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Daily news update: Gerhard Ackerman, Joburg mayor resigns and Sindiso Magaqa murder trial

Here’s your morning news update: An easy-to-read selection of our top stories. Stay up to date with The Citizen – More News, Your Way.

Daily news update: 24 April

Gerhard Ackerman: Mother of victim hopes ‘he never sees the sun rising again’

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) is eyeing others involved with convicted sex syndicate kingpin Gerhard Ackerman, as organisations against child abuse and parents claim his conviction as a victory for his victims across the country.

Judge Ismail Mahomed in the High Court in Johannesburg on Monday convicted Ackerman of 728 charges, with NPA spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane saying that was “just the beginning”.

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READ MORE: Gerhard Ackerman: Mother of victim hopes ‘he never sees the sun rising again’

Thapelo Amad resigns as Joburg mayor

Joburg’s mayor Thapelo Amad briefs the media in Johannesburg, 26 March 2023, on the update on water interruptions in the City of Johannesburg. Picture:Nigel Sibanda

Al Jama-ah councillor Thapelo Amad has resigned as mayor of Johannesburg. The announcement was made in a media briefing by several political parties in Johannesburg on Monday evening.

“We thank him for preserving the unity of political parties in Johannesburg above his personal interests,” Gauteng ANC chairperson Panyaza Lesufi said on Monday.

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Sindiso Magaqa murder trial rolled over to Tuesday

Picture File: Sindiso Magaqa during a press conference on 14 May 2012 in Johannesburg. Photo: Gallo Images

The trial of the four men charged with the murder of former ANC Youth League (ANCYL) leader Sindiso Magaqa has been delayed once again.

The trial against former police officer Sbonelo Myeza, businessman Mbulelo Mpofana, Mlungisi Ncalane and Sibusiso Ncengwa was expected to continue on Monday in the Pietermaritzburg High Court, however, the matter had to be rolled over to Tuesday because Ncalane wasn’t in court.

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Katlego Bereng: Father of man whose burnt body was found in Thabo Bester’s cell wants answers

Late Katlego Bereng’s father Batho Mpholo speaks to The Citizen at his home at Tembisa in Johannesburg, 23 April 2023, about his son’s body that was burnt in Thabo Bester’s cell at Mangaung Correctional Centre. Picture: Nigel Sibanda

The late Katlego Bereng’s family are demanding answers about what happened to their son, whose burnt body was found in Thabo Bester’s cell at the Mangaung Correctional Centre.

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The family of Bereng are planning to register cases with the police against the state, Bester and his accomplice, socialite-doctor Nandipha Magudumana.

READ MORE: Katlego Bereng: Father of man whose burnt body was found in Thabo Bester’s cell wants answers

Maritzburg can still survive, insists coach Fadlu Davids

Alfred Ndengane, captain of Maritzburg United celebrates their goal during the DStv Premiership match against Richards Bay at Harry Gwala Stadium on 21 April 21, 2023. Photo: Darren Stewart/Gallo Images

Davids feels  they could move out of the position they are in which is the automatic relegation spot.

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After 26 games, Maritzburg have 25 points. Chippa United above them have 26, Swallows and Marumo Gallants are on 28. 

READ MORE: Maritzburg can still survive, insists coach Fadlu Davids