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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Picture: North West MEC for COGHSTA, Oageng Molapisi during community engagement/Supplied
By BAKANG MOKOTO
11 March 2025- The North West MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), Oageng Molapisi said the anticipated Moshawane housing project will soon get off the ground, bringing a significant amount of excitement and interest from the local community. Molapisi said this during his recent engagement with the community of Moshawane village to address the housing backlog.
Molapisi also highlighted that the Ratlou Local Municipality has prioritised the Moshawane village in its Integrated Development Programme (IDP), which was forwarded to the Department of Human Settlements for construction that includes land ownership, budget and compliance, norms and standards as well as relevant legislation programmes. He assured the community that the housing project will soon take place in their village.
“Our department has made a commitment to build 100 housing units in the village with a total budget of R20 million and all the necessary processes towards the commencement of the project have been made. The project will be announced after the budget speech.
“The department will come for Sod-turning ceremony after the announcement of the departmental budget speech. This project must be an opportunity for job creation, sub-contracting must be given to the community members who have the capacity and knowledge to do the job,” he said.
Molapisi further said his department needs to ensure that the beneficiaries who were approved are available so that the department doesn’t encounter problems during allocation time. He added that most of the elderly people live in shacks and mud houses.
“So, it is the responsibility of the department to ensure that elderly people are prioritised, as well as People Living with Disabilities and Child-Headed families,” said Molapisi.
One of the elderly people, Peloyareng Modisakeng (74) said that he is happy that the Molapisi came to their village and he is looking forward to the project because he is old now and doesn’t have a proper home for his family.
A community leader, Goodwin Maphutshi (45), appreciated the report from the Molapisi as they have been longing for development within their village. Maphutshi said the project will clarify the dilemma making rounds within the village as many community members felt that the government has neglected them.
Meanwhile the Manager for Ngaka Modiri Molema District in the Department, Macmillan Keboneilwe said the marching orders from the MEC are clear that this project must be completed in the coming financial year of 2025/26. He said they will closely monitor the project to ensure that it will be timeously completed and emerging businesses and community members of Moshawane will benefit not only in getting houses but also in job opportunities coming out of the project.
11 March 2025- The Democratic Alliance leader in Northern Cape, Harold McGluwa, who is also a Member of Provincial Legislature (MPL) in the Northern Cape Provincial Legislature (NCPL) said foremost priority remains health and education. McGluwa who was part of the Northern Cape Premier, Dr Zamani Saul’s State of the Province Address (SOPA) debate in Kimberley said, they acknowledge that the health budget is substantial, however, the latest District Health Barometer released by the Health Systems Trust, reveals inefficiencies in budget allocations.
He further said some districts like Namakwa, are spending excessively, while others, such as ZF Mgcawu district, are under-resourced. McGluwa added that, the disparity is reflected in the recent picketing by hospital staff at the Dr Harry Surtie Hospital, who are advocating for improved patient services.
“One sign reads, “Fix the system, save lives,” which also applies to our Emergency Medical Services, particularly concerning ambulance availability. We must ensure that every child receives quality education. Early Childhood Development (ECD) is facing numerous challenges, particularly in townships where many parents are unable to afford necessary support.
“We welcome the commitment to no retrenchments of educators as we strive to improve educational outcomes. This implementation highlights that our government is no longer merely a rubber stamp for decisions. It means that the GNU works for the country and its people,” he said.
McGluwa said it is important to strengthen the Technical and Vocational sector. He said they must strengthen the TVET colleges, shifting the focus from a mining to a university city with the Sol Plaatje University.
“This change will require close collaboration with the department of higher education, to ensure we align our educational system with the evolving job market. I saw Deputy Minister, Dr Gondwe, visited the Kuruman TVET already. Additionally, to combat the issue of impregnators of minors, we also need to begin initiatives at schools and workplaces.
“We must stop the sexual assault of minors who are not old enough to consent. Clinics and hospitals must voluntarily avail critical information to law enforcement. Social development must play their role as well,” said McGluwa.
He said water infrastructure project of R2.5 billion in the capital city is a significant step towards resolving the ongoing water crisis in Kimberley. McGluwa said they acknowledge that contractors have been appointed, and they trust that Saul’s commitment to resolving this issue is genuine.
“However, it is crucial that we engage skilled and capable contractors who can complete their projects. There have been instances where contractors, such as the one who handled the roads in Rietfontein, abandoned their work, leaving projects incomplete since 2023. I appreciate your initiative Premier to engage with the mining sector, which has been long overdue.
“The contributions of the 35 mining companies can significantly bolster the Northern Cape economy, creating jobs across various sectors. As you rightfully say, the Northern Cape is the second-best province in the country that created jobs. Premier, you know that the Western Cape is the best province in the country,” he said.
McGluwa said Boegoebaai Harbour project is a long-time in the making with blended financing and international partners. He said its potential to be a game changer for the Northern Cape must be safeguarded through transparent and accountable management and the inclusion of the local community in order for them to benefit.
“On the topic of renewable energy, it is crucial that we harness our renewable power potential. The establishment of new substations and power lines throughout the province, in partnership with Eskom, will unlock our renewable energy capabilities and integrate solar power into the grid.
“We hope SANRAL will facilitate local companies’ involvement in the R14 billion road projects. Regarding Infrastructure and Municipal Improvements, I commend the discussions with the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS),” he said.
