Monthly Archives: September 2024

A suspect allegedly involved in truck hijackings arrested

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Picture: The blood stains in the alleged hijacked truck/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

29 September 2024– A suspect, who was arrested for allegedly being involved in truck hijackings, set to appear in Stilfontein Magistrate’s Court on 28 September 2024. The suspect was arrested by the Stilfontein K9 members who were on patrol.

The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Adele Myburgh said the initial reports indicated that on Saturday afternoon, the police allegedly saw that an Isuzu truck was losing its cargo, which consisted of a variety of alcohol products. Myburgh said the truck was driven in Davill Sreet in Walkerville, Klerksdorp.

“The police allegedly pulled the truck over, when the driver and passenger allegedly jumped out and ran away. The police caught the driver of the truck and seized two firearms, of which one was a toy gun.

“He was immediately arrested as he did not have a

licence to possess a firearm. Upon further investigation, blood was found in the driver’s side of the truck and other police units were alerted,” she said.

Myburgh further said the members of Potchefstroom Flying Squad found an injured man later at a local hospital in Klerksdorp, who was shot in the upper body. She added that it was alleged that an Uber driver, who noticed the injured man next to the road in Manzil Park, rushed him to the local hospital.

“Upon interviewing the man, he alleged that he was driving an Isuzu truck on the R30 road between Klerksdorp and Ventersdorp, when he was allegedly stopped by suspects in two vehicles about 15km from Ventersdorp.

“He tried to escape, but was shot and placed in the back of a vehicle and dropped-off later in Manzil Park. The suspect, who is estimated to be in his 30’s, will appear before the Klerksdorp Magistrate’s Court on Monday, for illegal possession of firearm and ammunition, attempted murder and for being in possession of suspected stolen property,” said Myburgh.

She said the police investigations are continuing and linkages to more cases cannot be ruled out.  

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, congratulated the police for their attentiveness and teamwork, that led to this success. Kwena also commended the Uber diver for rescuing the injured truck driver and said police will leave no stone unturned to ensure that the perpetrators face the full might of the law.

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A policeman and civilian nabbed for possession of unwrought gold bearing material

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Picture: Some of equipment seized by the police during raid/Supplied 

By OBAKENG MAJE

29 September 2024- A police officer and a civilian aged 35 and 37, were arrested in a smelter house in Extension 1, Khuma Township, near Stilfontein on 27 September 2024. The suspects were arrested during Operation Vala Umgodi.

The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Adéle Myburgh said the police allegedly pounced on unsuspecting suspects and found them in the process of allegedly refining gold bearing material. Myburgh said the duo were immediately arrested.

“Upon further investigation, it was realized that one of the suspects is a local police officer. They were charged for conspiracy to commit an offence, manufacturing of illegal gold without a permit and possession of unwrought gold bearing material.

“The police constable was also charged for defeating the ends of justice. Both suspects will appear before the Stilfontein Magistrate’s Court on 30 September 2024,” she said.

Myburgh further said during the bust, the police allegedly seized illegal mining equipment such as an oxygen bottle, LPG Gas bottle, a scale and suspected gold bearing material.

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, welcomed the arrests and thanked the police for their continued efforts in the fight against illicit mining activities. Furthermore, Kwena said this arrest will send a strong message that police officers involved in criminal activities will be held accountable.

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NWU: “Tourism matters to all”

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

26 September 2024- The research unit Tourism Research in Economics, Environs and Society (TREES) at the North West University (NWU), has established itself as a leading research unit focusing on sustainable tourism. TREES distinguishes itself by conducting innovative research on the economic, environmental and social impacts of tourism, and in promoting evidence-based strategies to enhance the sector’s growth.

The Director of TREES, Prof Elmarie Slabbert said the unit plays a crucial role in promoting tourism in South Africa by analysing market trends, developing sustainable tourism models, and engaging with policymakers and stakeholders. She further said Tourism either affects the people or affect the industry.

“It is a balancing act between economic benefits, environmental protection and community well-being. By showcasing our tourism gems in a responsible manner, we preserve them for the future. 

“For South Africa, the tourism sector leads to economic growth, infrastructure development, job opportunities, environmental conservation and more. On the other hand, the people living in tourism hubs benefit indirectly from these developments and improvements,” said Slabbert.

She added that it is their duty as South Africans to take care of tourists, to offer a sustainable tourism product and if possible, to be tourists themselves. Slabbert said Tourism matters to everyone, whether you are directly involved or not.

“Now is the time for tourists to experience what South Africa and Africa have to offer. South Africa’s natural beauty is a key driver of its tourism industry, attracting visitors from around the world and TREES is leading the way in ensuring that this sector is sustainable.

