Daily Archives: April 3, 2024

Two men sentenced to 18 years for armed robbery and possession of illegal firearm 

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Picture: Illegal firearm seized by the police during arrests/Generic

By OBAKENG MAJE 

Two men were sentenced to 10 and 8 years imprisonment respectively by the Kimberley Regional Court for armed robbery and illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition. On 20 November 2022, Relebogile Seshego (36) and Katlego Phukuntsi (26), entered a jewellery store at the Diamond Pavillion Mall and threatened the store employees with a firearm. 

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Merapelo Pilane said, they robbed the store of jewellery, cellphone and an undisclosed amount of money. Pilane further said Phukuntsi and Seshego were seen fleeing the scene in a white Toyota starlet. 

“The police were alerted and responded swiftly. Both suspects were successfully traced and arrested on the same day. The case docket was handed over to Sergeant Eunice Ngono of the Provincial Serious and Violent Crimes Investigation unit, who successfully opposed bail. 

“Through her meticulous investigation, both accused ended up pleading guilty to all charges and were found to be guilty as charged. Seshego was sentenced to 10 years for robbery with aggravating circumstances and a further two years for being in possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition, which was wholly suspended for a period of 5 years,” she said. 

Pilane added that Phukuntsi was sentenced to 8 years imprisonment on the same charges. She said both accused were declared unfit to possess a firearm in terms of the firearms controls act.

Meanwhile, the acting Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Major General Luntu Ngubelanga, has lauded the investigating officer, and welcomed the sentencing. Ngubelanga has assured the community that the police will continue to use its resources to curb this kind of offence in the province.

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R80m newly-built Saruchera Primary School to bring basic services to Vryburg residents 

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Picture: The acting North West Premier, Nono Maloyi and North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

The acting North West Premier, Nono Maloyi has today officially opened and handed over a state-of-the-art primary school at Huhudi Township, in Vryburg. Maloyi said built at the cost over R80 million, the school comprises 24 classrooms, library, computer centre, science lab, multipurpose hall, ablution facilities and several other facilities. 

“It currently has an enrolment of over 1300 learners from Grade R to Grade 6. The official opening of the school serves as an indication that provision of basic services and in particular provision of free basic education, remains one of the apex priorities of the government.

“This is one of the ten state of the art schools that will be handed over to communities this year. As a government, we set aside close to R800 million for this exercise. This school is built in a new settlement, where we have also built low-cost houses for locals,” he said. 

Maloyi further said this is primarily aimed at bringing amenities such as schools closer to where people live. He added that the Saruchera Primary School, which is named after the late Clement Saruchera who was a principal, activist and community builder in the area, is a no-fee paying school. 

“This will see learners being provided with free meals during school days,” said Maloyi.

Meanwhile, the North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi said: “Last year, the provincial government introduced breakfast in 300 schools across the province to mitigate the high levels of poverty and unemployment in economically depressed communities. 

“Over 740 000 learners across the province are benefiting from this initiative which is being implemented through the National School Nutrition Programme. Schools of similar magnitude will be implemented across the province, particularly in township and rural communities.” 

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Breaking News: The embattled National Assembly speaker, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula resigns with immediate effect

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Picture: The former Speaker of National Assembly, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula/Google 

By OBAKENG MAJE 

The embattled National Assembly speaker, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, has resigned from her position and also as a Member of Parliament (MP). Mapisa-Nqakula said in a statement that she has submitted her resignation letter to the acting Speaker of the National Assembly, Lechesa Tsenoli. 

“My letter of resignation as both the Speaker of the National Assembly and a Member of Parliament of the Republic of South Africa. The resignation is effective immediately. I have made this conscious decision in order to dedicate my time and focus to deal with the recently announced investigation against me by our country’s law enforcement agencies.