McGluwa said the Northern Cape MEC for Roads and Public Works, Bentley Vass will be excited to collaborate with Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation, Sello Seitlholo on constructing dams that will undoubtedly mean a lot and improve water quality and the reliability of water supply to the communities. He said it is imperative that they expedite this process, as the deadline of 2030 is too far in the future.
“The commitment by the Premier to strengthen municipalities through improved infrastructure funding is commendable. However, it is concerning that some municipalities are returning unspent funds back to the National Treasury. Sewerage issues are indeed affecting business and tourism in the province, let alone creating a health risk to communities.
“The ongoing failure to get the Homevale Wastewater Treatment Plant fully operational is central to addressing the growing spills along the R31 and the N12, as well as the extremely high-water level at the Kamfers Dam. Sol Plaatje had to face this matter in court. It is concerning in all municipalities with Kimberley and Upington contributing largely to the sewage spills into our dams and rivers,” said McGluwa.
He said Sol Plaatje also lost R80 million in grant funding due to the gross underspending of grant allocations, while Kimberley residents struggle with water shortages and sewage spills. McGluwa said they must collectively hold municipalities accountable for their expenditure to ensure that these funds are utilised effectively.
Picture: Seven accused sentenced during court proceeding/Supplied
By REGINALD KANYANE
11 March 2025- Seven accused persons were sentenced to hefty sentences by the Northern Cape High Court sitting in Kimberley for the brutal murder and robbery of a prominent businessman, Piet Els (86). On 24 January 2018 at around 5am, Els (86) and his female partner (67), were brutally assaulted and tortured on the Carters Ridge Farm, near Kimberley.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Sergio Kock said Els sustained traumatic head injuries and died 111 days later in hospital. Kock said Els’ partner was sexually and physically assaulted in the attack.
“The accused, Morapedi Rankali (28), Motlalalentwe Qhautse (37), Lizbeth Ndlala (56), Themba Lawrence Maja (68), Oupa Jeffrey Mahomane (44), Samson Sam Mbokane (63), and Jabulani Wilson Zuma (62), fled with money, jewellery, Krugerrands, two firearms, cell phones, a Mercedes Benz and other valuables.
“The police followed up on information and the stolen vehicle as well as other valuables were recovered. The accused were arrested in Mpumalanga, KwaZulu Natal and Kimberley, respectively between 2018 and 2020,” he said.
Kock further said Morapedi Rankali was sentenced to three years imprisonment for theft, but it was wholly suspended for five years. He added that Motlalalentwe Qhautse sentenced to 20 years imprisonment for house breaking with the intent to rob and robbery with aggravating circumstances, 5 years for sexual assault and life for murder.
“Lizbeth Ndlala received 10 years for housebreaking with the intent to rob and robbery. Themba Lawrence Maja was sentenced to 10 years for housebreaking with the intent to rob and robbery. Oupa Jeffrey Mahomane was sentenced to 20 years for house breaking with the intent to rob and robbery with aggravating circumstances, 5 years for sexual assault and life for murder.
“Samson Sam Mbokane received 10 years for housebreaking with the intent to rob and robbery, while Jabulani Wilson Zuma was sentenced to 20 years for house breaking with the intent to rob and robbery,” said Kock.
Meanwhile, the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, commended the investigating team, as well as the NPA for the impeccable investigation and prosecution of the case. Otola said the team ensured that justice was served, despite a life being lost in the process.
Picture: North West MEC for COGHSTA, Oageng Molapisi/Facebook
By OBAKENG MAJE
11 March 2025- The North West Provincial Legislature Portfolio Committee on Premier and Finance said it has adopted a committee report on the second adjustment appropriation bill 2024/2025, where an additional R150 million rand has been appropriated to the Department of Human Settlements for housing development projects and matters therein. The committee said the funds will ensure that the department meets its obligations in terms of the Informal Settlements Upgrading Grant.
The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee, Nathan Oliphant said the department has been negatively affected by significant budget cuts, which affected various projects. Oliphant said during deliberations, the committee emphasised the need for heightened oversight in respect of this adjustment and to ensure no wastage.
“We welcome the confirmation by the Provincial Treasury that they have done due diligence in respect of the capacity and ability to expend on the appropriate amount. We are furthermore happy that this service delivery resources will ensure contractor payment and further ensure that boots are on the ground as our people don’t want stories and they want decent housing which the department has committed to.
“We tabled the second adjustment appropriation bill 2024/2025 committee report at the Legislature House Sitting, where it was adopted,” he said.
Meanwhile, the North West MEC for Finance, Kenetswe Mosenogi tabled the 2024/25 Second Adjustment Budget for North West province, following the approval of the allocations by the National Treasury and the National Department of Human Settlements. Mosenogi stated that an additional R150 million to the Informal Settlements Upgrading Partnership Grant (ISUPG) for the Department of Human Settlements, has been available as part of the 2024/25 second adjustment allocation, increasing the ISUPG allocation from R357.135 million to R507.135 million.
She further said, as a result, the department’s total allocation increases from R1.894 billion to R2.044 billion, and the Provincial Fiscal Framework grows from R54.159 billion to R54.310 billion. Mosenogi added that the additional allocation will allow the department to deliver on its mandate of providing better housing and settlements for citizens of the province.
“These additional funds should be utilised to respond to the needs of the citizens of the province. All indications are that the department would be able to utilise their allocation in the current financial year without rollovers,” she said.
The Guardian 