Daily Archives: October 14, 2025

EU investment supports inclusive and sustainable growth in SA

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By AGISANANG SCUFF

14 October 2025- The Republic of South Africa (RSA) president, Cyril Ramaphosa said last week, they had the opportunity to attend the Global Gateway Forum in Brussels at the invitation of European Union (EU) Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Ramaphosa said the forum showcases the EU’s investment initiatives in other regions of the world and is meant to advance its global relationships.

He further said South Africa’s attendance at the forum follows the South Africa-European Union Summit that was held in Cape Town in March to further advance political and economic ties between our country and EU member countries. Ramaphosa added that at the Summit in Cape Town, the EU announced an investment package of 4.7 billion Euros to support strategic projects in South Africa.

“Last week, the EU announced a further investment package that will bring the total investment value to 11.5 billion Euros, which is over R230 billion. This innovative partnership focuses on priorities that South Africa has set for itself as it strives to improve the lives of its people.

“These priorities include investment, the clean energy transition, skills and technology, connectivity and developing strategic industries. Importantly, the partnership will contribute to the work being done to create jobs,” he said.

Ramaphosa said the investment package covers areas such as critical minerals, e-battery development, green hydrogen, renewable energy and vaccines. He said this will lead to the creation of a number of jobs, skills development and transfer of technology.

“As we said in Brussels, these investments will support our effort to build the economy of the future in the South Africa of the present. They will help to accelerate South Africa’s ambitious transition to a low-carbon economy that is just and inclusive.

“The package aims to mobilise financing to invest in local processing and refining of minerals that are critical to the energy transition. It includes investments in projects to produce green hydrogen and derivatives that will set South Africa up as a world-leading producer for the local economy and for export,” said Ramaphosa.

He said the investments are also expected to accelerate large-scale solar and wind power projects, while boosting energy efficiency in industry, housing and public services. Ramaphosa said these measures will reduce reliance on coal, lower costs and improve energy security for households and businesses.

“As a country, we have always insisted that our energy transition must be just and inclusive, and that we must take deliberate measures to protect workers, communities and businesses that would be affected.

“That is why part of the investment package is dedicated to re-skill, train and provide entrepreneurship opportunities. It will also be used to expand access to clean water, waste management and energy efficient public services,” he said.

Ramaphosa said the investment package will also support the work that South Africa is undertaking to develop their rail, road and ports infrastructure, logistics and digital connectivity. He said these investments will also support the local manufacturing of pharmaceuticals through partnerships with regulatory authorities, as well as innovative research projects, training and capacity building on biotechnology and pharmaceutical infrastructure.

“This investment package is being announced against the backdrop of the progress we are making in addressing some of the critical impediments to inclusive economic growth.

“As our country, we have made immense progress in overcoming our energy supply constraints through the improved performance by Eskom and a massive investment in renewable energy generation,” said Ramaphosa.

He said they are improving efficiencies at their ports and opening their freight rail lines to private operators. Ramaphosa said they are undertaking a massive investment in infrastructure and streamlining regulations to improve the environment for investors.

“The progress we are making with our reforms is recognised and it’s making our country an investment destination. We are seen as the gateway into the African continent. The EU investment takes place in the context of a more volatile global environment.

“There is a significant realignment of trade and investment between countries. In addition, rapid advances in technology and the escalating climate crisis are contributing to greater uncertainty,” he said.

Ramaphosa said that is why South Africa is forging ahead with the work of building a resilient and sustainable economy that addresses the needs of the present, while positioning itself for the needs and challenges of the future.

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Picture: RSA president, Cyril Ramaphosa

DA moves to shut down online gun trade with Cyber Commissioner

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

14 October 2025- The Democratic Alliance (DA) said criminals are using online networks to traffic guns and the South African Police Service (SAPS) is struggling to stop them. The DA said it proposes a Cyber Commissioner to fight cyber-enabled crime.

The DA spokesperson on Justice and Constitutional Development, advocate Glynnis Breytenbach, who is also a Member of Parliament (MP), said this institution would help dismantle criminal networks and protect communities. Breytenbach said recent reports show criminals are increasingly using online platforms and covert couriers to move illegal firearms into the Western Cape.

She further said this exposes a major weakness in South Africa’s policing. Breytenbach added that, despite identifying the proliferation of illegal guns and the need for secure cyberspace as top priorities in its Strategic Plan, SAPS has not yet fully intercepted the digital networks driving organised crime.

