Author Archives: The Guardian

Eight people shot and killed in a tavern 

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By OBAKENG MAJE 

Eight people were allegedly shot dead in a tavern in Kanana Township, Orkney in the early hours of early Saturday. The suspects reportedly arrived at the tavern looking for Basotho, then randomly fired shots and instantly killed seven people. 

North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said the eight people died in hospital. He said the suspects killed six women and two men, while several others were injured. 

“The suspects then took the CCTV system, cash from the till and snooker table. The suspects further robbed patrons of their cell phones and fled from the scene. The police are still combing through the scene. 

“The motive is yet to be determined and no arrest has been effected,” said Mokgwabone.

The North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi condemned the mass killing of eight people. Mokgosi said the preliminary investigation indicates that five men entered the tavern, refused to be searched at the entrance and a scuffle ensued. 

“On entering the tavern, lights were switched off and random shots were fired as some of the patrons scampered out. Twelve other people were seriously injured and are receiving treatment in hospital.

“Of the deceased, four are South Africans and two are from Mozambique and Lesotho respectively. We urge the police to follow all possible leads in the arrest of the perpetrators of this heinous crime,” he said.

Mokgosi further said they are saddened and extremely shocked by this incident, which left eight people dead. He added that they want to urge the police to do everything in their power to investigate this matter to its logical conclusion and bring to book all responsible for these dastardly acts.

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Seven suspects arrested for murder and possession of suspected stolen goods 

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

Seven suspects aged between 21 and 30, were arrested for murder and possession of suspected stolen goods, including a firearm belonging to an elderly man (65). The suspects were arrested in Klerksdorp on 25 and 26 July 2024.  

The North West police spokesperson, Lieutenant Col Amanda Funani said three suspects (two women and a man) allegedly went to the victim’s place on 24 July 2024, at Elands Heuwel, Klerksdorp and pretended to be looking for a job. Funani said the suspects allegedly overpowered the victim, who was staying alone and severely assaulted him with an unknown object. 

“Furthermore, four other suspects entered and ransacked the house, looted some household items, then fled the scene leaving the old man lying down. The police were called by members of the community, who noticed the suspects leaving the victim’s place. 

“Sadly, the police found the victim dead at the scene. Ensuing investigations led to the arrest of two suspects on 25 July 2024, while trying to sell the victim’s belongings at the taxi rank. They allegedly led the police to other suspects, who were also arrested,” she said.

Funani added that all seven suspects are expected to appear in the Klerksdorp Magistrate’s Court on 29 July 2O24, for murder and possession of suspected stolen goods and unlawful possession of a firearm. 

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, condemned the incident, which he said is inhumane and uncalled for. Kwena applauded the Klerksdorp Detectives for the swift response in ensuring that alleged perpetrators are brought to book.

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Five suspected stolen vehicles recovered in North West  

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Picture: Some of the suspects arrested for robbery/Generic

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

Four suspects were arrested for stealing five vehicles separately. The suspects were arrested during a disruptive operation conducted between 23 and 24 July 2024, in and around Klerksdorp by different Vehicle Crime Investigation (VCI) units. 

The North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said the police recovered five vehicles. Mokgwabone further said in one of the cases, Hugo Stevenson (49), briefly appeared in court after being arrested at Colerviller, in Klerksdorp on 23 July 2024, for possession of a suspected stolen Chevrolet Aveo vehicle, which was reported stolen in June 2023. 

He added that the matter was postponed to 29 July 2024, for bail application.


“In Stilfontein, Nadjibo Bugimirabagabo (44) and Elvis Emanuel (age still unknown), were arrested for truck hijacking and kidnapping that was committed on N12 road, near Stilfontein earlier this month. 

“The truck was recovered together with groceries. The accused persons briefly appeared in court on 25 July 2024. They were remanded in custody until 1 August 2024, for bail application,” said Mokgwabone.

