Category Archives: NEWS

Suspected stolen vehicles allegedly used in CIT robbery seized

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Picture: Suspected stolen vehicles/Supplied 

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

12 November 2024 – As part of combating aggravated robberies in line with the Safer Festive Season Operation Shanela, a suspect was arrested in Tlhabane following a Cash-In-Transit (CIT) robbery. The incident occurred at about 5:30pm on 11 November 2024.

It is alleged that a white Mercedes Benz vehicle rammed into a Cash In Transit security vehicle on the R104 road at Kroondal in Rustenburg.

The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Adele Myburgh said although the security guard (driver) continued driving, he was forced to stop after shots were fired at their vehicle. Myburgh said as a result, he and his colleague jumped out of the vehicle, but were caught by suspects who robbed them of their 9mm pistols.

“The suspects then blew the security van up with explosives and fled the scene with an undisclosed amount of cash, driving in two vehicles. The security officers were not harmed.

“Following the incident, intelligence gathered led the police to an address in Kagiso Township, in Krugersdorp, whereby a Toyota Quantum suspected to have been used to transport the suspects between Gauteng and North West, was confiscated,” she said.

Myburgh further said the police then proceeded to Tlhabane, near Rustenburg, and with the assistance of Rustenburg Flying Squad, a woman (40), was arrested in the early hours of Tuesday morning for possession of suspected stolen/hijacked motor vehicles. She added that the police confiscated two vehicles.

“A Toyota Bakkie that was allegedly stolen in Bloemfontein in August 2024, and a Volkswagen Tiguan allegedly hijacked from its owner in August 2024, in Boitekong. The vehicles were confiscated on suspicion that they were used during the commission of the crime.

“The suspect is expected to appear before the Rustenburg Magistrates’ Court soon,” said Myburgh.

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, applauded all members involved in tracking the suspect and vehicles for their diligence and applying a multi-disciplinary approach to bring the suspect to book and to ensure a safe and secure environment for all, especially during the festive season. 

Kwena is also requesting members of the community to refrain from tampering and/or contaminating the crime scene as it happened in this instance. 

“Anyone who may have information that can assist the police in the investigation is requested to contact the Investigating Officer, Capt Mollo Kgekoane of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) on Cell: 082 338 3140,” she said.

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Nigerian man sentenced to six months imprisonment for possession of cocaine

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Picture: Some of the drugs confiscated by police/Generic

By REGINALD KANYANE

12 November 2024- A Nigerian man (37) was sentenced to six months imprisonment by the Bafokeng Regional Court, sitting in Tlhabane, for possession of cocaine. The court further ordered that Chukwyemeka Okafor (37), be deported to his country of origin upon the completion of his sentence.

According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson, Sivenathi Gunya, the charges against Okafor stem from an incident that took place at Lafaragatlhe, near Rustenburg on 28 July 2022. Gunya said the police officers noticed a stationary vehicle belonging to the accused with its lights on beside the road.

“Their suspicion led them to approach the vehicle, where they searched the three occupants inside and discovered the cocaine in Okafor’s trouser pocket. Okafor was arrested on the spot and has been in custody since that day.

“During the court proceedings, he pleaded not guilty. However, the state successfully proved its case through the evidence provided. Despite one of the arresting officers being deceased, the court accepted the remaining officer’s statement under the hearsay rule, allowing the prosecution to move forward,” he said.

Gunya further said the state advocate, Zola Mphayipheli urged the court to impose a sentence that reflects the seriousness of the crime, despite the small weight of the drug involved. He added that Mphayipheli argued that the possession of even a small amount of cocaine poses a significant threat, particularly if it reaches the hands of vulnerable individuals.

“The court acknowledged the serious implications of drug-related offences, especially concerning the involvement of foreign nationals in drug trafficking, emphasizing this concern during its deliberation.

“The magistrate expressed the importance of protecting society while delivering justice,” said Gunya.

Meanwhile, Dr Rachel Makhari, Director of Public Prosecutions in North West, commended the diligent efforts of the police, state prosecutor, and all role players involved in this case.

“The DPP emphasised the need for community cooperation with authorities in reporting drug-related activities, highlighting the negative impact of these substances on the country’s youth.

“The NPA remains committed to tackling drug-related crime and protecting the youth and broader communities from the detrimental effects of narcotics,” she said.

