting towards methods that work with nature rather than against it. Regenerative approaches such as no-till farming, cover cropping, and crop rotation are helping to rebuild soil health, improve carbon retention, and protect ecosystems. These practices reduce soil disturbance, prevent erosion, and support biodiversity both above and below the soil surface. Beyond environmental impact, agriculture also plays a critical role in building sustainable food systems. As global populations continue to grow, there is increasing pressure to produce more food using fewer resources, while reducing waste and strengthening local supply chains. “Supporting agriculture is not only about producing food. It is about supporting the systems that sustain communities,” says New. “When farmers are equipped with the right tools, knowledge, and partnerships, they are better positioned to farm responsibly, protect natural resources, and contribute to long-term food security.” A key challenge facing many farmers, however, is access to capital and resources at the start of the planting season. Without this support, large areas of land remain underutilised, limiting both production and the opportunity for more sustainable land use. To address this, The Original Grain Fund, developed its Advanced Agricultural Product Purchasing (AAPP) programme, which provides upfront investment to farmers based on the size of the land being planted. The programme supports the full farming cycle, from planting through to harvest, while securing supply at source. The Fund manages long-term agricultural investment initiatives, while The Original Grain Company focuses on sourcing, trading, and transporting agricultural commodities. This model enables farmers to focus on responsible production, while also creating opportunities to bring previously unused land into productive use. “There is significant potential in South Africa’s agricultural landscape, particularly in areas where land is available but not actively farmed,” explains New. “Through the right partnerships and investment, that land can be transformed into productive, sustainable agricultural operations that benefit both communities and the environment.” Importantly, this kind of model reflects the broader message of Earth Day 2026, that collective, localised action can drive meaningful global impact. By working directly with farmers and communities, agricultural initiatives can support livelihoods, strengthen food systems, and promote more sustainable land management practices. From reducing food waste and improving supply chain efficiency, to supporting farmers, every part of the agricultural value chain has a role to play. “Environmental responsibility is not limited to one sector or one solution,” adds New. “It is a shared effort that requires collaboration across industries, communities, and individuals. In agriculture, we see every day how small, practical actions can contribute to something much bigger.” As Earth Day reminds the world of the urgency of environmental action, it also reinforces a message of possibility that a more sustainable future can be built through informed choices, strong partnerships, and a commitment to working with nature. Earth Day and how agriculture is building a sustainable future Find out more about The Original Grain Company on their socials here: Website: www.theoriginalgraincompany.co.za IG: the_original_grain_co: https://www.instagram.com/the_original_grain_co/ FB: The Original Grain Company: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583345357082 X: original_grain: https://x.com/original_grain LinkedIn: the-original-grain-company: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-original-grain-company AAPP video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1PwEuJQW5M8 Earth Day: How agriculture is shaping a more sustainable future

By: KZN Women in Business Ladies of KZN are invited to join KZN Women in Business for their upcoming May networking event. GUEST SPEAKER: Lea Wimble TOPIC: Building purpose beyond profit In a world where business is often measured by profit alone, this talk challenges a different perspective: what if your business is meant to be a gift? Lea will unpack how purpose-driven businesses outperform, build stronger relationships, and create meaningful impact beyond the bottom line. ABOUT THE GUEST SPEAKER: Lea Wimble is the Owner and Conveyancer at Wimble Attorneys. Beyond her legal work, Lea leads The Gifted Project, a social initiative that donates homes to those in need, reflecting her belief that law should uplift and empower communities. As a mother of five, she is deeply passionate about building a legacy that extends beyond business. Lea combines professional excellence with purpose - bridging property, people, and positive change. DATE: Thursday, 7th May 2026 VENUE: Hellenic Community Centre (6 High Grove, Umgeni Park, Durban, 4065) TIME: Breakfast served from 08:00am, meeting to start promptly at 08:30 until 10:30am COST: Members R290, non-members R395 (includes secure off-road free parking, breakfast, gift, meeting list, networking & guest speaker) BOOKINGS: www.kznwib.co.za FURTHER INFORMATION: Please contact the KZNWIB Administrator, Nicci Hosking, on info@kznwib.co.za Lea Wimble to be guest speaker at upcoming KZN Women in Business networking event Lea Wimble is also one of the KZN Top Business Women. You can view her profile here: https://www.kzntopbusinesswomen.com/team/lea-wimble

