Two suspects aged 44 and 47 were arrested near Klippunt for dealing in dagga on 21 October 2023. The duo was allegedly transporting dagga to Kakamas when the Upington Highway Patrol police, who received a tip-off intercepted them.
The ZF Mgcawu District police spokesperson, Sergeant Omphile Masegela said the police stopped and searched the vehicle fitting the description provided. Masegela said during the search, they allegedly found dagga packaged in ziplock bags to the estimated value of R116 450.
“The dagga and the vehicle that was used in the commission of crime were impounded and the suspects are expected to appear in court soon,” he said.
Picture: Former Vaaltar FM presenter and socialite, Tshepang Seelo
By OBAKENG MAJE
A trial in a murder case against two men from Modimong village, near Taung is set to resume today at the North West High Court sitting in Vryburg. The trial commenced on 18 until 22 September 2023 and was postponed to 23 October 2023.
The state is set to call more witnesses in the case. Rebaone Malekanyo (33) and Tumelo Tlonkwe (32) are facing a murder case after allegedly killing the former Vaaltar FM presenter and a socialite, Tshepang Seelo (32) back in 2021. Malekanyo and Tlonkwe are allegedly facing premeditated murder, assault, kidnapping, and defeating the ends of justice.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in the North West, Henry Mamothame, Seelo was allegedly killed on 31 October 2021, while walking from a local tavern with his girlfriend.
“The deceased allegedly saw the duo stealing roof sheets from a certain house and blew the whistle. Then the accused allegedly assaulted, kidnapped, and killed him before dumping his body in a furrow near Khibitswane village near Taung.
“Seelo’s girlfriend allegedly ran away and escaped unharmed. The deceased’s lifeless body was found floating on 3 November 2021. It is alleged that his body was also mutilated and his eyes and tongue were missing,” Mamothame said.
He said the two accused persons were arrested on 2 November 2021 after they handed themselves over to the police.
A man (31) is expected to appear at Brits Magistrate’s Court on Monday for allegedly raping his one-month baby girl. According to the North West police spokesperson, Captain Aaftje Botma, the infant’s mother (27) was busy preparing food outside the shack, while the father was sleeping inside with the baby next to him.
Botma said the incident took place at Krokodile Drift West, outside Brits. She further said the mother suddenly heard the baby crying and when she entered the shack, she noticed both the baby and the father naked.
“The shocked mother screamed for help and one of the neighbours responded. Eventually, the police were called and the baby was taken to Brits Hospital for medical examination, where she was subsequently admitted.
“The suspect was arrested and charged with rape. He is expected to appear in the Brits Magistrate’s Court on 23 October 2023, for rape,” added Botma.
The North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, condemned this shocking incident in the strongest possible terms and applauded the police and the members of the community for their swift reaction that led to the arrest.
Meanwhile, the Moral Regeneration Movement (MRM) in the North West condemned the incident.
MRM convenor, Lesiba Kgwele said: “The civil society led organization described the shocking incident as a despicable and atrocious act. Such an unwarranted attack on a defenceless child at the hands of a father, who was supposed to love and protect her.
“This shows the extent to which moral decay has permeated our society. We shudder to imagine the physical, psychological, and lifelong trauma that the victim robbed of her innocence had to endure.”
Kgwele said they wish the hospitalized baby a speedy recovery and call for no bail for the perpetrator. He said the courts must restore confidence in the criminal justice system before communities, which are fed up with such deplorable acts, take matters into their own hands because there is no place in society for heartless and wicked individuals like him. He said that there is a limit to the extent to which communities can tolerate and handle such devastating acts of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) involving children.
“We urge communities to unite in action against the scourge of GBV. Family and community are core socialising units that inspire and create moral and ethical values in society hence the Moral Regeneration Movement’s Charter of Positive Values commits to fighting domestic violence and the neglect of family responsibilities, whether due to substance abuse, cultural beliefs or gender discrimination,” he underscored.
Picture: Police engaging with community members over GBV matters
By OBAKENG MAJE
The Frances Baard District Police in conjunction with the Community Police Forum (CPF) Board, Spiritual Crime Prevention (SCP) and the District Youth Crime Prevention Youth Desk, engaged with residents in Galeshewe Township, near Kimberly.
Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Timothy Sam said they engaged community members on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) at Keitumetsi Tavern on 20 October 2023.
“The programme was supported by the Northern Cape Liquor Board, The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and the Galeshewe Liquor Trader’s Forum,” said Sam.
Ward 7 councillor, Nomazizi Maputle, who is also the Speaker for the Sol Plaatje Local Municipality in her welcoming remarks, thanked the police for hosting a programme of this nature in her ward as it is faced with numerous GBV challenges.