“The DA believes the solution lies in creating a dedicated Cyber Commissioner, an independent Chapter 9 institution, as proposed in our 20th Amendment to the Constitution. The Cyber Commissioner would provide the government and the private sector with the tools and expertise needed to tackle cyber-enabled crime.

“It would act as a central hub to monitor online threats, coordinate training, and set clear standards to protect sensitive information. Most importantly, it would give SAPS and other law-enforcement agencies the capacity to investigate and disrupt criminal networks that use the internet to move firearms, drugs, and other illicit goods,” she said.

Breytenbach said now that the Western Cape Police Commissioner, Thembisile Patekile, has admitted that the SAPS cannot contain this situation. She said they call on the Minister of Police, Prof Firoz Cachalia to step in and fully support this initiative and ensure it is implemented without delay.

“This new institution would work hand-in-hand with existing policing measures. Intelligence-led operations, cyber-forensics teams, real-time tracking of lost and stolen firearms, and partnerships with tech and cell phone companies to flag suspicious activity would support the Commissioner’s work.

“Together, these measures would allow law enforcement to not only make arrests but also secure convictions and dismantle criminal networks,” said Breytenbach.

She said by establishing a Cyber Commissioner, the DA is putting forward a practical solution to protect communities, secure cyberspace, and stop criminals from exploiting online networks to fuel violence. Breytenbach said modern organised crime demands modern institutions and this is a decisive step toward making our country safer.

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A man jailed for killing his cousin

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

14 October 2025- A man (20) was sentenced to 12 years imprisonment by the Upington Regional Court for murder. This comes after he killed a boy (15) on 31 January 2025, in Dakotaweg in Upington.

ZF Mgcawu District police spokesperson, Sergeant Omphile Masegela said an argument over a R10, ensued between two cousins, while sitting with their friends. Masegela said the accused, Geraldo Filander (20), fatally stabbed his cousin, Calvin Brouw (15) and fled the scene.

“The case was processed by Warrant Officer Chante Ganas of the Upington LCRC. The investigating officer, Sergeant Bahedile Nkwadipo revisited the scene the following day and arrested the accused.

“Filander was released on bail. On 8 October 2025, he was convicted and sentenced to 12 years imprisonment by the Upington Regional Court,” she said.

Meanwhile, the acting ZF Mgcawu District Commissioner, Brigadier Peet Coetzee, applauded Sergeant Bahedile Nkwadipo for the meticulous investigation and swift conviction of the accused. Coetzee also cited that the police remain steadfast and resilient in investigating crime and ensuring that justice prevails for victims.

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Morweng set the tone for NTI

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Picture: North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng

By REGINALD KANYANE

14 October 2025- North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng has set the tone for the North West Transport Investment (NTI) planning session held at Kings Gate Hotel in Rustenburg. Morweng said the session must come up with a comprehensive restructuring plan to turn around the NTI.

He further said they know the part of the reason the entity is where it is today. Morweng added that it is as a result of systemic failures in governance, finances and operations over the years.

“What this collective must come out of here with is a strategy that restores hope. As a department henceforth, we are going to maintain a close oversight, building on our recent interventions to stabilize the entity.

“I challenge the planning session to develop plans to pay creditors and how to ensure that going forward, the current problems which impede regular payments are avoided. This collective must come up with plans to reduce and ultimately pay all outstanding debts of the entity,” he said.

He said the session is led by the acting Chief Executive Officer (ACEO), Dr Ntlhopeng Dikobe, attended by senior officials from the entity, labour union representatives, officials from both the North West Department of Community Safety and Transport Management and Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport as well as the Office of the Premier.

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More than 1454 suspects nabbed for various crimes

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By OBAKENG MAJE

14 October 2025 – More than 1454 suspects were arrested for various crimes during Operation Shanela II in North West. The police said Operation Shanela II is an enhanced crime prevention operation combating crime weekly.

The North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said the operation was conducted between 6 and 12 October 2025. Mokgwabone said the operation, among others, focused on stop and searches, roadblocks, vehicle check points (VCPs), high-visibility patrols, including foot patrols, the tracing of wanted suspects, the confiscation of illegal firearms, as well as visits to liquor outlets and taverns.

“The suspects included those arrested for murder, for robbery, rape, assault with the intent to do Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH) and common, burglary at business and residential premises, driving whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs, contravention of the Immigration Act, illegal dealing in liquor and possession of drugs and illegal possession of firearms.

“Out of the 1454 suspects, 447 were circulated wanted suspects apprehended after being linked to the committed crimes through forensic DNA leads. Moreover, police confiscated a variety of drugs, three firearms, 108 rounds of ammunition, three vehicles, liquor, and tobacco products,” he said.

