Monthly Archives: June 2025

SCOPA resolves to launch inquiry into RAF financial matters 

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By REGINALD KANYANE

24 June 2025 – The Standing Committee on Public Accounts (SCOPA) has today resolved to launch a full committee inquiry into allegations of maladministration, financial mismanagement, wasteful and reckless expenditure and related financial misconduct at the Road Accident Fund (RAF). This decision follows months of repeated attempts by the committee to obtain truthful, complete information from the RAF Board and executive management, to little avail.

The Chairperson of SCOPA, Songezo Zibi said the committee cannot perform its work effectively, if state entities do not provide it with complete and truthful information, with adequate context and supporting information.

Zibi said some of the issues of concern for the committee include but are not limited to failure to perform adequate background checks on senior management and executive appointments, who nonetheless have access to and manage significant sums of public funds despite having a deeply concerning employment and disciplinary history involving allegations of reckless financial management decisions.

“Subsequent refusal by the RAF to disclose to the committee, where such funds are kept and for what purpose. Failure to appoint critical officials such as a Chief Claims Officer, Head of Claims Operations, Head of Legal, Chief Corporate Support Officer, Head of People Management etc, for an unacceptably long time while decisions with a significant financial impact on the RAF are being taken, alternatively not being taken when they should.

“Apparent failures of governance with a direct impact on the rule of law, the authority and powers of Parliament as well as Chapter 9 institutions tasked with performing oversight on behalf of the South African people,” he said.

Zibi further said numerous whistle-blower accounts relating to supply chain irregularities involving more than R1 billion while internal management controls appear to not be applied. He added that these allegations point to failure by the Board to properly oversee management’s decisions and actions in line with their statutory mandate.

“The committee will approve terms of reference on 1 July 2025, and the inquiry will take place after the August recess. The volume of complaints and related documentary disclosures to the committee about the RAF make it necessary to examine them thoroughly, and make such recommendations as may be necessary to ensure that the institution does its work within legal and constitutional prescripts, and serves the public interest as intended.

“An inquiry will also give everyone involved or implicated the opportunity to state their case under oath, and receive a fair hearing before the committee draws its conclusions,” said Zibi.

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A man nabbed for being in possession of gold bar worth R10m

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Picture: A gold bar worth R10m seized by the police/Supplied

By BAKANG MOKOTO

24 June 2025- The accused, Itumeleng Dinku (52) made a brief appearance before Postmasburg Magistrate’s Court facing charges of possession of suspected illegal melted gold bar.  Dinku was arrested by the police in Postmasburg after intelligence was received that there was somebody who was selling a gold bar at Mountain View in Postmasburg.

The Hawks spokesperson in Northern Cape, Lieutenant Colonel Tebogo Thebe said upon arrival at the identified property, the police searched and found a heavy gold bar hidden inside the house. Thebe said the suspect failed to properly explain how he got to be in possession of the bar, and he was immediately placed under arrest.

“The gold bar value is estimated to be around R10 million. The Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation took over the investigation and presented the accused before court on 23 June 2025. The matter was postponed to 7 July 2025, for formal bail application,” said Thebe.

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Public consultations on ward configurations nearing completion

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

24 June 2025- The Municipal Demarcation Board (MDB) said public consultations on ward configurations will conclude on 30 June 2025. The board urges members of the public to submit their proposals on preferred ward boundaries by this deadline.

The acting Chairperson of the Board, Dr Matheakuena Mohale said the submission forms are available in all official languages and can be accessed on the MDB website: www.demarcation.org.za. Mohale said completed proposals must be emailed to registry@demarcation.org.za.

“No late submissions will be accepted. This marks the final stage of a nationwide three-month consultation process that began in April 2025.

“We have held successful public consultations despite challenges encountered. As the process concludes, we encourage all citizens to participate by submitting their proposals by 30 June 2025,” he said.

Mohale further said they thank the public and all key stakeholders for their involvement in this important and inclusive process, which forms part of preparations for free and fair local government elections. He added that, after reviewing all submissions, the MDB will publish a second draft set of wards in Provincial Gazettes.

“At that stage, members of the public will have 14 days from the publication date in their respective provincial gazettes to submit objections. This phase is scheduled to take place in July/August 2025,” said Mohale.

