Category Archives: NEWS

Department of Social Development warns against unauthentic sites for SRD application

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Picture: The SASSA logo

By REGINALD KANYANE

27 February 2025- The Department of Social Development and its entity the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) are warning unsuspecting prospective applicants of the COVID-19 Social Relief of Distress (SSRD) of sites and links purporting to be authentic platforms to apply for the SSRD.

This was revealed in parliament today when the Portfolio Committee on Social Development received an update into the investigation on alleged weaknesses and fraud in the application and payment system of social grants.

The Minister of Social Development, Sisisi Tolashe said the correct and authentic application platform for all applications to the Covid-19 Social Relief of Distress is: https://SRD.sassa.gov.za. She further said the following links: https://srd-sassa.org.za and https://srdsassagov.co.za are fake and are used to collect data from unsuspecting applicants, stealing personal information from applicants of the SSRD of R370.

Tolashe said she instituted an investigation into vulnerabilities of the applications and systems used by SASSA for the payment of social grants. She further said this was after recommendations made by the Portfolio Committee on Social Development to conduct an investigation on these alleged vulnerabilities after claims of fraud in the application system of the Covid-19 Social Relief of Distress (SSRD) were made by two students from the University of Stellenbosch.

“The phase 1 of the investigation consisted of a comprehensive audit into the SRD application system administered by SASSA to determine the extent to which the system was exposed to fraud.

“The findings of this audit will serve as input as a basis for Phase 2, which will be an investigation into alleged fraud and weaknesses in the broader social grant system that results in ineligible beneficiaries receiving social grants,” said Tolashe.

She added that the final report on the Vulnerability Assessment (VA) and Penetration Testing (PT) on the SRD online system administered by SASSA made the findings. Tolashe said amongst others, that there are unidentified, malicious websites with .org and .co.za domain names that purport to be the authentic SRD application websites that are used to harvest applicants’ information for fraud purposes.

“That the SRD web application has weaknesses, such as unencrypted communications, that present threats to the security of the platform and the safety of users. These weaknesses are classified as medium risk by the Final Audit Report,” she said.

Tolashe said the Final Audit recommends a communication campaign warning beneficiaries and applicants about the unofficial and fake sites that are used to harvest their information for fraudulent purposes. She said SASSA has developed an Action Plan to respond to the recommendations of the Final Audit Report.

“It has short, medium and long term activities. This includes replacement of the HTTPS: method with a post method to protect communications between the applicant and the server that processes their information.

“To implement a rate limit to limit the abnormal number of requests made to the SRD application system. Update outdated software, and implement regular patch updates and introduce biometric,” said Tolashe.

She said in the long term, and within 18 months, SASSA will take down the fake websites and other content that violates its brand, copyright or right to information and privacy. Tolashe assured the committee of her commitment in addressing the vulnerabilities and weaknesses identified in the Covid 19 Social Relief of Distress system.

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Workers-owned coal mine struggling to make a breakthrough

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Picture: The miners at a disused mine/Generic

By OBAKENG MAJE

27 February2025 – A coal mine in Mpumalanga that was acquired by a group of retrenched mine workers, who lost their jobs when the former owners stopped operation is struggling to make a breakthrough in the industry. This was discovered by the Portfolio Committee on Mineral and Petroleum Resources yesterday during an oversight visit to Arnot Opco Coal Mine in the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality.

The Chairperson of Portfolio Committee on Mineral and Petroleum Resources, Mikateko Mahlaule, said after Exxaro stopped mining and retrenched 1500 workers in 2015 when its coal supply contract with Eskom could not be renewed, a group of eight former Exarro employees formed a company, Innovators Resources, and approached their former employer to take over the mine.

Mahlaule said they also established a trust for the benefit of about 1 029 other former employees of the mine and partnered with Wescoal as a shareholder, which at the time was listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE). He said, however, Arnot Opco management told the committee yesterday that because Wescoal had failed to make available the R150 million in funding they had previously committed and also because of the Covid-19 pandemic, the mine could not operate fully.

“Now the company is struggling to raise funding, as lenders are reluctant to fund companies in distress and also it is difficult to find funding for coal projects due to the global shift towards clean energy.

“Currently there is no mining taking place at Arnot Opco, instead the mine buys coal from third parties, washes it and sells to their clients. However, plans are underway to appoint contractors to reopen the mine and create jobs for some of the retrenched workers,” said Mahlaule.

