Drowning incidents across South Africa over the busy pre-Christmas weekend have once again highlighted the deadly risks of swimming at unprotected beaches and in flooded waterways.

What to expect in the weather over the next few days: Ongoing heavy rains and severe thunderstorms across South Africa have claimed at least five lives, with more flooding expected as weather warnings remain in place.

The repatriation of 17 young South Africans allegedly lured to Russia to fight in Ukraine has been delayed by demands for payment from the military contractors involved in their recruitment, according to government insiders.