In a powerful moment of recognition and pride, Jennifer Reddy, CEO of Morar Incorporated, has been named a Top 3 Finalist for CEO of the Year at the prestigious Woman of Stature Awards South Africa. This remarkable achievement is more than just an accolade — it is a testament to a leader who continues to redefine excellence in business, leadership, and impact. Jennifer Reddy has consistently demonstrated a rare combination of vision, resilience, and purpose-driven leadership, setting a benchmark not only within her organisation but across the broader business landscape. Her journey reflects a deep commitment to empowering others, uplifting communities, and driving meaningful change. Through her leadership, countless lives have been positively impacted, and a legacy is being built that extends far beyond boardrooms and balance sheets. While awards and rankings highlight the influence of leaders on a global stage, within Morar Incorporated, Jennifer Reddy holds an even more significant title — number one. Her unwavering dedication, authenticity, and ability to inspire those around her make her incomparable in the eyes of her team. At the heart of this recognition lies a simple yet powerful truth: leadership is not just about position, but about impact. And Jennifer Reddy embodies this fully. Leadership. Vision. Impact. This is more than a statement — it is the Morar way. As the anticipation builds toward the final results, one thing remains certain: this milestone is already a win, not just for Jennifer Reddy, but for every individual and community she continues to uplift. Jennifer Reddy, CEO of Morar Incorporated

For years, the South African influencer economy thrived in a largely unregulated environment. Content creators—ranging from TikTok dancers and YouTube gamers to luxury lifestyle Instagrammers—built mini-empires from their bedrooms, often believing that their “perks” were merely gifts rather than income. However, starting in 2026, the South African Revenue Service (SARS) has officially ended the era of tax-free influence. Under the leadership of outgoing Commissioner Edward Kieswetter, the tax authority has turned its sophisticated AI-driven surveillance towards the gig economy, making it clear that whether you are compensated in Rands, Bitcoin, or designer handbags, the taxman expects his share. The End of the “Freebie” Myth The most significant wake-up call for South African creators came with SARS’s clarification that income is not just the cash landing in a bank account. Under the law, a “gift” received in exchange for a service (such as a review, an unboxing, or a tag) is remuneration in kind. If a brand sends a creator a smartphone worth R25,000 to review, that R25,000 is considered taxable gross income. The same applies to: All-expenses-paid trips: Flights, accommodation, and meal allowances. Luxury goods: Clothes, sneakers, and skincare products. Services: Free spa treatments, gym memberships, or hair styling. The logic is simple: if a traditional marketing agency received these goods to run a campaign, they would account for them as business assets or income. SARS is now leveling the playing field, insisting that influencers are not just “hobbyists” but modern entrepreneurs and independent contractors. Why Now? The Fiscal Gap and Big Data In early 2026, SARS was under pressure to address a multi-billion Rand deficit without raising VAT or taxing the middle class further. Concurrently, the influencer market surged as brands increasingly allocated advertising budgets away from traditional media and toward social media. SARS observed that while brands deducted influencer marketing expenses, many recipients were not declaring this income. To address this gap, SARS is employing third-party data matching. By cross-referencing the marketing expenditures of major South African brands with individual tax returns, they can easily identify discrepancies. For example, if Company X claims to have paid “Influencer Y” R100,000 in cash and merchandise, but Influencer Y’s tax return shows zero income, an automated audit is triggered. The Hidden Danger: Provisional Tax Most South African employees are used to PAYE (Pay As You Earn), where tax is deducted from their salaries before it is paid into their accounts. Content creators, however, are provisional taxpayers. This is where many creators get caught out. Provisional taxpayers must estimate their total annual income and pay tax in two or three installments throughout the year. Failure to do so doesn’t just result in a bill at the end of the year; it leads to: 1. Underestimation penalties: If your estimate is too low. 2. Late payment penalties: Which can be as high as 10% of the amount due. 3. Interest: Compounded monthly. The “Lifestyle Audit” ThreatOne of SARS’s most intimidating tools is the lifestyle audit. Commissioner Kieswetter has noted that SARS monitors social media. If an influencer’s Instagram posts consistently showcase luxury but their reported income is low, it raises concerns. SARS uses AI to profile influencers by comparing their online presence with their financial disclosures. In 2025 and 2026, they began sending “Please Explain” letters to high-profile creators whose lifestyles did not align with their tax filings. Deductions: The Silver LiningIt isn’t all bad news for creators. Because SARS now views content creation as a legitimate business, influencers can claim business deductions. To do this, however, they must move away from “casual” record-keeping and toward professional accounting. Legitimate business expenses that can be deducted from gross income include: Equipment: Cameras, lighting, microphones, and editing software. Home Office: A portion of rent, electricity, and fibre internet (if a dedicated space is used for filming). Production Costs: Editing fees, graphic designers, and even makeup artists for specific shoots. Data and Travel: Mobile data costs and travel specifically for content creation. Important Note: You cannot deduct your entire wardrobe just because you wear clothes in your videos. Only expenses incurred exclusively for the production of income are generally deductible. The Cost of Non-Compliance The penalties for ignoring these warnings are severe. SARS has the power to impose understatement penalties ranging from 25% to 200% of the tax owed, depending on whether the omission was a “standard error” or “intentional tax evasion.” Furthermore, tax evasion is a criminal offense in South Africa. While SARS prefers “voluntary compliance”—where taxpayers come forward via the Voluntary Disclosure Program (VDP) to fix past mistakes—once an audit has started, the VDP window closes. The full weight of the law applies. How to Stay in the Green For content creators looking to professionalize and protect themselves, tax experts suggest a three-step approach: 1. Register: Register as a taxpayer (and potentially for VAT if turnover exceeds R2,3 million). This avoids “failure to register” penalties. 2. Document: Keep a “Gift Register” and save every invoice and receipt for 5 years. This provides proof for deductions and income value. 3. Separate: Open a separate business bank account for all creator-related income. Conclusion: Professionalisation of the Gig Economy The SARS crackdown on content creators reflects a significant shift in the digital economy. It indicates that this sector has matured to the point where it can no longer remain unnoticed. While many creators may feel targeted by these measures, the reality is that such actions lend legitimacy to the industry. By being taxed like any other business, content creators are being acknowledged as an essential and high-revenue part of the South African economy.The message from the tax authorities is clear: enjoy the likes, but don’t forget the logs. Maintaining a meticulous record is now just as crucial as achieving a high engagement rate. The Digital Taxman: Why SARS is Tracking Every Like, Follow, and Freebie - Morar Incorporated

