Monthly Archives: November 2020

A ‘drunk’ cop back in court

NEWS Leave a comment

By REGINALD KANYANE

Wolmaranstad cop has been arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol and reckless/ negligent driving. This comes after the ‘drunken’ cop wearing a full police uniform seen in a video that went viral on social media platforms struggling to stand steady on his feet to inspect the state motor vehicle.

North West police spokesperson, Brig Sabata Mokgwabone said: “The South African Police Service (SAPS) management is appalled by an unprofessional and unbecoming conduct of a constable stationed at Wolmaransstad in the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District.

“The video was captured by the members of the community in Wolmaranstad on Saturday. In the video, a drunken constable in full uniform is seen struggling to stand steady on his feet to inspect the state motor vehicle and check what appears to be a scratch.”  

Mokgwabone said the damage was apparently caused by a collision of the state vehicle with a fence at Extension 10 in Tswelelang Location in Wolmaransstad. He added that the police was a driver at the time of the incident.

“Subsequent to the incident, a case of driving under the influence of alcohol and reckless and/or negligent driving was opened for investigation, while the constable was detained.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that the constable is not authorised to drive a state motor vehicle. As a result, he will also face an additional charge of use of a motor vehicle without owner’s consent,” said Mokgwabone.

He said the departmental investigation will also be instituted against the police officer in terms of SAPS Discipline Regulations.

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena expressed his disapproval of the cop’s conduct. Kwena said that all SAPS members are obliged at all times to conduct themselves in a professional manner and adhere to the code of conduct including using available resources responsibly and to take into account the needs of the community.

The constable was released on R500 bail and is expected back at the Wolmaranstad Magistrates’ Court on Monday.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

SANCO: “The Supreme Court of Appeal’s overruling on the conviction of Doorewaard and Schutte a probable miscarriage of justice”

NEWS Leave a comment

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

The South African National Civic Organisation (SANCO) in the North West reacted with shock to the acquittal of two Coligny farmers, Pieter Doorewaard and Phillip Schutte who was previously found guilty of killing a teenager, Matlhomola Mosweu (16) after accusing him of stealing a sunflower heads back in 2017.

In March 2019, the North West High Court sitting in Mafikeng found Schutte and Doorewaard guilty of murder and sentenced them both to 23 and 18 years in jail respectively.

However, in November 2019, the duo took their matter to the Supreme Court of Appeal in Bloemfontein and were granted R20 000 bail pending leave to appeal against their conviction and sentence.

On Friday, the Supreme Court of Appeal overturns convictions and sentences against them. 

Now, the SANCO provincial chairperson, Paul Sebegoe said: “The civic organisation described the Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) overruling the conviction of Doorewaard and Schutte as a probable miscarriage of justice.

“The ruling which effectively frees the alleged murderers convicted for Mosweu’s ghastly murder gives credence to the assertion that “black lives do not matter” and that there is seemingly no justice for the poorest of the poor who are facing worst atrocities in rural communities.”  

Sebegoe further said the perceptions that perpetrators of violent crimes will walk scot-free, while victims are buried six-feet under will continue to haunt the historically marginalised until those responsible for the teenager’s gruesome murder are behind bars. He also expressed concern that the appeal ruling which was delivered in the wake of resurgence of racism will heighten racial tensions.

“This will undoubtedly reopen wounds that were beginning to heal in the hope that justice had been served,” he said.

Meanwhile, Civil rights organisation AfriForum, which funded the appeal case, has welcomed the acquittal, TimesLive reports.

“We are very thankful for the acquittal of Schutte and Doorewaard. AfriForum has said from the very beginning that the state’s only witness lied and, therefore, the organisation decided to finance the application for appeal. 

“AfriForum has covered the full costs of the application for appeal because we believed in their innocence and today justice was served,” said Kallie Kriel, AfriForum CEO.