 
He said in another separate case in Klerksdorp, Rapuseletso Leepile (45), appeared in court on 25 July 2024, for perjury. Mokgwabone said this comes after Leepile allegedly opened a false case earlier this month that his Ford Fiesta was hijacked. 

“The matter against him was postponed until 6 August 2024, for further investigation. The vehicle is linked to a business robbery allegedly committed in Orkney earlier this month. The operation also resulted in the confiscation of Toyota Etios and Nissan NP 200 vehicles, which were found abandoned near a mall in Jouberton.  

“The preliminary investigations revealed that the vehicles’ engines were tampered with. In addition, the Toyota Etios was linked with the theft of a motor vehicle case reported in February 2023, in Roodepoort, Gauteng Province,” said Mokgwabone.

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, thanked the police for the successes.

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Five people shot and killed in Rustenburg 

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By REGINALD KANYANE 

Five people were shot and killed in Phase 1, Freedom Park, outside Rustenburg on Saturday at approximately 10pm. The victims (four men and a woman) were found along the street with what appeared to be gunshot wounds on their heads. 

The North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said at this stage, there is no information regarding the suspects except that they fled the scene driving in a white Toyota Quantum. Mokgwabone further said according to information available at this stage, four of the victims were declared dead at the scene, while the fifth one, died at Job Shimankane Tabane Hospital.

“The motive of the incident is unknown and investigations are underway,” he said. 

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, instructed detectives to leave no stone unturned to ensure the arrest of suspects. 

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ANC welcomes the appointment of Mandisa Maya as Chief Justice

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Picture: The incoming Chief Justice, Mandisa Maya

By REGINALD KANYANE

The African National Congress (ANC) said it welcomes the president of Republic of South Africa (RSA), Cyril Ramaphosa’s decision to appoint the Deputy Chief Justice, Mandisa Maya as Chief Justice of the Republic of South Africa effective 1 September 2024.

ANC acting national spokesperson, Zuko Godlimpi said Maya’s qualifications and judicial record, leadership qualities, experience as a judge in various courts, past leadership of the Supreme Court of Appeal, and current role as Deputy Chief Justice make her well-suited to lead the judiciary in South Africa.

“Through upholding the principles of judicial independence and integrity, the Deputy Chief Justice has played a crucial role in maintaining the credibility and trust in the judiciary.

“This has been vital for the rule of law and the

functioning of democracy in South Africa, ensuring that the judiciary remains a robust check on the other branches of government,” he said.

Godlimpi further said by the end of her tenure in the Supreme Court, Maya had delivered over 200 reported judgments. He added that Maya wrote the first recorded Supreme Court of Appeal judgement in isiXhosa on the dispute about the language policy of the University of South Africa.

“(AfriForum v Chairperson of the Council of the University of South Africa). The Chief Justice is the Head of the Judiciary in both administrative and ideational terms.

“This means that Maya is now charged with the task of overseeing the entire judicial apparatus and leading South Africa’s apex court, the Constitutional Court, in progressively evolving our country’s legal jurisprudence,” said Godlimpi.

He said Maya exemplifies the belief that access should hold both jurisprudential and practical significance, her principles are built on a dedication to serving the people. Godlimpi said Maya will be the first woman in South Africa to be appointed Chief Justice, affirming the ANC’s commitment to gender equality and advancing women’s leadership across all sectors and societal leadership structures.

“We wish her a great tenure and offer her our unyielding support and commitment,” said Godlimpi.

Meanwhile, Ramaphosa spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya said the president has in terms of Section 174(3) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, appointed Maya as Chief Justice of the Republic of South Africa. He said Maya’s appointment follows Ramaphosa’s consultation, in accordance with constitutional prescripts, with the Judicial Service Commission and the leaders of political parties represented in the National Assembly.

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NWU ready for the 2024 Varsity Football tournament

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Picture: Head coach of the NWU men’s football team, Nkululeko Malgas

By PHENYO MOKGOTHU 

As the 2024 Varsity Football tournament approaches, the North West University (NWU) is gearing up for a strong performance in both the men’s and women’s competitions. In their eighth week of preparation, the men’s team is showing promising signs of readiness under the guidance of coach Nkululeko Malgas.

