Picture: Some of dangerous weapons confiscated during raids/Generic
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
More than 83 suspects were arrested during Operation Shanela. The suspects were arrested for contact and property related crimes.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Molefi Shemane said the detectives traced and arrested 182 daily wanted for various crimes. Shemane said a total of 30 vehicle control points (VCPs) and seven roadblocks were conducted across the province.
“More than 42 premises were searched, 1404 vehicles were stopped and searched and 2531 persons were searched. Compliance inspections were executed at second-hand dealers and liquor premises, formal and informal businesses were also visited.
“During the operations, the police confiscated dangerous weapons , thousands of litres of alcoholic beverages, drugs, including money believed to be proceeds of crime. The multi-disciplinary weekly high density operation which focused on enhanced crime prevention and combating efforts to curb criminal activities were executed across all districts in the province.
“These police actions and activities that commenced on 8 until 14 July 2024, include vehicle control points (VCPs), stop and searches, roadblocks, tracing of wanted suspects, foot and vehicle patrols, compliance inspections, awareness campaigns and community outreach actions were conducted across the province,” he said.
Shemane further said the operations will continue unabated in all five districts with a zero tolerance approach towards all crimes in the province.
Chief Whip of the House, Motlalepula Rosho with newly elected ANC Chairpersons of NWPL Committees/Supplied
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
The ANC Caucus in the North West Provincial legislature (NWPL) has welcomed and congratulated members elected as Chairpersons of various portfolio committees. The election held on Thursday, signifies a commitment to serve the people of the North West by addressing the pressing issues that affect communities through the legislative agenda.
The ANC Chief Whip in the North West Provincial Legislature, Motlalepula Rosho said the constitution of portfolio and standing committees and election of chairpersons play a pivotal role in the day-to-day work of the legislature in carrying out its constitutional mandate of serving and shaping the future of its people.
Rosho further said with the vast experience and dynamic leadership qualities of the public representatives, the elections of the chairpersons will enhance the heightened scrutiny of government departments and hold the executive accountable.
“Furthermore, the blend of new and re-elected public representatives in committees is expected to bring fresh insights and strong strategies to the front of coordinating the work of the legislature.
“The committee chairpersons are drawn from various political parties represented in the provincial legislature, marking an unwavering commitment and dedication to working together and collaboratively with all for the benefit of the people of the province,” she said.
Rosho added that they have no doubt of the assembled team’s commitment to fostering unity, inclusivity and focus to align with the mandate of the ANC’s 7th legislature to alter the political landscape for the betterment of the lives of its people. She said that in their new roles, chairpersons of various portfolio committees are poised to be the guiding light of unity, renewal and progress leading the province towards a future characterised by robust, but honest parliamentary debates and programmes aimed at leveraging a lot of the people of the North West.
“The election of chairpersons without contest has demonstrated political maturity, as well as cooperation required for stability, a fledgling constitutional democracy and legislative oversight.
The ANC Caucus maintains that the elected collective’s proactive mindset and collaborative approach, will significantly contribute to the enhancement of comprehensive and collective work of the legislature,” said Rosho.
Chairpersons of Committee who were unanimously elected are as follows:
* Portfolio Committee on Premier and Finance, Virginia Tlhapi (ANC), Portfolio Committee on Cooperative Governance, Human Settlement and Traditional Affairs, Kgalalelo Makgokgowa (ANC), Standing Committee on Provincial Public Accounts, Smuts Matshe (ANC), Portfolio Committee on Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism, Mpho Khunou (ANC), Portfolio Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development, Sipho Dial (ANC), Portfolio Committee on Health and Social Development, Karabo Magagane (ANC),
Portfolio Committee on Education, Arts, culture, Sports and Recreation, Tina Priscilla Williams (ANC), Portfolio Committee on Public Works and Roads, Paul Sebegoe (ANC), Portfolio Committee on Community Safety and Transport Management, Freddy Sonakile (DA), Standing Committee on Oversight of the North West Provincial Legislature, Michael Groenewald (FF+), Standing Legislature on Legislative Review and Implementation of House Resolutions, Tebogo Modise (ANC).
