Monthly Archives: July 2025

Two police officers nabbed for murder

NEWS Leave a comment

By BAKANG MOKOTO

2 July 2025- Two police officers, Sergeant Piet Matsoso (38) and Sergeant Siyabonga Kunene (31), stationed at Evaton Police Station, appeared in the Sebokeng Magistrates’ Court alongside their friend, Hofney Morobe (36). The trio faces charges of murder of police officer Constable Gift Mokoena, assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, robbery with aggravating circumstances, defeating the ends of justice, and handling a firearm while under the influence of alcohol.

It is alleged that on the evening of 16 May 2021, the two police officers were off duty and driving around the Golden Gardens area with Morobe. They spotted a vehicle suspected of involvement in a house robbery and began pursuing it. The car stopped at a nearby BP petrol station, where the accused confronted and allegedly assaulted the four occupants.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Gauteng, Lumka Mahanjana said after the assault, they took one of the complainants’ cellphone and car keys from one of the complainants. Mahanjana said Morobe, accompanied by Matsoso and Kunene, allegedly drove the victims around before handing them over to members of the Community Policing Forum (CPF).

“It is further alleged that during this time, Morobe and Mokoena, who had joined the community members, began to assault the victims. In the midst of the assault, Morobe allegedly walked away from the group, took Matsoso’s service firearm from the vehicle, and fatally shot Mokoena.

“The victim was rushed to Nkanyezi Private Hospital in Sebokeng, where he succumbed to his injuries. The accused handed themselves over to Sebokeng Police Station on 30 June 2025,” she said.

Mahanjana further said the bail application, the state did not oppose their release. She added that prosecutor submitted an affidavit by the Investigating Officer, Warrant Officer Nyongwana, confirming the accused’s cooperation with police, their verified addresses, and their voluntary surrender.

“The affidavit further indicated that the investigation is complete and that the witnesses are not known to the accused people, therefore posing no risk of interference.

“The court granted bail of R1000 each with no additional conditions. The matter was postponed to 4 September 2025 for a directive from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

taingdailynews@gmail.com

A man sentenced to 10 years imprisonment for fraud

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: The accused, Patrick Segalo/Supplied

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

2 July 2025- The Specialised Commercial Crimes Court sitting in Molopo has sentenced Patrick Segalo (52) to direct imprisonment following his conviction on seven counts of fraud and seven counts of money laundering. The court consolidated all counts for sentencing and imposed 10 years’ imprisonment for fraud, five of which are wholly suspended for five years, and an additional five years for money laundering.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in North West, Sivenathi Gunya said sentences will run concurrently, resulting in an effective five years of direct imprisonment. Gunya said Segalo was also declared unfit to possess a firearm.

“The conviction arises from Segalo’s time as chairperson of Motswedi Financial Services Co-operative Limited, an entity established to serve the Motswedi community by managing pension withdrawals, issuing loans, and administering social grant payments.

“As one of the account signatories, Segalo had access to the co-operative’s finances. Investigations revealed that between 2 November 2020 and 19 October 2021, large sums of money were unlawfully transferred from the entity’s accounts to those of his then co-accused, Shoheb Shaick, who was convicted and sentenced in a separate matter last year,” he said.

Gunya further said Shaick, in turn, moved the funds through Seleri Enterprise, a shell company used to launder money stolen from Motswedi Financial Services. He added that, more than R1 million was siphoned through this scheme.

“Segalo pleaded guilty to all charges. In aggravation of sentence, state prosecutor, Advocate Theo Moetaesi argued that Segalo directly benefited from the crimes, which were well-orchestrated and committed over an extended period.

“He highlighted the devastating impact on the Motswedi community, including the loss of trust in the co-operative and significant financial harm. Moetaesi urged the court to impose a sentence that would restore faith and serve as a warning to would-be offenders,” said Gunya.

In delivering judgment, Magistrate Okaeng Mothibi noted that despite Segalo’s guilty plea, he failed to demonstrate genuine remorse and offered no explanation for his actions, particularly given the position of trust he held within the organisation.

Welcoming the sentence, Dr. Rachel Makhari, Director of Public Prosecutions in the North West, stated: “This sentence should send a strong message to those who abuse positions of trust for personal gain. The NPA remains unwavering in its commitment to fight commercial crimes and protect the interests of vulnerable communities.”

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Molapisi extends term for NWHC interim Board members

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: The NWHC interim board members

By REGINALD KANYANE

2 July 2025- North West MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs, Oageng Molapisi, has officially extended the term of office for the Interim Board of the North West Housing Corporation (NWHC). The interim board was initially appointed in April 2025 in accordance with Section 3(2) of the North West Housing Corporation Act (Act No. 24 of 1982).