The women’s team, led by head coach Alfa Dolopi and team captain Hlalefang “Castro” Moledi, is also set to compete.

Reflecting on the men’s preparation, Coach Malgas says the team’s hard work is paying off and they performed well during a practice game against the National First Division’s Orbit FC in Rustenburg.

“However, there is still work to be done to reach peak performance. I am grateful to assistant coach Lindani Nkabinde for helping me integrate into the team’s culture and recommending talented players from the regional league. This collaboration has been crucial in shaping the current squad,” he adds.

Malgas says he is confident that the players are mentally ready for the tournament.

“The men’s team will play their first game at home against the University of the Free State, a match they are eager to win. The support from the local community has been a significant motivator, with high expectations from fans who fill the stadium in Mahikeng. 

“One player to watch is Lucky, who has great potential and may attract scouts’ attention.”

The women’s team is also confident in their readiness for the tournament. Coach Dolopi says the team is mentally and physically prepared and aims to build on their performance at the recent University Sports South Africa tournament.

“We have been focusing on improving tactics, addressing weaknesses and enhancing overall performance. The players have shown dedication in their training, which has been key to their readiness for the upcoming tournament,” she adds.

Team captain Moledi says she is excited, and that they worked hard to be ready for the Varsity Cup.

“We want to make a significant impact in the tournament, and we know we carry the hopes and support of the university community. Our journey reflects not only our physical and mental preparation, but also our unwavering dedication to the sport and to each other.”

As both the men’s and women’s teams head into the tournament, they are prepared to give their best and showcase their skills. The 2024 Varsity Football tournament promises to be a competitive and exciting event, with the NWU poised to make a strong showing. The players and coaching staff are ready to achieve remarkable results and create memorable moments for the university.

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Karate team excels in USSA tournament

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Picture: Karate team excels in USSA tournament

By LOVENESS HULWANE 

The North West University’s (NWU’s) Vanderbijlpark Campus recently hosted the national University Sports South Africa (USSA) Karate tournament at the Tsebonokeng Hall. The competition featured Clicker, Kata, and Kumite (fighting) categories, and the NWU team ranked sixth in Overall Team Performance among the 12 participating universities.

Individual achievements included Thomas Tsokolibane who showcased his exceptional skills and achieved first place in Kata, Lungani Shasha who topped the charts by winning first place in the men’s 55 kg Kumite, and Thando Memberi who fought valiantly to secure second place in the women’s Kumite.

Furthermore, Angie Phakathi excelled by securing joint third place in the 55 kg Kumite category, and Matlatsi Pheneus also earned a joint third place in the male’s Kata category.

According to the NWU team, the results of the competition highlight their robust performance in both semi-contact and full-contact categories.

Karate manager Joseph Mentor Matlhong says the event not only demonstrated the exceptional skills of their karate club members, but also reinforced the NWU’s commitment to excellence in sports and student development. “These achievements are a testament of the hard work and dedication of the students and everyone involved.”

He adds that the karate club offers many benefits to students, staff and the community, including physical fitness, self-discipline, self-defence skills and stress relief.

“Furthermore, participation in competitions adds further advantages, such as competitive experience, recognition and opportunities to network. Since students from across the NWU’s campuses participate, it also strengthens our university representation and fosters a sense of pride and unity among participants,” he adds.

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Baagi ba latofatsa molekgotlha ka go thapa ka losika 

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Setshwantsho: Badiri ba tsweletse ka go aga ntlo ya tshoganyetso

Ka OBAKENG MAJE

Baagi ba kwa Cokonyane, gaufi le Taung, ba latofatsa molekgotlha wa bone, Daisy Ipeleng ka go thapa la losika. Baagi ba, ba re Ipeleng o thapile batho ntle le go bitsa kopano. 

