Monthly Archives: July 2025

Information Regulator roadshow to empower public about POPIA and PAIA

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By AGISANANG SCUFF

28 July 2025- The Information Regulator in partnership with the North West Office of the Premier, Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality and the Mahikeng Local Municipality, will host a Dikopano Community Engagement at the Lonely Park Multipurpose Community Centre in Mahikeng on 31 July 2025. The event will be led by the Regulator’s Chairperson Advocate Pansy Tlakula and the North West Premier, Lazarus Kagiso Mokgosi.

The Information Regulator spokesperson, Nomzamo Zondi said this will be followed by a Stakeholder Engagement Breakfast on Friday in Mahikeng. Zondi said these events are part of the Regulator’s Provincial Roadshows aimed at promoting human rights and empowering the community with information for them to exercise their right to privacy and their right of access to information.

“Following the Dikopano, a stakeholder engagement session will be conducted to engage with various public and private bodies, who are to implement and comply with Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) and Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA) on a regular basis.

“The session aims to equip the bodies with knowledge to better implement and comply with the two legislation in their respective organisations or departments. During the week, the Regulator

will conduct a series of public activities including school activities in and around the Signal Hill area and the Mahikeng at large to promote the Regulator’s visit to the province,” she said.

Zondi further said there will also be training sessions for Information Officers and Deputy Information Offices in the

province. She added that the theme for this roadshow is: “Taking the Regulator to the People”.

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Women and children subjected to inhumane conditions

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Picture: The Democratic Alliance members at Women and Children Hostel in Alex/Supplied

By BAKANG MOKOTO

28 July 2025- The Democratic Alliance (DA) said women and children residing in Helen Joseph Women’s Hostel in Alexandra are living in the most shocking inhumane conditions. The party said sewage frequently clogs the entrances to the dimly lit stairways, creating an unpleasant and hazardous environment.

Da Gauteng Shadow MEC for Human Settlements and Member of Provincial Legislature (MPL), Mervyn Cirota said these poorly maintained pathways lead to overcrowded rooms, where residents struggle to navigate their limited space. Cirota there is a visible deterioration of sanitation infrastructure, a lack of water supply in many blocks, and structural damage.

“Zero visible security presence leaves residents vulnerable to crime and abuse. While issues like black mould and unattended broken fire equipment further compromise safety.

“Their growing concerns about inhumane living conditions remain ignored by the cruel Human Settlements Departments in the City of Johannesburg and the Gauteng Provincial Government,” she said.

Cirota further said they demand that all hostels, including the Helen Joseph Women’s Hostel, be included in the Gauteng Department of Human Settlements’ (GDHS) Hostel Redevelopment with the primary purpose of upgrading them into family units. She added that, despite continuous and repetitive undertakings by the MMC for Human Settlements in the City of Johannesburg to attend to the required short-term maintenance and long-term conversion of Helen Joseph Women’s Hostel into family units, its condition continues to worsen.

“These alarming safety and environmental issues were discovered by a DA delegation of national, provincial, and local leaders during an oversight prompted by urgent pleas from the Alexandra community for intervention.

“The disgraceful and inhumane treatment of women and children at this hostel is concerning, but not new. The Alexandra Renewal Project reportedly allocated R17 million for the maintenance and upgrade of this hostel,” said Cirota.

She said yet, there is no visible evidence of any improvements on-site. Cirota said should they be surprised?

“No, this project has been plagued by mismanagement, lack of transparency, and persistent allegations of corruption – all of which are the hallmarks of the current Gauteng Provincial Government.

“Gauteng Premier, Panyaza Lesufi and MEC Tasneem Motara must heed our call for the immediate incorporation of all Gauteng hostels in the Human Settlements Hostel Redevelopment Plan,” she said.

Cirota said expecting municipalities to upgrade hostels is pointless as they have shown their incapacity to do so for decades. She said the DA will submit formal questions to Parliament and the Gauteng Provincial Legislature demanding transparency on how the funding for the upgrades of Helen Joseph Women’s Hostel was allocated, who was awarded the contracts and why residents remain in squalor while funds go unaccounted for.

“A caring and effective DA-led administration in Gauteng would immediately upgrade existing structures where possible and demolish those that are beyond repair,” said Cirota.

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Picture: women and children residing in Helen Joseph Women’s Hostel in Alexandra/Supplied 

A foreign national nabbed for house-breaking and theft

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

28 July 2025- A foreign national (33) was arrested by the members of the Visible Policing Unit in Mothibistad on Sunday during Operation Shanela II. The suspect was apprehended after a complainant, who had recently reported a house-breaking and theft incident, spotted the man wearing clothes allegedly stolen from his home at a petrol station in Mothibistad.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Sergio Kock said the complainant immediately alerted the police, who swiftly responded and arrested the suspect. Kock said subsequent investigations led police to the Magojaneng and Kagung villages, where several stolen items were recovered.

“The complainant was able to positively identify most of the recovered goods as those stolen from his residence in Kuruman. Among the recovered items were a television, refrigerator, washing machine, laptops, cell phones, clothing and other valuables, with an estimated total value of approximately R45 000.