Picture: Some of goods allegedly stolen by accused/Supplied
By REGINALD KANYANE
Five individuals who were arrested for stealing goods in various shops in Vryburg remanded in custody. It is alleged that three women and two men were arrested by a team composed of Vryburg Crime Intelligence, K9 Unit and Visible Policing on 6 July 2024.
According to North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone, the police observed the accused’s vehicle, a silver Toyota Corolla following intelligence received that the occupants were allegedly stealing goods from various shops in Vryburg. Mokgwabone said the vehicle was subsequently stopped for a search.
“As a result, the police found plastic bags containing new clothes, pairs of shoes and other goods with price tags, all worth R57 870. The accused, aged between 58 and 62, were arrested after failing to account for the goods.
“They are expected to appear in Vryburg Magistrate’s Court on 15 July 2024, for continuation of bail application,” he said.
Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, applauded all the units involved in the operation for their collaboration and dedication that resulted in the tracking and arresting of the accused.
Picture: One of the firearms confiscated by the police/Supplied
By BAKANG MOKOTO
A man (32) was arrested for possession of illegal firearm in Reutlwile Zone 2, near Rustenburg. This comes after the Tlhabane Visible Policing and Designated Police Officer (DPO) working together with Rustenburg Crime Intelligence, conducted a search at an identified address at Reutlwile Informal settlement.
The North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said although that did not yield positive results, the operation continued with searches at two other addresses at Reutlwile Zone 2 and 3 respectively. Mokgwabone said in Zone 2, the police arrested a suspect after a silver 9mm pistol and four ammunition were found in his rented room.
“In Zone 3, a search conducted led to the discovery of a 9mm pistol, two magazines and 36 ammunition, but the owner produced a license. As part of enforcing the Liquor Act, 1989, the police seized an assortment of liquor and imposed R1500 fine to the owner of the firearm and the place for illegal dealing in liquor.
“In Mooinooi, near Brits, a crime intelligence-driven operation resulted in the arrest of a suspect (43) on 12 July 2024, after the Brits Trio Task team operationalised intelligence. According to information, the team went to an identified address in Soshanguve Section in Majakaneg village, where they found the alleged suspect who informed the police that he sold the firearm,” he said.
He further said that prompted the members to proceed to a mine hostel, where a man (43) was arrested after being found in possession of a firearm and two ammunition without a license. Mokgwabone added that both firearms will be subjected to ballistic tests.
“The suspects are expected to appear in the Bafokeng and Brits Magistrate’s Courts respectively on 15 July 2024, for unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition,” said Mokgwabone.
Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, commended the teams for their hard work and patience, which culminated in the removal of the firearms from the wrong hands.
A man is set to appear in Klerksdorp Magistrate’s Court for armed robbery. It is alleged that the man and three accomplices entered a retail store at Matlosana Mall on 12 July 2024, at approximately 3pm.
North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said they allegedly robbed the cell phone shop and cash, then fled on foot. Mokgwabone said the Mall security chased them and members of Tactical Response Team (TRT), who were outside the mall, spotted the suspects and managed to arrest one of them.
“All cell phones were recovered. Investigation into the matter, including tracing of the other suspects, is underway,” he said.
Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, lauded all members involved in the arrests for their alertness and quick reaction, which resulted in the successes. Kwena also thanked security officers for their efforts in the fight against crime.
Four men who were arrested for unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition were remanded in custody until 17 July 2024. The accused, Thembinkosi Mbatha (30), Motsaathebe Kopano (51), Gareng Dikgang (35) and Fikile Darala (51), briefly appeared in Klerksdorp Magistrate’s Court on 10 July 2024.
The North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said Darala, Dikgang and Mbatha, were arrested in Klerksdorp at around 9:50am on 8 July 2024, by the members of Tactical Response Team (TRT).
