Kaizer Chiefs, Mamelodi Sundowns crowned 2024 Engen Champ of Champs champions


By REGINALD KANYANE

30 September 2024- Kaizer Chiefs FC successfully regained their Engen Champ of Champs title on 29 September 2024, after they emerged victorious against Stellenbosch FC at the Marks Park Stadium in Johannesburg. Amakhosi, who lifted the title two years ago, had to dig deep for the result, having to content the title with a highly spirited Stellies side who held them for most parts of the match before a late strike by the newly crowned champions in the closing minutes successfully handed Amakhosi their title.

The Gauteng province were the big winners of the Engen Champ of Champs as Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies also lifted the Engen Champ of Champs title in the Girls division.

Sundowns were up against KZN champions, Durban Ladies in a highly contested encounter that concluded with the club from the nation’s capital claiming the victory, a result that saw the Engen Champ of Champs trophies remain in Gauteng for the next year.

Present at the finals on Sunday was Engen Champ of Champs brand ambassadors, Brighton Mhlongo as well as Thabo Senong who shared satisfaction on the quality of the football over the three-day tournament.

Mhlongo said: “This has been yet another exciting edition of the Engen Champ of Champs, where talent was given an opportunity to shine. It is encouraging to see how the gap has significantly narrowed in both the boys’ and girls’ division, proving that the tournament is becoming more and more competitive.”

Senong, who was recently appointed by FIFA, touched on the quality of coaching at the tournament, saying that it has been truly exceptional to witness young coaches implementing current coaching methods.

“The talent has been exceptional but what is equally important to note is the quality of coaching that, we have seen.

“I have been encouraged to see how these young coaches, both in the boys’ and girls’ divisions have been experimenting and implementing current coaching trends – a clear indication of a good future for South African coaches,” he said.

Engen Champ of Champs Individual Winners:

GIRLS

Goalkeeper of the tournament                                 Aphiwe Msomi – Durban Ladies             

Defender of the tournament                      Michaela Swartz – Mamelodi Sundowns

Midfielder of the tournament                    Siphesihle Magazi – Mamelodi Sundowns

Top Goalscorer                                                                Kagiso Dintiwe – Cape Town Roses

Striker of the tournament                                           Kwezi Khoza – Durban Ladies

Coach of the tournament                                           Andisiwe Mgcoyi – Mamelodi Sundowns

Player of the tournament                                            Kwezi Khoza -Durban Ladies

Match Official of the tournament                           Kgotso Mashamba

BOYS

Goalkeeper of the tournament                                 Alizna Canca – Ebhayi FC

Defender of the tournament                     Tashiel Rugunanan – Kaizer Chiefs

Midfielder of the tournament                    Luthando Azasakhe – Stellenbosch FC

Top Goalscorer                                                                Nizaam Fleux – Kaizer Chiefs FC

Striker of the tournament                                           Tlotlang Gaseitisioe – Kaizer Chiefs FC

Coach of the tournament                                           David Mathebula

Player of the tournament                                            Tashiel Rugunanan – Kaizer Chiefs

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North West MEC for DEDECT, Bitsa Lenkopane donates food parcels to the needy


By BAKANG MOKOTO

30 September 2024- The North West MEC for the Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism, (DEDECT), Bitsa Lenkopane, celebrated her birthday with the congregation of Bechuana Methodist Church during their 10th Annual Convention in Setlagole.                                                                  

As a firm believer in Christ, Lenkopane decided to spend her special day giving back to the community through faith, exemplifying her commitment to service delivery.

She donated 100 food parcels and 100 blankets to vulnerable families and elderly members of the Bechuana Methodist Church, demonstrating a spirit of generosity and solidarity. Lenkopane also reflected on 1 Corinthians 12:28.

“God appoints leaders to serve the body of Christ. I am not here in my capacity as MEC, but as a servant of the 7th administration under the leadership of North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi.

“Our mission is to accelerate service delivery and create jobs through government programmes. The churches play a critical role in economic development, particularly through religious and domestic tourism,” she said.

Lenkopane further said churches contribute to the local economy by organising Annual Conventions, Synods, and Circuit functions. She added that these events bring people together, leading to bookings for accommodation, the buying and selling of food through bazaars, and fundraising activities like raffles.

“There is a need to empower churches and communities to harness these opportunities, leveraging government programmes that support small businesses, especially those owned by women, youth and people with disabilities.

“These initiatives are crucial to transforming the province’s economy, creating jobs, alleviating poverty, and addressing inequality,” said Lenkopane.

In her address, she also commended the church for its role in community empowerment and urged the congregation to take advantage of available government support.

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Four suspects nabbed for a murder of a farmer


By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

30 September 2024- A farmer (81) was found dead at the gate of a neighbouring farm in Kuruman on 27 September 2024. Hendrik Venter left his farm situated between Kuruman and Hotazel, at approximately 8:30am to visit cattle posts.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Colonel Cherelle Ehlers said Venter was found at around 9:45am at the gate of a neighbouring farm next to his vehicle. Ehlers said he was found with wounds to his head.

