Daily Archives: March 20, 2024

A man sentenced to life imprisonment for raping a minor 

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By OBAKENG MAJE 

A man (29) was sentenced to life imprisonment by the Tlhabane Regional Court for raping a girl (15). The incident occurred at Phokeng, near Rustenburg on 20 November 2022, wherein the complainant’s aunt sent her to deliver a key to Omolemo Modise’s parental home. 

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in North West, Henry Mamothame said, upon arrival, Modise invited her inside the house, and subsequently dragged her to one of the rooms and raped her. Mamothame said the complainant relayed her ordeal to her friend at school the following day, as she feared telling her aunt who is her guardian as both her parents are deceased. 

“The complainant’s friend reported the matter to her parents, who immediately informed her aunt, and the matter was reported to the police. Modise was arrested on 22 November 2024, and the court granted him R1000 bail and he pleaded not guilty to the offence,” he said.

The state prosecutor, Zola Mpiyakhe, argued on the prevalence of rape in the country, particularly against women and children, which constitutes a violation of their right to dignity, as well as freedom of movement. Mpiyakhe urged the court not to deviate from the prescribed minimum sentence as there were no compelling and exceptional circumstances to do so. 

Magistrate Shubi Mamabolo agreed with the state and imposed life imprisonment on Modise. He was further declared unfit to possess a firearm. 

Meanwhile, the Director of Public Prosecutions in the North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, lauded the prosecutor, Detective Sergeant Olebogeng Tsame from the South African Police Service (SAPS), Kenosi Pako, the Court Preparation Officer who gave the necessary support and guidance to the complainant in preparation for trial, and all role players who ensured that the complainant receives the justice she deserves.

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North West MEC for Social Development, Lazarus Mokgosi discharged from hospital 

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Picture: North West MEC for Social Development, Lazarus Mokgosi

By OBAKENG MAJE 

North West MEC for Social Development, Lazarus Mokgosi has been discharged from hospital. Mokgosi and his protectors were involved in a car accident near Swartruggens on Thursday, while driving to Rustenburg. 

The acting North West Premier, Nono Maloyi said, Mokgosi was reportedly rushed to the hospital with minor injuries after being involved in an accident on the N4 road, near Swartruggens, while en route to an official engagement in Rustenburg.     

“We would like to take this opportunity to inform the people of North West that Mokgosi has been discharged from hospital and is recuperating well at home. We can also confirm that Mokgosi’s Protectors have also been discharged after sustaining minor injuries,” he said.

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Two Nigerians remanded in custody after being arrested for possession of drugs 

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By OBAKENG MAJE 

Two alleged drug dealers, Emengini Ifeanyi Kingsley (26) and Mark Aniachuna (28), who briefly appeared at Bafokeng Magistrate’s Court, were remanded in custody until 25 March 2024 for status verification and bail application. Kingsley and Aniachuna, were arrested for being in possession of drugs and possession of suspected stolen goods. 

The North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said, the accused were arrested on 14 March 2024, by Tlhabane Visible Policing members during a crime intelligence-driven operation. Mokgwabone said the police received a tip-off of suspects driving in a white Volkswagen Polo and distributing drugs to their clients in Tlhabane and Rustenburg North. 

“Following an observation kept in the area, the accused’s vehicle was spotted exiting the premises.  The police followed the vehicle and stopped it in Lebone Street, Tlhabane. 

“The occupants, two Nigerian foreign nationals, failed to confirm the status of their legality in the country. Both suspects were ultimately searched and found in possession of two half-moons and 16 small pieces of rock drugs, one router as well as eight cell phones,” he said.  

Mokgwabone said investigations into the matter continue and the suspects are likely to face charges relating to contravention of the Immigration Act, 2002.

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Two people killed and two injured during service delivery protest in Schweizer Reneke 

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Picture: The police attending a shooting incident scene/Generic

By OBAKENG MAJE 

A suspect (40) is expected to appear before the Schweizer Reneke Magistrate’s Court today, following his arrest on 19 March 2024. The suspect allegedly shot and killed two people and injured two. 

According to the North West police spokesperson, Brig Sabata Mokgwabone said, a confrontation ensued during a protest action at Extension 5, Ipelegeng Township in Schweizer Reneke. Mokgwabone alleged that some members of the community demanded to be employed on a sewer pipeline project. 

“During the confrontation, a shot was allegedly fired towards two construction vehicles, which were also pelted with stones, thus causing damage.  One of the construction vehicles drivers reportedly fired shots and in the process, a boy (11) and a man (33) were shot at. 

“The minor died on the scene, while the man succumbed to injuries at Schweizer Reneke Hospital. In addition, two other men were taken to hospital due to serious injuries they sustained. The police arrested the suspect and seized his firearm,” he said.  

Mokgwabone further said the suspect is facing two counts of murder and two counts of attempted murder. He added that, the investigations into the incidents are underway and police are currently monitoring the situation.

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, is shocked about the loss of lives and at the same time conveyed condolences to the deceased’s families. Kwena warned the public about the danger of violent protests, where even children and the innocent are often used. 

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Bafana Bafana get down to business in Algeria

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Picture: Bafana Bafana coach, Hugo Broos ready for FIFA Series

By OBAKENG MAJE 

Bafana Bafana coach, Hugo Broos, had his first training session at Annaba stadium, Algeria on Tuesday afternoon ahead of the FIFA Series to be held in the North African country in the coming days. Broos was all smiles as his charges got down to business at the 19 May 1956 Stadium. 

The Mamelodi Sundowns and Supersport United contingent are expected in Annaba later on Tuesday night and the South African senior men’s team coach will finally have his full complement of players. The Africa Cup of Nations Bronze medalists play the first match of the FIFA Series against Andorra on 21 March 2024. 

They then travel back to the capital of this North African country’s capital city to face hosts Algeria at the Nelson Mandela Stadium in Algiers on Tuesday, 26 March 2024 before returning home on the following day.

Broos said: “I am happy that we are playing these two games. We play against Andorra in the first match, who are not a top team in Europe, far from it, but they lose games by close margins, usually 1-0 or 1-2. This means it will be tough. 

“It is a different style also, and the game also gives me an opportunity to look at new players. As I said, we have started to look for new players for the 2026 FIFA World Cup because there are some players we might have to replace for the tournament.”

He further said he is happy with that game against Andorra. Broos added that he is also happy with the match against Algeria because they are one of the best teams in Africa.

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