The South African U15 Boys National Team will travel to Rabat, Morocco on Sunday, 10 December 2023, where they will partake in their first-ever international friendly matches. The newly formed U15 National Team has been in camp for the past week, where they were taken through their paces by Head Coach, Vela Khumalo, assisted by Thabo Mngomeni and Shaibu Walters.
Khumalo said the 21-man squad will play against Cote d’Ivoire U15 on 12 December 2023 and face tournament host, Morocco on 17 December 2023.
“We have had a great week of training, and we are looking forward to this ground-breaking initiative by the FIFA Talent Development Scheme (TDS). We will be going to Morocco to allow the players to experience international football.
“We want to use this tournament as an eye-opening mission for the boys. We need them to realize what it takes to make a great team. We will give all of them game time, but also implement our playing philosophy,” he said.
Picture: One of the suspects arrested during Operation Shanela/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
More than 112 suspects were arrested for various crimes during Operation Shanela over the weekend. The suspects were nabbed for crimes such as murder, attempted murder, rape, robbery, assault, burglary, theft, illicit mining, human trafficking, illegal possession of protected plants, malicious property damage, dealing and possession of drugs as well as undocumented illegal immigrants.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Col, Sergio Kock said more than 34 Vehicle Check Points (VCPs) and 8 roadblocks were conducted across the province. Kock further said 1489 actions were also executed and 30 premises were searched. He added that, 2376 vehicles and 4406 persons were stopped and searched through the execution of 655 high visibility patrols.
“Operation Shanela, which is a multi-disciplinary high-density maneuver, continues to gain strides in clamping down on crime in hotspot areas. This was evident during disruptive actions, which commenced on 7 until 10 December 2023 with a continued focus on the reduction of contact and violent crimes in various hotspots.
“Actions and police activities executed during the operations included VCPs), stop and searches, roadblocks, foot and vehicle patrols, compliance inspections, and mine visits. Compliance inspections were executed at second-hand dealers and liquor premises. Mines, farms, formal and informal businesses were also visited,” said Kock.
He said 44 daily wanted suspects were traced and brought to book for various crimes and for not attending court and contravention of court orders. Kock said the police confiscated several alcoholic beverages, drugs, non-ferrous metal items, and cash that is believed to be the proceeds of crime.
Meanwhile, the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, commended all role players for their unabated efforts and reaffirmed the importance of community involvement in robustly fighting crime. Otola also encouraged the community to continue being the eyes and ears of the police.
Setshwantsho: Dipudi di le 21 di bolailwe ke legadima
Ka OBAKENG MAJE
Ba lelapa la ga Khosi kwa motseng wa Mokassa 2, gaufi le Taung ba re ba setse ba gamaregile morago ga gore dipudi tsa bone di le 21 di blawe ke legadima mo letsatsing la maabane. Sebueledi sa lelapa, Gaelebale Kudube (51) are one a dutse mo ntlung ga mmogo le mme wa gagwe, Lenah Khosi (75) fa seno se diragala.
“Go ne gona pula, mme ke utlwile legadima le betsa. Ene ya re fa re lebelela kwa ntle, re ne ra bona dipudi di rapalese hatshe mo tlase ga setlhare. Nna ebile ke bontshiwa ke mme gore ke lebelele mo tlase ga setlhare.
“Jaanong, re mo kutlo-botlhokung tota jaaka lelapa. Mosadimogolo o ntse a itshidisa ka go rekisa leruo le. Go riana re setse fela ka dipudi di le 22. Se se diragetseng ke poelo morago, mme ga re itse gore re dire jang,” Kudube wa tlhalosa.
Five suspects were arrested for possession of suspected stolen property and theft during the safer festive season “Operation Tlotla Molao”. North West police spokesperson, Captain Sam Tselanyane said on 8 December 2023, the suspects allegedly arrived in one vehicle at the parking lot of a Mall in Potchefstroom.
Tselanyane further said, that upon their arrival, they alighted from the vehicle in pairs and went into the mall. He added that the car guard became suspicious and alerted a security company that kept an eye on their movements as well as their vehicle.
