Author Archives: The Guardian

Police: ‘Do not fall victims to contact crimes’

NEWS Leave a comment

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

The police in Northern Cape said the policing of contact crimes remains a priority. Against this backdrop, communities are urged to adhere to safety hints to prevent falling victim to contact crimes.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Col Sergio Kock encourages community members to stay alert as awareness is the best defence. Kock said taking self-defence lessons might also be a valuable option.

“Always leave venues with friends wherever possible. Never go to the bathroom alone and always use a buddy system at public venues. Never accept drinks or lifts from strangers and always stay in well-lit areas.

“Never walk alone in secluded areas and travel as if you know where you are going. Take the most direct route and try to stay within areas where other people are around. Trust your instincts – if you think something is wrong, then act on it,” he said.

Kock further said community members should avoid flashing valuable items as it attracts criminals for robbery and sexual assault. He added that they should have their keys available when they reach their homes or cars.

“Keep money for transport and plan in advance – the expense is worth it.  Carry a personal alarm and use it when necessary. If you are a victim, get help immediately and make as much noise as you can to alert people when you are in trouble.

“If you have been attacked, do not shower or change your clothes as it may destroy evidence. Always give the police all the details you have about the area and suspect, if you are a victim of contact crimes. If you have had your keys taken, robbed or lost, ensure you change the locks. Drink responsibly and refrain from excessive alcohol consumption– you need to give a clear account of what happened,” said Kock.

He said community members should never leave their drink unattended as it could be tampered with and leaving them to be victims of date rape. Kock urges them to stay alert and safe.

“Do not physically intervene in fights – you could get hurt yourself, rather call the police. If it is safe to do so, take a photograph or video on your mobile phone. However, the police are likely to need your phone as evidence.

“Record details of times, number plates, descriptions and so on. If you do not have a pen with you, leave a voicemail message on your mobile phone or write a draft text message. Get out of any abusive relationship immediately and contact family or police,” he said.

Kock said community members should always have an emergency contact on speed dial. He said they can call their nearest police station or 10111 when they find themselves in a dangerous situation.

“Call Stop Gender Violence Helpline 0800 150 150 or report GBVF crime to the MySAPS app,” said Kock.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Portfolio Committee probe North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng to determine facts surrounding rape incident   

NEWS Leave a comment

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

By OBAKENG MAJE

The Chairperson of Portfolio Committee on Community Safety and Transport Management, Freddy Sonakile said they have received a formal request to investigate whether the alleged rape incident that involves the North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng’s cronies, took place at the room that was booked for Morweng by the North West Provincial Legislature (NWPL) or not.

This comes after Morweng’s cronies, Tebogo Metswamere and Puleng Mosadi, who were both ANCYL Deputy Convener and Coordinator in the Ngaka Modiri Molema Region respectively, were arrested for allegedly raping a woman (33). According to the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) provincial spokesperson, Fanon Moema, the alleged rape, took place at Protea Hotel in Mahikeng, in the same room where Morweng was booked in by the NWPL.

“Mosadi is employed by Mmabana Foundation, where Morweng was the CEO, prior to being appointed as MEC. We are grimly concerned by the rise of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and patriarchal relations that have taken a different turn, which sees women being raped by the very people who are tasked with the responsibility to lead, protect and shower them with love.

“It is also alleged that the victim was faced with hurdles when she went to open a case, wherein police officers in Mmabatho Police Station were insensitive and reluctant to open a case. It is quite evident with the high level of victims in cases of this nature that the political elites in this country enjoy impunity at the expense of the most vulnerable,” he said.

Moema further said clearly, the moral fabric that is espoused in the constitution has been trampled on by the political elites, who have turned executive offices into a predatory state and as a result, the communities are left grieving during a Women’s Month.

He added that a fish rots from the head and as such, it is unacceptable for Morweng, who is responsible for Community Safety and Transport Management portfolio, to continue to hold such a prestigious office that is at the epicentre of righteousness, protection and moral guidance.

“We call for Morweng, together with the two accused persons, to resign from public offices. We will be on the ground to monitor developments of this case closely and provide necessary support to the victims, families, friends and the grieving communities at large.

“We call upon community members to attend to the court case on 2 September 2024, and ensure that we voice out our dismay in demand of justice,” said Moema.

It is also alleged that Metswamere was earmarked to be appointed as a Support of Staff Officer in Morweng’s Office.

Sonakile said: “We have noted the allegations that are in the media space with regards to who paid for the room, where the rape is alleged to have taken place. Last week, we also received a formal request for an investigation from community activists. 

“We would not want to make any aspersions, so we have written to both the Legislature and the department to clarify the issue of the payment towards the booking. Once we receive the responses, we will table it before the committee, so that a decision on the way forward can be taken.”

