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South Africa: Power outage in Johannesburg threatens critical healthcare – South African News Briefs – April 23, 2024

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Power outage in Johannesburg threatens critical healthcare services

Doctors in Johannesburg are facing concerns about diesel supplies after a day-long power outage that has affected vital health facilities including the Charlotte Maxeke Academic Hospital, Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital, Park Lane Hospital, Brenthurst Clinic and Rand Clinic, reports News24. The outage, which occurred due to a burnt power board at the Ridge substation in the CBD, disrupted power supply to these facilities and surrounding areas at 11am on Sunday. City Power spokesperson Isaac Mangena attributed the damage to theft and vandalism. Although healthcare services are using alternative methods, such as generators, to continue patient care, there are challenges due to low diesel levels and difficulties in obtaining more fuel. Charlotte Maxeke, a crucial hospital that serves thousands of patients every month, is facing disruptions to services such as cardiac catheterization and endoscopic procedures as a result of the outage. Despite efforts to maintain operations, doctors express concern about the possibility of disaster if the situation worsens.

Famous chef sentenced to 10 years for fraud

Celebrity chef Lusizo Mvula Henna, 41, was sentenced to 10 years in prison by the specialized commercial crimes court in Johannesburg for defrauding the South African Revenue Service (Sars) of millions, reports said TimesLIVE. Henna, owner of Blaque Olive Chefs, was convicted of six counts of fraud and 14 counts of money laundering, with the sentences running concurrently. The court found that Henna fraudulently claimed R5.3 million in VAT refunds from Sars, of which R3.1 million was paid out. Investigations revealed no legitimate trading activity in Blaque Olive’s accounts, suggesting the claims were solely aimed at defrauding Sars. After receiving the money, Henna quickly laundered the money within 14 days by transferring it to family and friends.