AfriForum had previously criticised the NPA’s failure to consider cellphone records which would have shown that the witness could have not seen what happened, given the distance away he was at the time of the incident.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

A man sentenced to 15 years imprisonment for killing his girlfriend

NEWS Leave a comment

By BAKANG MOKOTO

Mahikeng Ministers Fellowship (MMF) called for united action against the scourge of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and femicide. This comes after the Atamelang Regional Court sentenced Buti George Lebitsa (43) to 15 years imprisonment for murder of his girlfriend, Thembi Lobakaeng (32).

The North West police spokesperson, Col Adele Myburgh said the duo had an argument on 29 September 2019 in their shack at Senthumule Extension 8, Delareyville. Myburgh said Lebitsa was seen leaving their home the following morning and upon further investigation, the neighbours found Lobakaeng’s lifeless body lying on her bed with head injuries.

“She was declared dead on the scene by Emergency Medical Rescue Services (EMRS). Excellent investigative work by Sergeant Ofentse Petrus Molusi of the Delareyville Detectives led to the arrest of Lebitsa a day later. Bail was successfully opposed, thus, Lebitsa has been in custody since his arrest,” she said.

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena applauded the detectives for their tireless efforts that ascertained that the accused is convicted.

MMF Chairperson, Senior Pastor Moss Tlalang said: “The inter-denominational fraternal of five-fold ministries described the GBV pandemic as an abomination that must be confronted wherever it raises its ugly head.

“The the deafening silence of the church and traditional institutions around interpersonal GBV often being committed by intimate partners and known acquaintance is a betrayal of women and children who have had to endure worst atrocities at the hands of unrepented perpetrators.”

Tlalang also challenged the REAL men to stand up to be counted in the 365 days campaign. He said men must embrace the responsibility to model authentic values for the neglected boy children.

“The 16 days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children campaign should therefore be a heightened awareness programme that supports the festive season crime prevention effort.

“We also, call for a concerted effort in partnership with churches to reach out to women and girl children who are the most vulnerable. The new normal must usher a season of hope, open dialogue and respect for the rights of women and children and translate into safer homes, protected neighbourhoods for our women to reclaim their streets,” said Tlalang.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

‘Seven suspects nabbed for theft and burglary’

NEWS Leave a comment

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

Seven suspects aged between 23 and 38, were arrested by the North West police in Swartruggens for being in possession of suspected stolen goods and burglary. According to the North West police spokesperson, Col Adele Myburgh, the police received information about a syndicate conspiring to commit a burglary at a store in Swartruggens recently.

“The suspects’ safe house was identified at Borolelo Location outside Swartruggens. Later at night, the suspects allegedly broke and gained entrance into a clothing store as well as a nearby supermarket. However, the suspects fled from the scene to the safe house after the activation of the security alarm.

“An intelligence-driven operation by the police resulted in the arrest of the suspects after keeping observation of them. The police entered the house and arrested them after they were found inside the house with wet and muddy clothes,” Myburgh said.

She added that subsequently, suspected stolen clothes and groceries were found. Myburgh further said the suspects appeared in Swartruggens Magistrate’s Court on 26 November 2020 and charged for being in possession of suspected stolen goods and burglary.

They will remain in custody until their next court appearance on 4 December 2020.  

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena lauded the police for their collaborative efforts that led to the success.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

A girl allegedly raped by a teacher

NEWS Leave a comment

  

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

A girl (13) was allegedly raped by her teacher in Kimberley. Northern Cape police spokesperson, Brig Mohale Ramatseba said the SAPS Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences unit has arrested a teacher (41) regarding the incident.

“The police are investigating the rape of a 13-year-old female scholar. It is alleged that the educator raped the victim on several occasions between September and October 2020. The suspect is a teacher of the victim and is employed at a local primary school in Kimberley,” Ramatseba said.

The suspect briefly appeared at Kimberley Magistrate’s Court and was remanded in custody until his next appearance on 19 November 2020.

