Fuel Prices in South Africa Set to Decrease, Notable Legal Developments Reported
Motorists in South Africa may benefit from reduced fuel prices in April, with petrol and diesel experiencing substantial drops. In related news, a trial concerning the disappearance of Joshlin Smith reveals troubling allegations against her mother. Additionally, a bus driver from Ekurhuleni faces culpable homicide charges linked to a crash that resulted in multiple fatalities.
Recent data from the Central Energy Fund indicates that South African motorists may experience significant reductions in fuel prices come April. Petrol prices are projected to decrease by between 85 and 98 cents per liter, while diesel prices are expected to fall by approximately 86 to 87 cents. This anticipated relief follows four consecutive months of price hikes and coincides with international oil prices dipping below $70 per barrel for the first time since September 2024, primarily due to concerns regarding a global economic slowdown and U.S. tariffs impacting major trading partners.
In a separate legal matter, the trial concerning the disappearance of six-year-old Joshlin Smith has been ongoing, entering its ninth day. Evangelist Nico Steven Coetzee, who has been testifying, revealed that Joshlin’s mother, Racquel ‘Kelly’ Smith, expressed anxiety over her children potentially being taken away prior to the disappearance in February 2024. Coetzee noted that Kelly had spoken of receiving funds and depicted a troubling scenario in Middelpos that suggested the child might be hidden. Additionally, a TikTok personality, Shakeerah Ganief, testified that Kelly exhibited defensiveness when Ganief urged her to continue searching for Joshlin.
In another incident, the driver of a City of Ekurhuleni bus implicated in a tragic crash that resulted in 13 fatalities is facing charges of culpable homicide. This collision occurred on the R21 highway near OR Tambo International Airport. The bus, which was carrying 88 passengers from Katlehong to Kempton Park, was verified to be roadworthy, possessing a valid fitness certificate as of February. Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi announced that the police have initiated legal proceedings against the driver, with investigations into the incident still underway.
In summary, South African motorists can expect notable reductions in fuel prices starting in April due to falling international oil prices. Furthermore, the ongoing trial regarding the disappearance of Joshlin Smith continues to highlight distressing claims about her mother, while legal actions against a bus driver involved in a fatal crash underline the serious nature of road safety in the region.
Original Source: allafrica.com