“Researchers at TREES are working to protect our natural tourism gems, ensuring that they remain a source of economic and environmental benefits for generations to come,” she said.

Slabbert said nature-based tourism, is a cornerstone of South Africa’s tourism industry and it includes wildlife, adventure, eco- and geo-tourism.

A key researcher at TREES, Prof Peet van der Merwe said they focus on addressing the balance between tourism and environmental protection. Van Der Merwe said his current research looks at issues such as overcrowding in national parks and the socio-economic impacts of wildlife tourism, particularly hunting.

“Tourism plays a crucial role in the economy, but it is equally important to ensure that tourism is managed sustainably. Our research aims to develop models that promote sustainable tourism practices, ensuring that South Africa’s natural wonders are preserved for future visitors,” he said.

Meanwhile, Dr Madeline Huyser and her team are also exploring how conservation technology, such as drones and apps, can be used to protect the environment and enhance the visitor experience. She said these tools have the potential to not only protect the wildlife, but also educate tourists about the importance of conservation.

“Our research highlights the role of technology in shaping the future of nature-based tourism, offering solutions to some of the sector’s most pressing challenges,” said Huyser.

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                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     

A man nabbed for allegedly killing his tenant in Hartbeespoortdam  

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By REGINALD KANYANE

26 September 2024 – A man (72) was arrested for allegedly shooting and killing his tenant (66) in Hartbeespoortdam, near Brits on Sunday. The suspect was arrested by the police in Hartbeespoortdam and Brits Crime Intelligence.

According to the North West police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Amanda Funani, the tenant approached his landlord when he discovered that there was no electricity and water at his place. Funani said following an argument that ensued between the two, the landlord went inside his house and came back with a firearm and allegedly shot the victim on his upper body.

“The suspect fled from the scene while the victim was transported to the hospital, where he was declared dead on arrival. The suspect was arrested during an

Intelligence-driven operation conducted around the Skeerport area.  

“The police also recovered a firearm, which will be subjected to ballistic tests. The suspect briefly appeared in the Brits Magistrate’s Court on 25 September 2024, for murder,” she said.

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, congratulated the police for their concerted effort to ensure the arrest of the suspect.

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Two departmental officials who allegedly faked their matric certificates out on bail

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

26 September 2024- Two suspects aged 46 and 54 respectively, briefly appeared before Rustenburg Magistrate’s Court on 25 September 2024, facing charges of fraud, forgery and uttering. Morwesi Margareth Mokone and Mankwane Suzan Raleru were arrested by the members of Rustenburg-based Serious Commercial Crime Investigation.

The Hawks spokesperson in North West, Lieutenant Colonel Tinyiko Mathebula said Mokone and Raleru’s arrests follow an investigation into allegations of submitting fraudulent matric certificates when they applied for advertised posts in the Department of Education in North West.

Mathebula said in August 2008, Raleru was hired as an Early Childhood Development Fieldworker at the Kgetleng River APO following an advertisement of a post. He said the accused allegedly submitted a matric certificate, which she claimed to have obtained in 1992.

“The investigation revealed that the accused did write matric, but never passed it. It was discovered during the investigation that the accused submitted a fraudulent matric certificate when applying for the post. As a result, the department paid the accused over R2.3 million in salaries.

“In a separate incident, Mokone applied for an administration assistant position at the Kana Primary School in March 2011 and was subsequently hired. She applied for the post with a matric certificate, which she allegedly obtained in 1998. Upon conducting an investigation, it was revealed that the accused never sat for matric exams and that she had forged a matric certificate to apply for the post,” said Mathebula.

He further said consequently, the department paid the accused over R2.2 million in salaries. Mathebula added that the pair had been granted R10 000 bail each, and their matter was postponed to 14 November 2024 for further investigation.

Meanwhile, the North West Hawks Head, Major General Patrick Mbotho and the Director of Public Prosecutions in North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, have commended the investigation and prosecution team’s sterling work in ensuring that the accused are brought to justice.

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SGB chairperson nabbed for alleged corruption

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Picture: A suspect arrested by the Hawks for alleged corruption/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

26 September 2024- A suspect (41) was arrested by the members of the Mahikeng-based Serious Corruption Investigation Unit in Lichtenburg on 26 September 2024, for alleged corruption. The suspect, who is the former chairperson of School Governing Body (SGB) in Lichtenburg, allegedly solicited gratification from four complainants in exchange for administration clerk and teacher assistant posts at a primary school in Lichtenburg.

The National Prosecuting Agency (NPA) regional spokesperson, Sivenathi Gunya said investigation revealed that, the suspect was paid gratification by the complainants between 2022 and 2023, in order to secure them jobs at a local primary school.

