Daily Archives: June 10, 2025

Ipelegeng murder case postponed

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Picture: The deceased, Onalenna Mafane

By REGINALD KANYANE

10 June 2025- A case of assault with intent to do Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH), malicious damage to property and murder against three accused, Reginald Sepoko Moeme (30), Tumelo Ernest Riberry Bart (26) and Otlotleng Berry Kagisho Segole (28), was postponed by the Schweizer Reneke Magistrate’s Court until 30 June 2025, for formal bail application.

Moeme, Bart and Segole, were arrested following the outbreak of violent confrontations apparently between two local rival groups known as TRT allegedly operating from the Ahmed Kathrada Section and the Hawks Patrollers from Extension 8, in Ipelegeng Township, near Schweizer Reneke.

The acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General Patrick Asaneng said in response to this violence which posed a serious threat to peace and stability in Ipelegeng Township, he immediately directed the acting Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Commissioner, Brigadier Tshelo Tlotleng, to activate the Joint Operational Command Centre (JOC). Asaneng said the JOC was constituted by among others, local ward councillors, Community Police Forum (CPF), local businesses, taxi associations, different government departments such as the Department of Education, Health and Traffic to ensure that the situation is dealt with speedily and without further escalation of unrest and tension.

“In order to speedily respond to this public unrest, Tlotleng has further issued a stern warning to those involved and  instructed that those responsible for incitement of  public violence that have seen throngs of mostly youth from these rival groupings running amok in Ipelegeng, be identified, tracked and arrested.

“Unfortunately this senseless anarchy and violence has resulted in the brutal death of Onalenna Mafane (19). Mafane was allegedly found lying dead with stab wounds in the chest on Tuesday evening, 20 May 2025, along the Amalia/Schweizer-Reneke road,” he said.

Asaneng further said the reports of local residents, neighbours, friends and fellow residents, including adults brandishing and attacking one another with an assortment of dangerous weapons points to a serious disintegration of the social fabric and moral decay within Ipelegeng.

He added that, the public violence in Ipelegeng is not a spontaneous occurrence, but the result of a long primed ticking time-bomb which happened under the watch of parents and community leaders.

“Surely the signs have been there for local community leaders and parents, who should have acted swiftly and decisively. This violent confrontation involving mostly young persons could have been averted,” said Asaneng.

He said they have deployed a large contingent of police units that include Public Order Police (POP), Provincial Anti-Gang, Tactical Response Team (TRT), Mounted Unit and K9 to normalise the situation and to prevent damage to public and private property, loss of lives, injuries and the escalation of violence that may result in the disruption of day-to-day activities, which include schooling, public transport, businesses, health and emergency services.

Meanwhile, Moeme is facing four cases including two of assault with intent to do Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH), malicious damage to property and a murder. Bart and Segole are both linked to a house robbery case.

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Outcry as a girl mauled by dogs in Vryburg

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Picture: The victim, Remoratile Maphike/Facebook

By OBAKENG MAJE

10 June 2025- A girl (13) was allegedly mauled by the dogs in Vryburg. It is alleged that, the victim, Remoratile Maphike, was attacked by the dogs of the suspects, Anneme Bam-Smith (42) and Raynold Izak van Niekerk (46), after entering the yard, to get to the residence, where they rented a room with her family.

The Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Tryphosa van Rooyen said, following the attack, Remoratile was taken to hospital for medical attention.

“The suspects were summoned and are attending court. The case was investigated, then taken to prosecution for a decision, hence the suspects were summonsed.

“Their next court date is on 17 June 2025,” said van Rooyen.

Meanwhile, one of the residents only known as Ndede Uncle Dee said the upcoming court case set for 17 June 2025, highlights the urgent need for accountability in cases of dog attacks, particularly those involving vulnerable individuals such as children. Ndede Uncle Dee said a young girl, who remains severely injured after being mauled by two dogs, is at the centre of this case, which has drawn attention to the responsibilities of dog owners under South African law.

“Both accused, believed to be the owners of the dogs involved in the incident, have been charged under Section 1 to 6 of the Animal Matters Amendment Act 42 of 1993.