“The suspect has been charged with housebreaking and theft, as well as possession of suspected stolen property. He is expected to appear in the Mothibistad Magistrate’s Court soon,” he said.

Kock further said investigations are ongoing and police are working to determine whether the suspect can be linked to additional cases of housebreaking and theft. He added that more arrests may follow.

“Anyone with information that could assist the investigation is urged to contact Detective Warrant Officer Tshwaro Molete on 082 416 1095, call SAPS Crime Stop at 08600 10111, or use the MySAPS App.

“All information will be treated with strict confidentiality. The investigation continues,” said Kock.

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NWBED to give necessary support to SMMEs  

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Picture: The North West MEC for Finance, Kenetswe Mosenogi

By REGINALD KANYANE

28 July 2025- The North West MEC for Finance, Kenetswe Mosenogi said she is pleased that they have launched the North West Business Enterprise Database, a strategic initiative designed to profile and support local enterprises in driving inclusive economic growth.

Mosenogi launched the event at Ga-Rona Building in Mahikeng and highlighted the database’s role. She further said it will address historical inequalities and unlock opportunities for Small Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs), youth and women-owned businesses, and rural entrepreneurs.

“Our province has immense economic potential, yet opportunities have not always been accessible to all. This database is a bold step towards levelling the playing field and catalysing inclusive economic transformation.

“The North West Business Enterprise Database will enable the provincial government to build a comprehensive directory of active and dormant enterprises, enhance visibility of local suppliers, and connect businesses to public procurement and private investment opportunities,” said Mosenogi.

She added that while the Central Supplier Database (CSD) remains mandatory for all suppliers doing business with the government, the provincial database complements it by offering province-specific profiling and supporting targeted economic interventions.

“Enterprises can register through three convenient platforms, which are the departmental website, the official NWPT WhatsApp channel, and a QR code distributed during the launch.

“We call on all government departments, municipalities, state agencies and corporate partners to assist businesses in registering, ensuring widespread participation and maximum impact,” said Mosenogi.

She said this initiative reflects their commitment to ensuring that every rand spent by the government delivers tangible benefits to the communities—creating jobs, sustaining livelihoods, and building a more resilient provincial economy.

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One person died others injured in Ganspan

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By OBAKENG MAJE

28 July 2025- The police in Jan Kempdorp said they are investigating a case of murder and attempted murder following a tragic incident at a local shebeen in Ganspan. The police said the preliminary reports indicate that on 27 July 2025, at approximately 3:30am, a group of 14 adult men and women were socialising and drinking around a fire.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Sergio Kock said it is alleged that during a temporary power outage, an unknown individual allegedly threw an unidentified object into the fire, resulting in a violent explosion. Kock said all 14 individuals sustained burn injuries and were transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment.

“A victim (35) later succumbed to his injuries. The police are appealing to members of the public for assistance in locating the unknown person of interest who may be able to assist in the investigation.

“Anyone with information regarding the incident or the suspect’s whereabouts is urged to contact Detective Sergeant Olebogeng Wesi on 060 976 9070, the SAPS Crime Stop number 08600 10111, or use the MySAPS App,” he said.

Kock further said all information will be treated with the strictest confidentiality. He added that the investigation is ongoing.

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Police urge motorists to apply safety tips

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By AGISANANG SCUFF

28 July 2025- The police in Northern Cape said they have noted with concern several incidents involving motorists falling victim to crime in and around traffic intersections. The police said in response, the police urge the public to implement safety precautions to help ensure the safety of all road users.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Timothy Sam said motorists should ensure that their vehicles are in a roadworthy condition before embarking on any journey. Sam said they should keep their fuel tank sufficiently filled at all times.

“Always lock your vehicle doors and keep windows closed. Never leave your vehicle unlocked, even for a short moment. Avoid stopping in isolated or remote areas. Park in well-lit, secure areas and if a stranger approaches while you’re in your vehicle, open your window only slightly (not more than 5cm) for communication.

“If you feel unsafe or suspicious of someone’s behaviour, avoid interaction and drive away. Minimise travel at night. If necessary, travel with someone. If possible, vary your travel route to and from work,” he said.

Sam further said if approached by a suspicious individual while in your car, drive off or sound your horn to attract attention. He added that, if you notice people loitering near your driveway, do not stop.

“Drive past and report it to your nearest police station if they linger. Be aware that hijackers may stage minor accidents to lure you out of your vehicle. If you are bumped from behind and feel unsafe, drive to the nearest police station instead of exiting your vehicle.

“Do not reach for valuables if confronted—leave them behind if forced out of your car. Your life is more valuable than your possessions. Do not resist if the perpetrator is armed,” said Sam.

He said motorists should surrender their vehicle without resistance and move away safely. Sam also encourages people to join a lift club where possible as it can reduce vulnerability to crime.

“Never offer lifts to strangers. Use a gear lock—it’s an affordable and effective anti-theft device. Install a mirror on your garage wall to monitor if someone is following you.

