Picture: Compliance inspections conducted at scrap metal dealers/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

Eskom said cable theft costs it approximately R2 billion per year. The power utility said illegal electricity connections and cable theft often lead to prolonged power outages.

Eskom’s representative in Northern Cape, Sean Joseph indicated that the power utility is bleeding due to all of these cable theft and the impact it’s having on the economy. He said all these compromise the quality of supply, which affects businesses, essential services, as well as the day-to-day lives of society, and this has a negative impact on the economy.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Timothy Sam said the provincial second-hand goods office conducted a two-day Designated Second Hand Goods Officers (DSOs) work session that commenced on 12 until 13 September 2023 in Kimberley Police Station’s Green Doors Boardroom.

“The purpose of the work session was to guide the DSOs to perform their duties optimally and address challenges identified by the provincial office as well as to determine challenges experienced. The work session was attended by the Frances Baard District Visible Policing Commanders, Coordinators, Station DSOs as well as external stakeholders.

“The provincial second-hand goods office facilitated a number of presentations from the SAPS Provincial Essential Infrastructure Task Team (EITT) Warrant Officer Henk van der Merwe, who gave a synopsis of the impact of infrastructure crimes across the province and the importance of working with external stakeholders,” he said.

Sam further said Gert Pienaar from Transnet, shared information with the DSOs on frequently stolen items of Transnet. He added that Vodacom representative, Hardley Goliath in his presentation, highlighted the ramping up of security systems at their base stations due to theft and vandalism, the security features are part of the working relations with SAPS and for easy identification of perpetrators.

“A number of legal grey areas came from the DSOs which Colonel Zitumane of SAPS legal services could clear and give guidance on. A multi-disciplinary compliance inspection operation was executed on day two of the work session at second-hand goods dealers, also putting the theory into practice.

“The 10 compliance inspections conducted at scrap metal dealers resulted in four scrap metal dealers being fined and two were warned for contravening the Second-Hands Goods Act, 2009 (Act 06 of 2009). The police also assisted Transnet in executing an eviction on a Second-Hand dealer, who was operating illegally on their premises,” said Sam.

He said four suspects were arrested for possession of alleged stolen property through stop and searches and vehicle patrols.

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By OBAKENG MAJE

Five suspects alleged to be Nigerians who were arrested for dealing in drugs worth R2 million briefly appeared in Potchefstroom Magistrate’s Court. Veronica Agu (30), Pascal Enuma Ezekwueme (51), Solomon Ezeh (38), Robinson Ikechukwa Okoye (44) and Kingsley Ikenna Onbumneme (41) were remanded in custody until 20 September 2023 for formal bail application.

National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson, Henry Mamothame said the verification process to determine their status is underway. Mamothame said the state intends to oppose their bail application.

“They are facing 14 counts of dealing with drugs valued at over R2 million. The Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation Unit in collaboration with the National Intervention Unit (NIU), the Hawks’ Tactical Operations Management Section (TOMS), Stilfontein Dog Unit, Potchefstroom Drug Task Team, Ekurhuleni District Task Team, and Bad Boyz Security arrested the five suspects on 13 September 2023, during a takedown operation, which was conducted in the North West and Gauteng provinces.

“According to the report, the information about a syndicate to be involved in the distribution and selling of illegal narcotics in the two provinces was received. The information was operationalised and the team pounced on the suspects at various identified houses,” he said.

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By OBAKENG MAJE

A man has been sentenced to life imprisonment by the Atamelang Regional Court for rape. On 16 November 2013, Fana Jonas Selemogo (38), accosted a victim who was walking home from a nearby tavern, accompanied by her friend.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson, Henry Mamothame said Selemogo subsequently grabbed the victim (24) by her hand and dragged her away from her friend, who also tried effortlessly to rescue her. Mamothame said the incident took place in Sannieshof.

“The friend of the victim, ran home to seek help. When she came back with her brother, the accused and the complainant had already left. Selemogo managed to drag the complainant to his shack, while assaulting her and repeatedly raped her upon arrival.

“The next morning, she managed to flee and when she arrived home, she reported the incident to her aunt. The matter was subsequently reported to the police who later effected an arrest,” he said.

Mamothame further said the complainant was also rushed to a nearby medical facility to receive medical attention and for DNA samples to be taken. He added that, the accused pleaded not guilty to the charge.

“He was granted bail, however absconded until he was re-arrested on 21 Feb 2017. Selemogo was then remanded in custody until the completion of the trial. He was sentenced to life imprisonment for rape and the court further ordered that, his name be registered in the sexual offender’s register,” said Mamothame.

In aggravation of sentence, the state prosecutor, Adv Edward Manicus, urged the court not to deviate from the prescribed minimum sentence of life imprisonment, as there were no compelling circumstances to do so.

Magistrate Stefan Du Toit agreed with the state and remarked that, rape is a very serious offence that causes permanent scars on the victims and that the courts have a responsibility to send a strong message to wannabe offenders.

Meanwhile, the Director of Public Prosecutions in the North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, lauded the prosecutor, investigating officer and other role players in bringing the perpetrator to book.