“One complainant allegedly paid the suspect R14 500, another paid him R10 000 and the other two paid R1000 each to secure jobs. The accused will appear in the Lichtenburg Magistrate’s Court on 27 September 2024, to face four counts of corruption,” he said.

Meanwhile, the North West Provincial Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, Major General Patrick Mbotho and the Director of Public Prosecutions in North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, have welcomed the arrest. They have cautioned public officials to refrain from involving themselves in corrupt activities as law enforcement agencies will not hesitate to act against perpetrators.

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Opinion: North West to receive mortal remains of its sons from Zambia

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By ORAPELENG MATSHEDISO

26 September 2024- As South African government receives the mortal remains of its 49 fallen liberation stalwarts, it has to be noted that North West will be receiving the mortal remains of comrade Aron Tiro from Braklaagte, near Zeerust and comrade Mabe Klaas Bogosing from Ramosadi village, in Mahikeng.

It is important to receive these heroes of our country and the province with a befitting honour, discipline and respect. Their sacrifices should not go unnoticed, together with leaders such as comrade Moses Kotane, JB Marks, Thandi Modise, Ruth Mompati, Dende Tladi, Kaone Lobelo, Kgosi Dick Montshioa, Dr Silas Modiri Moleme and Kgosi Ramotshere Moiloa.

Many of our living and departed cadres have through their determination and sacrifices ensured that our province contributes to the liberation of our country. I take this opportune moment to express my sincere gratitude to Dr Otsile Ntsoane and many other writers for their continuous contribution to write about the role and contribution of Batswana in the liberation struggle.

This history is important because it has to be passed from generation to generation. As the North West celebrates Heritage Day, I am tempted to disturb the two of our sons from their coffins, who have landed in the country from Zambia.

I want to tell comrade Aaron Tiro and comrade Mabe Klaas Bogosing that we celebrate heritage annually on 24 September, but the majority of our dams that resonate with our culture are still in the hands of a few individual capitalists, who charge us a lot of money to access them.

The Taung Skull is still out of the province and for many years, a call has been made for its return to Taung. My fellow comrades, many game farms are still in the hands of a few whites who refuse to share the land with us.

I must also tell you that, the ANC that you belonged to, its military wing, Umkhondo We Sizwe (MK), has attracted many questionable characters in its ranks and files.

Characters that continue to destroy and tarnish its reputation. The movement is bleeding and as you come to rest in the soil of your province, may your spirit revisit the hearts of members and leaders of the movement to remind us of your sacrifices and the tasks of this epoch, as we renew the ANC to grapple with the challenges of the moment.

We are fighting each other for positions, not that we want to use those positions to further the liberation struggle, but to loot state resources and deployed and employ our relatives and families. We are doing things that are opposite to what you fought and died for.

May the arrival of your mortal reminds serves as a re-kindling and re-ignition of the revolution spirit of selflessness in pursuit of the National Democratic Revolution (NDR).

Yesterday, it pained my heart and I even shed tears, when I heard the daughter of the former Secretary General of the ANC, comrade Duma Nokwe saying an ANC scarf was found on his neck since his burial in 1978. A scarf that symbolised his dedication to the liberation and his love for the ANC and the people of the continent.

May the souls of all the 49 heroes and heroines rest in peace.

(Note: Mr Orapeleng Matshediso is written this in his personal capacity and Taung DailyNews and its associates, do not agree nor disagree with the content of the article. Whatever that has been raised in this article remains Mr Matshediso’s views)

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SANCO leader resigns as MPL in North West Provincial Legislature amid fake matric certificate allegations

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Picture: SANCO provincial chairperson, Tshepo Khoza

By OBAKENG MAJE

25 September 2024- The South African National Civic Organisation (SANCO) chairperson, Tshepo Khoza has resigned as Member of Provincial Legislature (MPL) in North West Provincial Legislature (NWPL). This comes after Khoza was removed as the Deputy Speaker of the North West Provincial Legislature a month ago, amid fake matric certificate allegations.

SANCO provincial spokesperson, Mzukisi Jam said the Provincial Office Bearers (POB) held an urgent meeting to discuss the matter of Khoza’s deployment to the North West Provincial Legislature. Jam said the meeting was called by Khoza.

“During the meeting, Khoza officially informed the POB that he had submitted his resignation letter to the Speaker of the North West Provincial Legislature, Desbo Mohono on 24 September 2024.

“Khoza’s resignation follows his removal as the Deputy Speaker of the North West Provincial Legislature. As SANCO, we find it appropriate to officially inform the public, alliance partners, and all its structures about the

resignation of Khoza the legislature, as these stakeholders are crucial to the organisation,” he said.

