Daily Archives: June 9, 2024

An undocumented Zimbabwean driver with overloaded trailer arrested 

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Picture: The law enforcement impounded a minibus taxi and overloaded trailer/Supplied

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI 

An undocumented Zimbabwean driver (37) was arrested for allegedly driving without a valid driver’s license and overloading on a trailer that was also found to be unroadworthy. 

The suspect was stopped for attempting to bypass the Bapong Weighbridge and was using internal roads, while enroute to Zimbabwe from Diepsloot in Gauteng. 

The Director for Provincial Road Traffic Management, Paul Stone said it appeared that the driver was avoiding national routes by using local roads and was planning to go to ThabaZimbi via Rustenburg. 

Stone further said the department seized the taxi and trailer on Wednesday afternoon and found that he was in contravention of the National Land Transport Act. He added that the suspect also failed to produce a valid driver’s license and taxi operator permit. 

“The trailer was found without functional brakes, worn out tyres and the driver was unable to produce a roadworthy certificate. It had a total load of 8280kg, which exceeded the permissible load of 2600kg. 

“For the fact that the trailer’s braking system is dysfunctional, the whole load puts more pressure on the pulling vehicle’s braking system, which also had 15 passengers on board,” said Stone.  

He said in this case, when the driver applied the brakes, the minibus taxi had to carry total weight from the trailer and passengers, which weighed 12880kg. Stone said in this case brake failure possibilities are very high.

“The Department of Community Safety and Transport Management reiterates its position on unlawful conduct by motorists, that no contravention of the law will go unpunished. Furthermore, we caution against criminality that undermines efforts to preserve the lives of all road users.

“We condemn in the strongest terms any efforts to weaken our mandate to save lives. As a department, we have made our position clear to ensure maximum compliance to the law and limit the number of fatalities and incidents caused by reckless drivers and road users in general,” he said.

Stone said they discourage the overloading of goods, which others appeared to be hazardous items. He said, by law, such goods must be transported in a coordinated manner to avoid potential threats.   

“At this stage it has not been determined whether 15 passengers have valid identification documents. The department is working closely with the Mooinooi Police Station, where the case was opened, as well as Home Affairs to ensure efficient processing of the passengers,” said Stone.

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The department calls on men and young boys to circumcise 

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By OBAKENG MAJE 

The North West Department of Health calls on men and young boys (from the age of 10 years) to take advantage of the free, safe and voluntary medical male circumcision services offered by healthcare facilities across the province. 

The North West Department of Health, Tebogo Lekgethwane said with winter season at hand, the department anticipates a surge in cases related to male circumcision due to illegal initiation schools or botched circumcisions that have potential to place health and lives of initiates at risk.

Lekgethwane said medical researchers have confirmed that male circumcision has been proven to reduce the risk of HIV transmission and other Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) by up to 60%. He further said, therefore, men and boys over the age of 10 years are urged to visit their nearest health facilities for more information or to book an appointment for this free and safe service.

“Please note that male medical circumcision is not a substitute for practicing safe sex, prevention and abstinence. The use of condoms is still a highly recommended method of prevention of sexually transmitted infections.

“The department managed to perform 57 766 medical male circumcisions in the 2023/24 financial year, with Ngaka Modiri Molema District leading with 10 728 cases/procedures performed. The department is working in collaboration with development partners such as Lamula Health Service, Bokamoso Social Upliftment, Right to Care and Southern Health Foundation to roll out this service,” added Lekgethwane.

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A man sentenced to 15 years imprisonment for robbery and murder

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By REGINALD KANYANE 

A man (20) was sentenced to 15 years imprisonment by the Keimoes Regional Court for robbery and murder. On 9 November 2019, the police were summoned to a robbery and murder scene at Gamakor, where a man with a stab wound to his upper body was reported dead. 

The ZF Mgcawu District police spokesperson, Sergeant Omphile Masegela said the deceased became known as Mondry Adriaan Blom (20) from Sonskyn Street in Keimoes.

“At that stage, the suspect was unknown, and with two weeks of intense investigation, a breakthrough was made with the arrest of two suspects. They were both released on bail until the time of conviction. Niklaas Williams (30) pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 15 years of direct imprisonment.

“The meticulous investigation by Detective Sergeant Piet Eiman was commended by the management of the police in the Northern Cape,” she said.