Meanwhile, South African Women Fight Back campaign co-ordinator, Bronwyn Litkie said: “We are proud to encourage women to fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV). For too long, victims of GBV have remained silent, and it is time to break the silence.

“We cannot fight this alone and we need to stand up as a nation and say that #EnoughIsEnough. Let us turn our words into actions and stand up against GBV. SAWFB is a community of united women who network to bring about legislative change and support for all women and children in SA.”

Litkie added that through non-violent and collaborative engagement, they lobby to combat GBV and hold government and other authorities accountable for the safety, empowerment, equality and justice for all.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Six suspects in court for ‘burning’ a man alive in Pampierstad

NEWS Leave a comment

 

By BAKANG MOKOTO

Six suspects aged between 16 and 38 are expected to appear at the Pampierstad Magistrate’s Court on Thursday for murder. This comes after these suspects allegedly set alight a man (25) after accusing him of theft.

Northern Cape police spokesperson, Capt Olebogeng Tawana said: “On 29 October 2020, the deceased was allegedly assaulted and burnt alive by suspects after they accused him of theft. It is alleged that the deceased stole airtime voucher at a local tucks-hop in Sakhile Section in Pampierstad.

“The victim was ferried to Connie Vorster hospital in Hartswater with severely burnt wounds, but he later succumbed to the injuries. The acting Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Major General Phiwe Mnguni condemned the acts of vigilante justice.”

Tawana urged the community members to refrain from taking the law into their own hands.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Outgoing Auditor General, Kimi Makwetu succumb to lung cancer

NEWS Leave a comment

By REGINALD KANYANE

Heartfelt condolence messages continue to pour into the Makwetu’s family after the passing of the outgoing Auditor General, Kimi Makwetu. According to the statement released by the Auditor General’s Office, Makwetu (54) died in hospital this afternoon.

Auditor General’ spokesperson, Africa Boso said: “It is with great sadness and shock that we announce the passing of Auditor General, Kimi Makwetu this afternoon. Makwetu passed away in hospital. He was diagnosed with stage four lung cancer in 2018.

“As the national audit office, we join the Makwetu family in mourning his death. We ask the public to keep the family in their thoughts as they come to terms with his passing and to give them space to deal with his passing.”

Boso said the Makwetu family will share details of how they would like to honour their beloved husband and father when they are ready.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

North West Arts, Culture, Sport and Recreation department under ‘siege’ over COVID-19 relief fund process

NEWS Leave a comment

(Picture Courtesy of Daily Sun): North West MEC for Art, Culture, Sport and Recreation, Virginia Tlhapi

By OBAKENG MAJE  

North West Arts, Culture, Sport and Recreation department continues to be marred with allegations of fraud, corruption and mismanagement over the COVID-19 relief fund.

This comes after some disgruntled artists and athletes allege that the COVID-19 relief fund process was blemished hence they were rejected.

Botaki Le Badiragatsi Taung Association (BBTA) chairperson, Kgomoco Mangwegape said: “It has been a six months rollercoaster for our artists and athletes. We have submitted over 300 applications, but only 17 were approved. As artists and athletes, we are dejected because our relief fund application process had been burdened with uncertainties and poor communication from the department.

“We request the department to give clarity on what informed their decision to approve some artists and athletes applications, whereas rejecting others. The R150 million that was set aside by the President, was supposed to fairly mitigate the effects of COVID-19 within the industry.”

A local Hip Hop artist and former Vaaltar FM presenter, Mpho “Gee-Cliff” Kooe shared the same sentiments. Kooe said they urge the North West Premier, Prof Job Mokgoro to intervene.

“We call on the Premier to intervene and assist us. We are suffering and that effect of COVID-19 has brought difficulties in our lives as artists. The best thing that could happen is for the whole funding process to be audited.  

“This will bring transparency and understanding to us. We would like to know how many artists were paid, who are those artists, and how much they were paid,” he said.