“The arrests came after the members who were on patrol, spotted a Toyota Condor of which the occupants allegedly committed business robbery in Ottosdal. It is alleged that before coming to a halt, the occupants of the car threw out a firearm through the window.
“During the search, the members found a magazine loaded with eight ammunition and two police appointment cards belonging to Motsaathebe Kopano. The accused were then arrested and preliminary investigation revealed that Motsaathebe Kopano, is a former police officer, who was dismissed a few years ago,” he said.
Mokgwabone further said at this stage, the possibility of the accused facing more charges cannot be ruled out. Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, lauded all members involved in the arrests for their alertness and quick reaction, which resulted in the successes. Kwena also thanked security officers for their efforts in the fight against crime. taungdailynews@gmail.com
Picture: The ANC provincial chairperson, Nono Maloyi
By OBAKENG MAJE
The ANC chairperson in North West, Nono Maloyi has successfully interdicted the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA). This comes after the NPA allegedly sent him court orders to sign and inform him that they will re-enrol his culpable homicide case.
Maloyi is facing a charge of culpable homicide, following a fatal crash that resulted in the death of a woman back in 2018. It is alleged that on the night of 1 September 2018, Maloyi was travelling at high speed on the N12 between Klerksdorp and Stilfontein.
He allegedly crashed into a vehicle that had two occupants. The culpable homicide case against the former North West MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlement and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), was provisionally withdrawn at the Stilfontein Regional Court in 2022.
This was after Maloyi applied for representation to the office of the National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP), for his case to be struck off the roll.
Meanwhile, the NPA’s acting regional spokesperson in North West, Sive Gunya said: “Yes, the interdict was granted pending the finalization of the review application before the North West High Court. No further comments at this stage.”
Picture: The embattled Greater Taung Local Municipality (GTLM) mayor, Tumisang Gaoraelwe
By OBAKENG MAJE
Forum 4 Service Delivery (F4SD) said it will table a motion of no confidence against the embattled Greater Taung Local Municipality (GTLM) mayor, Tumisang Gaoraelwe. F4SD councillor in the municipality, Mika Moeti said they have already submitted the letter to the relevant authorities.
Moeti said they moved a motion of no confidence against Gaoraelwe due to his failure to fulfil his duties and responsibilities as the mayor. He further said the motion was filed after Gaoraelwe crashed the municipality’s R700 000 luxury BMW X3 on 30 June 2024.
According to police, Gaoraelwe allegedly crashed the municipal vehicle, while trying to evade unknown assailants, who were following him. He crashed the gate after being shot at.
“It is alleged that this is not the first accident involving the carelessness of the mayor. The mayor is said to have then staged a shooting as a means to cover up the incident.
“Gaoraelwe has demonstrated consistent negligence by crashing numerous vehicles that are being paid for by the taxpayers’ money. He has failed to show the qualities of integrity, trustworthiness and accountability, which are essential in a leader,” said Moeti.
He added that Gaoraelwe has exhibited poor leadership by not adequately engaging with the community concerns and failing to provide transparent and accountable governance. Moeti said Gaoraelwe failed to execute oversight on monthly reports according to Section 71 of the Municipal Finance Management Act No. 56 of 2003 (MFMA).
“As F4SD, we propose that Gaoraelwe be removed from his position as the mayor of the Greater Taung Local Municipality effective immediately following the council’s vote on this motion,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Greater Taung Local Municipality (GTLM) spokesperson, Ricky Oliphant said: “The municipality has allocated security guards for Gaoraelwe. This is part of our responsibility as the municipality. So, we have allocated two security guards at night and one during the day.
“This should go on until there is no need/perceived threat. There is no additional cost as these have been drawn from the quota of security guards we already have as part of our contract with Diphetogo Security Services.”
Oliphant said the municipality is aware of the allegations that Gaoraelwe has staged the shooting, but the official information they received was that he collided with the gate as he was trying to evade people who were chasing him.
