Daily Archives: July 11, 2025

SAPS making inroads in fighting GBVF

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

11 July 2025- The South African Police Service (SAPS) said it is continuing to accelerate its response to combat and prevent Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) through its intensified nationwide operations across the country. The SAPS said these operations and police actions carried out between 30 June 2025 to 6 July 2025 led to the arrest of 99 suspects for rape, Gauteng leading at 26 arrests.

The police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel, Vincent Mukhathi said in addition, police arrested 73 wanted rape suspects as well as 16 individuals tracked down for sexual offences in various provinces. Mukhathi said the SAPS is also focusing on community mobilization, enhancing better response, and strengthening collaboration with other government departments and community-based organisations in the fight against GBVF in the country.

“This week, the SAPS effected the key arrests for perpetrators of GVBF including arresting a man (29) in Limpopo for the alleged murder of his girlfriend (33) in Nailana village. He allegedly assaulted his girlfriend with sticks to death.

“He has already appeared before the Senwabarwana Magistrate’s Court on 8 July 2025, facing charges of murder. In a separate case, Sanele Fakudze (37), Eswatini foreign national, was arrested in connection with a murder of a girl (4) and her 28-year-old mother found unconscious next to the road in Kaapmuiden, Mpumalanga Province,” he said.

Mukhathi said in addition, 8 July 2025, a man (40) was arrested for allegedly raping his ex-girlfriend (39) in Thohoyandou on 16 June 2025. He said the accused appeared before the Thohoyandou Magistrate’s Court on 9 July 2025, on charges of rape.

“These arrests form part of the SAPS’s intensified 90-day blitz to combat and prevent Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) across the country. Moreover, the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) members successfully secured notable convictions during this period,” he said.

Mukhathi said in the months of May and June 2025, Gauteng Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences unit detectives secured 21 life term sentences and an additional 1 420 years’ imprisonment to 40 accused for crimes committed against women and children. He said an accused (22), was sentenced to life imprisonment after he was found guilty of the repeated rape of an 11-year-old girl in Mdantsane in August 2020.

“In Northern Cape, Calvinia Regional Court sentenced accused (40) to life imprisonment after being found guilty of raping three siblings aged between 4 and 11 years in October 2022.

“On 4 July 2025, the Burgersfort Regional Court sentenced a well-known hip-hop artist Samuel Boomfire Mbuyane (42) to three life terms imprisonment for three counts of rape of a boy (9) in Driekop village in November 2020,” said Mukhathi.

Mukhathi said the accused, Mosala Benito Ellester (22) sentenced to life imprisonment for raping a woman (64) in Phelindaba, Bloemfontein in December 2023. He said the police will continue to conduct their targeted operations to address criminal activities, including GBVF, and ensure safe and security of communities, especially women, children and vulnerable groups.

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Tshwane A clinches Telkom Netball Championship title

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Picture: Tshwane A and Johannesburg A in action during the Telkom Netball Championship at DF Malan, Cape Town/Supplied  

By BAKANG MOKOTO

11 July 2025- Tshwane A clinched the 5th edition of the Telkom Netball Championship after defeating Johannesburg A 36-26 in a pulsating U19 final held in Bellville, Cape Town. During the pool matches, Tshwane narrowly lost to Johannesburg with a score of 30-27 on a rainy day in the Mother City, but they made a strong comeback to win the final. Johannesburg went into the tie as favourites, but a third-quarter surge by Tshwane ultimately secured their victory.

Tshwane A, under the tutelage of Amanda Mynhardt, retained the title they won last year when they beat Cape Wineland. Mynhardt praised the TNC initiative, describing it as one of the most amazing platforms for young people.

“The week here at the TNC was just amazing. We had a great team, but it was also very young and inexperienced. They were never the favourites to win this tournament.

“I think they just showed up this week and they played together as a unit. The TNC remains one of the most amazing platforms for the youngsters,” she said.

Mynhardt further said her charges executed the game plan to perfection. She added that the age they are at, it’s hard to stick to the game plan, but for her, it’s the intellect of these players that was really surprising and how they stuck to what they wanted to do today.