Meanwhile, it is also alleged that Morweng has tried to bribe the alleged rape victim with R100 000 to drop rape charges. However, Morweng spokesperson, Charles Matlou refuted the allegations. 

“As had been indicated in a media statement we issued then, Morweng had called on all to allow the law to take its course. There is no truth at all in the insinuations that Morweng interfered in this matter.”

taungdailynews@gmail.com

The Chairperson of Portfolio Committee on Police, Ian Cameron welcomes the dismissal of Head of Crime Intelligence   

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Ian Cameron

By BAKANG MOKOTO

The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Ian Cameron, has welcomed the dismissal of the Head of Crime Intelligence in the Western Cape, Mzwandile Tiyo, from the South African Police Service (SAPS). Cameron said the dismissal follows a Section 34 inquiry to establish his fitness to hold office following allegations that he lost both a laptop and a firearm and used crime intelligence resources to find the people who had stolen them and assaulted them.

“It is unacceptable that a law enforcement officer unilaterally abused state resources to hide their misdeeds. The fact that the state assets were stolen at a tavern point to sheer disregard for the office he holds.

“The dismissal of Tiyo is tangible proof that misconduct of any form will not be accepted within the service. This is the first step in regaining credibility in the eyes of the community and will assure the people that SAPS will conduct their work ethically and within the code of conduct,” he said.

Cameron further call for the completion of the criminal investigation and prosecution to ensure that justice is served and that the rule of law reigns. He added that the Portfolio Committee is steadfast in its belief that one of the first pillars in repositioning the SAPS, is the removal of rogue and unethical police officers who negatively impact on the credibility of the police.

“This is a good start, and we hope many similar actions will be taken against other officers that operate outside of the code of conduct and the law. We congratulate the Minister of Police for actual implementation of the promises he made when he delivered the 7th administration’s priorities,” said Cameron.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

North West MEC for COGHSTA, Oageng Molapisi donates a house to Molifi family

NEWS Leave a comment

North West MEC for COGHSTA, Oageng Molapisi donates a houses to Molifi family/Supplied

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

The North MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), Oageng Molapisi handed over a house to the Molifi family in Tigane Township, near Klerksdorp.  Molapisi said this was part of celebrating Women’s Day as the affected family has been living in a two-roomed shack.

He further said the newly-built house came as relief to the two social grants recipients and their four children. Molapisi added that they were working in collaboration with the North West Department of Social Development.

“The family received a furnished house, food parcels and blankets. We urge women, especially in rural areas to stand firm and continue to advocate for the emancipation of women from all aspects of life.

“We would also like to condemn the social ills committed against women. We call on the law enforcement agencies to deal decisively with those who continue to violate the rights of women,” he said.

Molapisi also urged the ward councillor to work closely with women and vulnerable groups within the Tigane community. He reiterated that his department will continue to prioritise women in construction and allocate 40% of the budget to them.

“We commend the women of 1956 march in Pretoria. We further urge other women to carry on the baton and their legacy forward. The government has and will forever continue to prioritise women and strive for equality. We respect and honour women of our country as they are nation builders and leaders.

“We do so in ensuring that we restore their dignity, just like we are doing to the Molifi family. We have handed over the house as part of our ongoing venture to make sure that housing delivery remains key and that the partnership with other government departments and business continue unabated,” said Molapisi.  

Meanwhile, receiving the house on behalf of the family, the elated Nnase Molifi, who just celebrated her 70th birthday, could not hide her excitement. Molifi continued to thank the government and the philanthropic contractor, who built the house and donated furniture for the whole house.

“We urge the government to continue to deliver services to communities as they are relying on it to better their lives. I am grateful for this wonderful gift that will remain our treasure as the family.

“We are grateful and pleased to see that our patience and hope are answered. We now have a home and we are sure to leave a legacy for our children and grandchildren,” she said.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

‘Older persons continue to experience poor service in public institutions’

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: The North West Older Persons’ Forum/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

The North West MEC for Social Development, Sussana Dantjie said her department will continue to ensure that the rights of elderly persons are not trampled upon. Dantjie said this during a meeting with the North West Older Persons’ Forum recently.

She further encouraged the senior citizens to be active champions on the interest of older persons. Dantjie further said the province has consistently provided the national forum with chairpersons, underscoring the wealth of leadership it has.

“I have no doubt that this leadership quality that the national forum has embraced can take us to new heights. I appeal to the provincial forum to go back to the drawing board and continue to create a powerful legacy that will last generations.

“Their structure must be solid from ward level because it is at the grassroots, where you will harness unity and interest for a stronger older persons’ forum. The forum must also benchmark from other provinces with a similar outlook with the province,” she said.

