Monthly Archives: April 2024

R745m set aside for road projects in Maquassi Hills 

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Picture: The road construction project underway/Generic

By OBAKENG MAJE 

The North West MEC for Public Works and Roads, Gaoage Molapisi, who was accompanied by the North West MEC for Department of Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation, Keneetswe Mosenogi and the Maquassi Hills Local Municipality mayor, Mzwandile Feliti, introduced consultants and contractors for road projects at Lebaleng Community Hall in Makwassie, near Wolmaransstad.

During the official announcement, Molapisi made a stern commitment for job opportunities for the local community. He further said the three road projects earmarked for Maquassi Hills, go a long way in the development of quality road infrastructure and service delivery.

“The department has planned the upgrading from gravel to surface standard of Road D1954 (design) in Boskuil. Do the rehabilitation and reseal of Road P13/4 at Wolmaransstad and re-graveling and culverts installation of Road D155 from Kameelboom to Kareepan.

“The portion of Road P13/4 is a key route that connects the North West Province and Free State Province, living up to our commitment of connecting communities and enabling economic activity,” he said.

Molapisis further said his department has appointed Tau Pele Construction (PTY) LTD, for the rehabilitation and reseal of P13/4, Thobile M. Building Construction for re-graveling and culverts installation of Road D155 from Kameelboom to Kareepan. He added that, NEP Consulting Engineers (PTY) LTD has been appointed for upgrading to the surface standard of D1955 in Boskuil.  

“These road projects will be constructed at an approximate amount of R745 million. Through these projects, we intend to empower our people by creating more than 200 job opportunities and 30% sub-contracting. 

“We urge our people to take full advantage of these opportunities because as a government we want our people to benefit and for their businesses to grow as well” he said.

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A man who was arrested for fraud and extortion remanded in custody

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By OBAKENG MAJE 

A man who was arrested for fraud and extortion remanded in custody. It is alleged that Bethune Mzimba (39), swindled money from an unsuspecting customer in January 2024. 

According to the Hawks spokesperson in North West, Lieutenant Colonel Tinyiko Mathebula said the complainant allegedly received a call from Mzimba, who claimed to be calling from JB Marks Local Municipality’s electricity department. Mathebula said the complainant was allegedly told that her company owes the municipality R4 million and she should pay R6000 to avoid being disconnected.

“The complainant allegedly paid the requested amount into the suspect’s personal bank account. When the suspect demanded more money, the complainant became suspicious and brought the matter to Hawks’ attention.

“The investigation by the Hawks’ Serious Commercial Crime Investigation, revealed that the suspect was not an employee at the municipality. Following an investigation, a warrant of arrest was issued against the suspect,” he said. 

Mathebula further said Mzimba was subsequently arrested in White River, Mpumalanga on 27 April 2024. He added that the accused briefly appeared in the Potchefstroom Magistrate’s Court on 29 April 2024. 

“He was remanded in custody and his matter was postponed to 3 May 2024, for bail application,” said Mathebula. 

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‘No Violet As Former ANCYL provincial spokesperson, Wesley Kgang Sworn-in as PR councillor’

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Picture: The ANCYL National Executive Committee member, Wesley Kgang/Facebook 

By OBAKENG MAJE 

The African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL) in the North West, congratulated the newly-deployed Public Representative Councillor (PRC), Wesley Kgang. Kgang was sworn-in as the ANC’s PR councillor in the Matlosana Local Municipality.

The ANCYL provincial spokesperson, Motebang Mohlomi said, Kgang replaced one of the most dedicated and hard-working former ANC councillors, Thembeka Violet Tshabalala, who succumbed to a short illness in March 2024. Mohlomi said over the years, Kgang has accumulated extensive experience with particular focus on leadership and local government respectively. 

“He previously served as the President of COSAS, Provincial Executive Committee (PEC) member and ANCYL spokesperson in North West, member of the South African Youth Council (SAYC) and he is currently the National Executive Committee (NEC) member of the 26th ANCYL.

“So, the ANCYL in the province would like to take this opportunity to congratulate him. This momentous occasion signifies the commitment and confidence of the ANC in young people leading in various spheres of government, including the local government,” he said.

According to Mohlomi, the ANCYL believes that Kgang’s swearing-in will be marked by the accelerated service delivery to the people of Matlosana in particular, and young

people in general.

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More than 900 suspects nabbed during Operation Shanela 

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By OBAKENG MAJE 

More than 900 suspects were arrested during Operation Shanela across the North West. The suspects were arrested        for various crimes such as murder, attempted murder, assault with the intent to do Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH) and common, dealing in drugs, illegal dealing in liquor, possession of drugs, burglary at business and residential premises, malicious damage to property and driving under the influence of alcohol.