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A rape and murder case against Ganyesa duo back in court

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Picture: The deceased, Motlalepule Kau

By OBAKENG MAJE

24 June 2025- A kidnapping, robbery aggravating, rape and murder case against two accused, Tshepiso Montswane (33) and Gaonapotso Rantsho (33), who are from Ga-Manyai Section in Tlakgameng village, near Ganyesa, will resume today at the Ganyesa Magistrate’s Court. The duo was arrested after they allegedly kidnapped, robbed, rape and killed Motlalepule Kau (43).

It is alleged that Kau who resided in Montshioa Township, near Mahikeng, was lured by Rantsho and Montswane to Tlakgameng village, near Ganyesa under false pretence of being traditional healers. It is alleged that Kau was reported missing by her family at Mahikeng Police Station on 23 April 2025, and a search was commenced.

The accused allegedly kidnapped, robbed, raped and killed her. Kau’s lifeless body was found buried in a shallow grave in the bushes between Tlakgameng and Kudunkgwane on 24 April 2025.  

The North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said Kau’s body was positively identified by a next-of-kin. Mokgwabone said the gruesome discovery came after forensic leads led the investigation teams that worked tirelessly to the area.

“Ransho and Motswane were remanded in custody until 24 June 2025, for possible bail application. They are facing charges of kidnapping, robbery aggravating, rape and murder,” he said.

The duo told the court that, they have a pending rape case.

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A slap on the wrist for police officer caught transporting drugs

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Picture: A police officer guilty of transporting drugs/Generic

By REGINALD KANYANE

24 June 2025 – The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Ian Cameron said is dumbfounded by the decision to overturn the sanction to dismiss a member of the South African Police Service (SAPS), who was caught transporting drugs to a mere two-month suspension.

According to Cameron, the decision is not only illogical but it tarnishes the reputation of the SAPS.

He said: “We have over the past few weeks, questioned the SAPS leadership on its commitment to their disciplinary code, the law and commitment to law-abiding South Africans. This decision spews on the face of all South Africans who hope that the SAPS would always act in their best interest and in the service to protect the people.

“At face value, the decision confirms a perception that the police would go to the far extremes in protecting their own irrespective of the crime committed.”

Cameron further said this case demonstrates a general trend of lack of meaningful consequences against rogue, corrupt and criminal elements within the SAPS. He added that, the question is, how will SAPS ever overturn the state of trust deficit that this police entity is experiencing when such cases are treated with impunity and no due regard from senior management.

“This decision is illogical on many fronts, but the two most important is the criminality involved as well as the unilateral power given to senior management to reverse the decision.

“Firstly, South Africa, and the Cape Flats in the Western Cape are struggling with a high rate of substance abuse and gang-related murders. The fact that the officer was caught transporting drugs using a marked police vehicle with a known gangster as a passenger, renders the assurances that SAPS is working hard to combat drug trafficking and gangsterism in the Cape Flats mythical,” said Cameron.

He said furthermore, the arrest of this officer disproves the claim by the Western Cape Provincial Commissioner that the SAPS are making inroads in combating gangs when police themselves are involved in gangsterism. Cameron said it is unacceptable that the Western Cape Provincial Head can suggest that the employer/employee relationship has not irrevocably broken down when the officer in question was caught breaking the law.

“The SAPS leadership have on numerous occasions assured the committee that they will dismiss any errant officers, but their actions are inconsistent with this assurance. As a result of this irrational decision, the committee will invite the Minister of Police, the National Commissioner and the Western Cape Provincial Commissioner to account for the reversal of the initial sanction.

“The committee will not be complicit in the clear breaking of the law. Such impunity must never be tolerated. The envisaged meeting will broadly interrogate the framework of the SAPS disciplinary code, its effectiveness, and the number of police officers criminally charged who have been cleared in internal disciplinary processes,” he said.

Cameron said they repeat that rogue police officers have no place in the service and they must be removed urgently.

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Ngwenya has lauded sponsors D’S Damat for a job well done

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By OBAKENG MAJE

24 June 2025- The Turkey-based clothing company delivered a consignment of suits to Banyana Banyana in France during the FIFA Women’s World Cup and did the same with Bafana Bafana at the AFCON tournament in Egypt. Bafana Bafana was eliminated at the last 8 of the competition when they lost 2-1 to Nigeria through a last minute goal by defender Ekong.

They however, eliminated hosts Egypt in the last 16 in a match described by CAF Technical Committee as the best match in the tournament.

Their match against Nigeria was rated second.

Bafana Bafana earned lots of friends especially on the continent and were given VIP treatment at Cairo International Airport as well as Addis Ababa, where thousands of supporters welcomed them before being presented with a big cake and champagne on their way home.

