Daily Archives: March 12, 2025

Horse Racing Event Find A New Home 

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Picture: The horse-racing taking place in Dundee, Durban/Generic 

By OBAKENG MAJE 

12 March 2025- The highly anticipated annual Lobelo La Dipitsi Horse Racing event will be finally launched in Vryburg on 29 March 2025, after numerous postponements. The event was supposed to take place in Motswedi village, near Zeerust on 26 October 2024, but it was delayed due to unforeseen logistical and financial challenges. 

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of North West Gambling Board, Boitumelo Qalinge said a subsequent rescheduling for 15 February 2025, also proved unsuccessful. Qalinge said the initial postponements were due to a combination of lack of public participation, logistical challenges and funding shortfalls. 

“The initial site in Motswedi village required extensive clearing to create a race track. Preparations at the identified site were hampered when the Department of Public Works’ machinery, deployed to clear the land for a race track, experienced significant breakdowns and could not be repaired or replaced in a timely manner. 

“Insufficient funds and sponsorships also contributed to the delay in ensuring a successful event. The NWGB as the regulatory body for gambling activities in the province, has secured a fully equipped (Horse Race-track) venue in Vryburg to host the inaugural event,” he said. 

Qalinge further said the NWGB has partnered with Mompati Horse Race for Change, an organisation with a proven track record in organising traditional horse racing events in the province to bring the event to fruition. He added that they are delighted to bring Lobelo La Dipitsievent back on track through the partnership with Mompati Horse Race for Change. 

“Their expertise and commitment to social transformation aligns perfectly with our vision for this event, this is not a contract with Mompati Horse Race for Change, it is a partnership that will ensure that all the North West Horseracing Communities are included and take part in this inaugural event.

“The NWGB is dedicated and always ready to partner with organisations that uplift communities such as Mompati Horse Race for Change. The organisation’s efforts extend beyond the racetrack, addressing critical issues such as combating Gender-Based Violence, raising awareness about prostate cancer, and empowering disadvantaged youth through equestrian therapy and tourism,” said Qalinge. 

He said the Mompati Horse Race for Change organisation is 100% black-owned and led by youth and women, demonstrating a commitment to social transformation through equestrian sport. Qalinge said the collaboration aligns with the core values of NWGB and its socio-economic development policy dedicated to the upliftment of communities through various impactful avenues. 

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DCS learnership programme to reduce youth unemployment

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Picture: The Correctional Services Officers/Generic

By BAKANG MOKOTO

12 March 2025 – The Portfolio Committee on Correctional Services said it has received a briefing from the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) on its Learnership programme selection process, targets and progress achieved to date. The committee heard that the current developmental programme for the training of entry-level correctional officers is the Corrections Services Learnership programme.

The Committee Chairperson, Kgomotso Anthea Ramolobeng said the main aim of the programme is to assist with youth employment and empowerment and also serves as a pool from which entry-level appointments are made. Ramolobeng said the committee is aware that there was an intake in 2021 and some were supposed to be absorbed into the system.

“The previous committee received a briefing and certain commitments were made. We would like an update on those commitments. Recruitment of the 6 192 learner positions entails the appointment of 50% of applicants with a Grade 12, a National Certificate in Vocational Studies or a Further Education and Training Certificate.

“The remaining 50% comprises a focused recruitment of those who have DCS-related qualifications, with preference given to those with qualifications in Corrections, Penology and Criminology and those with qualifications/skills that will support the implementation of the Self-Sufficiency and Sustainability Strategy,” she said.

Ramolobeng further said the DCS received over 1.2 million applications. She added that the committee heard that the DCS programme can accommodate an intake of 1 032 learners at two training colleges, Kroonstad (with a capacity of 540) and Zonderwater Training College (with a capacity of 492).

“The programme runs for 12 months – 16 weeks of theoretical training at the colleges and the rest of the period constitutes experiential learning at the correctional centres.

“Learners who have successfully completed the Learnership will be considered for permanent employment in the department as correctional officials. Group 1 will commence on 1 April 2025 subject to the completion of all personal suitability checks,” said Ramolobeng.

She said thus far, the selection process has gone well at all centres, except for the score/result sheets for physical fitness assessments, which were tampered with at Kgosi Mampuru II Management Area in Gauteng. Ramolobeng said the Regional Commissioner has referred the matter to the Inspectorate for Investigation.

“The assessments were repeated at the beginning of March. The department needs to ensure that the first group of learners into the programme are those that meet the criteria and are without any questionable suitability issues to ensure credibility of the programme.

“Strict measures must be applied, such as vetting of applicants, to prevent nepotism, as alleged in the past. The committee received several complaints regarding the recruitment and appointment process into the programme previously,” she highlighted.