Despite being on the losing side, Johannesburg A’s coach, Adine Adriaanse, expressed her excitement about the tournament’s success. Adriaanse praised the excellent organisation, highlighting that the wellness, safety and health of the players were prioritised.

“We express gratitude for providing a platform, where these talented players can showcase their skills. I think the week in Cape Town was well arranged. You got the sense that the health and safety of players was prioritised.

“The accommodation was outstanding. I’m glad for girls’ sport, we’re doing so much and going the extra mile,” she said.

Regarding the team’s performance in the final, Adriaanse said they were outstanding, despite the fact that they entered the tournament as complete strangers.

“It was outstanding, coming together as a team, not knowing each other. We knew the final would be tough…well done to Tshwane. It was an exceptional experience. The vibe was something magical,” she said.

Meanwhile, this year, the five-day tournament attracted 95 teams, up from 88 last year, indicating its growing popularity. The tournament also featured guest teams from Namibia competing in the U17 and U18 age categories.

A national U17 team has been selected to represent South Africa at the upcoming Confederation of School Sport Associations of Southern Africa (COSSASA) Games in August, which will take place in Eswatini.

U/19 INDIVIDUAL AWARDS:

Best Shooter:  Kabura Abubakar – Johannesburg

Best Mid Court Player: Jade Atkins – Tshwane

Best Defender: Amia Roux – Dr Kenneth Kaunda

Player of the Tournament: Boitumelo Mokoena – Johannesburg

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Ramaphosa should act decisively against Mchunu

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Picture: The Minister of Police, Senzo Mchunu

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

11 July 2025- Congress of the People (COPE) acting Deputy President, Teboho Loate said there is a widespread frustration felt across South African society with the Republic of South Africa (RSA) president, Cyril Ramaphosa’s double standards and lack of decisive action in addressing the serious allegations against Minister of Police, Senzo Mchunu.

Loate said recent claims by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi on 6 July 2025, accusing Mchunu of political interference and links to criminal gangs, have heightened public outrage.

He further said Ramaphosa’s failure to respond firmly exposes a troubling pattern of indecision and double standards that undermines trust in the institutions of democracy. Loate added that this inconsistency in Ramaphosa’s leadership is glaring when comparing his swift response to minor infractions with his reluctance to tackle these grave allegations.

“For instance, Ramaphosa promptly removed Andrew Whitfield from his ministerial position over a relatively minor breach of protocol. In stark contrast, the accusations against Senzo Mchunu, which emerged on 6 July 2025, have yet to elicit a firm response, leaving a gap of over six days with no apparent action, as he delays addressing the issue.

“This disparity raises serious questions about the President’s commitment to ethical governance and accountability. A 2023 study by the University of Cape Town’s Centre for Social Science Research revealed that 67% of South Africans view high-level corruption as a significant barrier to trust in leadership,” he said.

Loate said this statistic highlights the public’s growing frustration with the endless meetings, commissions, and empty promises. He said South Africans are no longer willing to tolerate delays or investigations that lead nowhere.

“They demand strong, immediate action against corruption to restore faith in their government. Ramaphosa’s repeated failures to set a robust ethical tone strengthen COPE’s long-standing call for the direct election of the President by the people.

“As outlined in Chief Justice Raymond Zondo’s State Capture Report, direct elections would enhance accountability, ensuring the President answers to voters rather than party elites. This reform would break the cycle of impunity and indecision that has plagued the current system, fostering a leadership that reflects the will and values of the electorate,” said Loate.

He said COPE believes this is a critical step toward rebuilding trust and delivering the ethical governance South Africans deserve. Loate urges Ramaphosa to act decisively against Mchunu this Sunday and to support constitutional reforms for direct presidential elections.

“The time for talking is over. South Africa needs action now,” he said.

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ANC welcomes the return of Unit 4 at Medupi Power Station

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Picture: Medupi Power Station

By REGINALD KANYANE

11 July 2025- The African National Congress (ANC) said it welcomes the successful return of Unit 4 at Medupi Power Station to the national grid, restoring 800MW of capacity after the 2021 explosion. The party said this is a significant breakthrough in the country’s journey towards energy security, industrial revitalisation, and inclusive growth.