The North West police spokesperson, Brig Sabata Mokgwabone said the Operation Shanela will continue to ensure the safety and well-being of the citizens. Mokgwabone further said this became evident when 904 suspects were apprehended between 22 until 28 April 2024.

“A total of 374 suspects were arrested during the Detectives suspect raiding operations.  In addition, 43 suspected undocumented foreign nationals were taken in for processing by Immigration Officials.

“The operations also led to visiting and searching of 95 premises. Moreover, 2 622 persons and 1 477 vehicles were searched during various actions executed to ensure general safety,” he said.

Mokgwabone added that, in Potchefstroom, two operations were conducted on 26 April 2024. He said eight arrests were made by the police of crime prevention between 03:30 and 07:30 for shoplifting, common robbery, possession of drugs, fraud and theft. 

“During a second operation conducted by support services personnel, Provincial Traffic, Tourism, the Department of Trade and Industry and Community in Blue patrollers at a roadblock held at the Weighbridge on the N12 road between 09:00 and 11:00, 504 vehicles and 233 persons were searched. 

“Furthermore, seven second hand goods premises were visited and patrols conducted in the Central Business District (CBD), Bult area and on farms and small holdings (urban patrols),” said Mokgwabone.

He said the police confiscated seven firearms, 37 ammunition, 11 cellular phones, a variety of drugs, tobacco products, cash, and many others during the operation. 

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, commended all law enforcement agencies and other role players for their continuous efforts in the fight against criminality. 

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Wolmaransstad armed robbers get a combined 51 years in prison

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By OBAKENG MAJE

Three men, Sthembiso Mthembu (39), Tshepo Sebeko (44) and Bongani Mkhwanazi (59) were sentenced to a combined 51 years imprisonment by the Klerksdorp Regional Court for theft of motor vehicles, robberies with aggravating circumstances, attempted murders, unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition.

In November 2015, the victim was on his way to Wolmaranstad conveying diamond gravel, when an Audi vehicle veered towards the victim’s vehicle, causing an accident in which the Toyota Hilux eventually overturned. The Hawks spokesperson in North West, Warrant Officer Amogelang Malwetse said the victim was accosted by armed men, who robbed him of the diamond gravel, pistol and other personal belongings.

“It is reported that while the robbery was still in progress, another Isuzu bakkie was hijacked. Community members that attempted to apprehend the suspects were shot at by the accused. The accused were apprehended and prohibited firearms were recovered.

“The matter was referred to the Klerksdorp-based Hawks Serious Organised Crime Investigation team, who fully investigated the case. Following a series of court appearances, the accused were sentenced to 5 years each on a theft of motor vehicle charge, 15 years each for robbery with aggravating circumstances,” she said.

Malwetse further said they were also sentenced to 15 years imprisonment each for robbery with aggravating circumstances and 4 years each for attempted murders.

She added that each sentenced to 15 years imprisonment for unlawful possession of firearms and 17 years each for possession of unlicensed firearms.

“They were sentenced to 10 years each for possession of firearms and ammunition without a license and the sentences will run concurrently. This means, each accused will serve 17 years in prison,” said Mawetse.

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The North West Department of Public Works and Roads to launch EPWP in Brits  

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Picture: The North West MEC for Public Works and Roads, Gaoage Molapisi 

By OBAKENG MAJE

North West MEC for Public Works and Roads, Gaoage Molapisi, will on Thursday, host the Provincial Launch of the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) Phase V and 20 Years of EPWP at Brits Sports Grounds, North West. Molapisis said EPWP is a key government initiative contributing to Government Policy Priorities (GPP), ensuring decent work and sustainable livelihoods. He further said the programme aims at providing poverty and income relief through temporary work and skills development for the unemployed.

“During the launch, we will showcase the successes of the programme, including its contribution towards skill development in the province. More information on the changes in the programme, including its rebranding strategy and plans by lead sector departments shall be announced at the launch.

“A new cohort of participants will also be unveiled with women, youth and people with disabilities constituting the majority,” he added.

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The country mourns the death of boxing legend, Dingaan Thobela  

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Picture: The deceased, boxing legend, Dingaan Thobela/Google   

By OBAKENG MAJE 

The heartfelt condolences messages continue to pour in after the passing of the former world boxing legend, Dingaan “The Rose of Soweto” Thobela, who succumbed to his illness. today. The Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Zizi Kodwa said they are saddened by the passing of Thobela. 

Kodwa said in a professional career which spanned from 1986 until 2006, Thobela was a multiple world boxing champion, having won the World Boxing Organization (WBO) and World Boxing Association (WBA) lightweight, and World Boxing Council (WBC) super-middleweight titles. 