Seno se tla morago ga gore go nne le porogerama ya go aga matlo a tshoganyetso a le 16 kwa motseng o. Mongwe wa baagi, Obakeng Motlhale are, go thapilwe batho ka mokgwa o o sa siamang mo porogerameng e. Motlhale gape are, bontsi jwa batho ba ba agelwang matlo ga se ba ba a tlhokang. 

“Re tlwaetse fa go thapiwa batho, go iwa kwa kgotlheng mme go dirisiwe mokgwa wa huduwa. Gape, re tlwaetse go thapiwa batho ba le babedi mo karolong nngwe le nngwe ya motse. Jaanong, gona le matlo a a nang le dingwaga di feta 20 a a seng mo seemong se se siameng, mme beng ba one ba tlodilwe. 

“Beng ba matlo ao, ba lobaka ba ikwadiseditse matlo a di RDP. Fela ga go nko e tswa lemina, mme re makadiwa ke gore gona le batho ba ba ikwadiseditseng matlo ao malobanyana fa, mme ba agetswe,” Motlhale wa tlhalosa. 

Kemedi ya baagi, Itumeleng Matlhoahela are ba utlwile selelo sa baagi, mme ke nnete ga gwa thapiwa ka mokgwa wa tlwaelo. Matlhoahela are gape baagi bangwe bana le boipelaetso jwa gore gona le matlo mangwe a sa tsenngwang mo porogerama e, e tswa beng ba one ba a tlhoka. 

“Baagi ba kopa gore re agele batho botlhe ba ba tlhokang matlo, mme ke nnete gona le baagi ba ba tlhokang matlo a. Ka maswabi ga ba tsenngwa mo porogerama e. Gape, gona le selelo sa gore go thapiwa ka losika mo porogerama e, mme ke dingwe tsa dintlha tse re di rometseng kwa go molekgotlha gore a di rarabolole,” Matlhoahela wa tlhalosa. 

Kgabagare, Ipeleng are: “Bonnete ke gore fa go thapelwa porogerama ya matlo a tshoganyetso, ga go bidiwe kopano. Mong wa konteraka one a itletse ka batho ba gagwe, mme ka botho jwame, keile ka mo kopa gore a thape batho mo gae. 

“Jaanong, re ile ra thapa bangwe ba batho ba baneng ba emisitswe mo porogerameng e e neng e puagantswe ya kgaolo ya ditlhare. Ke ile ka isa maina a batho botlhe ba ba neng ka ikwadiseditse go agelwa matlo a tshoganyetso. Fela tshwetso ga ese ya rona, gore shupa gore ke mang a tshwanetswe ke go agelwa.” 

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Water challenges force residents drink from quarry   

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Picture: Residents in Mothanthanyaneng village draw water from a quarry

By OBAKENG MAJE 

The residents of Mothanthanyaneng village, near Taung, call on the North West Provincial Government (NWPG) to converge at a meeting to devise a strategy on how best to provide permanent water solutions to them. These residents said they are now forced to draw water from a quarry. 

One of the irked residents, Olebogeng Sehako accused their ward councillor, Tefo Moraladi of ignoring their plea. Sehako alleged that what Moraladi does best is to buy alcohol for the community. 

“We either get water from a quarry, where animals also drink or from a neighbouring village, Granspan. The provincial government has implemented a strategy to identify water and sanitation challenges across the province since 2021, but nothing is happening. 

“We call for necessary plans for immediate interventions. We were told that all communities with critical water shortages will be prioritised. However, that is not the case,” he said. 

Another resident, Ranolang Moleme (58) shared the same sentiments. Moleme alleged that they do not even know who their ward councillor is because no community meetings are convened on a monthly basis. 

“There are no developments in our area. What we always get are empty promises. The government fails to deliver basic services such as provision of water, accessible roads and others. We urge our government to take us seriously. 

“Why should we walk long distances to access clean and drinkable water? It has been a while since we urged our government to ensure there is provision of water, but all our pleas fall in deaf ears,” he said. 