The ANC national spokesperson, Mahlengi Bhengu said they are particularly impressed that this milestone was achieved eight months ahead of schedule. Bhengu said this milestone reaffirms the correctness of the ANC-led government’s Energy Action Plan and the decisive leadership of Minister of Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa.

“It proves that when leadership is aligned with ANC policy and guided by clear purpose, delivery follows to benefit the people of South Africa. The return of Unit 4 strengthens the electricity grid, supports the recovery of our logistics network, and enables growth in mining, agriculture, transport, and manufacturing.

“The ANC commends the engineers, workers, and Eskom management for their resolve and technical skill. We further reiterate the importance of continued investment in energy security integrating clean technology retrofits to affirm our commitment to a just energy transition that serves our people,” she said.

Bhengu further said Medupi’s recovery is a building block towards a more reliable energy supply, restored investor confidence and a capable developmental state that drives transformation. She added that the ANC will continue to lead this progressive developmental march with the people at the centre.

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A man sentenced to life imprisonment for murder, possession of firearm

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

11 July 2025- A man (34) sentenced to life imprisonment by the North West High Court for murder, two counts of attempted murder, robbery with aggravating circumstances, unlawful possession of a firearm, and unlawful possession of ammunition. This comes after the accused, Shakandinnyi Ndivhoswami Tshiovhe was convicted.

The Nationals Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in North West, Sivenathi Gunya said convictions relate to a violent incident that occurred on 7 April 2021 at Dr Steenkamp’s surgery in Block A, Mabopane. Gunya said Tshiovhe, along with a group of men, stormed the surgery in broad daylight and robbed the doctor and patients of their valuables.

“During the robbery, one of the patients was fatally shot and died at the scene from a gunshot wound. As the situation escalated, Dr Steenkamp, acting in self-defence, used his licensed firearm and shot Tshiovhe, who sustained a gunshot wound to the chest.

“Witnesses reported seeing Tshiovhe bleeding as he fled the scene with his accomplices in a white Toyota Quantum parked outside. The next day, police followed up on information obtained from a witness and visited Odi Hospital to investigate the Quantum,” he said.

Gunya further said surveillance footage led to the identification and arrest of Tshiovhe and another suspect. He added that on 5 May 2021, an identification parade was conducted, during which some victims positively identified both individuals.

“Furthermore, blood samples collected from the scene were forensically linked to Tshiovhe through buccal sample analysis. The case against the co-accused was later withdrawn due to insufficient evidence. Tshiovhe pleaded not guilty to all charges.

“However, in aggravation of sentence, state advocate Ferdinand Tlatsana argued that the gravity of the offences and the lack of substantial and compelling circumstances warranted the prescribed minimum sentence,” said Gunya.

He said the court concurred and imposed life imprisonment for murder, 15 years imprisonment for two counts of robbery, 10 years imprisonment for attempted murder, 5 years imprisonment for unlawful possession of a firearm and 5 years imprisonment for unlawful possession of ammunition. Gunya said all sentences are to run concurrently with the life sentence.

“Tshiovhe was also declared unfit to possess a firearm,” he said.

Welcoming the judgment, Director of Public Prosecutions in the North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, commended Tlatsana, the investigating officer, and all stakeholders involved in securing the conviction.

“These sentences underscore the National Prosecuting Authority’s unwavering commitment to fighting crime, upholding the rule of law, and ensuring justice for victims of violent crime,” she said.

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Invocation of Section 139(1)(a) at Mamusa     

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Picture: The embattled Mamusa Local Municipality 

By REGINALD KANYANE 

11 July 2025- The North West MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs, Oageng Molapisi has expressed deep concern after disruptions at a meeting meant to officially communicate the invocation of Section 139(1)(a) of the Constitution at Mamusa Local Municipality as resolved by the Provincial Executive Council.

In an unprecedented turn of events, community members demanded to meet Molapisi directly reporting alleged failure by council to follow due process in the appointment of senior officials and a lack of service delivery amongst others. 