The Frances Baard District Visible Policing Commander, Brigadier Charlotte Makgari in outlining the purpose of the day, stated that whilst people of all genders perpetrate and experience intimate partner and or sexual violence, men are most often the perpetrators and women and children the victims.
Makgari further said male leadership in relationships is seen as the norm as men hold the majority of power. She added that women should be in a position to protect their bodies, meet their basic needs, and participate fully in society and likewise, women too can perpetrate violence against men.
“GBV can be physical, sexual, emotional, financial or structural, and can be perpetrated by intimate partners, acquaintances, strangers and institutions.
“The different stakeholders when presenting their words of support, highlighted issues of compliance by traders, parental responsibility, safety and security concerns at home and taverns, sexual grooming, community responsibility in reporting any wrongdoing pertaining to GBVF as well as Youth involvement in addressing GBVF drivers amongst themselves,” said Makgari.
The Frances Baard Police representative, Colonel Regina Minnies in crafting a way forward, pleaded with all stakeholders, including the tavern owners to work together with the police in making a difference.
“All stakeholders including patrons of the tavern committed to collectively work towards the elimination of GBVF in Galeshewe through the signing of a pledge,” she said.
The Galeshewe Station Commander, Brigadier Mhlolo Ngcotholozi thanked all stakeholders, the ward 7 and Sector C community, the tavern owners for taking a stand against GBVF, Pastor Grey, who is the SCP member for the prayers and Constable Boipelo Leeuw for diligently directing the programme of the day.
He cited people should desist from being driven by alcohol to solve their social problems. Ngcotholozi added that there is always assistance within our communities and government.
Picture: The police discover dagga in a plastic bag in the veld/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
Dagga worth R500 000 was discovered in a veld in Rietfontein on Tuesday. The police were allegedly conducting a rural safety crime prevention patrol when they noticed a black bag lying in the veld. The ZF Mgcawu District Police spokesperson, Sergeant Omphile Masegela said the police decided to go and investigate what was in the bag as it appeared strange to them.
“The police got a strong scent of dagga and opened the bag. It contained compressed dagga with an estimated street value of R568 464-65,” said Masegela.
The Rietfontein Station Commander, Captain Mthuthuzeli Block applauded the police for their vigilance.
Many Grade 12 learners continue to embark on some matric valedictory celebrations across the country. Most matric dance farewell parties come with excitement and enchantment.
However, many incidents take place in the process. Now the Northern Cape police call on individuals to be cautious during these celebrations. The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Colonel Cherelle Ehlers said they urge the learners to be vigilant and stay safe by adhering to safety measures.
“Never get into a car with someone you do not know, even if they call you by your name. Do not accept beverages from a person you do not know and always inform your parents/guardians on your whereabouts.
“Kindly inform them where you are going and when you will return. Your body is private, so you have the right to say no. Never walk around alone and be on the lookout for strange cars or people,” said Ehlers.
She further advises learners to walk in well-lit busy streets and in a group. Ehlers added that they should also know the dangers of youth/underage drinking.
“Ask for help and say no. When travelling in a car, do not give strangers a lift and avoid stopping in remote places. Park your vehicle in places that are well lit and if something seems suspicious, drive away.
“If you see something, say something by calling Crime Stop on 0860010111,” added Ehlers.
Picture: Advocate Kholeka Gcaleka recommended occupying the Public Protector position
By OBAKENG MAJE
Forum 4 Service Delivery (F4SD) is the latest political party that unequivocally rejects the recommendation of Advocate Kholeka Gcaleka to become the next Public Protector by Parliament. F4SD Secretary-General, Masego Kodisang said they uphold the principle that the Public Protector’s Office must be held by an individual who can act independently and impartially, without being influenced by any political affiliations.
Kodisang said, regrettably, that Gcaleka does not fulfill this criterion. She further said, Gcaleka has a long history of association with the ANC.
“She was a former member of the ANCYL and served as the legal advisor to the former Home Affairs Minister, Malusi Gigaba. Her relationship with the ANC raises questions about her ability to remain unbiased in her decisions, particularly in cases involving individuals or entities associated with the ANC.
“This was evident in her handling of the recent investigation into the Phala Phala Farm scandal, where she cleared President Cyril Ramaphosa of any wrongdoings, despite clear
evidence from various parties, particularly the Parliament’s Section 89 Inquiry panel, which found that Ramaphosa has a prima face case to answer,” said Kodisang.
She added that, it is imperative that, the Public Protector remains above partisan interests, serving as a safeguard against corruption and abuse of power by public officials. According to Kodisang, they believe that Gcaleka’s affiliations with the ANC will hinder her ability to act without influence and protect her comrades from scrutiny.
“The potential appointment of Gcaleka, given the circumstances, will compromise the integrity of the office and undermine public trust in its ability to fulfill its mandate. So, F4SD calls for a robust and transparent selection process that upholds the highest standards of integrity, ethics, and impartiality.