Picture: The former coach of Mamelodi Sundowns FC, Stanley Tshabalala
By OBAKENG MAJE
Orlando Pirates FC legend, Stanley “Screamer” Tshabalala will be laid to rest on 18 July 2024, which is the former statesman, the late Dr Nelson Mandela’s birthday. Orlando Pirates FC said in a statement that the funeral service will commence at 9am at Grace Bible Church in Pimville, Soweto.
“The procession will depart from Grace Bible Church to Westpark Cemetery, where the burial service will be held. After the burial, the procession will return to Grace Bible Church for refreshments.
“Tshabalala died in hospital on Thursday afternoon. Bra Stan, as he was affectionately referred to by everybody, succumbed to the injuries he suffered when he was shot in March this year.”
The South African Football Association (SAFA) president, Dr Danny Jordaan said: “We send our heartfelt condolences to the family of the late former Bafana Bafana coach, Stanley “Screamer” Tshabalala. He was a much-loved player, coach and administrator.
“The former Mamelodi Sundowns coach and ex-Kaizer Chiefs Talent Scout and Development Coordinator, was very successful and highly respected as a South African football legend.”
Jordaan said Tshabalala made a huge mark for the country and at club level.
“I wish to extend my sincerest condolences to the family of Tshabalala and we are praying for them to be comforted. May God grant the family healing during this difficult time. This news is such a shock and we as SAFA would like to convey our deepest sympathy and heartfelt sorrow to his family, friends and the club during this difficult time,” he said.
Meanwhile, the ANC acting national spokesperson, Zuko Godlimpi said Tshabalala was the face of South African soccer. Godlimpi further said Tshabalala transformed South African football.
‘He was involved at the grassroots level and building football into a professional sport. Tshabalala transformed South African football into a formidable force that is a marvel on the continent and globally, competing with the best in the world.
“Bra Stan played an important role in building Bafana Bafana into a powerhouse, contributing to its growth internationally as the head coach. South Africa prides itself on the growth, performance, and competitiveness of the national senior team,” he said.
Godlimpi added that Tshabalala’s passing leaves a huge void in the sporting fraternity, the country’s football development programmes and the development of sporting facilities. He said Tshabalala was famously known for his unique Piano and Shoe Shineinvention whilst at the helm of Mamelodi Sundowns Football Club.
A man (24) was sentenced to 9 years imprisonment by the Kimberley Regional Court for malicious damage to property and assault GBH. Edward Emmauel Gideon Mastas went on a rampage on 3 November 2021, when he accompanied a victim (45) to town. Mastas bullied her to go sign and marry him at the Department of Home Affairs.
The victim refused and the accused strangled her. The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Molefi Shemane said the victim escaped the ordeal and went home to Roodepan, where she met up with her daughter and her aunt (51).
“The accused arrived at the victim’s place of residence with the intention to collect his clothes. The accused was afforded entry into the house. Once the accused was inside the house, he went on a rampage by taking a knife in the kitchen and stabbing the aunt several times with the knife.
“He then broke the shanty windows and burned the victim’s clothes. The police attended the complaint and arrested the accused, who was hiding underneath the bed. On 5 November 2021, the accused appeared in court and was sent for 30-day psychiatric evaluations,” he said.
Shemane further said Mastas was found to be fit to stand trial. He added that the Northern Cape Police Management applauded Detective Constable Noma Senye of Galeshewe Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit for the thorough and meticulous investigation.
“The police encourage the victims of Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) to take safety tips into consideration when experiencing domestic violence. They should avoid confrontations in rooms with only one exit.
“Avoid rooms that contain many potential weapons such as kitchens. They should always carry a list of emergency numbers. Make sure that family members and friends are in possession of a copy of the protection order and warrant of arrest,” said Shemane.
He said they should also keep money in a safe place for taxi or bus fare in case of an emergency. Shemane said they were also advised to keep an extra set of keys for the house or car.
“The victim must have a set of clothes for the children packed in a bag and keep it in a safe place. For example, at the neighbour’s house. Victim advised to leave when the partner is not around if they are planning to.
“They should take the children with them and must make sure they are in possession of all essential documents such as the identification documents, medical cards, savings and credit cards,” he said.