“My resignation is in no way an indication or admission of guilt regarding the allegations being levelled against me. I have made this decision in order to uphold the integrity and sanctity of our parliament, an apex institution of our system of government, representing the People of South Africa as a whole,” she said.

Mapisa-Nqakula further said the position of the speaker of the NA of the Republic of South Africa is critical in the reconstruction and development of the country. She added that, given the seriousness of the much-publicised allegations against her, she cannot continue in this role. 

“As a country’s chief lawmaker, I hold a central responsibility to protect and preserve the integrity of parliament by ensuring that my actions ensure that its sacred work must continue without blemish.

“I believe that, at the right time, I will have the opportunity to thoroughly address these allegations as and when they have been formally brought against me in the appropriate forums, at which time I will clear my good name. I maintain my innocence and am determined to restore my good reputation,” said Mapisa-Nqakula.

She said as a member of the ANC, she has spent half of her life in the forefront of the struggle to defend the freedom and rights of all South Africans, 30 of these years in her capacity as MP and the Executive.

Mapisa-Nqakula said part of the principle for which she and many other comrades fought for, is the principle for every South African to be deemed innocent until proven guilty. 

“Given the public trust entrusted in me as a Speaker of our National Assembly and the need for me to protect the image of our organisation the African National Congress, I have an obligation, despite the principle that I should be deemed innocent, to step down from my office.

“I have also written to my organisation to thank the African National Congress informing the leadership of my decision and to thank the ANC for having given me the opportunity and trusted me with many senior leadership responsibilities in service of our people and our Revolution over the years,” she said.

Mapisa-Nqakula said she remains a dedicated member of the African National Congress, a movement she has remained loyal to all her political life.

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Four people nabbed for common robbery and impersonating police officer 

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By OBAKENG MAJE 

Four people who were arrested for common robbery and impersonating a police officer, were remanded in custody until 9 April 2024. The accused, Rojase Ngatana (26) Eugene Sebakeng (34), Patrick De beer (39) and Cleopas Msipa (49), briefly appeared in the Klerksdorp Magistrate’s Court on 2 April 2024.

The North West police spokesperson, Brig Sabata Mokgwabone said, the accused were formally charged by the Provincial Anti-Gang Unit members on 1 April 2024. Mokgwabone said this comes after the complainant and witnesses identified them during the identification parade held on 28 March 2024.

“The complainant and his companions allegedly met a man who introduced himself as Thomas at Tower Mall in Jouberton Township, near Klerksdorp in February 2024. He allegedly informed the victims that Simon, who arranged the meeting, was waiting for them at his place to discuss and finalise the transportation tender contract. 

“They all went to a house at Extension 21 in Jouberton Township, where they met a man who introduced himself as Simon. Whilst in the house, seven men entered and introduced themselves as police officers and one of the men produced a police appointment card,” he said. 

Mokgwabone further said the victims were ultimately searched and put into separate rooms. He added that, the complainant was coerced to unlock his cell phone and the suspects used a banking App to transfer themselves R70 000. 

“They later gave the victim R750, apparently to use it to fill up his car. Following the release, the victims went to Jouberton Police Station to register a case, which was taken by the Anti-Gang Unit for investigation. Further probe led to the identification parade after the suspects were arrested on a separate case with similar modus operandi,” said Mokgwabone. 

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, extolled the Anti-Gang Unit members for their meticulous investigation that resulted in the linkage. Kwena said this will certainly curb organised crime in the area.    

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Teaching and learning affected at Nthapelang Primary School over mobile classrooms

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Picture: Nthapelang Primary School in Matolong village

By OBAKENG MAJE 

Teaching and learning was affected at the embattled Nthapelang Primary School in Matolong village, near Taung on Tuesday. Learners and teachers were turned away by irked parents and School Governing Body (SGB) members, who are demanding mobile classrooms. 

In January 2024, Taung DailyNews exposed that the school principal allegedly turned toilets into classrooms due to overcrowding. This caused an outcry and resulted in the suspension of the principal by the department. 

