Making headlines: Hawks confirm raid at Gupta residence; Abrahams sets deadline for report back on the Zuma charges; And, State of capture inquiry preparations at an advanced stage

For Creamer Media in Johannesburg, I’ m Thabi Madiba.

Hawks confirm raid at Gupta residence

The Hawks have confirmed that an early morning raid was underway on Wednesday at the Saxonwold residence of the controversial Gupta family.

Hawks spokesperson Hangwani Mulaudzi said that officers were on scene, but could not immediately confirm the details of the operation. However, he said that a statement would be issued later."

Democratic Alliance chief whip John Steenhuisen and national spokesperson Phumzile van Damme announced in Parliament that three ministers: Faith Muthambi, Lynne Brown and Des van Rooyen, and two officials, Dan Mantsha and Bruce Koloane, would be next in line,.

Abrahams sets deadline for report back on the Zuma charges

National Director of Public Prosecutions Shaun Abrahams has given prosecutors until Friday, February 23 to provide him with their recommendations on whether or not President Jacob Zuma should be prosecuted.

Last month, just hours before his deadline, Zuma submitted his representations to the NPA on why he should not be prosecuted for the 2009 "Spy Tapes" saga.

NPA spokesperson Luvuyo Mfaku said that upon receipt thereof, the national director will advise on the way forward, including the date by which he would advise of his decision.

And, State of capture inquiry preparations at an advanced stage

Preparations for the commission of inquiry into state capture are at an advanced stage, according to the man appointed to head it, Deputy Chief Justice Raymond Zondo.

Zondo also said discussions will be finalised with some potential candidates for appointment to key positions.

He estimates that he should be able to make an announcement on these key appointments soon.

Positions include the secretary of the commission, a team of evidence leaders, and the head of investigations.

Zondo added that a search was underway for an appropriate premises for the commission, where it will have its offices and hold its hearings.

Also making headlines:
Judgment was reserved in Cape Town Mayor Patricia De Lille's court bid to have a motion of no confidence in her held by secret ballot.

That’s a roundup of news making headlines today
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