Ganyesa-born artist, Kagiso “Dusty Lerole” Segapo said: “We are despondent regarding the whole funding process. It cannot be passable that out of 300 applicants only 17 being approved. We know that there are some wrongdoings taking place at the department and I am a victim.

“There was a Raise A Flag project that was in partnership with the department. So far, more than 100 artists are being owed over R2 million. We worked there for three months and no one has been paid yet.”

Segapo who hosts a 16 June Annual Bash in Ganyesa, said he had applied for fund relief, but the department has allegedly cancelled his application because he has another contract at schools.

“I am not happy because I have just signed the current contract way after I applied for the COVID-19 relief fund. I started in September 2020 with this contract and I owe many artists who were supposed to come and perform at my event.

“As artists in the Dr Ruth Mompati District, we will embark on a peaceful protest and demand answers from the department’s top officials. Those officials are corrupt and we do not need them in public offices because they allow embezzlement and fraud to flourish under their watch,” said Segapo.

Meanwhile, the MEC for the department, Virginia Tlhapi said the department has previously made a call to artists, events managers, athletes, promoters, coaches and athletes, technical support to apply for relief fund. Tlhapi said the aim of the relief fund was to mitigate against the negative impact caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We are well aware that the process has taken longer to complete and our people have been waiting and are disgruntled.  The department is happy to announce that the first batch of payments has been done on the 6 November 2020. 

“The second batch has been processed and will be paid shortly. The payments to artists are done through Mmabana Arts, Culture & Sport Foundation and for athletes through the North  West Academy of Sport,” she said.

Tlhapi added that the final outcome for the Covid-19 relief fund will be communicated soon through various media platforms and directly to applicants. She said artists are further informed that their applications for the Covid-19 relief fund, whether successful or not, has no bearing on their application for funding at Mmabana.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

ANC’s Top six leaders to meet over arrest warrant against Magashule?

NEWS Leave a comment

  • Primier of Free State Ace Magashule addressing the press conference after he had the State of the Province address. SIMPHIWE NKWALI/16/02/2012
    Primier of Free State Ace Magashule addressing the press conference after he had the State of the Province address. SIMPHIWE NKWALI/16/02/2012
(Picture Courtesy of Sowetanlive): ANC’s Secretary-General, Ace Magashule

By STAFF REPORTER

ANC’s Top six leadership is expected to engage in an ‘emergency’ meeting to discuss the arrest warrant against its secretary-general, Ace Magashule. The warrant of arrest that was issued on Tuesday by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation Unit, The Hawks, links the former Free State Premier to the whopping R255 million illegal asbestos housing project in the province.  

However, ANC national spokesperson, Pule Mabe did not confirm if indeed the ANC’s top six leaders will meet to discuss Magashule’s warrant of arrest. He said the ANC learned through media reports of the issuance of a warrant of arrest against Magashule.

“This afternoon, Secretary-General advised the movement that he will be in consultation with his legal team to best respond to the latest developments and to guide any response on the matter.

“The Secretary-General previously spoke about his imminent arrest and had requested his legal team to establish the validity of such an arrest with the relevant authorities. The Secretary-General stated on more than one occasion, including through his legal team, that he would cooperate with any process undertaken by law enforcement agencies,” he said.

Mabe added that the ANC will be monitoring these developments closely and will accordingly, communicate on any update should the need arise.

Meanwhile, Democratic Alliance in Free State welcomed the move. Free State Provincial Legislature MPL, Leona Kleynhans said: “This is in relation to the illegal Free State asbestos housing contracts in which the Department of Human Settlements was used as a vehicle to launder R255 million from the government into the pockets of various cronies.

“The matter started when the DA obtained the contract itself and documents related to the contract in May 2015. In July 2015, we approached the High Court in Bloemfontein for an urgent interdict to stop payments, because we were convinced that the contract had been established with the sole purpose of laundering money.”  