Molapisi further said their term is now extended, effective 1 July 2025, to continue serving until a fully constituted permanent board is appointed. He added that, extension of the board’s term is a necessary step to ensure oversight, maintain administrative continuity, and allow the corporation to implement its mandate. 

“We would like to reaffirm our confidence in the interim board’s ability to carry out its duties with professionalism, accountability, and integrity.

“The current interim board possesses the requisite knowledge and experience to drive the NWHC mandate, particularly as we drive the process to finalise the appointment of the new board,” said Molapisi.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Two men sentenced to life sentences for murder

NEWS Leave a comment

By AGISANANG SCUFF

2 July 2025- Two accused, Paseka Motlhabe (40) and Mveleli Notshozi (40), were sentenced to life imprisonment by the Klerksdorp Regional Court. Motlhabe and Notshozi were convicted of the brutal murder of Jerry Moitoi (35) and will each serve life imprisonment. The incident occurred on 28 April 2024 in Orkney.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson, Sivenathi Gunya said investigations revealed that Motlhabe and Notshozi were drinking at a local restaurant when the altercation started. Gunya said the evidence presented in court showed that the deceased, Moitoi, had taken and sold empty bottles previously used by the accused.

“When the accused confronted him and demanded the proceeds, he refused to hand over the money. This led to a vicious attack, captured on the restaurant’s surveillance footage, which highlighted the brutal and senseless nature of the crime.

“Moitoi later succumbed to his injuries and a murder case was opened. Both accused were arrested on 9 May 2024 and remained in custody until the conclusion of the trial,” he said.

Gunya further said they pleaded guilty to the charge of murder, read with the provisions of Section 51(1) of the Criminal Law Amendment Act 105 of 1997.

“In aggravation of sentence, state prosecutor, Lihloriso Mthoa urged the court not to deviate from the prescribed minimum sentence, citing the rise in violent crimes and the particularly heinous nature of the offence.

“The magistrate agreed, stating that the accused showed no regard for human life and acted in common purpose. The court found no substantial or compelling circumstances to justify a lesser sentence and imposed life imprisonment on both,” he added.

Meanwhile, welcoming the sentence, the Director of Public Prosecutions in the North West, Dr. Rachel Makhari, commended the investigation and prosecution teams for their diligence and commitment.

“The NPA remains steadfast in ensuring accountability. Violent crimes will not be tolerated, and perpetrators will face the full might of the law,” said Makhari.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Kgetsi ya polao ya kwa Matlhako 2 e buseditswe morago

NEWS Leave a comment

Setshwantsho: Banna ba le babedi ba ba latofadiwang ka polao

Ka BAKANG MOKOTO

3 Phukwi 2025- Kgetsi ya polao kgatlhanong le banna ba le babedi ba kwa motseng wa Matlhako 2, gaufi le Pudimoe, e buseditswe morago go fitlha 14 Phukwi 2025, ke kgotlhatshekelo ya Taung. Balatofadiwa, Phemelo Maine (40) ga mmogo le Okemetse Phatlhanyane (27), ba latofadiwa ka go bolaya Boingotlo Makaota (16). Go begwa fa setopo sa ga Makaota, se bonwe kwa lebitleng le le seng boteng kwa nageng kwa motseng wa Matlhako 2.

Go ya ka moagisani, one a utlwa segajaja sa lekgarebe mo bosigong jwa Labone kwa ntlung ya ga Maine. Go begwa fa moagisani o, gape a tlhalositse fa a ne a bona Maine ga mmogo le ditsala tsa gagwe ba kgorometsa kereibaye e go bontshang fa ene e pegile sengwe mo teng mo mosong wa Labotlhano.

Sebueledi sa sepodisi mo Bokone Bophirima, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone are: “Sepodisi se ile sa tswa letsholo, mme seo se ile sa lebisa kwa go epololweng ga setopo sa ga Makaota.

“Go begwa fa setopo seo, sene se phuthetswe ka kobo, mme moswi one a supiwa ke ba lelapa la gagwe. Dipatlisiso di shupa fa setopo sa ga Makaota, se ne se na le dintho mo tlhogong, mo diropeng ga mmogo le mo maotong.”

Mokgwabone are dipatlisiso di ile tsa bolodiwa kwa lelapeng la ga Maine, mme diaparo tsa moswi di ile tsa fitlhelwa teng. Mokgwabone are, Maine o tshwerwe ka Lamatlhatso morago ga go ineele kwa sepodising.