Mokgwabone further said in Mahikeng, five Zimbabweans (four men and a woman) aged between 22 and 38,  appeared in the Mmabatho Magistrate’s Court on 13 October 2025, for Contravention of Section 83(a)(b) of the Nature Conservation Ordinance, No. 12 of 1983. He added that they were all remanded in custody until 17 October 2025, for further investigation.

“All accused were arrested during a joint illegal fishing operation by Mahikeng Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit, South African Police Service Water Wing, Departments of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation & Tourism, Home Affairs (immigration), Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Mmabatho Visible Policing and Local Criminal Record Centre (LCRC) on 10 October 2025, at Tontonyane village, near Mmabatho.

“The team members were on duty when they spotted massive quantities of fish on the roof of a house next to the dam. Subsequent search conducted at the house led to the discovery of eight bags and two boxes containing dry fish,” said Mokgwabone.

He said the suspects were arrested after failing to account for the possession. Mokgwabone said two of the accused, a man and a female, are also facing additional charges of Contravention of Section 49(1)(a) of the Immigration Act, 2002. 

Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General Patrick Asaneng said: “As we usher in the start of the very busy festive season, the South African Police Service (SAPS) with all the Security Cluster and Joint Operational and Intelligence Departments, have intensified law enforcement and compliance inspection operations to create a safe, secure and conducive environment for among others, matriculation and institutions of higher learning examinations, road and tourists safety, major events security, rural safety and the general safety of the community across the province.

“These many arrests and confiscations are the results of the intensification of Operation Shanela especially in the identified crime hotspots.”

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Third suspect nabbed in the North West businessman, Ben Gumbi’s murder case

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Picture: One of the suspects in Ben Gumbi’s murder case

By BAKANG MOKOTO

14 October 2025 – The accused, Zimele Mntuyazi Nkwanyana (37) is expected to appear before the Rustenburg Magistrate’s Court on 17 October 2025, for a bail application. This comes after he was arrested in Port Shepstone, KwaZulu-Natal on 9 October 2025, for the murder of the North West businessman, Ben Gumbi in August 2023.

The North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said Nkwanyana’s arrest coincided with the sentencing of his accomplices, Sibongiseni Ngubane and Thabani Gwala, who were each sentenced to life for murder and 15 years for and unlawful possession of firearms. Mokgwabone said the pair was arrested in September and November 2023, in Gauteng Province.

Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General Patrick Asaneng, welcomed the arrest. Asaneng said the arrest is further proof and evidence of the resolve and commitment of the police to track, arrest and bring perpetrators before the courts so that they can face the consequences of their heinous crimes.

“It is hoped that the latest arrest will bring to a close a very successful prosecution led investigation after the ruthless murder of Gumbi,”

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A man sentenced to five years imprisonment for assaulting his ex-girlfriend

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

14 October 2025- A man (32) was sentenced to five years imprisonment by the Kimberley Regional Court for brutally assaulting his ex-girlfriend. The victim was at her residence in Lerato Park when an argument broke out between her and the accused, Itumeleng Setlholo.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Merapelo Pilane said during the altercation, Setlholo struck the victim with an empty glass bottle and proceeded to stab her in the face before fleeing the scene. Pilane said the victim was transported to a local medical facility, where she received treatment for her injuries.

“Following a thorough investigation, the suspect was positively identified, arrested and charged with assault with intent to cause Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH).

“The Investigating Officer, Detective Constable Orapeleng Mamapula of the Galeshewe Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit, successfully opposed bail, which was subsequently denied,” he said.

Pilane further said after several court appearances, Setlholo was found guilty and sentenced to five years imprisonment and declared unfit to possess a firearm.

Meanwhile, The Frances Baard District Police Commissioner, Major General Charlotte Makgari, commended Detective Constable Mamapula for his outstanding investigative work and for ensuring the swift finalization of the case.

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ANC mourns lives lost in bus accident

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Picture: The bus accident in Limpopo

By REGINALD KANYANE

14 October 2025- The African National Congress (ANC) said it extends its deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those who tragically lost their lives in the horrific bus accident on the N1 road, near Louis Trichardt in Limpopo on 12 October 2025. The bus was traveling from Gqeberha to Harare.

The ANC national spokesperson, Mahlengi Bhengu said they mourn the profound loss of 42 lives in this devastating incident, which includes citizens from neighbouring Zimbabwe and Malawi. Bhengu said their thoughts and prayers are with the injured survivors, their families and the communities affected across the borders.