“It is alleged that an undisclosed amount of money was missing. The police were immediately notified and the 72-hour activation plan was implemented.

“A search operation comprising units from Kuruman, including K9, Visible Policing, Highway Patrol, Crime intelligence, and Local Criminal Record Centre, was activated to search for the suspects,” she said.

Ehlers further said at approximately 6pm, three suspects were tracked near Hotazel. She added that, it is believed that four suspects are still at large and the tracing operation continues. Anyone who has information can contact Lt Col Gert du Plessis at 082 454 2942.

“All information will be handled with confidentiality,” she said.

Meanwhile, it is alleged that four suspects were arrested and set to appear in court soon.

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Police officers who lost their lives while in line of duty remembered during a prayer session


By REGINALD KANYANE

30 September 2024- The Frances Baard District Commissioner, Major General Charlotte Makgari accompanied by the Provincial Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigations, Major General Steven Mabuela, Senior Officers, Components Heads and members, together with the Religious Fraternity, held a prayer service at Full Gospel Church in Galeshewe Township, near Kimberley on 26 September 2024 to commemorate Police Safety Month.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Molefi Shemane said the day was also used to remember those police officers, who have lost their lives while in line of duty. Shemane said the programme was directed by Chaplain Seturumane and the welcoming address, as well as the purpose of the day was delivered by Chaplain Pudule from Provincial Employee Health and Wellness, Spiritual Services.

“The inter-religious faith representatives from different denominations prayed for the SAPS Provincial Management, for prevention of police killings, for mental illness and well-being of members, and the eradication of Gender-Based Violence (GBV).

“Major General Makgari and Major General Mabuela led the candle lighting ceremony in remembrance of WO Dipipenyane, Sgt Masilo and Constable Mandindi, who lost their lives in line of duty during the previous financial year,” he said.

Shemane further said Arch Bishop Mofokeng in delivering the sermon, he encouraged members to not only protect themselves physically, but spiritually as well.

Meanwhile, Major General Charlotte Makgari, delivered an address on behalf of the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola and stated that whenever police are faced with adversity, prayer should be their only hope as it provides the police with fortitude and strength to strive forward.

“I want to address two critical issues affecting the organisation, such as ill-discipline and extortion. Ill-discipline undermines police effectiveness, erodes public trust and compromises the mandate to serve and protect.

“It is crucial that police uphold the highest standards of professionalism at all times. The police officers must understand that such behaviour is unacceptable and illegal,” she said.  

Makgari said it tarnishes the police reputation and violates the rights of the communities the police serve. She also encouraged the police to wear their bullet proof vests, ensure that their firearms are loaded and well-oiled and be alert at all times.

“We encourage all police officers to work together to restore and maintain the integrity and credibility of the police,” said Makgari.

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A woman sentenced to 15 years imprisonment for killing her boyfriend


By OBAKENG MAJE

30 September 2024- A woman (33) was sentenced to 15 years imprisonment by the Kakamas Regional Court for murder. On 2 March 2019, Mabebe Olyn killed Ohentse Sevey in Langverwag Kakamas.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Captain Nelis Prins said Sevey and Olyn, who were in a romantic relationship at the time of the incident, were involved in an argument.

“Olyn stabbed him in the back with a knife, resulting in his death. The thorough investigation by Warrant Officer Kaypo Matthys of Kakamas Detectives, led to the subsequent arrest and conviction of the accused.

“The state prosecutor steered the prosecution. The District Commissioner of ZFM District, Major General Monica Sebili, commended the investigation officer and the prosecution team for securing the conviction,” he said.

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Police are looking for missing Klaas van Rooy


By REGINALD KANYANE

30 September 2024- The Kimberley Serious and Violent Crimes unit is appealing to the public to assist them in locating a missing Klaas van Rooy (46), who is from Griekwastad. The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Molefi Shemane said van Rooy was admitted to the Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe Hospital in Kimberley as a patient and was last seen on 20 September 2024.

“He is medium built and at the time of his disappearance, he was wearing blue trousers with a grey tracksuit top.

“Anyone who might have information about the whereabouts of Klaas can contact Detective Sergeant Kelaegile Mosala on 082 302 0407 or call crime stop on 08600 10111 or either use the MySAPS app,” said Shemane.

He said all information received will be treated confidential. Shemane further said the public is reminded that there is no waiting period to report a missing person.

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Four people died in a head-on collision accident


By BAKANG MOKOTO

30 September 2024- The North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels urged motorists to be patient on the road. This comes after the loss of four lives in an N18 head-on collision accident at 11am on Friday.

The accident happened about three kilometres northwards of the Kalgold mine.

Morweng said all the deceased were from one vehicle that was traveling towards Mahikeng. He said five occupants from the other vehicle travelling towards Setlagole, survived with serious injuries and were taken to the public hospital in Mahikeng.

