A man (38) has been arrested by the Hawks for the alleged corruption. The Hawks spokesperson in North West, Lieutenant Colonel Tinyiko Mathebula, the members of the Hawks’ Serious Commercial Crime Investigation arrested the suspect in Klerksdorp on Friday.
Mathebula said the members received a tip-off on Thursday regarding a warehouse in Klerksdorp, where illicit cigarettes were allegedly hidden. He further said on arrival, six suspects who were reportedly found in the warehouse, were arrested for being illegal immigrants.
“On 15 March 2024, the investigating officer was allegedly contacted by a man, who offered to pay him R15 000 gratification to secure the release of the six arrested illegal immigrants.
“An entrapment was set, leading to the arrest of the suspect after he had allegedly paid the investigating officer R4000. The suspect will appear in the Klerksdorp Magistrate’s Court on 18 March 2024, facing corruption,” said Mathebula.
Meanwhile, the North West Provincial Head of Hawks, Major General Patrick Mbotho, has commended the members’ actions for maintaining integrity by ensuring that the suspect is brought to book.
Picture: The construction road project that links Matsheng and Molelema
By OBAKENG MAJE
The residents of Matsheng and Molelema villages, near Taung, said they expected the road construction project number PWR239/14 for the upgrading gravel to surface standard road D209, D208, D206, D997, D220 and Z216 to transform their area, by providing not only improved transportation options, but also new job opportunities for local residents.
They said the Small Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) were also supposed to be among the most significant beneficiaries of this project, by tapping into the fresh employment possibilities.
However, one of the community leaders, Kgosietsile Tshake said, that was not meant to be because the project has now been abandoned. He said they were blissful when the North West MEC for Public Works and Roads, Oageng Molapisi, announced the resumption of construction for the road project on 9 May 2023.
“We were so happy and believed that the resumption of the road construction project from Matsheng to Molelema, will bring new opportunities and economic growth. You will remember that the project has been on hold due to a dispute between the department and the contractor, Botong Nkolele JV Construction, which has since been resolved.
“When Molapisi met with community members, they said, they have taken a decision to resume construction following extensive deliberations for improved service delivery. He also said, government officials should at all times strive to resolve disputes between appointed contractors and the department expeditiously, to avoid unnecessary delays in the completion of projects,” said Tshake.
He further said, they were surprised when they were told that the project has been put on hold due to depletion of funds. Tshake added that they continue to struggle with better service delivery in their area, because the government does not put the needs of residents first.
“At the time, Molapisi re-introduced the contractor and said, noting the delay on this project, he was placing a huge responsibility on all of them to take responsibility to allow works to proceed uninterrupted.
“He said instead of them being obstacles to the timeous completion of projects, they need to become enablers and assist in further protecting the infrastructure,” he said.
Molapisi said: “The road project was supposed to be completed within an eight months’ period at a revised value, and expected to create job opportunities for community members in general, and SMMEs in particular.
“The department is aware of the suspension of work as a result of non-payment. The contractor enacted clauses of GCC and shall resume with the operations as soon as he is paid.”
Molapisi said due to the budget adjustments process, the department experienced budget cuts of over R100 million in the financial year under review. He said this has impacted the department finances negatively.
“The equitable share budget allocated to the department for upgrading of roads has been depleted,” he said.
Meanwhile, in 2021, a road construction project worth over R65 million was brought to a grinding halt after the department terminated the contract of the contractor, Botong Nkolele JV Construction over the obligation dispute.
Later this week, on 21 March, South Africa will celebrate Human Rights Day. On that day we will recall the Sharpeville Massacre of 21 March 1960, when apartheid police shot dead 69 unarmed protesters who were taking a stand against the apartheid regime’s unjust and inhumane pass laws.
The events in Sharpeville on that day were one of the worst violations of human rights in our history and attracted worldwide condemnation. It was in the aftermath of the Sharpeville Massacre that in 1960, the United Nations (UN) Security Council adopted its first resolution condemning violence perpetrated by the apartheid regime.
Six years later, the UN General Assembly would label apartheid a crime against humanity. It would also declare 21 March as the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination and an opportunity to draw attention to racial injustice everywhere.
