By OBAKENG MAJE

Six police officers including two civilians briefly appeared before Brits Magistrate’s Court for business robbery, kidnapping and assault with intent to do Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH) on Thursday. The accused persons, Sgt Matlala Letsoko (43), Sgt Lesiba Kgopa, (49), Const Sejameriri Mamphekgo (34), Const Croesus Chirwa (33) Const Joy Makotla (32), Sgt Masilo  Mononyane (46), Emmanuel Lorekang (45) and Itumeleng Malebetsane (50) are attached to Pretoria Public Order Police (POP), Tshwane District Crime Intelligence and Rietgat Visible Policing respectively.

The North West police spokesperson, Brig Sabata Mokgwabone said the accused persons were arrested on 20 December 2023 by the Provincial Anti-Corruption Investigation Unit, Bojanala Platinum Sub-District and Mmakau Police Station Detectives regarding a business robbery committed in Mmakau on 15 December 2023.  

“It is alleged that one of the suspects was driving a marked police vehicle during the business robbery committed at a tavern in Newton Section, outside Mmakau. The complainant, who owns a tavern, was allegedly assaulted and robbed of approximately R60 000. He was further taken to Mothotlung graveyard, where the assault continued. 

“The investigations into the cases continue and the suspects are likely to face additional charges, including a business robbery allegedly committed in Hebron. They were granted R2000 bail each,” he said.

Mokgwabone further said the accused persons are expected to make a second court appearance on 28 February 2024.

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, expressed his disappointment about the police officers’ conduct, which he described as unacceptable. Kwena added that the actions of the police officers are not in line with the South African Police Service (SAPS) Code of Conduct and the accused persons disregarded the role the police play in the execution of the safer festive season operations.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

By OBAKENG MAJE

A man (19) has been sentenced to 8 years imprisonment for rape and two years for child pornography. On 29 September 2021, the complainant left her son (3) with the accused in Colville, outside Kimberley. The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Molefi Shemane said the accused sexually assaulted the victim in the absence of his mother. Shemane further said the victim told his mother what happened.

“The mother reported the incident to the police. The accused was arrested and bail was successfully opposed. The South African Police Service Management in the Northern Cape welcomed the sentence,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, applauded the Detective/Sergeant Juanita Lakey for her dedication and hard work throughout the investigation by ensuring that justice is served. Otola said she also made sure that justice is turning the tide against perpetrators of Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBV&F).

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Picture: The accused, Tshwaro Mangwegape/Facebook

By OBAKENG MAJE

A local businessman and owner of Meat Brothers Pub, Tshwaro Mangwegape (41) has abandoned his bail application. Mangwegape, who is facing a murder and attempted murder case, briefly appeared at Taung Magistrate’s Court, where he was expected to make a formal bail application.

It is alleged that Magwegape shot and killed the NWU Soccer Institute player, Undivile “Vilo” Mdi (28) and injured his childhood friend, Aobakwe Ernest Kokwe (33) during a commotion at the Meat Brothers Pub on 16 December 2023. Mdi and Kokwe were amongst patrons who visited The Meat Brothers Pub that was fully packed.

It is alleged that the security guards refused entry to patrons who did not have Identification Documents (IDs) and that led to a stampede. Mdi and Kokowe allegedly tried to gain entry forcefully and that allegedly prompted Mangwegape to pull out a gun and shoot at them.

Mdi was fatally shot, while his friend was rushed to the hospital with terrible gunshot wounds.

Mangwegape’s attorney, Isang Nakale from Isang Nakale Attorneys, informed the court that his client has decided to abandon bail application until the deceased has been buried. The case was postponed to 27 December 2023 for bail profiling and possible bail application.  

Magistrate Thataotsile Matolong has recused himself from the case. Matolong said this case has ‘drawn a lot of attention’ and raised concerns, especially on various social media platforms.

“I would like to recuse myself from this case to ensure that justice prevails. This case has raised various concerns, especially on social media platforms. So, to ensure that our people still have trust in the justice system, we will allow the magistrate who resides outside Taung to preside over the case.

“I would also encourage the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and South Africa Police Service (SAPS) to appoint personnels who work outside Taung to deal with this matter,” he said.

Mdi’s family spokesperson, Mpho Skweit said the death of Mdi has left the family devastated. Skweit further said Mdi was still young and they expected a lot from him.

“His life has been cut short in a very barbaric manner. As a family, we are not taking it lightly and we are very angry. This thing of the magistrate and investigating officer recusing themselves from the case came from us as a family.

“They are not just doing it because they wanted to. We have put a lot of pressure and ensured that, ultimately we get justice. Actually, there is no justice because this court is rotten to the core. We are going to make sure that we root out all those elements of corruption,” he said.

Skweit added that they will ensure that people are served fairly and the wheel of justice is turning.  