“In the spirit of upholding accountability and promoting the common good, F4SD emphasizes the need for a nominee who is beyond reproach, free from any conflicts of interest, and dedicated to serving the interests of the South African people above all else,” she said.
The National Assembly (NA) spokesperson, Moloto Mothapo said: “In May 2023, the parliament noted that the now former Public Protector, Adv Busisiwe Mkhwebane’s term of office was coming to an end. The House established an Ad Hoc Committee to nominate a person for appointment as the next Public Protector – in accordance with section 193(5) of the constitution.
“The Public Protector is appointed by the President, on the recommendation of the NA, for a non-renewable term of seven years. The Ad Hoc Committee to nominate a person for appointment as Public Protector, met for the first time on 6 June 2023 and elected Cyril Xaba as its chairperson.”
Mothapo said Section 59(1) of the constitution provides for public access to and involvement in the processes of the NA. Broadly, the provision states that the NA must facilitate public involvement in its legislative and other processes conduct its business in an open manner, and hold its sittings, and those of its committees, in public.
He said the Committee accordingly conducted its business in an open and transparent manner. Mothapo said that, following the rigorous interview process, the committee met on 29 August 2023 to deliberate and agreed to recommend to the NA that, it nominate Gcaleka for appointment as Public Protector.
“Gcaleka has served as Deputy Public Protector since 1 February 2020 and has acted as Public Protector since the suspension of Mkhwebane by Ramaphosa in June 2022,” he said.
Picture: The suspected stolen goats discovered/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
Two suspects aged 38 and 42 were arrested for being in possession of suspected stolen goats. It is alleged that, on 19 October 2023 at around 9pm, the police in Mothibistad received a tip-off regarding a vehicle stealing goats at Deurward village en route to Mothibistad.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Captain Nomvuyo Makoloi said: “The police followed up on the information and the identified vehicle was stopped at the Seoding Crossing with the community’s assistance.
“The police allegedly discovered 27 goats loaded on a white trailer. The suspects were arrested and will appear in court soon. The owner of the livestock arrived and identified his goats.”
Meanwhile, the John Taolo Gaetsewe District Police Commissioner, Major General Keagekae Besnaar, applauded the police for their swift response and relentless efforts in combating crime.
Picture: The police conduct a search at one of the houses/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
Four suspects have been arrested for allegedly dealing in drugs. The police received a tip-off and clamp down on the suspects. Northern Cape police spokesperson, Captain Nomvuyo Makoloi said four suspects were found at their respective premises in Mapoteng, Mothibistad, and Magojaneng.
“After the searches were executed, drugs were found confirming the information received. During the raids, the police confiscated mandrax, dagga, and cash believed to be the proceeds of drug sales.
“The Mothibistad police will continue with their bid to clamp down on crime,” said Makoloi.
Meanwhile, the John Taolo Gaetsewe District Police Commissioner, Major General Keagekae Besnaar, applauded the police for their relentless efforts in squeezing the space for drug dealers to operate. Besnaar said the police appreciated and commended the community for their active role in fighting crime.
“We urge them to continue being the eyes and ears of the police,” he said.
Four suspects who were arrested for theft by the Hawks’ Serious Commercial Crime Investigation, briefly appeared at Schweizer Reneke Magistrate Court on Friday. Kopano Katlego Itholeng (23), Vanessa Phokompe (27), Bongane Mcdonald Ndongwane (35), and Ratselane Samuel Kaweng (39) were charged for theft and acquisition, possession, or use of proceeds of unlawful activities in contravention of Section 6 of the Prevention of Organised Crime Act 121 of 1998.
The Hawks spokesperson in North West, Lieutenant Colonel Tinyiko Mathebula said the accused were arrested on 19 October 2023, following an investigation into their alleged theft of the complainant’s Road Accident Fund (RAF) pay-out.
“It is alleged that, on April 2022, the complainant received a pay-out of over R370 000 from the RAF claim. In May 2022, reports indicate that, an amount of R260 000 was transferred from the complainant’s account into the account of Itholeng.
“Furthermore, an amount of R38 000 was transferred into Ratselane Kaweng’s bank account. Following a sterling investigative work, a warrant of arrest against the four accused was issued and they were subsequently arrested on Wednesday,” said Mathebula.
He further said Itholeng and Phokompe, were released on R5 000 bail, while the matter against Ndongwane and Kaweng was postponed to 27 October 2023 for formal bail application.
Meanwhile, the North West Provincial Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, Major General Patrick Mbotho, and the Director of Public Prosecutions, Dr Rachel Makhari, commended the investigation and prosecution team for working tirelessly to ensure that the suspects are brought to book.
The Guardian 