“Monna o, o ile a isiwa kwa sepodisi ke morwa rragwe, mme one a tshwarwa. Sepodisi se ile sa botsolotsa Phatlhanyane o a bonweng a tsamaya le Maine fa a ne a kgorometsa kereibaye, mme le ene o ile a lelelwa ke ditshipi,” Mokgwabone wa tlhalosa.

Mokomishinara wa Sepodisi wa nama o sa tshwere mo Bokone Bophirima, Major General Patrick Asaneng, o kgadile ka bogale tiragalo e. Asaneng are polao eo ya go tlhorontshiwa ga bong e kabo e efogilwe fa baagi ba ne ba le malala-a-laotswe.

Kgabagare, Maine o ile a ipona molato mabapi le ditatofatso tsotlhe kgatlhanong le ene, mme o solofetswe go ka nguna-nguna seo le mmueledi wa puso. Phatlhanyane ene o setse a inkeme fela ka la gore a neelwe beile, mme kopo ya gagwe e ka rediwa fa kgetsi e boela kgotlhatshekelo.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

‘Clean water begins with clean rivers’

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: Clean water from the river/Generic

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

2 July 2025- The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) urges all South Africans to roll up their sleeves and participate in cleaning polluted rivers as part of the 2025 Clear Rivers Campaign. The campaign, which is observed annually in July, is a nationwide effort, themed: “South Africa is a water-scarce country – clean up and protect our water resources,” to encourage communities to take ownership of their local rivers, streams, and wetlands by actively protecting and restoring these essential water ecosystems.

The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) spokesperson, Wisane Mavasa said in alignment with Nelson Mandela Month, the campaign promotes hands-on public involvement and aims to strengthen a culture of environmental responsibility and water stewardship across the country. Mavasa said the Clear Rivers Campaign was first introduced in 2016 as an initiative to inspire action and awareness around the state of South Africa’s water resources.

“Since then, it has grown into a cornerstone movement encouraging communities to dedicate time during the month of July, particularly on Mandela Day, to clean up nearby rivers, streams, wetlands and canals.

“Healthy rivers are not only essential for human survival and environmental health, but they are also central to the social, cultural, and economic fabric of communities. In many parts of the country, especially in rural areas, rivers are relied upon for drinking water, cooking, fishing, washing, and sustaining livestock,” she said.

Mavasa further said indigenous riverbank vegetation also supports wildlife, helps prevent erosion, and provides materials for everyday use and small business crafts. She added that rivers hold deep cultural and spiritual meaning for many South Africans.

“From ancestral rituals to religious ceremonies such as baptism and ceremonial cleansing, clean and accessible rivers are sacred spaces for reflection, healing and heritage. The degradation of these natural sites does not just pollute the environment, it diminishes cultural identity and connection.

“Economically, rivers and wetlands are sources of natural materials used to build homes, weave baskets, craft mats, and support local artisanal trades. When managed sustainably, these resources can help strengthen local economies and create pathways to economic resilience and dignity,” said Mavasa.

She said beyond clean-ups, the Clear Rivers Campaign is part of a broader drive to entrench environmental awareness and behavioural change in everyday life. Mavasa said it highlights the need for integrated and inclusive water resource management, where individuals, communities and institutions work together to protect freshwater systems from pollution, misuse, and neglect.

“The Clear Rivers Campaign further seeks to strengthen the country’s efforts to promote water security, environmental awareness and behavioural change.  The department encourages South Africans to take action in their communities, whether by organising river clean-up drives, adopting sections of rivers for long-term care, or educating others on the importance of keeping water ecosystems healthy and pollution-free,” she said.

Mavasa said by taking part in the Clear Rivers Campaign, citizens are not only cleaning rivers, but they are also helping to secure the country’s water future, protect biodiversity, and honour the legacy of a leader who believed in collective responsibility. She said clean water begins with clean rivers and protecting them is a duty shared by all.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

A man sentenced to life imprisonment for series of rape

NEWS Leave a comment

By REGINALD KANYANE

2 July 2025- A man (36) was sentenced to life imprisonment and additional 25 years by the Molopo Regional Court for series of rape. The accused, Bongani Ntoro (36) raped four women and a girl (12) between 2007 and 2010 in Magogoe, Tloung and Seweding villages in Mahikeng.

The North West police spokesperson, Captain Mpho Manyoba said Ntoro would, in committing the crimes, cover his face to conceal his identity. Manyoba said following intensive and meticulous investigations, which were applauded by the court, Ntoro was linked with the evil deeds through forensic DNA leads.

“The long arm of the law caught up with him at Mahikeng Taxi Rank on 17 May 2024. The state ensured that the accused was denied bail and had been in custody until he was sentenced.