“This legislation serves to protect the public from reckless and irresponsible pet ownership, emphasizing that owners must take necessary precautions to prevent their animals from causing harm,” he said.

Ndede Uncle Dee further said the allegations against the accused reflect a serious disregard for these legal obligations. He added that, despite the charges, both individuals have been released on warning, raising concerns about the message this sends regarding the seriousness of dog attacks and the responsibilities of pet owners.

“The law clearly states that owners are liable for any injuries caused by their dogs, and it is imperative that we hold them accountable to ensure the safety of our communities.

“The young victim, whose identity is being protected, continues to suffer from the physical and emotional consequences of this attack. Her injuries have not only caused immense pain and suffering but have also resulted in significant financial burdens for her family,” said Ndede Uncle Dee.

He said medical bills, ongoing treatment, and psychological support are just a few of the costs that her parents are now facing as they seek to help their daughter recover. Ndede Uncle Dee said South African law provides a framework for addressing such incidents.

“This includes strict liability. Dog owners are held strictly liable for injuries caused by their dogs, regardless of whether they were aware of the dog’s aggressive tendencies.

“Owners are required to ensure that their dogs are properly restrained and controlled at all times to prevent harm to others. Failure to comply with these duties can result in criminal charges, fines, and civil liabilities,” he said.

Ndede Uncle Dee said this case serves as a critical reminder of the need for responsible pet ownership and the enforcement of laws designed to protect citizens. He said they call upon the community to support the young victim and her family as they navigate this challenging time and they urge the judicial system to take the necessary steps to ensure justice is served.

“As we approach the court date, we encourage the public and media to remain engaged and informed about this case and the broader implications for animal control and public safety in South Africa,” said Ndede Uncle Dee.

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A man who is accused of rape to apply for bail

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Picture: The rape accused, Kagalelo Setlhare

By OBAKENG MAJE

10 June 2025- A rape case against a well-known man (45) in Taung, will resume today in the Taung Magistrate’s Court, for formal bail application. This comes after the accused, Kagalelo Setlhare, who is affectionately known as Starzen, was arrested and charged for rape.

The North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said the complainant was attending a Taung Annual Gospel Music Festival at PH Moeketsi High School, a few months ago and she went outside the venue to look for her friend. Mokgwabone said Setlhare allegedly grabbed and pulled her to the nearby bushes, where he allegedly assaulted and raped her.

“Although the complainant works at the place in question, she was not on duty on the day of the incident, but attending a gospel festival. The accused appeared before the Taung Magistrate’s Court.

“He was arrested on Tuesday and charged with rape,” he said.

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Kgetsi ya polao e boela kgotlhatshekelo

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Setshwantsho: Molatofadiwa, Simon Molale 

Ka OBAKENG MAJE

10 Seetebosigo 2025- Kgetsi ya polao kgatlhanong le monna wa kwa motseng wa Lokgabeng, gaufi le Taung, Simon Molale (23) e tla boela kgotlhatshekelo ya Taung mo letsatsing la gompieno. Molale o latofadiwa ka go tlhaba le go bolaya lekgarebe la gagwe, eleng Tshepiso Medichane (21).

Go begwa fa Molale a ile a tlhabakaka Medichane ka thipa, mme a le botsa phokoje kwa lefelong la tiragalo fa a bonwa ke batho. Fela, go begwa fa ba lelapa la gagwe ba ne ba mo tshwara le go mo isa kwa seteisheneng sa sepodisi sa Taung di ura morago ga tiragalo.

Sebueledi sa sepodisi mo sedikeng sa Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati, Warrant Officer Tryphosa van Rooyen are Molale one a tshwarwa le go latofadiwa ka polao ya ga Medichane.

“Ke nnete molatofadiwa mo kgetsing e ya polao o tshwerwe. Molatofadiwa one a isiwa kwa seteisheneng sa sepodisi ke ba lelapa la gagwe.

“One a na le dikgobalo, mme o ile a amogelwa kwa bookelong jwa selegae. Molatofadiwa o lebagane le kgetsi ya polao, mme thipa e e dirisitsweng go bolaya moswi ene ya fitlhelwa kwa lefelong la tiragalo.”