Dantjie added that the forum must never underestimate their influence and must fight for better services in both public and private space.

Meanwhile, the National Chairperson of Older Persons’ Forum, Kgosietsile Sehularo, who is also the Provincial Chairperson said: “We have presented a detailed plan, which Dantjie embraced and will ensure its implementation, especially where it tallies with the plans of the department.

“However, we continue to experience poor services in most public spaces, where at times, older persons have to endure long queues while on their feet.  However, we vow to deepen advocacy and awareness on the rights of older persons.  We also made a clarion call to Dantjie to ensure that actions are taken on resolutions of the Older Persons Parliament.”

Sehularo said on the other niggling issues that afflict senior citizens, Dantjie has promised to support many pensioners, whose funds lay unclaimed.  He said there are many older persons who do not enjoy the ‘fruit of their hard labour’.

“Sometimes this happens based on minor technicalities.  The forum must drive this issue, while arrangements could be made on educational roadshows to help those who are yet to claim their money.

“The meeting was to acquaint Dantjie with structures under her belt. She donated a laptop and router to the structure to ensure that their work is recorded for future reference,” said Sehularo.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Two people died, 18 injured in a car accident 

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: A taxi involved in a car accident/Generic  

By BAKANG MOKOTO 

Two people lost their lives, while 18 were taken to Ganyesa District Hospital after a horrific accident that happened on Saturday on the R378 road near Ganyesa on the direction to Morokweng. According to traffic officers at the scene, a Toyota Hilux bakkie hit a stray animal (cow) and that led to a collision with another car, which was a Quantum taxi. 

A taxi driver lost control and landed on its side.

The North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng, has urged community members to look after their livestock as the accidents caused by stray animals is on the increase.

“My plea is for our community to make sure that their livestock are kept in their safe areas, especially during the night. Our villages are very dark at night and the visibility is very poor. 

“Eighteen of those who were taken to hospital, five were critical while the rest have no serious injuries. We send message of condolences to the families of the deceased and wished speedy recovery to those who were taken to hospital,” he said.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

15 players selected to represent Spar Baby Proteas  

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: The players selected during trials/Supplied 

By REGINALD KANYANE

The president of Netball South Africa (NSA), Cecilia Molokwane has announced the final SPAR Baby Proteas squad selected from the intense trials held at Laerskool Constantiapark in Pretoria over the weekend. Molokwane said after two incredibly intense days filled with exhausting matches and remarkable displays of skill, Head Coach Precious Mthembu, Assistant Coach Phumza Maweni, and other selectors faced a daunting challenge in handpicking the final 15 players who will proudly carry the flag for South Africa.

“We are excited about the future of netball in our country and we are confident that this group of players can one day replace the players in the SPAR Proteas team. Their first assignment will be the SPAR Challenge in October. I have immense confidence in the talent and potential of our current crop of young players.

“They are an absolute delight to watch, and I firmly believe they have what it takes to become future stars of the SPAR Proteas team. I’m thrilled to see them gear up to represent our country at the SPAR Challenge, SPAR Championships and the Netball World Youth Cup 2025 in Gibraltar – the future of netball in our nation is bright indeed,” she said.

Molokwane further said players who were not selected for the team will still play an important role within the system. She added that a comprehensive development program will be established to ensure that these players are constantly improving and ready to step in whenever a replacement is needed.

“The SPAR Baby Proteas squad will commence preparations for their upcoming international matches and tournaments, including the highly anticipated 2024 SPAR Challenge. The tournament is scheduled to take place at the historic Ellis Park Arena in October,” said Molokwamne.

Meanwhile, Mthembu revealed that the girls showed strong skills and determination during the trials, and as coaches and selectors, they are pleased with the selected squad.

“I am thoroughly impressed with the selection of players for our squad. They showcased exceptional skills and determination during the trials. We were looking for individuals who would put the team first and give their absolute best.

“It’s heartening to see the remarkable depth of talent among our U19 and U21 players. Their dedication and passion for the sport are truly encouraging, and I’m excited to see them take the court in our upcoming tournaments,” said Mthembu.

FINAL LIST OF PLAYERS:

1. Simone Swanepoel – Tshwane

2. Mbali Diphoko- Harry Gwala

3. Jamie Matfield – Tshwane

4. Lisa Ingwersen – Cape Winelands

5. Giada Prinsloo – Johannesburg

6. Lara Enhlers – Cape Winelands

7. Karla Victor – Mangauang

8. Phophi Nematangari – Tshwane

9. Kiara van Eeden – Gauteng

10. Nonkcubeko Mjaliswa – Tshwane

11. Thato Legodi – Johannesburg

12. Vivian Venancio – DR KK

13. Zarah Noah – Cape Winelands

14. Luca Keun – Tshwane

15. Ammertise Bandu – Gauteng

taungdailynews@gmail.com

R28m set aside for a major facelift of Taung Hotel School and Convention Centre  

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: Taung Hotel School and Convention Centre 

By OBAKENG MAJE 

The Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT) said it has put aside R28 million for a major facelift of Taung Hotel School and Convention Centre. The centre is undergoing a major restructuring that would result in its expansion from its current capacity. 