Ramolobeng said the committee also heard that in the interests of achieving a reformed, integrated and modern criminal justice system (CJS), the department intends increasing its capacity by employing 12 950 correctional officers by 2030. She said in order to achieve this target, the DCS will have to train 3 000 learners per annum.

“However, this staff increase depends on the DCS’s funding levels. The committee wished the DCS well for the start of the 2025 Leadership programme in April. The intake will assist in dealing with the ratio of inmates versus officials, as the current ratio in some centres is concerning and might compromise security in some instances.

“We resolved to visit two training facilities in order to allow [the committee] to see the conditions of the facility and assess the training provided to the learners, including the learning material. Furthermore, the committee wants a detailed breakdown on the dropout rate from the programme over the years, a report on the investigation into allegations of tampering with fitness results and nepotism in the Eastern Cape, Free State and Gauteng Region and subsequent consequence management to be implemented,” emphasised Ramolobeng.

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Police applauded for seizing 155 illegal firearms  

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Picture: The illegal firearms destroyed by the police

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

12 March 2025 – The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Ian Cameron said he sincerely welcomed the information that the South African Police Service (SAPS) has, through intelligence-led operations across the country, seized 155 illegal firearms over the past week.

Cameron said while 155 illegal firearms represent a drop in the ocean in the context of the scourge of illegal firearms that continue to be in circulation, the seizure is testament to the realisation by the SAPS of this ongoing challenge and a tangible proof that action is being taken to remedy this scourge.

He further said the seizures show the value of disruptive and intelligence-led operations in the fight against crime. Cameron added that, it is worth highlighting that, until the SAPS optimally utilises the might and prowess of the intelligence services, these small victories will not gather momentum and create the necessary ripple effect needed to stop crime and criminality.

“Furthermore, while it is commendable that 14 165 suspects were arrested, these arrests will remain meaningless if they are not followed up with effective criminal prosecution and incarceration.

“Illegal firearms continue to be the leading weapon of choice for violent crime in the country and concerted effort must be made to remove them from our streets. This cannot continue to be a talking point; action is long overdue,” he said.

Cameron also congratulated the Western Cape police for ensuring the seizure of 38 handguns in the province. He said in a province hugely affected by gang violence and wanton killing, the removal of these firearms has contributed to the saving of life. 

“We commended the SAPS Anti-Kidnapping Task Team for rescuing an Ethiopian businessman from a kidnapping ring in Johannesburg. The upward trend in kidnappings requires decisive intervention and capacitation of the Anti-Kidnapping Task Team is one way of tackling the scourge and ensuring safety and security for all.

“I believe that the rescue will highlight the SAPS’ willingness to uproot this scourge wherever it rears its head,” said Cameron.

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SA through to final round of CHAN qualifiers

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Picture: RSA player against against Egypt/Google

By REGINALD KANYANE

12 March 2025 – South Africa is through to the next round of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifiers after beating Egypt 3-1 at the Suez Canal Stadium, in Ismailia, on Sunday night. Coach Molefi Ntseki’s charges won the two-legged tie 4-2 on aggregate after drawing the first leg 1-1 in Bloemfontein a week ago, and they now progress to the final qualifying round to be played in May 2025.

The South Africans have grown in confidence and fluidity since assembling two weeks ago. They signalled their intentions very early in the match, bossing around the hosts in their own Ismailia backyard.

It was not long before captain Neo Maema once again rewarded the technical team’s faith in him when he scored the opening goal of the match from close range in the 15th minute. Such was the visitors’ confidence and calm execution of the task at hand you would have sworn that they were playing at home in South Africa.

Ntseki said his players then proceeded to make themselves really at home when they increased the lead to 2-0 through Yandisa Mfolozi in the 26th minute. He further said Egypt pulled one back when Mohamed Abouelenein found the back of the net in the 32nd minute.

“We never dropped our heads after that Abouelenein goal and increased their lead in the 50th minute when Siphelele Luthuli scored from the penalty spot to put the game beyond the hosts.

“Incredibly, we could have scored more goals, and such was their dominance that the final score came dangerously close to triggering blushes in the home changeroom,” said Ntseki.

He added that they won the game from the training sessions because the plan they had really worked out. Ntseki said the players managed to implement it, and they showed a high level of technical endurance.  

“That is the ability to execute the technical plan for the longest time in the game, and I think they did that. What also really worked for us today was to score early, to unsettle Egypt in their home ground.

“Also, the discipline that we had without the ball, I think was the best that one can look back at. Also, the players who were on the bench, players who were in the grandstand, I think they really gave us the support we needed,” he said.

Meanwhile, SAFA President Dr Danny Jordaan, congratulated the team and said they have represented the country well on the continent during their travels.