Kgabagare, Molale one a ganelwa ka beile ke kgotlhatshekelo ya Taung morago ga magatwe a gore o lekile go tsaya botshelo jwa gagwe.

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More than 800 suspects nabbed during Operation Shanela

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Picture: Some of items seized by the police/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

10 June 2025 – More than 851 suspects were nabbed for various crimes during the weekly high density Operation Shanela. They were arrested for crimes ranging from burglaries at residential and non-residential premises, aggravated robberies, murders and rapes.

The North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said this includes, dealing in and possession of drugs, driving under the influence of liquor, illegal possession of firearms and ammunition, illegal possession of explosives, which are used during illegal mining and cash in-transit robberies, among others.

Mokgwabone further said the operation was conducted between 2 and 8 June 2025. He added that, out of 851 arrested suspects, it is worth noting that 400 were arrested by the detectives as those on the circulated wanted suspects’ lists.

“Also, 28 illegal immigrants were arrested for being in the country in contravention of the Immigration Act, 2002. As part of the operation, the police identified crime generators through Joint law enforcement compliance inspections to enforce the provisions of the Liquor and Second Hand Goods Acts.

“Twenty six unlicensed Liquor outlets (shebeens) were closed and large quantities of liquor and items such as four vehicles and tobacco products were confiscated. In Rustenburg, a suspected rhino poacher, Sergio Django (40) is expected to make a second appearance in the Rustenburg Magistrate’s Court on 17 June 2025, for rhino poaching,” said Mokgwabone.

He said Django, who is  Mozambican, was arrested on Tuesday morning, 3 June 2025, after police and local farmers worked together to stop a vehicle believed to be linked to rhino poaching at Lindleyspoort, near Boshoek. Mokgwabone said the accused was found with an unlicensed hunting rifle, five rounds of ammunition and three knives.

“In Phokeng, crime intelligence led operation by the Rustenburg Tactical Response Team (TRT) led to the arrest of a man (48), for possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition on 5 June 2025, after being found in possession of a Revolver and 48 rounds of ammunition.

“He was granted R1000 bail upon appearance in the Bafokeng Magistrate’s Court on 6 June 2025. The case was postponed until 22 August 2025. In Klerksdorp, a disruptive illegal mining operation by a multidisciplinary team at Rocin mine in the area of Wolverine on 5 June 2025, led to the confiscation of illegal mining equipment,” he said.

Mokgwabone said among others, included various explosives, four generators, jack hammers, spades, a welding machine, gas bottles, a water pump, four self-made sifting contraptions commonly referred to as pendukas and gold bearing material.

Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General Patrick Asaneng said the arrests as well as seizures or confiscation of dangerous weapons, explosives made in a space of a week is testament to the hard work done by members during the Weekly Shanela High Density Operations. 

“What is disturbing is that, despite the correctional centres and courts that are overwhelmed by the volumes of detainees, the high levels of serious and violent crimes are not subsiding with Human and Civil Rights groups, wanting to blame this on the police.

“The message that should be clear and unambiguous is that the police will relentlessly pursue those who break the law and violate the rights of law-abiding, innocent and hard-working citizens,” said Asaneng.

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Be cautious of unnecessary fires

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Picture: Fire Department personnel extinguishes fire/Generic

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

10 June 2025- As the winter chill tightens its grip, communities across the North West are being urged to remain vigilant amid severe weather conditions as well as strong fire-spreading winds. The North West MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlement and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), Oageng Molapisi said as freezing weather is upon them, an increasing dependence on indoor heating techniques like paraffin stoves, heaters and open fires are likely to be the order of the day and community members are therefore advised to exercise extreme caution to avoid disastrous domestic and veld fires.

Molapisi said the weather forecasts indicate that the cold weather will persist over the next coming days, bringing with it a combination of snowfall in high-lying areas, strong winds, severe thunderstorms, and extremely cold daytime temperatures.