“We commend the swift response of emergency, healthcare, and law enforcement officers who continue to work under challenging conditions to save lives and provide support.

“We also acknowledge the compassionate leadership of Limpopo Premier, Dr Phophi Ramathuba and the Limpopo Provincial Government in addressing this tragedy.

“This heart-breaking event serves as a reminder of the shared humanity that unites our region and the urgent need to improve road safety, enhance cross-border travel coordination, and protect all who journey along our highways. May the souls of the departed rest in eternal peace, and may their families find strength and comfort during this difficult time,” she said.

Bhengu further said the ANC stands in solidarity with the people of Limpopo, Zimbabwe and Malawi. She added that, together, they grieve and together they heal.

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Former local artist, Masego Sebigi facing child neglect case  

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Picture: Former local artist, Masego Sebigi/Facebook  

By OBAKENG MAJE

14 October 2025- Former local artist, Masego “Meezy” Sebigi (28) has briefly appeared in Taung Magistrate’s Court on Friday facing a child neglect case. This comes after Sebigi allegedly left her daughter (10) in her rented room in Extension 7, near Taung alone on numerous occasions.

It is alleged in August 2025, Sebigi’s daughter approached the state prosecutor at around 8:30pm, who is also residing in the same vicinity and requested her to call the landlord, so that she can give her mother’s contact number. The said prosecutor assisted the child.

It is alleged that in two weeks, the same scenario repeated itself again. It is alleged that Sebigi, who left her child alone at the time, highlighted that she was in Kuruman.

The prosecutor called social workers for intervention and a child neglect case was opened. It is alleged that the social workers found the rented room filthy.       

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in the North West, Sivenathi Gunya said: “It is true that a woman is facing a child neglect case and will be back at Taung Magistrate’s Court on 6 November 2025.”  

According http://www.scielo.org.za child maltreatment rates in South Africa are extremely high. The Non-Government Organisation (NGO) said this fact is attributable to excessive levels of poverty and wide-spread violence.

“The United Nations (UN) and its signatories acknowledge that children are a vulnerable group and provide some guidelines on how children and their rights should be protected by signatories to the Convention on the Rights of the Child.

“Parents are urged to take all appropriate social and educational measures to protect the child from all forms of physical or mental violence, injury, neglect or negligent treatment, maltreatment or exploitation including sexual abuse.”

The website said the Article 19(2) of the Convention makes it clear that measures used to protect children need to be protective and preventive and should encompass the identification, reporting, referral, investigation and treatment of child abuse. It said Article 16 of the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child [11] echoes the obligations set out in the UN Convention.

“The Charter obligates the African Union (AU) and its signatories to establish special monitoring units and to provide the necessary support for the abused child and his/her caretakers.

“The South African Constitution [12] explicitly addresses the rights of children and affords them specific protection. Section 28(1)(d) holds that every child has the right to be protected from maltreatment, neglect, abuse and/or degradation,” said Scielo.

The organisation said Children’s Act No. 35 of 2005[3] and its amendment 41 of 2007 (promulgated in 2010)[13] addresses children’s rights in its entirety. It said Section 110 specifically deals with the protection of children and resonates with the UN Convention and the AU Charter on the protection of children’s rights.

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NPA’S IDAC to provide indictment to former Transet Executives charged with fraud and corruption

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Picture: Former Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of Transnet, Brian Molefe

By AGISANANG SCUFF

14 October 2025- The Palm Ridge Specialised Commercial Crime Court postponed the case against Brian Molefe and his co-accused to 18 November 2025 for the provision of an indictment and a date for the matter to be transferred to the high court. Molefe who is the former Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of Transnet is charged together with Anoj Singh a former Group Chief Financial Officer (GCFO), Siyabonga Gama, a former Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Thamsanqa Jiyane, who was the Chief Procurement Officer (CPO) in the Transport Freight Rail (TFR) division within Transnet.

Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) spokesperson, Henry Mamothame said they are facing 17 charges that include the Contravention of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA), fraud, corruption and the Contravention of the Companies Act. Mamothame said their court appearance emanates from the period in which Transnet engaged in the process of acquiring locomotives to expand and modernise the country’s rail infrastructure, to which they allegedly flouted the tender process by irregularly awarding three contracts to provide Transnet with 95, 100 and 1064 locomotives, resulting in a loss of millions of rands to Transnet.

“Their R50 000 bail was extended and they are expected to be back in court when the matter resumes in November 2025,” he said.

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