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Kgetsi ya polao ya kwa Majaneng e boela kgotlha-tshekelo

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Ka OBAKENG MAJE

12 Ngwanatsele 2024- Kgetsi ya polao kgatlhanong le monna wa kwa motseng wa Majaneng, gaufi le Taung, e boela kgotlha-tshekelo mo letsatsing la gompieno. Motseothata Nelson Seoleseng (35), o latofadiwa ka go tlhaba tsala ya gagwe, Mosimanegape Adam van Wyk (31) ka thiba go fitlhelela a tlhokafala.

Tiragalo e, e diragetse dikgwedi di le mmalwa kwa motseng wa Majaneng. Go begwa fa Seoleseng ga mmogo le moswi, ba ne ba le mmogo, mme ba ile ba ya kwa gabo molatofadiwa ko ba fitlhetseng morwa rragwe molatofadiwa ana le lekgarebe la gagwe.

Mongwe wa bo maratahelele wa tlhalosa: “Go begwa fa go ile ga runya kgakgauthano ya mafoko ma gareng ga molatofadiwa le monnawe. Sebakwa sa kgakgauthano ke gore, molatofadiwa one a botsa monnawe gore goreng a tlisa lekgarebe kwa gagabo.

“Ene ya re fa e ya matsogong, tsala ya molatofadiwa, van Wyk, one a leka go tsiriganya. Fela go begwa fa molatofadiwa a ne a mo tsogela kgatlhanong, mme a mo tsatsanka ka thipa. Go ya ka dipego, moswi one a rwalelwa kwa bookelong jwa sedika jwa Taung, fela one a balelelwa le badimo mo letsatsing le le latelang.”

Go begwa fa kgetsi ya polao ene ya bulwa, mme mmelaelwa one a tshwarwa.

Sebueledi sa sepodisi mo sedikeng sa Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati, Warrant Officer Tryphosa van Rooyen are, kgetsi ya polao e butswe. Kgetsi e buseditswe morago go fitlha 7 Phatwe 2024, go tla go utlwa letsatsi la tsheko. 

Kgabagre, mmagwe moswi, Pulane Van Wyk are: “Pelo ya ka e setse e rotha kgodu e khibidu. Jaaka ke bua le wena jaana, ke dula ke tshogile ka gore monnawe molatofadiwa, Tshotlhego, o dula a mpolelela gore molatofadiwa o dula a mo letsetsa, mme are nna ke mo ntshe mo kgolegelong, mme o tla nnaya madi.

“Jaanong, potso ke gore a ke sireletsegile fa go direga dilo tse. Ke ile ka itsise le sepodisi gore a go siame gore ere molatofadiwa a mmpolaetse ngwana a be a dula a romela batho mo go nna gore ke mo ntshe mo kholegelong o tla nnaya madi.”

Van Wyk are o boleletse monnawe molatofadiwa gore fa a sa batle a mo tsenya ka ntlo-lefitshwana, a ye go mo nnaya ngwana wa gagwe. Are Motseothata ene o botokwa gonne ba lelapa la gagwe ba dula ba mo bona kwa kgotlha-tshekelo, mme ene ngwana wa gagwe ga a mo bone.

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Broos rallies his troops ahead of crunch clash against Uganda

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Picture: Bafana Bafana coach, Hugo Broos

By BAKANG MOKOTO

12 November 2024 – While Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos agrees that beating Uganda in their own backyard on Friday will be tough, he remains confident that his charges can carry out the assignment in Kampala on Friday.

Broos’ charges face Uganda away from home in Kampala on Friday and then return home to tackle South Sudan at DHL Cape Town Stadium on Tuesday in Cape Town, in matches that could see the South African senior men’s national team qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) to be held in Morocco next year.

The Belgian mentor had his first training session with his players on the opening day of camp in Johannesburg on Monday, and he said he has absolute confidence in his players and believes they can secure qualification on Friday.

“We can end 2024 on a fantastic note. We started the year very well with the bronze medal (at the AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire) and it would be nice to end it with qualification for AFCON again.

“We will try to qualify in the first game (against Uganda). It will not be easy because we are playing against an opponent who is already qualified, and who is confident. I think they played very good qualifiers, and they are playing at home. But in the past, we succeeded in winning difficult games and we know we can do it because we have quality in the team,” he said.

Broos confirmed that Mihlali Mayambela has been withdrawn from the squad after he picked up an injury, while playing for his Cypriot club Aris Limassol at the weekend. He has been replaced by Devin Titus, who is already in the camp in Johannesburg.

The Bafana Bafana coach has almost all his players in camp and the only outstanding names are Luke Le Roux and Siyabonga Ngezana, who are expected on Tuesday.