The DEDECT spokesperson, Jerry Matebesi said in 2015, the then Department of Tourism (now the Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism), embarked on the development and construction of the Taung Hotel School and Conference Centre Infrastructure Programme in efforts to improve the tourism infrastructure and skills development in the province. 

“The main purpose of the infrastructure programme is to renovate and build additional infrastructure at the Taung Hotel School and Convention Centre in an attempt to convert the existing infrastructure to a Hotel School and Convention Centre with state of the art facilities. 

“The resulting infrastructure is designed to provide a holistic educational and hospitality environment for beneficiary communities within the context of a Local Economic Development (LED), Rural Development and Community Development,” said Matebesi. 

He further said in the 2024/25 financial year, the department has allocated R28 million towards the renovation of the main hotel building and facilities. Matebesi added that many job opportunities will be created through the construction project of Taung Hotel School and Convention Centre. 

“The ongoing project has created 78 jobs through local labourers and sub–contracting. This would continue to benefit the community for decades and would positively impact on the lives of many persons, who would in turn positively impact the lives of the community they reside in and the province as a whole,” he said.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

 

More than 160 vehicles searched during Operation Basadi 

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: The police conducting stop and search during Operation Basadi/Supplied 

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI 

More than 160 vehicles and 456 persons were stopped and searched during Vehicle Check Point (VCP) that was conducted in Roodepan. The traffic fines to the value of R7050, were also issued for various traffic violations. 

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Dikeledi Gopane said this was done in a joined force between the police in Roodepan, police in Kagisho, Department of Home Affairs, Sol Plaatje Traffic Department, Roodepan SAPS Women’s Network and Safety volunteers during Operation Basadi in the Frances Baard District. 

“The Kagisho SAPS Station Commander, Colonel Michelle Ford led the operation as Operational Commander. Compliance inspections were also conducted at tuckshops, premises were searched, and high visibility patrols were executed in hotspot areas.

“Operation Basadi will continue unabated during the month of August to commemorate the achievements and strides made by women in law enforcement,” she said. 

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Lenkopane: “Collective action needed to tackle GBV, alcohol abuse and economic disparities affecting women”

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: North West MEC for the Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation, and Tourism, Bitsa Lenkopane

By REGINALD KANYANE 

The North West MEC for the Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation, and Tourism, Bitsa Lenkopane said women play a crucial role in society and her department is committed to support community organisations.

Lenkopane, who celebrated Women’s Day in Tigane, near Klerksdorp, said 20 000 women who marched to the Union Buildings in 1956, showed concerted efforts. She recounted the story of Mama Charlotte Maxeke, a social worker who became involved with the church after getting lost abroad. 

Lenkopane was accompanied by the City of Matlosana mayor, Fikile Mahlophe and North West Gambling Board acting CEO, Boitumelo Qalinge. She attended a special Women’s Day service at St. Luke Anglican Church and the church’s Mary Sumner Mothers’ Union in Tigane.

“The church embraced her and she, in return, mobilized other women to discuss women’s agendas and challenges. So, we urge women to return to the church and begin dialogues about today’s societal challenges. Unlike the 1956 era, today’s issues include high unemployment rates among women, their exclusion from economic roles and leadership positions and the prevalence of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and social ills. 

“We encourage women to engage with these topics and develop solutions. There is a need for collective action in tackling GBV, alcohol abuse, and economic disparities affecting women. We must support one another in building an agenda, where women are empowered to thrive,” she said. 

As part of her commitment to community support, Lenkopane donated new chairs to the church and provided the Emmanuel Child Day Care Centre with essential items, including bedding materials and groceries. She said this is an act of generosity following the commitment made in July during the Nelson Mandela International Day celebration.

“The centre cares for disabled children from the villages. I would also like to encourage the church’s Mothers’ Union to remain a strong and united body, ensuring that women’s issues are addressed effectively. The church is a powerful platform that welcomes all women, regardless of their political beliefs.

“Our department is tasked with promoting economic development through support for SMMEs, regularizing and enhancing business activities and attracting investors to maximize provincial revenue,” said Lenkopane. 

She encouraged community members to ensure their businesses are registered and operate within legal frameworks, highlighting that proper registration and licensing enable the government to collect levies, which are then reinvested into communities through service delivery and donations, as demonstrated on the day.

taungdailynews@gmail.com