“Furthermore, after some time the suspects returned to their vehicle and drove off. The security company’s reaction team tried to stop the suspects’ vehicle, but they sped off. A chase ensued and the police were informed.
“The vehicle was eventually stopped just outside Potchefstroom towards the direction of Klerksdorp. A search was conducted and plastic bags filled with clothing items from two well-known clothing stores were found with price tags on them,” said Tselanyane.
He said the suspects could not produce any proof of purchase for those items and they were all arrested. Tselanyane said the five suspects consisted of three women and two men aged between 27 and 54.
“They are expected to appear before the Potchefstroom Magistrate’s Court on 11 December 2023. The police will be working jointly with other law enforcement entities in the province and would want to warn all store managers and employees to be more vigilant.
“This time of the year, perpetrators of these kinds of crimes target stores when it is busy and employees are distracted. Investigation into the matter continues,” said Tselanyane.
The North West Department of Health described the allegations that the Potchefstroom Hospital turned away a patient without any assistance as absurd. This comes after the ‘pregnant’ Van Eden was allegedly brought to the Potchefstroom Hospital casualty on 27 November 2023, but turned away.
According to the Democratic Alliance (DA) spokesperson on Health in North West, Gavin Edwards, a recent incident at the hospital is a precursor to the type of medical care that will become common practice in an already overburdened system that faces collapse as the ANC-led government forces the NHI Bill through the parliamentary process.
“Van Eeden, a pregnant patient, had to wait more than five hours after initially being turned away by the Potchefstroom Hospital Casualty. She had been examined by a General Practitioner (GP) earlier in the day, who confirmed a good fetal heartbeat.
“Her husband, Steven van Eeden, rushed his wife to the hospital when she started bleeding and was experiencing severe abdominal pain. Casualty staff turned the patient away from the casualty department, insisting that the beds were all full and they would be unable to assist,” he said.
Edwards alleged that Van Eeden begged that his wife be examined and was sent to open a file. He further said Van Eeden’s vital signs were assessed, but her pregnancy was ignored.
“The couple were then sent to a crowded waiting area, where they had no other option than to sit on the floor as there was no seating. Despite repeated requests for urgent assistance, no medical care was provided to the patient.
“After waiting almost five hours, seated on the waiting room floor, the patient left the hospital without any medical care being provided. The hospital staff on duty provided no assistance, insight, or explanations for the delay,” said Edwards.
However, the North West Department of Health spokesperson, Tebog Lekgethwane refutes these allegations. Lekgethwane alleged that the patient said she arrived at the casualty just after 7pm.
“However, the hospital found no record of that. According to casualty records and statements, this patient only arrived at 9pm. Furthermore, at 7pm, there were only four patients for triage and there is no way that she could not have been seen immediately if indeed she had arrived at 7pm.
“Patient profiles at casualty on 27 November 2023 between 6pm up to midnight were 42 in total. Two red patients, 28 orange patients (including 6 pediatrics, 3 general surgery and 19 medical), 1 yellow and 1 green that doctors and nurses were attending to,” he said.
Lekgethwane further said the available beds for examination in casualty are eight. He added that only eight patients can be examined at a time.
“Examination beds will only be free when patients are fully examined, investigated, admitted, or discharged. This can take a total treatment time of 60 to 240 minutes per patient; depending on the patient’s condition.
“Also, the attitude of the family is concerning to the hospital as it smacks of racism. This is evidenced by the utterance that apartheid Kallie de Haas Hospital was much better than this ANC looters black management run butchery of a hospital,” said Lekgethwane.
He said this comment was written in the complaint and he repeated it during the redress meeting.
Picture: Underage children indulge in alcohol/Generic
By REGINALD KANYANE
To ensure there are safer celebrations, the North West Liquor Board said it will continue with its operation to crack down on underage drinking during the end-of-year parties.
The North West MEC for Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism, Virginia Tlhapi said as the academic year calendar is being completed, learners in the province are eagerly anticipating their end-of-year exams.
Tlhapi said, however, there are concerns over a growing trend on social media platforms – the hosting of “Pens Down Parties” by matric learners and students in general.