“Congratulations to Ntseki, to the HOD Jack Maluleke, captain Neo Maema, the technical staff and all the members of the team. Well done, we are so proud of what you have achieved.

“To beat Egypt in Egypt, and by such a comfortable score, is not something many countries can achieve,” he said.

The team returned to SA on Tuesday.

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Two men sentenced to eight years for murder

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

12 March 2025- Two men sentenced to eight years imprisonment by the Kuruman Regional Court for the murder of Onkgopotse Reginald Sempe (22). The incident took place at Pepsi village, near Kuruman on 27 November 2020.

The Northern cape police spokesperson, Captain Nomvuyo Makoloi said the two accused, Gosego Charles Mogabeng (22) and Thebeetsile Ronaldino Morakeng (22), assaulted the deceased by hitting him with a stone and kicking him on his body.

“Sempe was transported to hospital on 29 November 2020, after his parents were informed of the assault, but sadly died as a result of the injuries sustained during the attack. Mogabeng and Morakeng were each sentenced to eight years, two years of which is suspended with conditions,” said Makoloi.

Meanwhile, the acting John Taolo Gaetsewe District Commissioner, Brigadier Kenneth Baloyi and his management, applauded the investigating officer, Detective Sergeant Modise Vincent Ventfolo for the meticulous investigation that secured the conviction.

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A man sentenced to 26 years in prison for rape

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

12 March 2025- A man (18) was sentenced to 26 years by the Upington Regional Court for two counts of rape, and assault Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH). On 7 December 2022, a group of boys were sitting together near Leerkrantz, when the accused, Ghys Titus passed them.

The ZF Mgcawu District police spokesperson, Sergeant Omphile Masegela said the boys made some remarks towards him, and he retaliated. Masegela said Ghys chased them and apprehended two boys aged 10 and 11, respectively.

“He started to assault them with a steel wire and instructed them to undress. He raped the one boy, and while trying to rape the other boy, the accused noticed someone approaching, and then fled the scene on foot. A case of assault and rape was registered and allocated to Sergeant Lebogang Mokwene of the Upington Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences unit.

“The accused was arrested and was brought before court. Ghys was found guilty and sentenced to 15 years imprisonment for rape, five and six years for the two counts of assault GBH,” he said.

Meanwhile, Masegela said the ZFM District management acknowledged the excellent investigation by Mokwene.

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The exercising imperative for police officers’ well-being

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Picture: The police officers exercise during training/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE  

12 March 2025- To build fitness, agility, and endurance to meet the physically demanding nature of the police officers, the multi-disciplinary Operation Vala Umgodi in the Northern Cape, has adopted physical training as an ongoing professional development exercise of the police by engaging in PT activities on Wednesdays.

The fitness activities on 12 March 2025, commenced with an interaction from the SAPS Employee Health and Wellness (EHW) team, Chaplain Ibrahim Maretele assisted by Warrant Officers Virginia Cossa and Kgomotso Bessie, sharing information on services that the EHW section is providing to its members under the theme: “Cough out the Phlegm in your chest”, simply citing that members must reach out in faith when they face difficulty and utilise the services offered by the SAPS.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Timothy Sam said the members when faced with any psycho-social and spiritual problems can voluntarily refer themselves, be referred by supervisors or their commanders and or be referred to by a colleague, a spouse, life partner or a family member for EHW services.

“The Operational Commander Lieutenant Colonel Mongale in thanking the EHW team and in encouraging the team, indicated that these exercises will form part of Operation Vala Umgodi weekly activities as the vigorous task of combating illegal mining activities calls for a fit and focused team,” said Sam.

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Scrapyard owner nabbed for possession of stolen property 

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Picture: Scrap metals seized by the police/Supplied  

By OBAKENG MAJE 

12 March 2025- A scrapyard owner (70) was arrested in Jan Kempdorp for allegedly being in possession of stolen property. The suspect was arrested on Tuesday after the SAPS Provincial Firearms, Liquor and Second-Hand Goods unit with Provincial Organized Crime, Essential Infrastructure Task Team and the Jan Kempdorp SAPS Designated Second-Hand Goods Officer, searched the premises and found copper cable, copper pipes, solar panels and flood lights worth approximately R30 000.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Ssergio Kock said the suspect will appear in the Jan Kempdorp Magistrate’s Court soon. Kock said the police appreciated the information shared and encouraged the public to continue to be their ears and eyes as Essential Infrastructure crimes remains one of their priorities. 

“The search was part of the endeavour to address damage to essential infrastructure in the province. The police received a tip-off and followed up on it. They pounced on the owner of a scrap metal business on Tuesday at around 9am, and arrested him for being in possession of the stolen property. 

“The community can contact the SAPS Crime Stop number 08600 10111 or utilize the MySaps app. All information will be treated confidentially and say no to stolen goods,” he said. 

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