“When you look nice, your self-confidence is at an all-time high and I would like to commend D’S Damat for making sure our national teams look the part.

“Both Bafana Bafana and Banyana Banyana looked immaculate in their sponsored suits, thanks to Damat,” said Ngwenya.

The clothing company will dress SAFA national teams, the SAFA NEC members and staff.

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Mass Grade Progression Within SAPS Ranks

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Picture: The SAPS members during parade/Generic

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

23 June 2025 – The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Ian Cameron said they welcome the announcement of the agreement reached between organised labour and the South African Police Service (SAPS) on grade progression at the Safety and Security Sectoral Bargaining Council. Cameron said the agreement is a commendable step in improving the working conditions of SAPS members, albeit in the short term.

“The committee has been steadfast in advocating for better conditions of service, as it contributes to maintaining the morale of the serving members. This is critical as officers are an important pillar in efforts to combat crime, and career stagnation as a result of the lack of a well-defined and budgeted grade progression scheme was unacceptable.

“According to the agreement, constables and sergeants with 11 plus years of service by 31 March 2025, will progress to the next rank from 1 December 2025. And Warrant Officers on notch 14 and 15 of Band B1 on 31 March 2025, will move from Band B1 to B2 on 1 December 2025,” he said.

Cameron further said, while the committee acknowledges the fiscal pressures facing all government departments, it remains of the view that career stagnation can be avoided through proper planning and foresight. He added that it is unacceptable that SAPS management enlists recruits without a clear plan for the lifecycle of the employee.

“This omission exposes limited planning and stop-gap measures that are not forward-looking. As a result, the committee will demand a comprehensive, long-term Human Resources strategy.

“Promotions must be predictable, transparent, and budgeted for, especially for career officers who hold the line in high-pressure roles,” said Cameron.  

He said the strategy must include comprehensive promotion forecasting and workforce planning, budget impact and sustainability, morale and retention plans for members affected by stagnation in ranks. Cameron emphasised that plans to professionalise the SAPS as demanded by the National Development Plan cannot be achieved, if experienced and committed members are treated as an afterthought by the SAPS.

“Meanwhile, the committee received a revised briefing on the 2025/26 annual performance plan and the 2025-2030 strategic plan. The committee commends the SAPS for internalising the recommendations by the committee and amendments to come as vital key performance areas.

“For example, the revision of the target of obtaining buccal samples from schedule 8 arrested offenders from 94.87% to 100% to bring it in line with the DNA Act, is welcomed as the previous target represented the undermining of an act of Parliament,” he said.

Cameron said also, the detection rate for extortions has been increased to 60%, which will give an impetus to the growing trend of extortions. He said it is critical that this target is revised as extortions continue to choke businesses to death impacting on job creation and economic activity.

“Furthermore, as Gender-Based Violence (GBV) continues to ravage the country, the increased target for contact crimes against women and children is appreciated.

“The committee has recommitted itself to monitoring the implementation of the revised targets to ensure that people receive quality services,” said Cameron.

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Police need your assistance to locate a missing woman in Delportshoop

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Picture: The missing woman, Ursula Nomalanga Noni/Supplied

By BAKANG MOKOTO  

23 June 2025- The police in Delportshoop are requesting assistance in locating Ursula Nomalanga Noni (20), who went missing in Delportshoop. Noni was last seen at her home in Elko Block, Delportshoop on 17 May 2025 when she was on her way to town, but never returned.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Sergio Kock said Noni is light in complexion, has medium build with short dark hair, and has an old burn scar on her left shin. Kock said she was dressed in dark blue jeans, blue suede sweater, and black and white checked sneakers.

“She is Xhosa speaking and originally from Koffiefontein, but resides in Delportshoop for the past seven years. Anyone with information can contact Detective Sergeant Boitumelo Marosela on 082 448 4850/060 972 3270 or contact the SAPS Crime Stop number 08600 10111 or utilize the MySaps app.

“All information will be treated confidentially. The investigation continues. The public is reminded that there is no waiting period to report a person missing,” he said.

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Picture: A missing person, Ursula Nomalanga Noni/Supplied 

Sambatha: “Youth development through agriculture is key”

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Picture: The North West MEC Madoda Sambatha, alongside executives from Shell South Africa, MTN SA Foundation and the founder of Earth Hub Africa during the launch of the Smart Farming Initiative in Schaumburg, Skeerpoort/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

23 June 2025- The North West MEC for Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) said in a strong endorsement of youth development through agriculture, he expressed strong support for a new smart farming initiative that will empower 10 young agri-preneurs from the rural village of Schaumburg, near Skeerpoort.