“He was sentenced to 18 years imprisonment for three counts of housebreaking with intent to rape, life imprisonment for three counts of rape and six year imprisonment for sexual offence.

“Ntoro was sentenced to 30 years imprisonment for two counts of aggravated robbery. The sentences will run concurrently with life imprisonment,” she said.

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Major General Patrick Asaneng thanked the investigating officer, Sergeant Tshepiso Makunye, Reservist Constable Makabe, the state prosecutor, advocate Kefentse Diseko and all other role players for their concerted and tireless efforts.

“The arrest,  successful prosecution, conviction and life sentence imposed on this merciless sexual predator is the apt response to the President’s directive and the actualization of the government’s multi-sectoral Gender Based Violence & Femicide National Strategic Plan’ six pillars approach, especially the pillars on Prevention and Rebuilding Social Cohesion, Justice, Safety and Protection as well as Response, Care, Support and Healing.

“The dedication, commitment, proficiency and excellent work by the police and prosecution in securing conviction and long prison sentence is inspiring, appreciated and commendable and will further strengthen the fight against the scourge of  GBVF, especially sexual assault and sexual violence against women and children’” said Asaneng.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Thread with caution at WAFCON – Motau 

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: Banyana Banyana player, Amogelang Motau during training

By OBAKENG MAJE

2 July 2025 – Banyana Banyana midfielder Amogelang Motau says the Women’s African Cup of Nations (WAFCON) champions should thread with caution in the continental tournament. The Sasol-sponsored South Africans senior women’s national team are in Casablanca, Morocco and have been hard at work preparing for their opening game against Ghana on 7 July in the upcoming CAF WAFCON.

In the second match they will be up against Tanzania on Friday, 11 July 2025, they will then have a date with Mali in the last fixture of the group stages on 14 July.

Although they are the defending champions, Motau says in truth they are contenders just like all the other 11 nations that will gather for the North African tournament.

“That’s the mentality they’re (technical team) trying to instill in us that we come into this tournament just like we came into the last one, we’re contenders, we take it one game at a time. The focus is on ourselves, the analysis team will do the work that’s needed for them to inform us about the game but other than that we’re going well,” said Motau, who is also one of the three co-captains in the squad alongside Refiloe Jane and Lebohang Ramalepe.

Coach Dr Desiree Ellis’ charges have been in Morocco for almost a week and Motau says this was a masterstroke with temperatures hovering above 30 degrees Celsius.

“The mood is becoming great, we’ve been struggling a little bit with the heat, but I think we’re acclimatizing, and everyone is coming into camp, just one player short but I think we’re getting the hang of it. Our rhythm is getting up even today the session had to be cut a little bit because of the weather but I think again we’re acclimatizing and we’re getting there,” she added.

All South Africa’s group stage matches will take place at the Honneur Stadium in Oujda, where Banyana Banyana will have their base camp.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Democratic Alliance laid criminal charges against ANC Minister

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: Minister of Human Settlements, Thembi Simelane

By AGISANANG SCUFF

2 July 2025- The Democratic Alliance (DA) said it can reveal that the criminal investigation against ANC Minister, Thembi Simelane is underway. The DA said it has laid charges Simelane with the SAPS and the investigating officer has now been assigned to investigate the complaint.

Adv. Glynnis Breytenbach MP DA Spokesperson on Justice and Constitutional Development, advocate Glynnis Breytenbach said Simelane is yet another ANC Minister in the National Executive of President Cyril Ramaphosa under investigation for a serious crime. According to Breytenbach, they have previously laid charges of corruption against the Minister of Human Settlements, Thembi Simelane, alleging theft of more than R700 000 by fraudulently billing Eskom when she worked for Vitrovian.

“Eskom is reported to have used Vitrovian, a consulting firm, to suppress protests at the Kusile Power Plant during its construction. Vitrovian’s charges to Eskom appeared to have been severely inflated and Eskom was allegedly invoiced by Vitrovian for work done by employees that did not exist.

“Simelane’s signature appears on the very first of these fraudulent invoices, directly implicating her in the scandal. This is the latest criminal investigation into Simelane, who also faces serious criminal allegations for involvement in the looting of VBS Bank while she was the Executive Mayor of Polokwane,” she said.

Breytenbach further said the DA is confident that the South African Police Service will conduct a thorough investigation into these serious allegations. She added that, the DA has for a long time now called for Ramaphosa to remove Simelane from the National Executive, along with all ANC Ministers and ANC Deputy Ministers under the cloud of corruption.

“It is time for Ramaphosa to act against ANC corruption,” said Breytenbach.

taungdailynews@gmail.com