“We send our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and wish speedy recovery to the injured. Our heart goes out to the families of the deceased and we wish those who are hospitalised speedy recovery.

“We are appealing to motorists to be circumspect when driving. Research indicates that the country is losing over 12 000 lives annually to road accidents. We have to ask ourselves searching questions on how we behave behind the steering wheel,” said Morweng.

He further said as much as accidents are sudden, on occasions, investigation revealed that some were avoidable and many are human errors. Morweng added that impatience, recklessness, speeding and many other moving violations, including fiddling with mobile phones whilst driving, are all factors that lead to accidents and innocent lives are lost needlessly.

“We are appealing to those who will be traveling as schools are reopening this week, to drive to the conditions of the road rather than to the speed limit.

“We expect all provincial arterial routes including N4, N12, N14 and N18 to have more than normal traffic as many are coming back from the school break,” he said.

Morweng said a culpable homicide case is being investigated.

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Tigerkloof Secondary School learners came third on Road Safety School Debate competition


By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

30 September 2024- Tigerkloof Secondary School in Vryburg, has won the third position in the urban category at the Road Safety School Debate Competition held in Bloemfontein. The Department of Community Safety and Transport Management said it would like to congratulate the school for its excellent performance and ensuring that the North West comes up once again in the top three of best provinces.

The Director for Road Safety Management, Motshabi Tshukudu said this win is indicative of the quality performance that the province has maintained over the years.

“We have always had great representation as a province at nationals. Our learners continue to display sheer excellence in what is probably the most contentious show off at their age.

“We would also like to congratulate Tiragalo Secondary School from Leeudoringstad, near Wolmaranstad. The Road Safety Debates are part of the Road Traffic Management Corporation’s Participatory Education Techniques (PET) Competition,” she said.

Tshukudu further said the programme is aimed at encouraging learners to identify road safety challenges and solutions. She added that thus, enhancing their presentation, research and public speaking skills.

Meanwhile, the trainer for the school, Busisiwe Spencer said: “We learnt a lot in their course to stating and defending a solid case amongst their competitors. From this experience, we take away the significance of extending road safety awareness in our own community and a proud spirit of team work.

“It has been a long journey for the team, but we have learned a lot about road safety, critical thinking and boldness when addressing the audience.”

Spencer said they put in a lot to prepare for the journey, that involved a lot of sacrifice. She said when other learners go home, they remained behind because they were dedicated to the cause.

“We had to be rigorous in our research, to not only analyse road safety challenges in our area, but in the entire country, as well as to find sustainable solutions to those challenges,” said Spencer.

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50 bicycles donated to underprivileged learners


By REGINALD KANYANE

30 September 2024- Learners from recently combined secondary school, Machakela and Mamodibo in Mogogelo village, near Moretele have benefited from the Thuntsha Lerole Accelerated Service Delivery Programme-Reloaded. This comes after North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng handed over 50 shova kalula bicycles to those pupils who walk a distance of between 3 to 5 kilometres to school.

Morweng said learners also received road safety kits that include safety helmets and reflector vests.

“Safety of the learners on the road is important, hence the department provides motorised scholar transport for learners who walk more than 5 km and bicycles for those who walk between 35 kilometres.

“We appeal to learners not to give or allow their parents and uncles to use the bicycles for their personal use. These bicycles still remain property of the government, therefore should I see any parent using it, I’m going to take it back and arrest,” he said.

Morweng further said they are a caring government that believes in people’s development and education. He added that, therefore, they hand these bicycles to learners so that they can have easy access to education.

“These bicycles will assist you to shorten your traveling time to school and arrive while still fresh. The other important aspect of these bicycles is for your health and fitness, hence they are called shova kalula. So, look after them and they will take care of you,” said Morweng.

Meanwhile, on behalf of learners, Rehlamfu Tshepang thanked the department for the gesture and committed to improve their results.

“The National Department of Transport initiated the Shova Kalula project in 2001. The aim of the project is to provide low cost mobility solutions to the learners in order to enable them to access educational facilities mostly in remote locations.

“Beneficiaries of shova kalula programme should travel a distance of not more than 5 kilometres by foot,” he said.

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Attempted murder and murder accused, Tshwaro Mangwegape back in court


Picture: The attempted murder and murder accused, Tshwaro Mangwegape 

By OBAKENG MAJE

30 September 2024- A murder and attempted murder case against former Meat Brother’s Pub owner, Tshwaro Mangwegape (41), to resume in court. Mangwegape, who is out on a R5000 bail, is accused of shooting and killing the NWU Soccer Institute player, Undivile “Vilo” Mdi (28) and injuring his friend, Aobakwe Ernest Kokwe (33).

On 17 December 2023, Mdi and Kokwe were amongst patrons who visited the Meat Brother’s Pub that was full to capacity. 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, while his friend was rushed to the hospital with terrible gunshot wounds.

Mangwegape’s case is expected to be transferred to regional court. The state also highlighted that it is still waiting for the ballistic test results.

Meanwhile, 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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