Meanwhile, even though ward councillor in Greater Taung Local Municipality (GTLM), Tefo Moraladi admitted that there are some challenges in the area, he refuted allegations that what he does best is only to buy alcohol.  

“We understand that there is a concern regarding lack of service delivery in some areas. However, it all depends on what the communities have prioritised during the Integrated Development Plan (IDP). As the municipality, we have a mandate to ensure that we instil high mast lights, build community halls and internal roads. 

“The construction of clinics and provision of water are the responsibilities of other departments. If there is a need, we liaise with them and ensure that they fulfil their mandate.  So, I am in the process of ensuring that all communities receive service delivery,” he said. 

Moraladi further said the municipality heavily relies on conditional grants, so they cannot cover everything at once. He added that every financial year, they make sure that all areas get services. 

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Sekolo sa Redirile se abelwa diaparo tsa sekolo 

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Setshwantsho: Greater Taung PEOPLE Living With HIV and AIDS Organisation ba neelana ka diaparo tsa sekolo

Ka OBAKENG MAJE 

Sekolo se segolwane sa Redirile kwa motseng wa Mokassa, gaufi le Taung, se tlhalositse fa se itumeletse go amogela diaparo tsa sekolo tse ba di neetsweng ke mokgatlho o eseng wa puso wa Greater Taung People Living With HIV and AIDS. Mokgatlho o, one o neela baithuti bangwe ba ba dikobo di magetleng diaparo tsa sekolo. 

Motsamaisi wa diporojeke (Project Manager) go tswa kwa mokgatlhong wa Greater Taung People Living With HIV and AIDS, Dimakatso Molusi are, ba abetswe diaparo tseo ke lebenkeleng la Ackermans go tswa kwa Bloemhof. Molusi are ba neetse sekolo marukgwe, dihempe tse ditshweu tsa sekolo, ga mmogo le dikausu. 

“Fa re amogetse kabo go tswa go ditheo tse di farologaneng, re buisana le dikolo dingwe le go sheba baithuti ba ba tlhokang diaparo tseo, mme re ba neele tsone. Re dira seo go ralala Taung, mme re rotloetsa baagi ka bontsi go ka tsaya karolo. 

“O tla gopola gore ngwana sejo wa tlhakanelwa, ebile ntime o mphele ngwana. Jaanong, fa re neela baithuti ba ba rona tlhokomelo, re tla bona moputso o siameng. Ke baeteledipele ba kamoso, jaanong ke ne ke tla itumela thata go bona ditheo tse di farologaneng le tsone di tsaya karolo mo tiragalong e,” Molusi wa tlhalosa. 

Molusi are go le gantsi, baithuti bao ba feleletsa ba ikobonya, mme seo se kgoreletse dithuto tsa bone. Molusi are baithuti bao, ba tshwanela ke go dira ka natla go ka fetola seemo sa kwa malapeng a bone. 

“Moswi Dr Nelson Mandela o ile a tlhalosa gore thuto ke lesedi, mme ngwana mongwe le mongwe o tlhoka tlhokomelo e tseneletseng, gonne seo ke tshwanelo ya gagwe. Jaanong, go tsaya motse otlhe go ka godisa ngwana.  

“Go tshwanetse gore baithuti fa ba le mo phaphosi-borutelo, ba ipone ba lekalekana. Re tlile go tswelela fela jalo le go netefatsa gore ga gona ngwana ope o salelang kwa morago,” Molusi wa tlhalosa. 

Kgabagare, sebueledi sa Lefapha la Thuto mo Bokone Bophirima, Elias Malindi are: “Re itumeletse thata go bona setheo sa Greater Taung People Living with HIV and AIDS, se neela kabelano e. Re le lefapha re motlotlo, ebile re ipela ka bone. 

“Ka gale re dula re rotloetsa tirisano-mmogo ma gareng ga ditheo tse di farologaneng le lefapha, gonne seo se godisa botsalano jwa rona.” 

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