“Families are encouraged not to leave children unattended near open flames or heating devices, and to practice safe fire behaviours during the winter season.

“These conditions significantly increase the potential for uncontrolled fires, both in domestic settings and across open veld. Strong winds, in particular, can propel and rapidly spread veld fires, putting lives, property, and natural ecosystems at great risk,” he said.

Molapisi said, in addition, the use of heating appliances and open flames indoors during extremely cold weather often results in accidental domestic fires, especially in informal settlements. He further said they urge all residents and communities to take extra precautions during this winter season.

“Avoid leaving fires, candles, or stoves unattended. Use heating appliances safely and keep them away from flammable materials. Do not start fires in open areas, especially on dry, windy days.

“Report any signs of veld fires immediately to local disaster management or emergency services. Disaster management teams led by Provincial Disaster Management Centre, are on high alert and ready to respond for any eventuality,” said Molapisi.

He added that individuals should do their part to stay warm, safe and protect themselves from unnecessary fire disasters this winter.

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Healthcare workers at Connie Vorster Hospital down tools

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Picture: The entrance of Connie Vorster Hospital in Hartswater

By BAKANG MOKOTO

10 June 2025- The Democratic Alliance (DA) has asked the Northern Cape Provincial Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Health to convene urgently as an alleged growing financial crisis, marked by the non-payment of health care workers, spills over into the districts.

Yesterday, health personnel of the Connie Vorster Hospital in Hartswater, including emergency medical services (EMS) staff members, allegedly downed tools in protest of the deteriorating conditions under which they are expected to work.

The DA spokesperson of Health and Member of Provincial Legislature (MPL), Isak Fritz said the protest comes after a three-week go-slow failed to secure a departmental intervention. Fritz said personnel at Connie Vorster Hospital have not received overtime allowances for time worked on weekends, public holidays and night duty, since March 2025.

“The situation mimics the non-payment of sessional doctors in places like Warrenton, and outstanding overtime allowances dating back to August, at the Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe Hospital in Kimberley.

“Aside from the gross violation of their employment contracts, the Connie Vorster Hospital is seriously understaffed. With only 16 nurses employed at this district hospital, at times, there are only two sisters on night shift,” he said.

Fritz further said patients wait up to five hours for their files to be traced, without seeing a doctor. He added that sick patients lie unattended for hours.

“Toilets are blocked and the hospital is dirty. Patients complain of going hungry. Mentally ill patients are also not kept in a separate, supervised ward, posing a further threat to staff and patients.

“Despite the Northern Cape MEC for Health, Maruping Lekwene being made aware of the health workers’ plight at an event last week, he remains tone deaf to the challenges faced by health care personnel,” said Fritz.

He said instead of treating the escalating crisis at Dr Connie Vorster as a priority, showing that he truly values our frontline health care workers, he spent the weekend campaigning for the upcoming Ward 1 by-election in Sol Plaatje.

Fritz said they have submitted a written request to the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee, detailing their concerns and asking for a meeting to be scheduled with the provincial department and provincial treasury, as soon as possible. He said healthcare workers are already waging a war on disease, injuries and ill health.

“They should not also have to fight the ANC-led provincial government for decent working conditions and quality healthcare provision,” said Fritz.

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Former Naledi Local Municipality employee sentenced to nine years imprisonment for rape

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Picture: The accused, Clifford Seiso Shoarane/Facebook

By OBAKENG MAJE

10 June 2025- The former Naledi Local Municipality employee, Clifford Seiso Shoarane, who was found guilty of rape by the Vryburg Regional Court, has been sentenced to nine years imprisonment on Momday. Shoarane, who was working as Assistant Manager in the security department at the municipality, raped a woman in Vryburg a few years ago.

It is alleged that the woman in question was a well-known prostitute in Vryburg. According to information, the woman was hitchhiking to go to Huhudi Township when she met Shoarane. Shoarane promised the woman to take her safely to Huhudi, but instead, he headed to a dilapidated building, where he raped her.

After the ordeal, Shoarane dumped the woman in the streets and left. The woman went to the Vryburg Police Station, where she opened a rape case against him.

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