“Remember, I was born and bred here and at some point, I was a leader here too. I know what is happening here and know that, the accused will be given special treatment. They have let him have his cell phone, while in police custody.

“So, we do not want any local magistrate, prosecutor and investigating officer in this case because we are not going to get justice,” said Skweit.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

By OBAKENG MAJE

A local businessman and owner of Meat Brothers Pub, Tshwaro Mangwegape (41) who is facing murder and attempted murder, is set to appear at Taung Magistrate’s Court for formal bail application.

Mangwegape, who is accused of killing NWU Soccer Institute player, Undivile “Vilo” Mdi (28) and injured his childhood friend, Aobakwe Ernest Kokwe (33) has not yet arrived at Taung Magistrate’s Court from Amalia Police Station, where is incarcerated. This has forced the court to adjourned until him arrival.

Mdi and Kokwe were amongst patrons who visited The Meat Brothers Pub that was fully packed. It is alleged that the security guards refused entry to patrons who did not have Identification Documents (IDs) and that led to a stampede.

Mdi and Kokowe allegedly tried to gain entry forcefully and the owner of the establishment, Mangwegape, allegedly pulled out a gun and shot at them. Mdi was fatally shot and his friend was rushed to the hospital with terrible gunshot wounds.

Mangwegape appeared in court and his case was postponed for bail profile and possible formal bail application.

Meanwhile, the ANCYL spokesperson in North West, Molebang Mohlomi said in a statement that they condemn violence meted against patrons at The Meat Brothers.

“It is alleged that security guards and bouncers unleashed live ammunition towards unarmed civilians, who were trying to gain access to the establishment. This barbaric behaviour bothers public safety.

“This shows how business owners lack respect for their clients. A clinical approach to review licences of public places must be applied to ensure those who are bestowed with the responsibility to protect patrons are PSIRA compliant,” he said.

Mohlomi further said they send their heartfelt condolences to the families that have lost their loved ones. He added that, equally so, they call upon law enforcement agencies to speedily arrest perpetrators and resolve this brutish crime.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Picture: A murder and fraud accused, Agnes Segomotsi Setshwantsho/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

The accused who is facing a murder, two counts of fraud and one of defeating the ends of justice, Agnes Segomotsi Setshwantsho (49) was remanded in custody by the Molopo Magistrate’s Court until 11 January 2023 for formal bail hearing. It is alleged that Setshwantsho killed her relatives to benefit from insurance claims.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson, Henry Mamothame said, Setshwantsho was allegedly traced and arrested in Centurion, outside Pretoria  during a takedown operation led by Sergeant Kheshi Mabundad on 16 November 2023. 

He said this was done in collaboration and full cooperation with an insurance company.

“The police further reported that, in the past two months, Sergeant Keshi Mabunda and a team of detectives have been working on the case following a tip-off from relatives of the suspect. Through analysis and collection of evidence, including the exhumation of a body, the team was able to link its latest suspect to the team’s first focus of the case.

“According to the police report, the murder that was initially ruled a natural death, happened in Mmabatho in the North West, where a female relative died under mysterious circumstances in March 2023. The investigations have revealed that the suspect fraudulently took out insurance on behalf of her relative before her murder,” said Mamothame.

He said the police are conducting further investigations with the possibility of adding more charges against the accused. Mamothame added that the state is expected to re-examine Mabunda after the defence attorney completed its cross-examination.

“The state is also expected to call on its second witness from the correctional facility, where the accused is detained. It emerged in court that this witness received death threats from the accused and investigation is being conducted by the Hawks.

“Meanwhile, the accused will remain in police custody pending the outcome of the bail application,” he said.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Picture: The police confiscated dagga and fireworks/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

Two suspects aged 47 and 53 were arrested for illegal possession of drugs. This comes after the police who were on patrol, allegedly saw the suspicious-looking delivery truck on N14 road during the early hours of the morning on 20 December 2023.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Colonel Cherelle Ehlers said the police from Mothibistad Police Station were conducting routine patrols when they observed a suspicious delivery truck. Ehlers further said, they allegedly stopped and searched the truck.

“They discovered several bags of dagga with an estimated value of R15 750 as well as fireworks. It is alleged that the truck was en-route from Johannesburg,” she said.

Meanwhile, the John Taolo Gaetsewe District Police Commissioner, Maj Gen Johnnie Besnaar commended Sgt Kagisho Gopetse and Const Moemedi Gaosenkwe for their vigilant conduct and ensuring that drugs are not transported via our national roads.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Picture: North West Premier, Bushy Maape

By OBAKENG MAJE

North West Premier, Bushy Maape said the end of the year is a special time for everyone as it marks the end of the journeys they have traversed throughout the year. Maape said it is a time to reflect on the commitments they made and the personal goals they have set for themselves.

“The accomplishments and challenges we have endured during this year, should serve as an inspiration to focus on new possibilities and future endeavours. Over the last 12 months, we have worked together as government, opposition parties, business, labour and civil society to try and overcome challenges of socio-economic concern bedeviling our developmental trajectory.

