Significant Fuel Price Reductions Expected in South Africa; Legal Trials Highlight Ongoing Cases

South African motorists will experience substantial fuel price cuts in April, with petrol prices set to fall by 85 to 98 cents and diesel by 86 to 87 cents due to declining international oil prices. The trial of Joshlin Smith’s disappearance reveals pre-incident concerns from her mother. Meanwhile, the driver of a bus involved in a fatal crash is facing culpable homicide charges.

South African motorists are expected to benefit from significant fuel price reductions in April, as reported by the Central Energy Fund. Petrol prices may decrease by 85 to 98 cents per litre and diesel by 86 to 87 cents. This anticipated drop follows a sequence of four consecutive months of price increases and occurs as international oil prices have fallen below $70 per barrel due to concerns regarding a global economic slowdown and U.S. tariffs on key trading partners.

In a separate legal matter, the trial concerning the disappearance of six-year-old Joshlin Smith, missing since February 2024 from Saldanha Bay, continues. Evangelist Nico Steven Coetzee testified that Joshlin’s mother, Racquel ‘Kelly’ Smith, had expressed fears about her children being taken away prior to the incident. He noted her references to receiving money and hinted at the possibility of the child being hidden. TikToker Shakeerah Ganief corroborated these claims, mentioning Kelly’s defensiveness towards inquiries about Joshlin’s whereabouts. The trial, ongoing at the Western Cape High Court, involves charges of kidnapping and human trafficking against Kelly, her boyfriend Jacquen Appollis, and their associate Steveno van Rhyn.

Furthermore, the driver of a City of Ekurhuleni bus, which was involved in a devastating crash on the R21 near OR Tambo International Airport, is now facing culpable homicide charges. The accident claimed the lives of 13 individuals. The bus was confirmed to be roadworthy, holding a valid fitness certificate issued in February. Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has stated that the police have initiated a formal investigation into the crash, which is ongoing.

In summary, South African motorists can anticipate a significant reduction in fuel prices in April, providing a much-needed relief after months of increases. Concurrently, the trial regarding the disappearance of Joshlin Smith reveals troubling details about her mother’s prior concerns for her children. Additionally, the legal proceedings following the tragic bus crash near OR Tambo International Airport underscore the serious consequences in road safety and accountability.

Original Source: allafrica.com