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Setshwantsho: Basimanyana kwa sekolong sa setso

Ka OBAKENG MAJE

Lefapha la dipuso Selegae ga mmogo le Merero ya Segosi le tlhotse le thankgolotse lenaane la go itsise baagi ka ga ditsamaiso le ditsela tsa go bula dikolo tsa mophato go ya ka molawana wa Act no 2 ya ngwaga wa 2021.

Go ya ka lefapha, molao o, o akaretsa botlhe bomme le borre ebile o setse o tsentswe tirisong go tloga lweetse a roga morago ga mopresidente wa naga, Cyril Ramaphosa a sena go saena fa Seetebosigo a rogwa ka 2021.

“Maikemisetso a kopano e, ene ele go lemosa le go itsise  baagi ka ga di tsamaiso tsa go ka ikwadisetse go tsamaisa dikolo tsa go rupisa. Baatla kopanong, ba tlhatlheletswe le go ka tsibosiwa fa ba tshwere matshelo a batho le gore, go tshwanetse ga nna le komiti e e leng gore ke yone fela e le nosi e naleng le dithata le tetla ya go rulaganya di tsamaiso tsa go isiwa ga dikolo tsa setso.

“Go ya ka molao wa tsamaiso ya mophato, komiti e e tlhopilweng e tshwanetse go akaretsa dikgosi go tswa ntlong ya dikgosi ya profense di le nne. Badiredi ba puso go tswa kwa Lefapheng la COGTA ba le ba bedi ga mmogo le badiredi ba puso gotswa kwa Lefapheng la Boitekanelo ba le babedi.”

Lefapha le kaile fa gape gotla akaretsa ngaka ya setso gotswa Interim Traditional Health Practitioners Council, le di kemedi di le pedi gotswa SALGA tse di emetseng bo masepala.

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Picture: A bottle of LindTh’e Premium Gin/Supplied   

By OBAKENG MAJE
North West Media Awards organisers said they are thrilled to welcome a few strategic partners on board such as Kay 2ze Gee Tours, which is a prominent Travel and Tourism Company based in North West including LindTh’e Premium Gin.

The chairperson of North West Media Awards (NWMA), Ananius Ndlovu said the committee in collaboration, promises to elevate the NWMA 2023 to new heights and create an unforgettable experience for the winners. Ndlovu further said the winners of certain categories will be served with travelling vouchers for a romantic getaway.

“The Kay 2ze Gee Tours, a one-stop Travel and Tourism Company has earned a reputation for excellence through its tailor-made packaged tours, adventure tours, camping experiences, and team-building programs.

“With a remarkable record of winning 17 awards, Kay 2ze Gee Tours has demonstrated its commitment to providing outstanding travel experiences. One of the standout features of Kay 2ze Gee Tours is its specialization in Continental Tours, particularly within the SADC region,” he said.

Ndlovu added that, their expertise extends beyond tourism, as they offer additional services such as Small Micro-Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) markets and strategic planning sessions for both the public and private sectors.

“We are indeed proud to partner with Kay 2ze Gee Tours for the North West Media Awards 23. Their dedication to excellence, market activation capabilities, and commitment to making tourism accessible to all align perfectly with our mission.

“The Kay 2ze Gee Tours takes pride in its ability to swiftly activate destinations, market them effectively, and package tours that cater to people from all walks of life. Their future plans include expanding their offerings to include more outbound tours for middle-class clients and active participation in global tourism seminars and trade shows,” he said.

Ndlovu said they are also delighted to announce yet another partnership with a local brand, LindTh’e Premium Gin. He said the Rustenburg-based Premium Gin, has something special for the category winners.

“LindTh’e Premium Gin is synonymous with excellence, luxury, and craftsmanship in the world of spirits. Handcrafted in small batches using the finest botanicals, it represents the epitome of quality and sophistication.

“As the official sponsor of the North West Media Awards 23, LindTh’e Premium Gin adds a touch of elegance to our celebration of media excellence in the North West Province. But here’s the exciting news – every category winner at the North West Media Awards 23 will walk away with their very own bottle of LindTh’e Premium Gin,” said Ndlovu.

He said this exceptional spirit, known for its smooth, crisp, and complex flavour profile, will be a treasured addition to the accolades they receive.

Ndlovu said to their audience and supporters, here is another reason to get involved by voting and participating in the event and stand a chance to win their very own bottle of LindTh’e Premium Gin.

“It’s a token of our appreciation for your support and enthusiasm in celebrating the achievements of our media professionals. Join us in raising a glass to LindTh’e Premium Gin for their generous sponsorship and support of the North West Media Awards 23.

“Together, we celebrate the intersection of excellence in media and the art of crafting exceptional spirits. For media inquiries, partnership opportunities, and further information about the North West Media Awards 23, please contact us on 078 645 6037 or mediaawards@quickacts.co.za,” he said.

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By OBAKENG MAJE

The Department of Employment and Labour’s 2023 National Employment Equity said the roadshows in partnership with the Commission for Conciliation Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) have come to an end.

