“In our investigation into Alabuga Start, a government spokesperson makes the point that ‘if it looks too good to be true, it probably is.’ It’s a well-worn statement we’ve repeated dozens of times ourselves over the years. Heaven knows, we’ve had ample opportunity given the sheer volume of scams that come across our desks. And the latest Russian iteration is as transparently ‘too good to be true’ as any other we’ve exposed. Sadly, the messaging isn’t working, so we may have to come up with a different way of forewarning potential victims. How about, ‘if they’ll pay for your stay, stay the hell away’?” – John Webb, Executive Producer
Alabuga Start
A recruitment programme touted by local influencers promises jobs and training. The only condition: relocation to Russia. But as young women prepare to uproot their lives in the name of opportunity, suspicion flourishes. Influencers marketing the programme admit they have no idea what the recruits will be doing overseas. When a public outcry accuses them of participating in human trafficking, they delete the posts and issue public apologies. Government issues a stern warning against the programme. But who is really behind the drive to recruit young South African women to Russia? Carte Blanche investigates.
Producer: Sebe Buthelezi | Presenter: Masa Kekana
Refinery for a Rand
Why has government bought a broken oil refinery, while global companies simply walk away? It was the country’s largest crude oil refinery – supplying around a third of our fuel – until it was flooded in 2022. Then, last year, after Durban’s SAPREF refinery had stood derelict for months, government agreed to buy it for the symbolic sum of R1. Leaked documents raise red flags about the purchase, while activists say the sale allows international oil giants to shirk responsibility for polluting local communities. How was government persuaded into a deal that will commit the country to a fossil fuel future? And who will pay the true price?
Producer: Marion Edmunds | Presenter: Erin Bates
Spinning Right ‘Round
He’s the face of a viral phenomenon that started right here at home. Spinning: it’s part motorsport, part stunt. It’s uniquely accessible, welcoming participants from all backgrounds and communities. And like spinning itself, Samkeliso “Sam Sam” Thubane has emerged from local roots to dominate the world stage. Growing up in Mbombela, Mpumalanga, Sam Sam’s passion and talent for motorsports was evident from a tender age. This year, he performed at the opening of the Red Bull Hangar-7 in Salzburg, Austria. Carte Blanche spends a day in the life of a global superstar on the rise – a young man spinning not only cars, but culture, identity and possibility.
Producer: Nicky Troll | Presenter: Govan Whittles
NOW STREAMING
Zuko Nonxuba: Failure to Prosecute
It’s a heartbreaking story that’s troubled our team for years – and it’ll be familiar to many of you. Children born with cerebral palsy in the remote villages of the Eastern Cape betrayed by the very man their families trusted to help them. At the centre of it all: personal injury lawyer, Zuko Nonxuba. For nearly four years, cases have dragged through the courts while families suffer. Who is responsible, and will Nonxuba ever face justice? Watch this special two-part special report now on DStv Stream.
ON ZUKO’S TRAIL
NEWS & VIEWS
ARCHIVE: Medical Emergency (2022)
Access to emergency medical care and medical health care is enshrined in our Constitution, but it seems for many in rural parts of the Eastern Cape, these rights do not apply. We reported on this crisis back in 2022 and discovered that even when ambulances are working, they often lack life-saving equipment such as oxygen and stretchers. See how little has changed since our initial report now on the Carte Blanche website.
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