Thirty years into democracy, all who live in South Africa continue to enjoy the shelter and protection of the Bill of Rights enshrined in our Constitution. Our forebears who took up the struggle in defence of liberty and human rights at Sharpeville enjoyed no such protection. As a result of their struggles we now enjoy these rights.
In addition to the dreaded pass laws, black South Africans were denied even the most basic rights. With a combination of unjust laws and brute force, the racist regime decided where black people could live, what schools their children could attend, who they could and could not marry, what occupations they could enter, and how much they could earn.
So petty and cruel was apartheid that there was even a law, the Reservation of Separate Amenities Act, that segregated public facilities along racial lines. “Whites Only” or “Net Blankes” signs were put up in store entrances, on public benches, in playgrounds, and even on the country’s beaches.
For the generations born into freedom it is almost inconceivable that such systematic, deep-seated racism existed, making it all the more necessary for us to reflect on how far we have come in building a country that is non-racial, non-sexist, equal, prosperous and free.
Over the past three decades, we have worked together to undo the terrible legacy of apartheid. However, the effects of apartheid persist across society – whether it is in health, educational and developmental outcomes, access to basic services and infrastructure, or in the racialised nature of poverty, unemployment, inequality and exclusion.
Human Rights Month is an opportunity to assess the progress we have made over the past three decades to advance the Bill of Rights set out in our Constitution, as well as to reflect honestly on where we have fallen short.
The results of Census 2022 released last year highlight the progress we have made as a country in giving effect to the rights contained in our Constitution.
The pro-poor policies of the democratic state have lifted millions out of absolute poverty, expanded access to basic services, improved educational and health outcomes for the country’s majority, and broadened participation in economic activity.
As we head into our country’s 7th democratic election this year, we are further reminded of the fundamental freedoms South Africans enjoy today. These include freedom of conscience and opinion, the right to assembly and demonstration, freedom of association, and wide-ranging political rights. We also have a free, independent media that plays a critical role in promoting transparency and accountability.
On the occasion of the adoption of our Constitution in 1996, we proclaimed to the world that we are a society committed to democracy, to the rule of law and to the protection of human rights.
This places a great responsibility on us as South Africans, whether as government, business, labour or civil society, to live up to the promise of our Bill of Rights.
We have to stand together united as we work for the realisation of human rights and fundamental freedoms for all. We should not be in denial about our shortcomings and strive to overcome them with urgency. For millions of South Africans, lack of access to basic services, unemployment and lack of opportunity affect the most fundamental of human rights – the right to dignity.
As we continue to work towards realising the basic human rights of all South Africans, we are reminded that these rights are universal. That all people, everywhere, have basic rights and should be free to exercise them.
We are reminded that we cannot truly be free until all people are free.
When we consider the deteriorating state of human rights and fundamental freedoms in many parts of the world today, we are mindful that we have a moral responsibility to strive for the achievement of human rights not just for our own people, but for all people across the world.
As we commemorate the tragic events that took place in Sharpeville in 1960, and recommit ourselves to the cause of human freedom, we stand firm in our position that human rights for only some are human rights for none. Let us all continue to advance and protect the human rights of all who live in South Africa.
Picture: The CFO of North West Housing Corporation, Kudakwashe Mpofu
By OBAKENG MAJE
North West MEC for Department of Economic Development Environment Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), Virginia Tlhapi has confirmed that the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of the North West Development Corporation (NWDC), Kudakwashe Mpofu, has resigned with immediate effect.
Mpofu’s resignation comes after a series of news reports, which indicated that he has fraudulently obtained his residence permit. On 17 March 2024, the Minister of Home Affairs, Aaron Motsoaledi, confirmed to Times Live online publication and other news sources that, indeed Mpofu who is a citizen of Zimbabwe, did not obtain his residence permit through the Department of Home Affairs.
“I am here today to confirm that according to our records, Mpofu’s permanent residence document is fraudulent and was not issued by the Department of Home Affairs. We do not know where he obtained it,” said Motsoaledi.
Tlhapi said, DEDECT has since noted the report by the Motsoaledi and vows to cooperate with law enforcement agencies investigating this matter.
“As the department, we have been following this matter since last week when it appeared in the Sunday World newspaper. I can confirm that the management of the department and the CEO of NWDC will cooperate fully with the Special Investigation Unit (SIU) on this matter,” she said.