“The department is taking a decisive stance to address this issue and is sending a stern warning to all liquor establishments in the province. Licensed liquor traders are reminded of the explicit prohibition outlined in the Liquor Act 27 of 1989 Section 45, which prohibits the presence of juveniles on their premises.
“As department, we have mandated the Liquor Act to actively oversee the liquor industry in the province and is stressing the importance of responsible liquor regulation, especially during celebratory events,” she said.
Tlhapi further said in South Africa, the sale of liquor is strictly regulated through licensing, and it is expressly forbidden by law to sell alcohol to underage individuals or permit their access to licensed premises. She added that, despite the legal provisions surrounding end-of-year celebrations, the department has observed with concern that some liquor outlets knowingly permit underage drinking, which is a clear violation of the law.
“To address this, the department asserts that ignorance of the law will not serve as an excuse and any establishment found hosting such activities will face severe sanctions recommended by the office to the board. The department emphasizes that profiting should not take precedence over the well-being, safety, and future of the youth.
“Liquor traders are implored to comply with regulations and are encouraged to report any form of noncompliance from licensed facilities to the department,” said Tlhapi.
She said underage drinking has been associated with various negative consequences, including fights, sexual assault and physical violence. Tlhapi said as a department, they underscore the importance of avoiding such incidents and hold those who advertise such events on social media accountable if they occur in their licensed establishments.
“In a collective effort, the department calls on the community, other sector departments and liquor traders to collaborate in ensuring the safety of young people. While action would be taken against those who sell liquor to children, parents are urged to abstain from sending underage individuals to purchase alcoholic substances.
“These actions encapsulate the shared responsibility to create a safe, secure, and conducive environment for the youth. By working together, the department and the relevant stakeholders aim to prevent the potential harms associated with underage drinking and make a positive impact on the community,” she said.
Mosadi wa dingwaga dile 42 o tlhokafaletse kwa lefelong la maitiso la selegae la kwa ga Bux kwa Extension 6, gaufi le Taung ka Labone bosigo. Go begwa fa mosadi o, a ne a leba kwa lefelong leo go ya go ntsha letsapa, fela batho ba le bantsi ba belaelwa fa a tsheletswe bolthole mo bojalweng.
Go ya ka sebueledi sa sepodisi mo sedikeng sa Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati, Warrant Officer Tryphosa van Rooyen, mosadi o one a dutse mo setilong a sa tsikinyege, mme one a rwalelwa kwa bookelong jwa selegae go ya go bona thuso ya kalafi. Van Rooyen are fela go ne ga begwa fa a tlhokafetse.
“Dipatlisiso tsa morago ga loso di tsweletse go ka netefatsa se se ka tswang se tlhodile loso la gagwe. Go fitlha ga jaana, ga re itse gore a o bolailwe ka go tshelelwa botlhole mo bojalweng, kgotsa leso la gagwe e ka tswa ele la tlholego.
“Fela seo se tla tlhotlhomisiwa ke diteko tsa morago ga loso,” van Rooyen wa tlhalosa.
A man (45) has been sentenced to 15 years imprisonment by Victoria West Magistrate’s Court for raping his own daughter (8). On 6 July 2019, the victim reported that her father sexually assaulted her and the police were immediately contacted.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Col, Sergio Kock said the accused was arrested on the same day and bail was denied.
“The father was found guilty on a rape charge and sentenced to 15 years direct imprisonment on 7 December 2023. The South African Police Services management in the Pixley ka Seme District welcomed the sentence,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Provincial Head for the Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offenses(FCS) unit, Brig Sipho Kheswa, commended Sgt Ilze Fan from the De Aar FCS unit for her meticulous investigation.
Kheswa further said this will ensure that no impunity is granted to the perpetrator of this heinous crime, especially as the world is observing the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children Campaign.
Picture: North West MEC for Department of Economic Development Environment Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), Virginia Tlhapi
By BAKANG MOKOTO
North West MEC for Department of Economic Development Environment Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), Virginia Tlhapi said they condemn in the strongest possible terms the attacks on tourists who were traveling on the R556 road from Gauteng to Sun City on 4 December 2023.