According to the Department of Employment spokesperson, Teboho Thejane, the roadshows which were conducted throughout the country under the theme: “Real transformation makes business sense”, started in July in Limpopo. Thejane further said the focus of the roadshows was to create awareness of the recently promulgated Employment Equity (EE) amendments, sector targets and regulations.

“The Amendments of the EE Act of 1998 and its Regulations are primarily aimed at empowering the Minister of Employment and Labour to regulate the setting of sector-specific EE numerical targets and the promulgation of Section 53 that deals with issuing of the EE Compliance Certificate as a prerequisite of accessing of State contracts.

“The recently released 23^rd Commission for Employment Equity (CEE) Annual Report showed that the South African labour market continues to be racialised and gendered. The report has shown that the status of the progress made in the implementation of affirmative action for the achievement of the equitable representation of employees from the economically disadvantaged groups in the workplace remains slow,” he said.

In her presentation to the Roadshow held at the Cape Town Lagoon Beach Hotel, the CEE Chairperson, Tabea Kabinde expressed dissatisfaction about the underrepresentation of the coloured community in both top and senior management positions in the Western Cape.

According to official statistics, coloureds only occupy 6.1% and 8.2% of the top and senior management positions in the Western Cape respectively. 

“That means, coloureds are overrepresented in lower levels of employment even though they are the majority population in the Western Cape. The setting of sector-specific EE numerical targets will assist the coloured Community to be represented equally in all sectors of employment in the Western Cape,” she said.

The Director of Employment Equity of the Department, Ntsoaki Mamashela, dismissed media reports that the coloured community will be disadvantaged by the Employment Equity targets as lies.

“People talking of a point of not knowing that’s why they are spreading rumours. Everybody argues that sector EE targets are quotas, but they are not. Quotas are rigid, meaning they are not flexible. Sector targets are flexible.

“Employers will still maintain powers to determine their own annual EE targets towards achieving the regulated 5-year sector EE targets. Those employers that have surpassed the regulated minimum targets proposed per sector are encouraged to still be proactive in setting EE targets towards achieving the demographics of the EAP,” she said.

Mamashela further said the purpose of the Act is to promote equal opportunity and fair treatment in employment through the elimination of unfair discrimination. She added that, the Employment Equity targets do not prevent the employment of anybody and also emphasised that no person will be dismissed or retrenched to advance EE targets. 

“The act further facilitates the implementation of affirmative action measures to redress the disadvantages in employment experienced by Africans, Coloureds and Indians for both genders including white women.  

“EE and Affirmative Action seek to ensure the maximum participation of every citizen in the economy of the country, which is inclusive of the African, Coloured, Indian and White population groups. The EE reporting period opened on 1 September 2023 and will close on 15 January 2024,” said Mamashela.

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Picture: The alleged murderer of a prominent businessman, Ben Gumbi arrested/Twitter 

By OBAKENG MAJE

A man who allegedly shot and killed a prominent businessman, Ben Gumbi in Rustenburg has been arrested. Gumbi (49) was gunned down by two armed men outside a coffee shop in Rustenburg on 23 August 2023.  

The suspects then fled the scene with a blue Volkswagen Polo vehicle, which was found abandoned at the Corner of Helen Joseph and Lourie Streets a few minutes after the incident.

The North West police spokesperson, Brig Sabata Mokgwabone said the members of a multi-disciplinary team, which was established after the ruthless murder of Gumbi, made a breakthrough when they arrested a suspect, Sibongiseni Ngubane (33) on 12 September 2023.

“Ngubane was arrested in Germiston after attending a court case in which he is facing a charge of armed robbery. He appeared before the Rustenburg Magistrate’s Court on Thursday.

“Ngubane was remanded in custody pending further investigation and is expected to make a second court appearance on 19 September 2023,” he said.

The North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena applauded the police for their dedication, which resulted in the arrest.

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By OBAKENG MAJE

A man has been sentenced to two life imprisonment by the Northern Cape High Court sitting in Upington for rape and murder. This comes after Shane Basson (5) went missing on 5 November 2022 and her lifeless body was discovered in a veld.  

Northern Cape police spokesperson, Capt Nelis Prins said the incident took place in Kakamas. Prins said a full-scale search in Alheit and its surroundings was launched, but the missing Shane could not be found.

“On 21 November 2022, the decomposed body of a little girl was found, who was later identified as Shane. Her decomposed body was found in the veld in the vicinity of Alheit. Warrant Officer Clifford Esterhuyse of Kakamas Detectives through investigation, identified the suspect, and Jan Heyns (37) was arrested at his house in Alheit.  

“Heyns was remanded in custody in Upington since the date of his arrest. On 14 September 2023, Heyns was found guilty on a charge of rape and murder. He was subsequently sentenced to two life imprisonment,” he said.

Meanwhile, the ZF Mgcawu District Commissioner, Major General Thabo Mphuthi, applauded the hard work of Esterhuyse and the team working with him that led to the arrest, conviction, and sentence of the offender.

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