He further said, “The Rose of Soweto” as Thobela was affectionately known, was also a recipient of the Andrew Mlangeni Green Jacket Award. Kodwa added that Thobela was a champion fighter, who captured the hearts and soul of the nation. 

“The Rose of Soweto progressed from a prolific amateur boxer, to become a three-time world champion as a professional. Thobela fought in some of the most memorable bouts, such as the fights against Tony Lopez for the WBA lightweight title and against Glenn Catley to win the WBC super-middleweight title. 

“Through his success and popularity, Thobela was one of the world’s standout fighters in a golden period of South African boxing. As we celebrate 30 years of South African democracy, we mourn the loss of an athlete, who did so much to elevate South African sport through his success in boxing,” he said. 

According to Kodwa, they also celebrate a champion boxer who inspired the nation, future boxers and champions from Soweto, Mdantsane, Thohoyandou and other parts of the country. He said they express their deepest sympathies to the Thobela family and the South African boxing fraternity. 

“I join millions in mourning the passing of the Rose of Soweto,” said Kodwa.

Meanwhile, the Chairperson of Portfolio Committee on Sports, Arts and Culture in Parliament, Beauty Dlulane said: “The committee sends its heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and the wider boxing fraternity. It is unfortunate that he departs when we have recently lost so many of our heroes and heroines in the sector to COVID-19. 

“The Rose of Soweto still had much to offer at 57, but as fate would have it, we woke up without him this morning. Thobela reportedly succumbed to ill-health and passed away at his home.”

Dlulane said at the peak of his career, he dominated the boxing scene. She said Thobela was world champion in different weight categories – the World Boxing Organisation Lightweight division and World Boxing Council Super Middleweight division.

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A R54m fraud and corruption case against former police commissioner postponed  

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Picture: The former national Police Commissioner, Khomotso Phahlane/Google   

By OBAKENG MAJE 

A case of fraud and corruption against the former national police commissioner, Khomotso Phahlane and his co-accused, has been postponed by the Pretoria Specialised Commercial Crime Court. The case against Phahlane and his co-accused, Lieutenant-Colonel Godfrey Mahwayi, Major-General Maanda Obert Nemutandzhela, Major-General Mankosana Agnes Makhele and businessmen, Inbanathan Kistiah and Avendra Naidoo, has been postponed and transferred to the Pretoria Regional Court until 3 July 2024. 

The state was ordered to disclose an outstanding document to one defense attorney by 17 May 2024. Phahlane, Mahwayi, Nemutandzhela, Makhele, Kistiah and Naidoo, are facing charges of fraud, corruption, theft and contravention of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) relating to two contracts valued at approximately R54 million. 

The Investigating Directorate spokesperson, Henry Mamothame said the alleged fraud and corruption took place in October 2015, wherein university students embarked on the  #FeesMustFall protests. Mamothame said during that time, the police were dispatched to stabilise the violent unrest. 

“It is alleged that on 21 December 2016, the South African Police Service (SAPS) Crime Intelligence Division, embarked on an emergency procurement of software tools or systems. One of the softwares, RIPJAR, was intended to collect and monitor information from social media platforms on the instigators of the student protests.

“However, it emerged that these “emergency” response measures came about in December 2016, when the protest had started in October 2015. Furthermore, they allegedly attempted to purchase RIPJAR software from a company that was not involved in software engineering, but was a security alarms and surveillance cameras company,” he said. 

Mamothame further said it also emerged that the owners of the competing companies were friends, who in fact and in truth, were involved in cover quoting. He added that the cover quoting was supplied to Inbanathan Kistiah, by the former husband of the sole director of a company called Perfect Source, which was a Human Resource recruitment company. 

“Another mobile communication encryption software known as Daedalus, which was solely used for encrypting calls and wiping out cell phone records and messages, was procured through deviation from standard procurement processes, with the contract signed on the same day and payment made on December 22, a day after approval. 

“The software was also used to encrypt voice calls made by SAPS management at the time when Phahlane was under investigation by IPID for the “Blue Lights” police tender and other irregular procurement at the time he was acting police commissioner,” said Mamothame. 

He said all accused are out on bail and they are expected back in court in July when the matter resumes. 

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Unblocking of housing projects delight beneficiaries

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Picture: Some of the beneficiaries during the hand over/Supplied 

By OBAKENG MAJE

The North West MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), Nono Maloyi said the process of unblocking housing projects across the province is unfolding. Maloyi said the commitment was made during the first and the second phase of Thuntsha Lerole, which is an Accelerated Service Delivery Program.

“The community of Ventersdorp is one of many that continues to receive houses on a daily basis as contractors are on the ground completing projects that were blocked due to challenges experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The housing project in Ventersdorp consists of 360 units, which started in 2019 at Toevlug. The project could not be completed because of the wetland and other construction challenges,” he said.