Picture: South African player against Malawi at COSAFA Beach Soccer Tournament/Google
By OBAKENG MAJE
South Africa’s beach soccer team had a difficult start to their COSAFA Beach Soccer Tournament, as they lost 4-2 to Malawi in the second match of the tournament at the South Beach Arena, Durban.
Malawi found the opening goal in the fourth minute of the first period through Dala Simba Dala. South Africa equalised through a magnificent bicycle-kick by Sizwe Mkhize.
With the momentum in South Africa’s side, Malawi conceded an own goal setting abuzz the South Beach Arena as the home crowd found their voices. Malawi found an equaliser in the second period through their captain, Isaac Kajam.
The hosts created a number of chances but could not convert those opportunities. Kajam scored Malawi’s third goal in the third period and Sandrim Ussi ensured a win for Malawi as he found his second goal of the match.
In the opening match, Morrocco beat defending champions Mozambique 5-2, while Seychelles defeated Saudi Arabia 3-1. Angola edged Tanzania.
South Africa continue their quest for a place in the semi-finals when they take on Seychelles at 12h00. Mozambique and Tanzania will open the day in the first encounter at 10h30 while Morrocco and Angola will clash at 14h30.
Malawi and Saudi Arabia match will conclude the program of the second day. All matches are being played at the South Beach Arena, Durban.
The South African Football Association (SAFA) held a very successful Ordinary NEC Meeting in Sandton on Saturday and the executive deliberated on several matters affecting the game.
SAFA president, Dr Danny Jordaan said, the National Executive Committee (NEC), reaffirmed the steps taken by SAFA in respect to the search and seizure conducted by the Hawks at the association’s headquarters in Nasrec, in the south of Johannesburg on 8 March 2024.
Jordaan said that their actions were unfortunate and a shame to the law enforcement agencies. He further said the Hawks are claiming allegations of fraud and theft amounting to R1,3 million.
“SAFA is well aware of the amount and is satisfied that it was for services rendered, for which contracts can be provided. Let us reiterate, there is no money missing from SAFA.
“So, I am excited by the passionate and honest participation of the members, who freely aired their views and opinions during the meeting. This meeting was very successful and the spirit of the engagements made us very happy,” he said.
Jordaan added that, the meeting got underway with Banyana Banyana coach, Desiree Ellis and Bafana Bafana counterpart, Hugo Broos detailing the programmes of their respective teams. He said Ellis is preparing for the highly anticipated Fourth Round CAF Women’s Olympic qualifier against Nigeria next month and she announced a preliminary 30-member squad a few days ago.
“She will name the final 23 in the coming days. Broos is preparing Bafana Bafana for the FIFA series international friendlies pilot project in Algeria later this month, and the qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The South African senior men’s team departs for the North African country on Sunday, 17 March 2024.
“The Bafana Bafana coach and his Banyana Banyana counterpart, later awarded SAFA vice presidents, Irvin Khoza and Natasha Tsichlas with Africa Cup of Nations bronze medals. The South African senior men’s national team won the bronze medals after beating DR Congo 6-5 on penalties in the AFCON third-place play-off last month,” said Jordaan.
Meanwhile, the SAFA Technical Committee recommended the reinstatement of former Banyana Banyana player, Simphiwe Dludlu as the SA U17 coach. The NEC also received reports from several SAFA committees, including finance, schools football and technical, among others.
Picture: The missing Thabang Reuben Molopyane found unharmed/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
Thabang Reuben Molopyane (15), who went missing on 10 March 2024, was reunited with his family on Saturday afternoon (16 March 2023). The North West police spokesperson, Col Adele Myburgh said, Molopyane is residing at Lerulang Section in Rabokala village, near Letlhabile.
She said he was last seen on 10 March 2024, at around 8am by a family member. Myburgh further said, Molopyane was wearing black jeans, a blue shirt and push-in sandals at the time he went missing.
“Thabang, who has a slender body structure, average in height and is brown in complexion, was found in Jericho. The police investigations into his disappearance, led the police to another family member’s house in Jericho, where he was found unharmed.
“The police appreciate the communities’ assistance. Keep following our social media page to stay informed,” said Myburgh.