Sambatha said the launch was held on 20 June 2025, at Earth Hub Africa, where the beneficiaries officially began their journey toward earning a National Certificate in Plant Production. He further said the initiative is led by Earth Hub Africa, in partnership with the MTN SA Foundation and Shell Downstream South Africa.

“As a grassroots agri-platform, Earth Hub Africa empowers smallholder and youth-led agri-enterprises by providing land access, training, and market integration. The smart farming programme introduces young people to modern agricultural practices, digital tools, and market-oriented farming techniques.

“It aligns with the North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development’s vision of increasing youth participation in agriculture while promoting food security and economic self-sufficiency,” said Sambatha.

He lauded the Earth Hub Africa, MTN SA Foundation and Shell SA for their ongoing commitment to developing rural communities through smart agriculture, particularly in the rural areas. Sambatha added the partnership reflects the kind of innovation and collaboration.

“We need to truly uplift our people. These young agri-preneurs are the future of food security and economic resilience in our province. We affirm our department’s commitment to working closely with MTN, Shell, and other partners to ensure continued support for the beneficiaries, including mentorship and access to departmental programmes aimed at fostering growth in the agri-sector.

“In addition, we encourage both MTN and Shell to explore opportunities for expanding the Smart Farming Initiative to other districts within the province, allowing more young people to benefit from this impactful programme,” he said.

Meanwhile, one of the beneficiaries, Jafta Lin Boya, expressed heartfelt appreciation.

“This is a life-changing opportunity. We come from a place where access to resources is limited, but today we feel seen and empowered. It is an opportunity to change our lives and our communities through farming.

“This initiative highlights the power of strategic collaboration in driving meaningful change and reinforces the department’s belief that young people are key to unlocking the full potential of agriculture in the North West,” he said.

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SANDF rocked by rogue network and assassinations scandal

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SOWETO, SOUTH AFRICA – JULY 21: Members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) inspect Ndofaya Mall after last week?s looting and violent protests on July 21, 2021 in Soweto, South Africa. The violent protests spread from KwaZulu-Natal after the incarceration of the former President Jacob Zuma. (Photo by Gallo Images/Sharon Seretlo)

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

23 June 2025- The Democratic Alliance (DA) said it demands the urgent release of the hidden Moorhouse Report. The DA said this comes after twelve South African National Defence Force (SANDF) members were arrested for a top investigator’s assassination.

DA spokesperson on Defence & Military Veterans and a Member of Parliament (MP), Chris Hattingh said the report exposes rogue SANDF networks tied to torture, smuggling, and killings. Hattingh said they call for the immediate release of the Moorhouse Report, which the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) continues to conceal from Parliament and the public.

“This follows the arrest of 12 SANDF members in connection with the 2023 assassination of Hawks investigator Lieutenant Colonel Frans Mathipa. The arrests have intensified pressure for transparency, particularly regarding the report’s alleged findings on illegal SANDF activities.

“The Moorhouse Board of Inquiry was reportedly established after whistle-blower, Thulane Ndawo, a former Military Police officer, exposed illegal detentions, torture, and unauthorised operations in 2021,” he said.

Hattingh further said the report is believed to contain explosive details of rogue SANDF activity, including the 2019 theft of military rifles, the use of front companies and involvement in politically motivated killings. He added that, in November 2023, the DA submitted a Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA) application to obtain the report.

“However, this request remains unanswered. Civil society organisation Open Secrets has also escalated the matter to the United Nations, underscoring the seriousness of the allegations.

“Mathipa, assassinated on the N1 in July 2023, had been investigating a 2022 kidnapping linked to military vehicles and the secret offloading of cargo from the Russian vessel Lady R at the Simon’s Town naval base,” said Hattingh.

He said Mathipa had just obtained a court order compelling the SANDF to release critical documents when he was killed. Hattingh said these developments point to the existence of a rogue network within the SANDF operating outside of lawful command structures, involved in kidnappings, arms smuggling, and assassinations.

“We demand the immediate, unredacted release of the Moorhouse Report, a list of implicated individuals and steps toward prosecution. We demand the disclosure of SANDF-linked front companies and a plan to dismantle rogue operations within the military.

“The truth must be exposed and those responsible must face justice,” he said.

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