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Police arrested three suspects for possession of drugs   

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Picture: Drugs seized during Operation Vala Umgodi/Supplied 

By BAKANG MOKOTO 

Three suspects aged between 24 and 36, were arrested for possession of drugs, while the fourth suspect (40), was arrested for being in possession of stolen property and drugs. They were arrested during a disruptive operation in the early hours of Saturday. 

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Molefi Shemane said the police from Operation Vala Umgodi unit, conducted an operation in Boitshoko, Postdene, Maranteng, Newtown, Greenfield and Carnation in Postmasburg following a tip-off regarding suspected illicit drug dealing in the area.

“Drugs with an estimated street value of R 1 560 700 and money believed to be the proceeds of crime were seized.

Uniforms believed to be that of law enforcement were also recovered and confiscated.

“The suspects will appear in court soon. Operation Vala Umgodi disruptive actions will continue to address illicit mining and related crimes throughout the province,” he said.

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More than 1850 suspects nabbed during Operation Shanela 

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Picture: The police during stop and search/Supplied

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI 

More than 1850 suspects were arrested for various crimes during Operation Shanela. Out of 1850 suspects arrested, 1688 were wanted.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Colonel Cherelle Ehlers said the wanted suspects were arrested by detectives during tracing operations in connection with serious crimes such as business robbery, murder, rape, assault GBH, and illegal possession of firearms.

Ehlers said during police actions, arrests were executed in connection with illegal possession of a firearm, dealing in drugs, murder, attempted murder, rape, assault GBH, burglary, and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.  

“A total of 5941 persons and 2798 vehicles were stopped and searched. Four unlicensed liquor outlets were closed and a significant amount of alcohol was confiscated. A considerable amount of drugs and cash, believed to be the proceeds of crime and copper cable, was also seized.

“In support of Child Protection Week, several schools in the province were visited, where over 6000 learners were reached. Priority issues such as bullying, sexual offences, substance abuse, teenage pregnancy, and school discipline were addressed,” she said.

Ehlers further said Operation Shanela will continue with disruptive actions during the next week to ensure that priority crimes are addressed and perpetrators removed from the streets. She added that multi-disciplinary teams in all five districts executed Operation Shanela’s disruptive actions from 3 until 9 June 2024, with the focus on priority crimes, including contact crimes, property related crimes, drug related crimes and illegal firearms.

“These actions included the searching of premises, stop and search actions, high visibility patrols, compliance inspections, roadblocks and vehicle check points. 

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BATTLE OF THE DEFENDERS, STRUGGLE OF THE SHOOTERS!

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Picture: Tshukudu vs Lillies/Supplied  

By BAKANG MOKOTO

As power week 2 of the Telkom Netball League (TNL) ended with the final group of fixtures, there was a noticeable increase in mental fitness compared to the first week. However, some teams still struggled with consistency, while others improved their rhythm and synergy.

The Netball South Africa spokesperson, KaRABO Mokgalagadi said in both the A and B Divisions of the competition, they have witnessed some truly electrifying performances from the goalkeepers (GKs) and goal defenders (GDs). Mokgalagadi said notable players such as Danielle van Nieuwenhuizen from the Stings, Jamie van Dyk from the Jaguars, and Nozipho Ntshangase from the Kingdom Stars have consistently displayed exceptional skills and athleticism.

“It’s also been exhilarating to watch the outstanding performances of stalwarts such as Karla Pretorius from the Crinums and Monique Meyer from the Fireballs, whose expertise and leadership have added an extra layer of excitement and anticipation to the matches.

“Unfortunately, no matter how many balls were turned by the die-hard defenders, the majority of the shooters struggled to convert, as in the case of Martine Jordan GK for the Flames, Lonwabo Khumalo of the Queens, Izaan Snyman of Tshukudu and a few others,” she said.

Mokgalagadi further said the shooters have proved to be quite temperamental, keeping netball lovers guessing on who will step up and deliver on the day. She added that in the second leg, the teams in the A section have failed to live up to expectations set during the first power week.

“Some teams seemed to have lost their competitive edge while others haven’t shown their usual strong performance. In contrast, the B division has been characterized by intense aggression and competitiveness.