Picture: The illicit cigarettes confiscated by police/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
In an effort to crackdown on criminality, police in Schweizer Reneke, apprehended three suspects for possession of counterfeit goods. The North West police spokesperson, Col Adele Myburgh said, the police received a tip-off that led to a tactical operation on 13 March 2024, at around 12:30pm.
Myburgh said three shops were identified and pounced upon, leading to the discovery of illicit cigarettes to an estimated street value of R14 660. She further said Khaled Mohammed Mainddin (25) and Maharaj Nasir (23) were arrested and both paid an admittance of guilt fines of R5000 each.
“They were fined for selling counterfeit goods, thus contravening Section 2 (3) of the Counterfeit Goods Act, 1997 (Ac no 37 of 1997). During the operation, police confiscated 130 cartons of RG cigarettes, 26 cartons of Aval Tobacco products and 36 packets of 20 X RG cigarettes.
“The third suspect aged 36, was also arrested for Contravening Section 2 (3) of the Counterfeit Goods Act, 1997 (Act 37 of 1997) and will appear before the Schweizer Reneke Magistrate’s Court on 18 March 2024,” said Myburgh.
Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, expressed gratitude to all members involved in the operations for their hard work and cooperation that led to the arrests.
Picture: North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Sello Lehari during engagement/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Sello Lehari said stock theft has become an erosion to the gains made by the farmers for generations in the province. Lehari said this act of criminality, wipes out the legacy which many wish to one day leave for their families.
He made this sighed resignation at the Ngaka Modiri Molema District Stock Theft Community Engagement held at Matshepe Village, outside Mahikeng on Thursday.
“The engagement is part of an ongoing outreach programmes led by our department to create an opportunity for the public to actively participate in the fight against crime. So, we encourage communities to work hand in hand with police and make utilised correct and proper procedures to report crime and to follow up on reported cases.
“Crime in general affects everyone, whether directly or indirectly. Therefore, a collaborative approach is needed to adequately deal with this criminality. Community members complained that they are failed by the law enforcement officers,” said Lehari.
He further said the police and communities, need each other to strengthen the fight against crime. Lehari added that, there is also a need to heighten the efforts to create awareness and educate communities about the correct processes of reporting crime.
“Once the case is opened, there is a need for constant follow-up on reported cases. We can never say this enough, do not abandon cases. Engage us as the department when you feel there is tardiness on your case.
“We will follow up for you to ensure that, the police work optimally by way of intervention and support,” he said.
Lehari said the department through its Monitoring and Oversight Directorate, conducts follow up investigations on cases opened and not handled to the satisfaction of the complainants. He said the engagement organised as part of the District Development Model (DDM), was also an opportunity for the community to bring forth case numbers for monitoring and thorough probing.
The North West CPF Provincial Chairperson, Robert Malungane said, Community Policing Forums (CPFs) are structures made up of community members who work alongside police and aimed at achieving effective crime control initiatives at a neighbourhood level.
“The forums are a way to bridge the gap between police and the communities they serve. CPFs have a firm grasp on what to do when there is a need to escalate and refer matters concerning the police, these include internal and external structures.
“Farmer associations ought to partner up with CPF structures to form a collaboration focusing on stock theft,” he said.
Meanwhile, other government entities such as the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), Home Affairs, Correctional Services, were providing much needed on site services. The engagement was also attended by Kgosi Seatlholo of the Barolong boo Rapulana and Kgosi Shole from the Provincial House of Traditional Leaders.
Picture: The former Naledi Local Municipality employee, Clifford Seiso Shoarane
By OBAKENG MAJE
A judgement on a rape case against the former Naledi Local Municipality employee, Clifford Seiso Shoarane, was postponed to 8 and 9 May 2024, by the Vryburg Regional Court on Friday. Shoarane who was working as Assistant Manager in the security department at the municipality, raped a woman in Vryburg a few years ago.
It is alleged that, the woman in question was a well-known prostitute in Vryburg. According to information, the woman was hitchhiking to go to Huhudi Township when she met Shoarane. Shoarane promised the woman to take her safely to Huhudi, but instead, he headed to a dilapidated building, where he raped her.
After the ordeal, Shoarane dumped the woman in the streets and left. The woman went to the Vryburg Police Station, where she opened a rape case against him.
The Guardian 