He further heard that Arnot Opco is currently under business rescue and is also involved in a court battle with Wescoal. Mahlaule added that Wescoal is also under business rescue and its listing on the JSE has been suspended.

“The committee would like to see the company succeed and become a big player in the coal mining industry. The last thing we want is to see the transaction fail.

“We want the mine to be a success. We want to see this model, which we have not seen before, succeed. You must also have regard for the community and not extract and leave,” he said.

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EFF donates school shoes to a school in Buxton   

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Picture: The EFF leadership donates school shoes at Pelotshweu Primary School/Supplied 

By REGINALD KANYANE

25 February 2025- The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in Taung has donated school shoes to disadvantaged learners at Pelotshweu Primary School in Buxton village, near Taung. The EFF Member of Provincial Legislature (MPL) in North West Provincial Legislature, Justice Dabampe said their donations came after they identified learners in need.

Dabampe said they met with the school management and the School Governing Body (SGB) and discussed the donations.

“We did an oversight visit, wherein we were able to see that, there were learners who do not have school shoes. You would know that, this will tamper them from going to school to study or focus on their studies.

“So, as part of ensuring that we promote a culture of teaching and learning by ensuring the environment is conducive, we donated school shoes as per list submitted by the leadership of the school led by the principal,” he said.

Dabampe further said they are planning on working together with other stakeholders, including all schools in and around Greater Taung to ensure that, no child suffers because of lack of school shoes or uniform. He added that, no child should be left behind and all children should focus on their education.

“We can also report that there is a serious problem in terms of Post-Provisioning Model (PPM) and the allocation of teachers. This includes the absenteeism of Grade R learner.

“This matter concerns us and we are committed to working together with the leadership of the school and the SGB to ensure that, there is Grade R at the school. This should not be another failed project, but it should thrive,” said Dabampe.

He said Pelotshweu was previously a middle school and it has been turned into a primary school a few years ago. Dabampe said they will continue to support the school in anyway necessary.

Meanwhile, Help A Child South Africa said: “There is nothing incredible than to make a positive impact in the lives of underprivileged children across the country. Every child deserves access to education, regardless of their socio-economic background.

“Many children lack basic school supplies, including proper shoes and uniforms. These essential items not only contribute to their physical comfort but also help boost their self-esteem and confidence in the classroom.”

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A body of a man retrieved from a dam

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Picture: The police retrieved a body of a man who drowned/Generic

By OBAKENG MAJE

25 February 2025- The police in Postmasburg said they are investigating an inquest into the death of a man (18), from Maranteng, Postmasburg. This comes after a body of the man, who drowned in a dam, resurfaced on 25 February 2025, at around 6:30am.

The Northern Cape spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Sergio Kock said the body was retrieved from the dam in Postmasburg. Kock said the deceased and a group of friends, allegedly went swimming and he drowned on 23 February 2025, at around 3pm.

“The SAPS Management commends the Postmasburg SAPS, Northern Cape SAPS Provincial Search and Rescue team, Kolomela Mine, the Postmasburg, communities and all other relevant role players, who assisted in the search and retrieval of the deceased,” said Kock.

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Two men arrested for house-breaking

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Picture: Some of the items seized by the police/Supplied

By BAKANG MOKOTO

25 February 2025- Two men aged 27 and 29, were arrested by the police in Mothibistad for alleged house-breaking and theft incident. According to the Northern Cape police, the police have allegedly recovered stolen goods.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Sergio Kock said on 21 February 2025, at around 5:30pm, the Mothibistad Visible Policing Commander, Captain Nomvuyo Makoloi with Crime Prevention members, pounced on the two men and recovered

2 fridges, a microwave oven, a washing machine, a set of pots, four plate gas stove, a plasma TV, kettle, gas cylinder, toaster, shoes and sneakers from their house in Promise Land, Mothibistad.

“A follow-up investigation led to the discovery of two goats allegedly also stolen from Ellendale Village. Police also confiscated the Tata Sedan and the Toyota Hilux bakkie that were allegedly utilized in the commission of the crimes.

‘The suspects will appear in the Mothibistad Magistrate’s Court on charges of house breaking and theft, possession of suspected stolen goods, stock theft and possession of alleged house breaking implements,” he said.

