The United States has seized two oil tankers linked to Venezuela. One vessel, previously known as Bella 1 and now called Marinera, was boarded in the North Atlantic after weeks of pursuit by the US Coast Guard. The ship had changed its name and adopted a Russian flag to evade capture. The second vessel, carrying oil and sailing under a Cameroonian flag, was seized in the Caribbean. The seizures are part of President Donald Trump's efforts to enforce sanctions on Venezuela, with the US accusing the tankers of breaking sanctions and shipping Iranian oil. Russia has reportedly deployed a submarine and other vessels to escort the Marinera across the Atlantic, sparking tensions between the US and Russia. For analysis on the matter Elvis Presslin spoke to Dr. Kingsley Makhubela, former diplomat and International Relations Expert

The South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) is warning matriculants to be cautious of unregistered institutions offering fake study opportunities. SAQA says students should verify institutions before paying fees. Elvis Presslin spoke to SAQA's Chief Operating Officer Dr. Makhapa Makhafola

A coalition of South African trade unions, political groups and civil society organisations will picket outside the American Embassy in Pretoria today to condemn -of what they say - is the US military invasion of Venezuela and the 'kidnapping' of President Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores. The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) says it supports the protest saying the US actions violate international law and Venezuela's sovereignty. For the latest Elvis Presslin spoke to COSATU National Spokesperson, Zanele Sabela

A proposal has been put forward to increase South Africa's legal drinking age from 18 to between 21 and 23. Gatekeepers South Africa has written to President Cyril Ramaphosa, citing the country's struggles with alcohol abuse and its link to domestic violence, drunk driving, and other risks. Despite previous proposals, little progress has been made to address the issue. For reaction to the proposal Elvis Presslin spoke to Maurice Smithers, Coordinator of Working for an Alcohol Safer South Africa (WASSA)

The appointment of Advocate Andy Mothibi as the new National Director of Public Prosecutions has been met with cautious optimism by ActionSA. The party says the move highlights the need for reform in how the heads of the prosecuting authority are appointed. ActionSA is concerned that Mothibi's appointment, made unilaterally by President Cyril Ramaphosa, may not bring the change needed to address the NPA's deep-seated problems. Mothibi will serve as NDPP for just two years before retiring, raising questions about his ability to make a meaningful impact. For more clarity Elvis Presslin spoke to ActionSA Parliamentary leader Athol Trollip

AZAPO is calling for FIFA to ban the United States from international football competitions, citing the country's "illegal aggression" against Venezuela. The group is condemning the US military strikes and the abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro saying it's a violation of international law. Elvis Presslin spoke to AZAPO President, Nelvis Qekema

A group of 14 South African youths, lured to Thailand with promises of employment are facing deportation today after being detained for allegedly being victims of human trafficking. The group was reportedly recruited by a South African male and their situation has sparked concerns about the safety and well-being of South Africans abroad. Elvis Presslin spoke to Security Strategist and retired Interpol Ambassador, Andy Mashaile

A 47-year-old foreign national has been arrested in Johannesburg's CBD on suspicion of human trafficking. The man was detained after police intercepted a vehicle and rescued two teenage boys, and another 10 were found walking half-naked on Broad Street in Mulbarton. The suspect will appear in court tomorrow (Thursday) facing charges of being an illegal immigrant and suspected trafficking in persons. Elvis Presslin spoke to Hawks Spokesperson, Colonel Katlego Mogale

SA's ECD system facing a crisis

South Africa's early childhood development (ECD) system is facing a crisis, with millions of children being left behind due to a lack of access to quality early learning. Researcher Lesego Mahlangu says the system is plagued by class divisions, underfunding and inadequate infrastructure, perpetuating inequality and limiting opportunities for young children. To elaborate further on her sentiments Lesego Mahlangu spoke to Elvis Presslin

The Labour Court has ruled in favour of Councillor Wesley Neumann, reinstating him as Principal of Heathfield High School. Neumann, a GOOD Party councillor, was dismissed in 2022 for keeping schools closed during the Covid-19 pandemic due to safety concerns. The court deemed the dismissal "disproportionate" and unfair. The Western Cape Education Department is reviewing the judgment and considering an appeal. Neumann's lawyer Advocate Vernon Seymour spoke to our senior producer Ronald Phiri about the crux of the case