A suspected repeat offender linked to battery theft incidents in Westville has been successfully apprehended thanks to a coordinated effort between private security teams, volunteer responders, and local law enforcement under Mobi-Ventures. The incident began when a client alerted Mobi-Response911 after discovering that their gate motor and battery had been tampered with. Acting swiftly, one of the organisation’s volunteer responders accessed nearby road camera footage, where the suspect was clearly identified and his direction of travel established. Armed with this critical information, a detailed description of the suspect along with his last known location was immediately circulated among response teams. Units from Mobi-Claw911, Mobi-Response911, and the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Westville were rapidly mobilised. The suspect was soon located walking along the M13. A stop-and-search operation was conducted, during which multiple suspected stolen gate motor batteries were discovered in his possession. Authorities believe the suspect may be linked to a series of similar thefts in the area—crimes that continue to affect both homeowners and businesses, particularly with the increased reliance on backup power systems. This successful arrest highlights the effectiveness of integrated security solutions powered by technology, community involvement, and rapid response coordination. It also reinforces the role of Mobi-Ventures in driving safer communities through innovation and collaboration. Mobi-Ventures commended all teams involved for their professionalism and swift action, noting that this operation serves as a strong example of how proactive security measures can significantly reduce crime. Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and consider upgrading to real-time response security systems. Contact Mobi-Ventures: 📞 24/7 Armed Response: 087 071 0911 📧 Email: care@mobiventures.co.za 🌐 Website: mobiventures.co.za Notorious Battery Theft Suspect Arrested in Westville Following Swift Multi-Team Response - Mobi-Ventures

The growth of Chinese vehicles on South African roads has been rapid, with more drivers choosing brands that offer modern design, strong features, and affordability. One of the most popular names in this space is GWM (Great Wall Motors), known for its reliable SUVs and bakkies that perform well in both city driving and tougher road conditions. As these vehicles become more common, the demand for reliable parts supply continues to grow. This is where Mandarin Parts Distributors KZN plays a key role in supporting workshops and vehicle owners across the region. GWM and the Rise of Practical, Modern Vehicles GWM has become a strong competitor in the South African automotive market, offering vehicles that combine durability, comfort, and modern technology. Alongside brands like Chery, GWM has helped shift perceptions of Chinese vehicles from “budget alternatives” to serious everyday choices. From family SUVs to work-ready bakkies, these vehicles are now a common sight on local roads. Why Parts Supply Matters More Than Ever As the number of GWM and other Chinese vehicles increases, so does the need for fast and reliable access to replacement parts. Without proper supply chains, even the best vehicles can face unnecessary downtime. Mandarin Parts Distributors KZN helps bridge this gap by supporting the availability of parts needed for servicing, maintenance, and repairs. This ensures that workshops can operate efficiently and vehicle owners can get back on the road quickly. Supporting Workshops and Vehicle Owners Reliable parts supply is essential for keeping the automotive ecosystem running smoothly. Mandarin Parts Distributors KZN supports this by helping reduce delays in repairs and improving overall workshop productivity. This benefits: Independent mechanics and service centres Fleet operators managing multiple vehicles Everyday drivers needing fast repairs Final Thoughts As Chinese brands like GWM continue to grow in South Africa, suppliers such as Mandarin Parts Distributors KZN are becoming increasingly important in ensuring these vehicles remain road-ready. With demand rising, dependable parts distribution is a key part of keeping this expanding automotive market moving smoothly. Mandarin Parts Distributors KZN – Supporting Chinese Vehicle Brands Like GWM in South Africa