Kock further said the police management commended the Mothibistad SAPS for their vigilance and execution of arrests and reminded the community not to buy stolen goods. He added that, people should remember that, dealing and possession of stolen goods is a crime.

“The police request that they keep on assisting by reporting these criminals via the MySaps app or contact 08600 10111,” said Kock.

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Three suspects arrested for possession of endangered plants worth R500 000

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Picture: A truck with endangered plants seized by police/Supplied   

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

25 February 2025- Three suspects aged 31, 32 and 39, were arrested by the Kamieskroon for allegedly being in possession of endangered plants worth R500 000. The police received a tip-off and operationalised information regarding a Hyundai truck traveling from Leliefontein in the Namakwa Region in the direction of Kamieskroon.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Colonel Cherelle Ehlers said on 24 February 2025, at approximately 4:30pm, the vehicle was intercepted and searched after obtaining permission from the driver. Ehlers said about 30 bags containing 1309 alleged endangered plants were recovered and a truck seized as it was utilized in the commission of a crime.

“The trio, all from the Western Cape, were arrested and will appear in court on charges of illegal possession of endangered plants,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Namakwa District Commissioner, Brigadier Schalk Andrews, commended the police for their rapid response and ensured the community that the SAPS in the Namakwa District will continue to clamp down on the poaching of endangered plant species in the region. Andrews said the members of the public were applauded for providing valuable information that led to the apprehension of the suspects. 

“Information regarding criminal activities can be relayed via the MySAPS app or 0860010111,” said Ehlers.

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ANCYL branch leader, Katlego Khunou apologises to TDN editor amid derogatory comments

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Picture: ANCYL leader in Taung, Katlego Khunou/Facebook

By REGINALD KANYANE 

25 February 2025- ANCYL leader at Kgantlapane Branch in Taung, Katlego Khunou has unequivocally apologized to the award-winning journalist, Obakeng Maje. On 6 January 2025, the founder and Editor-in-Chief of a community newspaper, Taung DailyNews, published an online article regarding learners who were allegedly caught having sex in a classroom at Kebinelang High School in Manthe village, near Taung.  

Khunou who calls herself Phil Mello on Facebook, alleged that Maje is a rapist journalist and he also impregnated another woman outside the wedlock.  

Maje said he viewed Khunou comments as calumniatory. He further denied ever impregnating any woman outside his marriage. 

“Ms Khunou’s comments were unfounded and defamatory. I do respect her, but it is unfortunate that some leaders within our society will go to social media with libelous comments without thinking of the outcome of their actions. 

“Remember, the internet reaches out to millions of people instantaneously. So, her comments were defamatory and posed a significant risk to my reputation and integrity. Section 16 of the Constitution provides everyone with the right freedom of expression. However, this right is not an absolute right and there are limitations on what one is allowed to say,” he said. 

Maje added that, even though he accepts Khunou’s apology, he would like to warn people to be cautious about what they post on social media. He said the defamatory statement is a misrepresentation of facts and individuals such as former TV presenter, Katlego Maboe, Thato Sikwane, who is popularly known as Dj Fresh, a musician, Sjava, just to mention a few, have suffered reputational damages due to defamatory statements made against them in the past by some individuals.

Meanwhile, in a statement, Khunou said: “I wish to publicly address and retract the statements I made in January 2025, on my Facebook page regarding Mr Obakeng Maje. Upon reflection, I understand that my comments- including calling Mr Maje a “rapist journalist” and making allegations about his personal life – were not only unfounded and untested, but also deeply hurtful and damaging to his reputation and dignity. 

“I acknowledge that these statements were made without verifying facts and have caused harm to Mr Maje as well as his standing in the community. I sincerely apologize for the pain and distress my words have caused.”

She said: “Effective immediately, I have deleted all posts containing these derogatory remarks. I am committed to learning that my future communications are thoughtful, respectful and based on verified information. I extend my heartfelt apology to Mr Obakeng Maje, his family, and everyone affected by my words.” 

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North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi to deliver State of the Province

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Picture: North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi

By REGINALD KANYANE

25 February 2025- All systems go for the North West Provincial Legislature (NWPL) to host the North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi, who will be delivering the State of the Province (SOPA) on Thursday. The NWPL speaker, Dr Desbo Mohono said Mokgosi will deliver the SOPA in the Legislature Chamber at 9am.