Molapisi further said he takes a ‘dim view’ and strongly condemns actions by community members. He added that although disappointed by the disruption, he still chose to listen to the community’s concerns. 

“We urge them to allow the Department of COGTA to do its work and help fix the problems. In respect of matters currently before the court, including the reappointment of the Municipal Manager, we urge the community to allow due legal process to take its course, await outcomes and respect courts systems. 

“An urgent meeting with councillors will be convened within seven days to address outstanding issues. In light of today’s events, I am more determined to carry out the Provincial Executive Council’s decision. The decision of EXCO will be communicated to the council and implemented without fail,” said Molapisi.

IMATU branch secretary in Schweizer Reneke, David Motswana said as the union, they welcome the decision. Motswana said two days ago, municipal employees embarked on a protest over unpaid salaries. 

“It is not for the first time that municipal employees go months without getting their salaries. However, some municipal employees embarked on a protest because they do not want the legitimate Municipal Manager, Rantsho Gincane in the cocoon,” he said.

SAMWU branch secretary, Lebogang Tutubalang shared the same sentiments. Tutubalang said: “You will remember that Section 139(1)(a) of the South African Constitution allows a provincial government to intervene in a municipality when it fails to fulfill its executive obligation. 

“This intervention involves issuing a directive to the municipal council, instructing them on how to meet their responsibilities. So, we will not stand in the way of MEC to implement a mechanism to ensure the municipality upholds its constitutional and legal duties.”

Tutubala said the implementation was done after analysis and they welcome that. 

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Police probe Magogong accident after five people died

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Picture: Two Ford Rangers involved in a head-on collision

By OBAKENG MAJE  

11 July 2025- The police in Northern Cape said they are investigating a culpable homicide case. This comes after five people died in a horrible car accident on N18 road between Magogong village and Taung.  

According to the Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Molefi Shemane, two Silver Ford Double Cab Rangers were allegedly involved in a head-on collision. Shemane said the incident took place at 1:39pm. Shemane said four people, who were traveling in one of the Ford Rangers (a man aged 63, woman aged 56 and two girls aged 8 and 16) died on the scene.

“In the other Ford Ranger, a driver (22) died on the scene. The deceased were declared dead on the scene by paramedics. Police investigations continue to determine the cause of the accident.

“Anyone who might have information that can assist the police with their investigation can contact Hartswater SAPS on 053 474 2087 or on 053 474 2155 or call SAPS crime stop number on 08600 10111 or use the MySAPS App. All information will be treated confidentially,” he said.

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Monnapule Saleng loaned to Orbit College FC  

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Picture: orlando Pirates FC player, Monnapule Saleng

By OBAKENG MAJE

11 July 2025- The newly-promoted Orbit College FC coach, Pogisho Makhoye said they welcome back their former star player, Monnapule Saleng (27). This comes after Orlando Pirates FC loaned Saleng to his former club for the 2025/2026 season.

“This marks a significant reunion between Saleng and us. You will remember that Saleng played a pivotal role in the team. So, I am happy that he is back because he is like a son to me.

“I’m very happy to have my son back. I still cannot believe it. I think I will believe it when I see him when we return to training on Saturday or when the club unveils him,” said Makhoye.

He further said he personally pushed for the loan deal, having asked Orbit’s management to negotiate with Pirates to bring Saleng back to Rustenburg, where his professional journey began. Makhoye added that Saleng is one of the players he asked management to engage Pirates about, at least on loan.

“I’m so happy the deal went through. I was so excited to read it when Pirates announced it yesterday. Our connection with Saleng stretches back to eight years ago when I first discovered the young talent and brought him to Orbit College FC.

“I discovered the boy when he was young. I brought him to Rustenburg. I worked with him for three years. That’s why I say he’s like a son to me. I made him the player he is today. No one knows this player more than me,” he said.

He said this deep bond and understanding of Saleng’s abilities gives him confidence that the winger will thrive in familiar surroundings. Makhoye said Saleng previously played under him at Orbit before he moved to Free State Stars FC and later joined Orlando Pirates in 2021.

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