“|As we note the many milestones we have reached and celebrated, we also acknowledge the enormous sufferings of our people due to worsening socio-economic conditions in the province,” he said.

Maape further said in dealing with these challenges, their provincial government Executive Council adopted a comprehensive and aggressive investment promotion programme to create jobs and change the development landscape of the province.

He added that, through this initiative they have garnered investment pledges amounting to R132.4 billion for various projects.

“Of the original 30 projects, 15 have been confirmed and are at different stages of readiness. The confirmed projects have a total value of R45 398 billion. Five projects are ready for implementation and will be rolled out in the next three months, while four projects will be ready in the next 6 to 12 months.

“Several more projects will be processed in the next two years. We also acknowledge the concerted efforts we have implored as the North West Provincial Government (NWPG) to ensure efficient and effective service delivery to our people. In achieving this we have intensified our Accelerated Service Delivery programme through Thuntsha Lerole to reach all areas of our province to resolve service delivery related challenges,” said Maape.

He said through this initiative, they are also deepening social solidarity with different segments of the society, tackling poverty, unemployment, inequalities as well as social ills such as Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBV&F).

Maape said this initiative is gaining traction every day and continues to resonate with residents of the province across many and diverse communities.

“We recognise that in parts of our province, the challenges facing our people far exceeds the interventions we have made thus far. Much more will be required to make an impact in order for our people to see real change.

“As we celebrate the end of a productive year and recharge for the New Year, let us do so responsibly. I would like to take this opportunity and call on all our people to extend a helping hand to those less fortunate in our communities,” he said.

Maape said as they go into the new year, let them continue to work together towards building a prosperous and peaceful province. He said on behalf of the NWPG leadership, he wishes all residents and their families a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Picture: The artist, Asa Dengana/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

Most carousers are expecting hit songs from South African artists as the country is entering into festive season. One of the hit songs that is expected to create waves and keep music lovers intrigued is the Nkqo Nkqo single, which is a hit song featuring Asa Dengana.

The KwaZulu-Natal-based record company, SixNine Rekords said it is thrilled to announce the release of a single hit, Nkqo Nkqo featuring Asa. According to Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of SixNine Record company, Mthokozisi Mgobhozi, the song is available on all music platforms.

Mqobhozi further said, Nkqo Nkqo song is a hit single that has just been released to keep Deep House and Afro Soul music lovers on their toes. He added that, Nkqo Nkqo song was released at the right time, especially as the music lovers are getting into a festive mood.  

“Remember, South Africans are expecting artists to bring them new tunes for entertainment over festive season and beyond. A relationship between SixNine Rekord and Asa comes a long way since 2019.

“This release was long overdue and we are delighted that it finally happened. The SixNine Rekords company was officially registered by Sithembile Mbuthuma and I. We are eager to bring change and elevate the music industry to the next level by unearthing talented artists in Mzansi,” he said.

Mqobhozi said the release of a single, Nkqo Nkqo with Asa, attests how South Africa has abundance of talent. He said this also displays the intentions of the SixNine Rekords company, which is to enrich the standard of music in the country.

“We have long invited her to the studio, but I guess the distance between the two parties has dragged us so long. However, when she finally arrived in the studio, there was no more turning back. She worked her magic and boom, this is what we came up with.

“We hope the South African music lovers will love the song and support us. What we can say is that a lot is still to come because it has always been my dream to find our niche within the music industry,” said Mqobhozi.

He said even though he had been in the music industry long enough, he had never pulled through to this point. Mqobhozi said he guesses this is God’s perfect timing and he is pleased that it is finally happening.

“As SixNine Rekords, we have confidence because Asa is a talented and experienced artist. We are excited to have an artist of her calibre as part of our stable.

“With her, we are a formidable team and a lot is still to come. We can assure Mzansi music lovers that they should expect more vibes from us. So, they should keep intrigued,” he said.

Meanwhile, Asa Dengana said: “Thank you to SixNine Rekords because this is a dream come true. With this kind of relationship, we are still going to bring more for South Africans and Africa at large.”

Profile

SixNine Rekords is a vibrant record label that was established in 2019 by Mthokozisi Mghobhozi and Sithembile Mbuthuma. He said they are already making waves in the music industry and their record label has collaborated with a number of incredible artists, including none other than Judas, Vintage, Nico, Aleganto, and Zipho.

Mqhobhozi said they are eagerly looking forward to releasing more music in the near future, including a highly anticipated song with Nico called Sponono and Amahalanjonjo – Izinkinga Zothando, among many others.

He said Nkqo Nkqo can be downloaded on the following platforms: Spotify, Deezer, SoundCloud Go, Tidal, Anghami, Line Music, iHeartRadio and Claro Musica.

taungdailynews@gmail.com