Mokgosi is expected to come up with strategic measures to improve the economy of the province, including addressing the soaring unemployment crisis, especially amongst the youth.

The Democratic Alliance (DA) caucus leader in the North West Provincial Legislature, Freddy Sonakile said the province’s soaring unemployment crisis calls for urgent action. Sonakile said they are deeply alarmed by the latest Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS) for Q4 of 2024, which confirms what residents of North West have been experiencing firsthand—a province in economic freefall under an incapable ANC provincial government.

“Unemployment has skyrocketed, with the official rate increasing by 4.5% (20,000 jobs lost) from the 3rd quarter to the 4th quarter, making the North West the worst-performing province in the country.

“Year-on-year, unemployment has surged by 2.3%, while the expanded unemployment rate climbed by 1.3%—a clear indicator that economic opportunities are shrinking under the current administration. Despite a population growth of 1.3% year-on-year, employment ratios continue to plummet, with the Employed-to-Population Ratio dropping by 0.8% in the last quarter alone,” he said.

Sonakile further said this means fewer people are working to sustain their families, while poverty and desperation escalate. He added that the ANC’s failure to create jobs and stimulate growth has left the North West in a deepening crisis.

“The DA has consistently advocated for policies that attract investment, improve infrastructure, and create an enabling environment for small businesses to thrive—yet these proposals are ignored by a provincial government more focused on self-enrichment than service delivery.

“With Mokgosi set to deliver SOPA, we urge him to use this opportunity to present real, actionable solutions to the unemployment crisis. The people of the North West cannot afford another speech filled with empty promises and excuses,” said Sonakile.

He said they demand urgent intervention to address this crisis. Sonakile said the DA will continue pushing for accountable governance, a revitalised job market, and real economic opportunities for the people of North West.

“Change is not only necessary, but urgent. The people of the North West deserve a government that prioritises job creation, economic growth, and a future that offers hope instead of despair,” he said.

Meanwhile, the North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said: “The Provincial Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (PROVJOINTS) that consists of various government departments and security forces, led by the South African Police Service (SAPS), is geared up to ensure a safe and secure SOPA, which will take place at 10am.

“Law enforcement officers will be deployed in and around the Legislature and surrounding areas to ensure general safety in Mmabatho and Mahikeng.”

Mokgwabone said while daily activities will not necessarily be affected by security arrangements, it is significant for the public to take note of the closure with regulated or restricted access of certain roads and thoroughfares around the precinct between 5am and 3pm on Thursday. He said that will affect the flow of traffic.

“It must be emphasised that civil servants working at neighbouring government buildings will still be allowed to access their offices. The streets/roads that will be affected are Sekame Road and Ngaka Modiri Molema Road.

“This includes Sekame Road and Dr James Moroka Dr James Moroka Drive and Dr Albert Luthuli, Dr James Moroka Road Drive and Hector Petersen, Dr James Moroka Road and Stadium Road, Dr Albert Luthuli and Ngaka Modiri Molema,” said Mokgwabone.

He said an appeal is made to members of the public, civil servants, learners and all those who normally use roads, streets, thoroughfares and other public offices in and around the aforementioned roads to cooperate with law enforcement officials, who will be manning and working in the area.

Mokgwabone said the deployment of law enforcement officials is intended to ensure that normal day to day activities are not unduly affected or obstructed, and the cooperation of everyone is important in this regard.

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Fraud and tax evasion case postponed

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By OBAKENG MAJE

25 February 2025- The Pretoria Specialised Commercial Crimes Court on Monday, postponed the tax and fraud case involving Maphoko Hudson Kgomoeswana, to 5 May 2025 for plea negotiations. This comes after the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) did not accept the plea proposal put forward by the accused on 21 February 2025.

The IDAC spokesperson, Henry Mamothame said the state was ready to proceed with trial, however the court held it to be in the interest of justice to afford the accused a further opportunity to deliberate with the IDAC on a possible plea. 

“Kgomoeswana is facing charges of fraud and tax evasion valued at approximately R18 million. These charges relate to his personal and business tax involving his company, Babinatlou Business Services CC between the period 2016 and 2018.

“The offences were discovered during the investigations into the alleged corruption at the Kusile power station. He is out on a warning, and the court warned him to avail himself when the matter resumes in May 2025,” he said.

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