“As of now, it’s uncertain who will emerge as the leader in the Division B standings. Teams will head home and do final preparations as they gear up for the final Power Week set to resume on June 13 until the 19th, at the iconic Ellis Park Arena,” said Mokgalagadi.

Day 6 Full Results:

Tornados 50-40 Diamonds
Tshukudu 49-43 Lillies
KD Stars 53-43 Sonoblomo
Aloes 49-60 Stings
KD Queens 43-58 Sunbirds
Baobabs 43-52 Flames

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A slight decline on female representation at National Parliament

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Picture: A National Assembly in process

By OBAKENG MAJE

The secretary to the national parliament, Xolile George, who received the lists of designated National Assembly members, applauded the Chief Justice, Raymond Zondo for managing the delicate constitutional process with precision and integrity, arranging this significant occasion seamlessly.

Zondo handed over the lists of designated National Assembly members to George on 6 June 2024.

George said Zondo’s dedication to upholding the rule of law and ensuring the smooth transition of power is commendable. He further extended his heartfelt congratulations to the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC).

George added that conducting free and fair elections is no small feat, and IEC has done so with unparalleled excellence.

“Your world-class systems have empowered millions of South Africans to express their democratic choices. It is through your tireless efforts that our citizens could vote with confidence, knowing their voices would be heard and their decisions respected.

“Your commitment to transparency, efficiency, and fairness has once again reinforced the integrity of our electoral process. I offer my deepest gratitude to the over 16 million eligible voters who participated in these elections,” he said.

George said despite facing challenging weather conditions at times, the voters demonstrated remarkable patience and resilience. He said their participation in this highly contested and historic election – marking the 30th anniversary of the constitutional democracy – is a testament to your commitment to shaping the future of our nation.

“Your decisions have determined who will represent you in Parliament, and it is now our responsibility to ensure that the new Parliament carries your aspirations and hopes for a better future.

“At the end of the 6th parliamentary term, a notable 45% of the National Assembly’s MPs were women, totalling 181 female representatives. This strong presence of women was evident from the beginning of the term when 179 women were sworn in as members of the National Assembly,” said George.

He said throughout this period, the Parliament consistently ranked within the top 10 of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) rankings for world parliaments with the highest representation of women, underscoring our commitment to gender equality and inclusive governance.

George said while the list that they received might still change at some stage consistent with the laws and procedures, their initial assessment indicated that in this list, female representation experienced a slight decline, dropping from 45% in 2019 to approximately 43.5%, with a total of 174 elected members, who are women.

He said despite this decrease, the National Assembly remains dedicated to advancing gender parity and continues to be a significant player on the global stage for its efforts in promoting women’s representation in politics.

“It is also worth noting that this National Assembly list boasts a significant representation of young people, with nearly 50% of its members falling within the 20 to 50-year age cohort.

“This demographic shift is a positive development, aligning the assembly more closely with the population where young people form the majority. Such a youthful composition is expected to bring fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and a dynamic approach to addressing the challenges and aspirations of society,” said George.

He said this will ensure that the legislative body remains attuned to the needs and ambitions of the younger generation. George said as they move forward from this pivotal moment, it is essential to outline the administrative process that will follow this handover.

“Once the Chief Justice has determined the date of the first sitting of the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces (NCOP), we will activate all necessary arrangements.

“This entails ensuring that elected members are received from various parts of the country, that they are onboarded efficiently, their details captured accurately, and they are adequately prepared for the first sittings,” he said.

George said this comprehensive onboarding process includes orientation sessions to familiarise new members with parliamentary procedures, protocols, and their roles and responsibilities.

He said they have a well-coordinated plan in place to facilitate the smooth transition of new members into their parliamentary roles.

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Two men sentenced to 22 years imprisonment each for kidnapping and raping a minor

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By REGINALD KANYANE 

Two men sentenced to 22 years imprisonment by the Kuruman Regional Court for kidnapping and rape. On 2 June 2013, a girl (11), was sent to the local shop to buy some sugar and some other grocery essentials. Upon exiting the shop, she was called over by a young neighbourhood man, who she knew by his acquaintance to her aunt’s son. 

The victim was then taken to the toilet behind the shop, and the neighbourhood young man Emmanuel Modise (27), who was 17 at the time, and two of his friends, then proceeded to rape the complainant. After that, the young men took her to a local soccer stadium, where one of them raped her once more. 