“Ensure your gates are closed before opening your garage doors. Victims are encouraged to report any suspicious or criminal activity to their nearest police station or call the SAPS Crime Stop number at 08600 10111, or use the MySAPS App,” he said.

Sam said all reports will be treated with the utmost confidentiality.

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Dept of Water and Sanitation adopts Ntsweletsoku Primary School as part of WSEP

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

28 July 2025- The Department of Water and Sanitation in North West will adopt Ntsweletsoku Primary School in Ntsweletsoku village, near Lehurutshe as part of its Water and Sanitation Education Program (WSEP) to address challenges of water wastage, proper management of toilet facilities, health and hygiene good practices in schools.

The Department, said through its WSEP, has initiated an Adopt-a-School intervention project that targets all schools to address their water and sanitation challenges. 

The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) spokesperson, Wisane Mavasa said Ntsweletsoku Primary School, based in Lehurutse was identified following its long-standing participation in Baswa Le Meetse competitions that are part of the WSEP. Mavasa said some of the activities of the Adopt-a-School initiative will include a clean-up of the school by the participating stakeholders, including parents and community members.

“The Department of Water and Sanitation will be in collaboration with Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality and different stakeholders at the event. The event will be held at Ntsweletsoku Primary School on Wednesday at 9am,” she said.

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Monna o tshwerwe mabapi le kgetsi ya maiteko a petelelo

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Setshwantsho: Monna o tshwerwe mabapi le kgetsi ya maiteko a petelelo

Ka KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

28 July 2025- Monna o latofadiwang ka maiteko a petelelo o tshwerwe ke lephata la sepodisi le le batlisisang babelaelwa ba ba tshabelang molao kwa porofenseng ya Kapa Bokone. Go begwa fa monna o wa dingwaga di le 25, a tshwerwe kwa toropong ya Bloemfontein kwa porofenseng ya Free State mo letsatsing la gompieno.

Sebueledi sa sepodisi mono porofenseng ya Kapa Bokone, Sarasanta Timothy Sam are, mmelaelwa o kgale a ntse a tshabela sepodisi fa e sale ka ngwaga wa 2022. Sam are kgetsi ya maiteko a petelelo ene ya bulwa kwa Barkly West.

“Maloko a lephata la Provincial Tracking Team ba ile ba amogela tshedimosetso mabapi le gore monna o, o kae, mme ba e sala morago. Monna o, o na le dingwaga di le tharo a ntse a tshabela mapodisi, mme o ile a tshwarwa kwa Grassland, Bloemfontein.

“O solofetswe go tlhagelela kwa kgotlhatshekelo ya Barkly West mo nakong e e sa fediseng pelo. Sepodisi mono Kapa Bokone se itlamile go neelana ka tshireletsego go baagi, mme se tla dira ka bojotlhe go tshwara bao ba tshabelang molao,” Sam wa tlhalosa.

Sam are baagi ka kakaretso ba rotloediwa go dirisana le sepodisi le go neelana ka tshedimosetso e botlhokwa go ka reba bosenyi. Sam are baagi ba rotloediwa go letsetsa nomoro ya sepodisi ya 08600 10111, kgotsa go ka dirisa MyAPP go ka neelana ka tshedimosetso e botlhokwa mabapi le bosenyi bongwe le bongwe,” Sam wa tlhalosa.

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Arrest made in Sindiso Magaqa murder case

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Picture: Former ANCYL Secretary-General, Sindiso Magaqa

By REGINALD KANYANE

28 July 2025- The South African Police Service (SAPS) Political Killings Task Team has made another breakthrough in the former ANCYL Secretary-General, Sindiso Magaqa murder case with the arrest of the former Municipal Manager of the Umzimkhulu Local Municipality.  A suspect (55), was re-arrested today in Malvern, Durban.

The police national spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said he was previously arrested in 2018, alongside the late mayor of the Umzimkhulu Local Municipality, a businessman, two former police officers and a hitman. Mathe said the hitman, Sbusiso Ncengwa, was convicted to 25 years imprisonment on 7 July 2025.

“The former Municipal Manager is expected to appear before the Umzimkhulu Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday,” she said.

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Application to combine criminal matters in Chetty’s corruption cases struck of the roll with cost

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By OBAKENG MAJE

28 July 2025- The Gauteng High Court sitting in Pretoria struck the application by Kishene Chetty and others off the roll with costs. This follows their application to consolidate their several cases of fraud, forgery, money laundering and other charges of dishonesty into one, as they argue that the charges in all the cases are similar.

However, the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) spokesperson, Henry Mamothame said Counsel for the NPA’s objected when the legal representatives of Chetty and others attempted to hand in four new lever arch files, which were not provided to the court and the state in preparation for the hearing. Mamothame said the State argued that in law, an applicant can file a supplementary only if they obtain leave to do so from a court, following a substantive application.

“The judge also questioned if it was correct for a criminal matter to be presided on by a civil court. This outcome will provide progress in the cases that Chetty and his co-accused are facing, as they have been postponed pending this ruling.

“Chetty and his co-accused, who include officials from the South African Police Service (SAPS) and private entities, are facing several corruption cases relating to tender fraud within the SAPS,” he said.

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