Kleynhans further said in May 2020, they lodged a criminal case with the Hawks in Bloemfontein against the former MEC Olly Mlamleli, who had been the second respondent in our 2015 case, as well as against Magashule for his dealings in the matter.

She said Mlamleli had been seated in the courtroom when the urgency of their application had been discussed.

“Our case was in terms of the Prevention and Combating of Corrupt Activities Act, which makes a person in a position of authority, equally guilty if he is aware of a crime taking place and does not act to prevent it. Mlamleli was arrested and has appeared in court, with her trial set to continue in Bloemfontein tomorrow.

“Our complaint against Magashule, stemmed from the fact that at the time of our 2015 court case, the state legal advisor Mr Bertus Venter, had been seated in the office of the Premier, and that this office had been tasked with launching a legal defence on behalf of the MEC which the Premier had appointed,” said Kleynhans.

She said it was impossible that Magashule could not reasonably have known that his MEC had been dragged to court by the Official Opposition in the Free State Legislature. Kleynhans said they are happy that at last, the man who has allegedly been plundering the province and impoverishing its citizens since 1994 will face justice.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Over R2 billion worth housing project to be rolled out in North West

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: North West Housing Corporation CEO, Sello Mogodiri

By OBAKENG MAJE  

More than R2 billion housing project to be rolled out in the North West province. The multi-billion project was unveiled by the North West Housing Corporation’s newly-appointed CEO, Sello Mogodiri during a press conference in Mahikeng on Tuesday.

 Mogodiri said this initiative will ensure that the province re-claims its rightful place as a historical leader in the development space. He said the pronouncement and confirmation made by both the President of the country, Cyril Ramaphosa during State of the Address (SONA) and the North West Premier, Prof Job Mokgoro during State of the Province Address (SOPA) respectfully.

“Since the appointment of the board and the CEO, the NWHC has embarked on a well-thought programme to reclaim its core mandate through the development of mining towns, smart cities, and spatial economic zones.

“We are repositioning this historic institution to be a major player in contributing towards transformation of our province and rebuilding the economy. This initiative will switch the provincial housing machinery into higher gear, thereby facilitating developmental projects that will stimulate economic growth and create jobs for the people of the province,” he said.

Mogodiri further said the NWHC, as a catalyst for development, has resolved to unlock development initiatives that will transform the province into a massive construction site. He added that the human settlements programmes lay a solid foundation for them to contribute towards the realisation of this vision.

“The NWHC is a legal entity established in terms of the North West Housing Corporation Act No. 24 of 1982 as amended. Our mandate is to provide and further the provision of housing, shelter, and accommodation, especially for low-income communities.

“As part of our mandate, we are expected to render financial and physical intervention to the province on both urban and rural planning. The province has over a long period of time been caught in a lack of mega-projects that can drive the economy of the province to heights never seen before whilst at the time creating an environment for massive investment in local economies and creating jobs.

“We are today unveiling these exciting strategic plans with a view to generating new energy and attract foreign direct investment into the province. This is an opportune moment for the North West to redeem its legacy as a revered developmental hub. The ground is ready and ripe,” said Mogodiri.

He said they will construct 15 000 units and the initiative will be rolled out in categories.

“We have a Mining Township Programme such as Mogwase mixed housing to support the rapidly growing mining activities. We also have a newly launched Special Economic Zones like Rustenburg Smart City Project and Marikana Mining Mega City Project.

“We have a Spatial Economic Zones (SEZ) programmes in the Mogwase Spatial Economic Zone and Mafikeng Spatial Economic Zone. Another project is a Smart City Programme in Madibeng-Lanseria Smart City and Potchefstroom Smart City Mixed Housing Development,” he said.

Mogodiri said the above-mentioned initiatives are to be roll-out from January 2021. He said the NWHC invites all stakeholders to prepare themselves to join in to ensure that these initiatives are successful, and all necessary economic elements are enhanced to support continuous growth.

taungdailynews@gmail.com