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Northern Cape, Mojalefa Senokoatsane said the girl then ran home and informed her family about what had happened. Senokoatsane said the following day, a rape and kidnapping case was opened. 

“The police promptly commenced their investigations and the accused were arrested. The trial commenced in April 2023 and the prosecution led by Regional Court Prosecutor, Bernice Bronkhorst-Oor, called three witnesses, which included the complainant, her sister, and the former co-accused to the accused before the court, who had already pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 10 years of direct imprisonment, in respect of this case. 

“Even though the state witnesses placed Modise and Ditebogo Tshegodikae (34), on the scene, including their former co-accused, they both denied their involvement in the offence. Modise and Tshegodikae (who was 24 years-old at the time), tried to establish an alibi for the night in question,” he said. 

Senokoatsane further said during the argument on sentencing, the defence alleged that the accused should not be sentenced to the prescribed minimum sentence (life imprisonment), as they were young when they committed the offence. He added that they were both first offenders at the time of committing this offence. 

“The prosecution conceded that substantial and compelling circumstances existed, which permitted the court to deviate from the prescribed minimum sentence. 

“The prosecution, however, informed the court that the accused were now serial sexual offenders and required serious intervention to be rehabilitated and that the court should sentence both the accused to 20 years of direct imprisonment each,” said Senokoatsane.

He said the court agreed that substantial and compelling circumstances did exist, allowing it to deviate from the prescribed minimum sentence. Senokoatsane said the court, among other factors, regarded the late conclusion of the matter as a substantial and compelling circumstance. 

“The court stated further that the accused’s actions on the night in question were not that of youthful young men and said that the accused treated the complainant like an animal on the night in question. 

“The court, before delivering the sentence, said that it would show mercy to the accused even though they did not show mercy to the complainant. The court sentenced both the accused to 7 years imprisonment each in respect of kidnapping of a minor and they were sentenced to 22 years imprisonment each for rape,” he said. 

Senokoatsane said both these sentences are to run concurrently. He said the accused were further declared unfit to possess a firearm (Section 103 of the Firearms Control Act). 

“The accused were also declared unfit to work with children (Section 120 of the Children’s Act) and their names be added to the Register of Sexual Offences (Section 50 of the Sexual Offences Act),” said Senokoatsane.

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Four suspects nabbed for armed robbery

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

Four suspects aged between 18 and 44 were arrested for armed robbery, possession of suspected stolen goods and unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition. The suspects were arrested during a joint operation by the Sun City and Madikwe Visible Policing, Madikwe Detectives, as well as Mabeskraal Visible Policing.

According to the North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone, the suspects were arrested in connection with the armed robbery allegedly committed at Dwarsberg. Mokgwabone said following the incident, police were mobilised in Mabeskraal, Sun City and Madikwe, to block all major routes entering and/or exiting the three station policing areas.

Mokgwabone said consequently, a suspicious blue Hyundai was stopped at Ledig village for a search. He further said as a result, the police allegedly found two unlicensed firearms, ammunition and suspected stolen goods, six ammunition, 11 cell phones and an assortment of cigarettes.

“All four occupants of the vehicle were then arrested. The suspects; aged between 18 and 44, are due to appear before the Mogwase Magistrate’s Court on 10 June 2024,” he added.

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, applauded the police for their collaborative efforts that led to the success.

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Nigerian man nabbed for dealing in drugs

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

A Nigerian foreign national (26) is expected to appear in Molopo Magistrate’s Court in Mahikeng on 10 June 2024, for possession and dealing in drugs. The suspect was arrested on Thursday morning, 6 June 2024, by Mmabatho Visible Policing members during a crime intelligence-driven and tactical operation.

According to the North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone, the police allegedly kept observation along Bray Road, where they spotted the suspect’s vehicle (White Volkswagen Polo with Gauteng Province registration number). Mokgwabone said a car chase ensued after the suspect ignored the police’s instruction to stop.

“The determined police eventually stopped the vehicle and conducted a search, which led to the discovery of 43.8 grams of crystal meth and mandrax tablets with an estimated street value of R16 000.

“The suspect was then arrested. Moreover, the team confiscated the suspect’s vehicle,” he said.

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