Jam further said they have called a meeting with the ANC, as the leader of the alliance, to propose

the appointment of Joseph Moyo, who is SANCO’s Deputy Provincial Chairperson, as Khoza’s

replacement in the North West Provincial Legislature. He added that SANCO’s representation in the North West Provincial Government is vital to advance its objectives, including advocating for and negotiating

on behalf of its members and society on matters affecting their rights and interests.

“The recommendation of Moyo for the vacant seat in the North West Provincial Legislature, was a resolution adopted by the SANCO Provincial Executive Committee (PEC) following Khoza’s removal as the Deputy Speaker,” he said.

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A fraud case against businessman postponed

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Picture: A businessman, Thoshan Panday

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

25 September 2024- A fraud case against a businessman, Thoshan Panday (52), was postponed in his absentia by the Durban Magistrate’s Court until 4 October 2024, to conduct an enquiry into his absence in court. This comes after the Head of Westville prison did not inform the court that Panday would not be attending court.

The National Prosecuting Authority’s Investigating Directorate against Corruption (IDAC) spokesperson, Henry Mamothame said, despite a medical certificate being produced by his legal representative and handed in to the record indicating that Panday is admitted in a private hospital in Durban, magistrate deemed it befitting for the head of prison and the admitting doctor, where he is allegedly kept for medical attention to be subpoenaed to account for his absence and for not informing the court and the state.

“Following the court’s dismissal of his bail application on 9 September 2024, the matter was postponed to 25 September 2024, for it to be transferred to the Durban High Court.

“The state requested for a further detention warrant to be issued to extend his detention in his absence,” he said.

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Former SANDF member sentenced to life imprisonment for rape and infecting his partner with HIV

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Picture: The SANDF member/Generic

By OBAKENG MAJE

25 September 2024- The former South African National Defence Force (SANDF) member (48), was sentenced to life imprisonment by the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court for rape. Leon Santos Conga raped his girlfriend, exposed and factually infected her with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).

He was given an additional 10-year imprisonment for attempted murder for knowingly exposing and factually infecting her with HIV.  The court ordered that the sentence should run concurrently.

The NPA regional spokesperson in Gauteng, Lumka Mahanjana said Conga and the victim were in a romantic relationship for four months, from 16 December 2016 until April 2017. Mahanjana further said, before the two began their relationship, the victim had done an HIV test on 1 December 2016, which came back HIV negative.

“When the two started their relationship, the victim raised the HIV conversation and insisted on knowing Conga’s HIV status. Conga then lied and misled the victim and told her that he was HIV negative hence his employer was able to deploy him outside the country.

“However, the victim came with the condition in their relationship that “no condom no sex”. One time when the two were intimate, Conga removed the condom. This apparently happened twice until the victim felt unwell and went to do an HIV test. When the results came back positive, she confronted Conga who denied infecting her,” she said.

Mahanjana added that she then reported the matter to the police in May 2017, however the docket was only opened on 9 July 2017.  She said in 2018 after several postponements in court, the matter was withdrawn due to insufficient evidence.

“However, after investigations and the required evidence was obtained from the SANDF the matter was re-enrolled on 21 August 2021 and Conga appeared in court.

“During the trial, Conga stated that the condom was removed by the complainant and denied infecting the victim with HIV.  However, the state prosecutor, Advocate Emile Van der Merwe called a witness, Professor Terresa Russouw, an HIV expert who testified about the effects of HIV and assisted the state in proving the attempted murder charge,” said Mahanjana.

She said the state also provided evidence, which revealed that Conga first tested HIV positive on 8 October 2007, therefore he was aware of his HIV status when he removed the condom and had intercourse with the victim.   

Meanwhile, during the sentencing proceedings, in aggravation of sentence, Advocate Van der Merwe argued that Conga was known to the victim as he served in the military with her brother.  Merwe said the victim trusted him, but he betrayed that trust.

“Furthermore, rape is not only a serious violent crime, but it is extremely prevalent. Therefore, the courts and prosecutions owe it to the community to deal with such matters with the seriousness and devotion it requires.

“So, we asked the court to impose a sentence of life imprisonment. We also handed in a Victim Impact Statement (VIS) and called the victim to testify in aggravation, where the victim told the court that the man left her with an emotional scar and a permanent trademark which is HIV,” he said.

Merwe said taking antiretroviral treatment (ARV) every night is a constant reminder of the scar he permanently gave her. He said as such, she has anxiety and fears about ever infecting her partner should she be in a relationship or infecting her child should she decide to have a baby.

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