The SGB chairperson, Kgalalelo Kgamanyane said they also want the department to do away with the multi-grade system at the school. Kgamanyane alleged that the department never informed them that the school will be a multi-grade. 

“Since the department promised to bring mobile classrooms to the school. However, nothing has materialised until today. So, we are disappointed because it seems the department does not take our plea seriously. 

“We also do not understand what does it mean when the school is using a multi-grade system. There is no policy nor any document in place that explains what a multi-grade system is,” she said. 

Buoyed Kgamanyane further said, no teaching and learning will take place until their challenges are addressed. She added that there is also a shortage of teachers at the school. 

Meanwhile, the North West Department of Education spokesperson, Mphata Molokwane refuted allegations that they once promised to deliver mobile classrooms at the school. Molokwane urged the SGB members to refrain from closing the school as they are part of the school management. 

“Instead, they should guide parents in the right path. It should be noted that the department has never committed to sending mobile classrooms to the school. The community and parents should note that multi-grade school is when more than one Grade is taught in a classroom. 

“Through multi-grade education, this enables learners to work alone or collaboratively toward the curriculum objectives of the individual Grade levels. Teachers benefit from multi-grade teaching because it gives them greater freedom to be innovative and adaptable in their teaching approach,” he said.

Molokwane said that teachers can also establish an engaging learning environment and present a range of teaching strategies. He said it is less expensive than establishing separate classrooms for each grade level or paying more teachers.

“When staffing schools in isolated or rural locations with little funding, it is also more effective. So the school would not have any extra staff,” said Molokwane.

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An attempted murder and murder case against the former Meat Brothers owner, Tshwaro Mangwegape postponed   

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Picture: The local businessman and former owner of the Meat Brothers

By OBAKENG MAJE

An attempted murder and murder case against the local businessman and the former owner of Meat Brothers Pub, Tshwaro Mangwegape (41), was postponed to 2 May 2024, while the state was still waiting for ballistic test results. Mangwegape, briefly appeared before the Taung Magistrate’s Court today and he was remanded in custody. 

This comes after he was accused of killing the NWU Soccer Institute player, Undivile “Vilo” Mdi (28) and injuring his friend, Aobakwe Ernest Kokwe (33). Mdi and Kokwe were amongst patrons who visited the Meat Brothers Pub that was full to capacity on 16 December 2023. 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, but 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.

Meanwhile, one of the community leaders, Kgakololo Koji said: “We welcome the postponement. We actually knew what would have happened in court today and I promise you that, we will be here again on 2 May 2024.”

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

“We have sent our heartfelt condolences to the families that have lost their loved ones. Equally so, we call upon law enforcement agencies to speedily resolve this brutish crime,” he said.

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A man sentenced to 20 years for raping an elderly woman

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By OBAKENG MAJE

A man (29) was sentenced to 20 years imprisonment by the Kuruman Regional Court for rape. This comes after Tholang Milton Mokgoro, raped an elderly woman (61) in Gamokatedi village, near Tsineng on 24 September 2021.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Timothy Sam said, on the said day, the victim was out at her kraal counting livestock and met the accused at the kraals as he was also busy counting theirs.

Sam said they left the kraals together after the counting exercise going home, but the accused suddenly grabbed her arm and forced the victim on the ground and raped her.

“Mokgoro left the victim lying on the ground and ran towards their residences. The victim gave chase after him and could not find him as he fled from the residence. She reported him to his granny and further reported the matter to the police too.

“The accused was arrested two days and charged with the alleged rape of the victim. He was sentenced to 20 years imprisonment for rape and his name will be entered into the National Register for Sex offenders and was declared unfit to possess a firearm,” he said.

Meanwhile, the acting Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Major General Luntu Ngubelanga, praised the Investigating Officer, Detective Sergeant Matshidiso John Boikanyo for ensuring that the accused is brought to book and support given to the victim of GBV.