Maloyi further said they have also handed over eight title deeds to the community of Ikageng Township, near Potchefstroom. He added that the remaining 801, will be collected by residents at municipality offices.

“Our department is implementing a title deeds restoration project in collaboration with the National Department of Human Settlements, with the aim to eradicate the current backlog in the transfer of pre-1994 properties into the names of beneficiaries,” he said.

Maloyi said the handing over of houses and title deeds formed part of Thuntsha Lerole, Accelerated Service Delivery Programme held in Ventersdorp in the JB Marks Local Municipality, where Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Thembisile Nkadimeng, Minister of Unemployment and Labour, Thulas Nxesi, Minister of Health, Joe Phaahla, MECs and Heads of Departments (HoD) where part.

“Government is committed to delivering services to everyone in the province. We do this as it is according to the contract we signed with the people of the North West. Through the Thuntsha Lerole programme, we are more determined to fast track the delivery of services to every community in the province. We do this because we are a caring government,” said Maloyi.

Meanwhile, amongst beneficiaries were a widower, Morageng Seleka (72), who lives with his four children and two grandchildren. Seleka has been staying in Ikageng Township for over 20 years.

“I am happy that my children have a home,’’ he said.

Another beneficiary, Abel Jonkers (90), who is a grandfather of two, shared the same sentiments. Jonkers could not contain his emotions when he received the keys to his house.

“I am now happy that my dream of having a house of my own has come true.  I come from Rietfontein Farms and stay with my two unemployed grandchildren and one great grandchild. My family survives through social grants money.

“I am happy that I have a decent home where I am going to live happily with my children. I would like to thank the department for their good gesture,” he said.

Mmamokete Molusi (71), who is also a beneficiary, said she comes from Kliplaasdrift Farm and stays with her two grandchildren and one grandchild. Molusi said they also depend on social grants for survival.

“I am grateful that the department gave me the house of which I have been waiting for,” she said.   

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SAFA begins with CAF B Diploma Coaching Course

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Picture: One of the attendees/Supplied 

By OBAKENG MAJE 

The CAF B Diploma Coaching Course first phase got underway at Germiston Stadium, where 25 coaches will begin the journey to attaining their CAF B License Coaching badges. The first phase will run from 29 April to 5 May 2024. 

The coaches are expected to finish the course after three phases in July.

Speaking to www.safa.net, CAF Instructor Steve Coetzee, highlighted the topics for the first phase and spoke about the diversity within this group undertaking the CAF B Diploma Course.

“We are very happy to be conducting a CAF B Diploma Course after so many years. I know many coaches have been calling for these courses and we are proud to be able to deliver both the A and B Diploma’s in 2024.

“We will be working on the following topics this week, and we believe that the coaches will leave this phase with a lot of knowledge that they should start implementing within their various areas,” said Coetzee.

He said the areas are philosophy of football, technical development, evolution of systems, tactical development, psychology, laws of the game, player development, reading the game, coaching methodology and nutrition and injuries.

Coetzee further said they are happy with the mix of coaches present here. He added that they have coaches in the PSL, Motsepe Championship, Hollywoodbets Super League and the National teams, which is wonderful for group projects because we will have so many different perspectives of the game, from Coaching at the Elite, semi-professional level and international levels. 

“We are looking forward to a great session and wish all the coaches the best in attaining this Diploma,” said Coetzee. 

Coaches attending the CAF B License Coaching course:

1. Morgan Mammila – Chippa United FC

2. Thomas Ndlovu – Msinga United FC

3. Godfrey Mosoetsa – Supersport United

4. Thabo Mngomeni – SA National U17 Men’s Team

5. Siphephelo Makhaye – Durban Ladies WFC

6. Siboniso Vilakazi – AmaZulu FC

7. Khabonina Zondo – Ex SA National Team Coach

8. Paulus Shipanga – Namibian Senior Women’s National Team

9. McDonald Makhubedu – Sekhukhune United

10. Mpho Maruping – SA National Team/ Young Africans

11. Tamsanqa Klassen – City Lads FC

12. Thabo September – Chippa United

13. Unathi Mabena – JVW FC

14. Kurt Lentjies – Chippa United

15. Aaron Mokoena – SA National Team/ SAFA Scout

16. Tlou Segolela – Platinum City Rovers

17. Ntombifuthi Khumalo – SA National U17 Women’s Team

18. Jerry Tshabalala – Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies

19. Papi Zothwane – Black Leopards

20. Joseph Makhanya – Orlando Pirates

21. Wayne Adrendse – Highlands FC

22. Pitso Dladla – Maritzburg FC

23. Nhlanhla Hlongwa – Milford FC

24. Sinethemba Badela – Mamelodi Sundowns

25. Vusumuzi Vilakazi – Richards Bay FC 

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