Tlhapi said it is alleged that tourists were attacked on the R556 road, which is affectionately known for its notorious attacks on tourists in the province.
“There have been many criminal incidents which took place in the past. This unfortunate incident took place at a time when the department has just unveiled its festive season tourism campaign that aims at promoting tourism safety in the province.
“We have since requested an urgent meeting with the North West MEC responsible for Community Safety and Transport, Sello Lehari, and the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, to discuss safety measures for all tourists who are visiting the province,” she said.
Tlhapi further said the aim of the meeting is also to impress upon law enforcement agencies the need to ensure the successful arrest and prosecution of those who committed this heinous crime. She added that the department will further be initiating an engagement with all tourist guides in the province to enhance knowledge of safety measures when guiding and welcoming tourists in the province.
“The importance of tourism as an economic sector in the North West cannot be over-emphasized. Tourism in the province contributes towards job creation and it’s a critical input factor in the Growth of Domestic Product (GDP).
“So, no stone will be left unturned in a quest to ensure the arrest of those who attacked innocent tourists in our province,” said Tlhapi.
Taung-based community newspaper, Taung DailyNews continues to make inroads and claim its niche within the media space. This comes after TDN newspaper won the Best Online Media House of the Year Award at the glittering North West Media Awards held at Bogosi Lifestyle Farm in Rustenburg on Friday night.
Taung DailyNews editor, Obakeng Maje said the win shows how important the community media is. Maje said Taung DailyNews will continue to bring cutting-edge stories and report independently as always.
“Overall, community media is a powerful source as it empowers people to drive change, creating an inclusive and diverse community. Not only that, but it also allows local businesses to grow and inspire people around them.
“So, we are grateful as Taung DailyNews for receiving this award. It shows that TDN newspaper continues to be an alternative medium of choice for the public. Therefore, it is imperative to take this moment and send our gratitude to our readers, management, advertisers, and all associates for their unwavering support,” he said.
Maje further said as the newspaper continues to bring a pluralistic media ecology within the industry, it is equally important to allow people to exercise their right to freedom of expression. He added that, however, a clear definition and recognition of the law are necessary.
“We would also like to thank the North West Media Awards organizers, including all those who voted for us. So, we call on advertisers to use Taung DailyNews as their medium of advertising.
“Taung DailyNews will continue to form the backbone of local and regional media, so your support will be highly appreciated. We will continue to strive for independent reporting and bring that innovation journalism as it is vital,” concluded Maje.
Meanwhile, the North West Media Awards organiser, Ananius Ndlovu said: “We are celebrating the outstanding achievements in the media industry. So, we are gathered here to commend the media professionals for their hard work and emphasize the crucial role they play in society.
“As the organizer, we would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the winners and pledge to enhance the event, making it a standout affair on the national stage.”
OVERALL WINNERS OF THE NORTH WEST MEDIA AWARDS 2023
Communicator of the Year
Boitumelo Boweni (Social Development – Dr. KK District)
Community Newspaper of the Year
Mo Media
Journalist of the Year
Itumeleng Kgajane (SABC)
Photographer of the Year
Thapelo Morebudi (Sunday Times)
Poloko Tau Investigative News Story of the Year
Itumeleng Kgajane (SABC)
Newsletter of the Year
North West Provincial Government News
Current Affairs Programme of the Year
You FM News Hour
News Reader of the Year
Irish Motswamere (Vaaltar FM)
Newsreader of the Year – Sub Category for Commercial & Public Broadcasters
Dimakatso Genkoe (You FM)
Radio Producer of the Year
Welile Congwane (Vaaltar FM)
Radio Programme of the Year
Fepa Moya (Vaaltar FM)
Radio Programme of the Year – Sub Category for Commercial & Public Broadcasters
Pulse Breakfast (Pulse FM)
Radio Presenter of the Year
Katlego Moncho (Vaaltar FM)
Radio Presenter of the Year – Sub Category for Commercial & Public Broadcasters
Phenyo Phushudi (Motsweding FM)
Sports Presenter of the Year
Thabo Malatse (Madibeng FM)
Sports Presenter of the Year – Sub Category for Commercial & Public Broadcasters
The Guardian 