Ngubelanga said the police are encouraging the public to rate the police efforts in fighting crime by participating in the “RATE OUR SERVICE” online survey to assist the police in improving services.

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Police need your assistance to locate the missing Oageng Rampopo

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Picture: The missing Oageng Rampopo/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

The police in Nietverdiend are requesting the members of the community to assist in locating Oageng Rampopo (63) of Mareletsane Section, Lekgophung village, outside Zeerust. The North West police spokesperson, Brig Sabata Mokgwabone said, Rampopo was last seen on 19 March 2024, after informing his daughter that he will be going to Belebese farms on 20 March 2024, to look for his cattle. 

“He is tall with dark complexion, white hair and beards. Members of the family cannot confirm the clothes Rampopo was wearing when he left his place.  Searches conducted by the police and members of the community including Community Police Forum (CPF) since 1 April 2024, after a missing person enquiry was registered, but did not yield positive results.

“The police request anyone who may have information that can assist to locate Rampopo, to contact Detective Sergeant Kabo Rantao on 079 493 1205. The South African Police Service (SAPS) Crime Stop number: 08600 10111, can be called to share information. Alternatively, information can be shared via MySAPS App.

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Molatofadiwa wa maiteko a polao le polao, Tshwaro Mangwegape o boela kwa kgotlhatshekelo

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Setshwantsho: Molatofadiwa wa maiteko a polao ga mmogo le polao, Tshwaro Mangwegape

Ka OBAKENG MAJE 

Mongwebi o a itsegeng mo Taung, ebile ele mong wa maloba wa lefelo le le rekisang bojalwa la The Meat Brothers, Tshwaro Mangwegape (41) o solofetswe go tlhagelela ka boripana kwa kgotlhatshekelo ya Taung mo letsatsing la gompieno.

Mangwegape, o latofadiwa ka go bolaya motshameki o diphatsa wa setlhopha sa kgwele ya dinao sa NWU Institute, Undivile “Vilo” Mdi (28) ga mmogo le go tlogela tsala ya gagwe ya tlhogo ya kgomo, Aobakwe Ernest Kokwe (33) ka dikgobalo tse di masisi.

Go begwa fa Mdi le Kokwe, ba ne ba le magareng ga batho ba ba neng ba etetse lefelo la The Meat Brothers Pub ka di 16 Sedimonthole 2023, go ya go ijesa monate fa gone go runya thuntso. 

Go ya ka Mangwegape, Mdi le Kokwe, ba ne ba le gareng ga setlhotshwana se se neng sa tsena ka dikgoka kwa lefelo la gagwe le go senya dithoto. Morago ga tiragalo e, Mangwegape one a ineela kwa sepodising. 

One a tshwarwa le go latofadiwa ka polao, ga mmogo le maiteko a polao. Go begwa fa Mangwegape a dirile kopo ya ditheetso tsa go ikuela kgatlhanong le go ganelwa ka beile mo kgetsing ya gagwe ya polao le maiteko a polao kwa kgotlha-tshekelo e kgolwane ya North West High Court kwa Mahikeng. 

Kgabagare, mongwe wa baeteledipele wa baagi, Kgakololo Koji are: “Rona re batla gore molao o diragadiwe, mme le ene ona le ditshwanelo tseo. Fela, rona jaaaka re le baagi, re tla romela dikemedi tsa rona tse di tla netefatsang fa molao o diragadiwa.

“Re bone molaetsa wa gore monna o, o tsentse kopo ya ditheetso tsa beile mo kgetsing ya gagwe go tswa kwa motsading wa moswi.”

Mmueledi o diphatsa wa ga Mangwegape, go tswa kwa Isang Nakale Attorneys, Isang Nakale are ke nnete ba tsentse kopo ya ditheetso tsa go ikuela kgatlhanong le go ganelwa ka beile kwa North West High Court kwa Mahikeng. 

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