Bafana Bafana are in second place in Group K with eight points, just two behind group leaders Uganda (10 points). Tickets to the game in Cape Town have gone on sale. The South African Football Association (SAFA) confirmed a few days ago that tickets to the highly anticipated encounter are available at TicketPro outlets, Spar, SuperSpar, Putco, Postnet, Jam clothing, and at Shell, SASOL and BP garages.

Meanwhile, the gates at the stadium will open at 3pm, and the tickets are priced at R60 for adults. Kids, scholars and students will pay R30 (school uniform and student cards required for over 12-year-olds).

Click here to purchase your ticket: https://www.ticketpros.co.za/portal/web/index.php/event/bcb8f67e-14c6-0785-6ea5-672b27d9dcc5

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The Moses Kotane Local Municipality speaker, Gugulethu Mtshali resigns    

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Picture: The Speaker of Moses Kotane Local Municipality, Gugulethu Mtshali/Facebook

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

12 November 2024- In a letter, the Moses Kotane Local Municipality speaker, Gugulethu Mtshali, has accused the ANC leadership in North West of ignoring her plea to address challenges she experienced, while presiding over municipal council. According to Mtshali, there are individuals at the municipality, who are committing crime with impunity and they are not held accountable.  

“I therefore wish that the leadership of the ANC will act fairly and without prejudice to me and hold the ANC caucus of Moses Kotane Local Municipality collectively and individually accountable.

“I draw the attention of the leadership to reports I have submitted through ANC provincial secretary, Louis Diremelo, who have neither acknowledged nor responded to all of my correspondences to him,” she said.

Mtshali, who will resign as the municipal speaker on 31 December 2024, said it was never easy to preside over a council of consistent motions of no confidence with no support from the ANC caucus and leadership. She further said there was even an attempt to plant an illegal firearm in her vehicle.

“This attempt was in 2022, where police came and alleged to have received a tipoff. They searched my vehicle and fortunately, there were people in the vehicle throughout the day and that’s how the plot was foiled. I have observed a normality of lack of accountability and a tradition of using patronage to silence communities and councillors, who dare raise questions over any wrongdoings.

“It is concerning to raise serious challenges regarding the appointment of a Chief Financial Officer, who is out on bail of R50 000 for contravening the Municipal Finance Management Act, facing charges of corruption on the VBS charges at his previous employment only for that to be disregarded,” said Mtshali.

She added this includes the consistent appointment of contractors, who never finish their projects and as a result, service delivery is compromised. Mtshali alleged that municipal officials have maliciously outside a council resolution, increased their salary packages contrary to their contracts of employment, and she has been purged for raising such.

“I wish to put it on record that I did not raise these matters for the first time in this letter. I have used each and every platform available to echo my convictions in relation to the state of Moses Kotane Local Municipality.

“However, anyone who seems to be vocal and challenges the status quo, is often offered as a sacrifice to protect impunity, lawlessness and maladministration. So, as a member who fully understands organisational processes, I am fully alive to the understanding that it is the ANC Provincial Executive Committee empowered to deploy and redeploy its members, which is disregarded in my case,” she said.

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Farmers advised to implement weather wise measures

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12 November 2024- The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development has advised farmers to be on the lookout for daily extreme weather warnings and implement risk-reduction measures.

The department said large parts of the country are currently reporting reasonable to poor veld and livestock conditions, and many dryland farmers have yet to receive sufficient rain before planting.

According to the Seasonal Climate Watch issued by the South African Weather Service (SAWS) on 31 October 2024, predictions indicate above-normal rainfall for most north-eastern summer rainfall regions during the entire summer period.

Some interior regions, however, still indicate below-normal rainfall during the mid- and late-summer seasons.

“These predictions may change if the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) predictions become more certain towards a La Niña state and as such, continued monitoring of future seasonal climate watches are advised. Minimum and maximum temperatures are expected to be mostly above normal countrywide for the forecast period.

“Considering the seasonal forecast, farmers are advised to approach the season with vigilance and follow the weather and climate forecasts regularly to make informed decisions and wait for sufficient moisture before planting. Drought-tolerant cultivars should be prioritised in areas that have constantly been experiencing dry conditions,” the department said in a statement.

The department also advised farmers in regions that are in a reasonable condition to prepare in line with the expected conditions, in line with the seasonal forecast. However, the department warned against expanding planting land unnecessarily.

“Moreover, farmers should consider short-season cultivars. Farmers should also note that rainfall distribution continues to remain a challenge. Therefore, not all north-eastern areas of the country might receive the anticipated above-normal rainfall that is well distributed,” the department explained.

Farmers are also advised to put measures in place for pests and diseases associated with wet and hot conditions, as “above-normal rainfall and high temperatures are anticipated, especially in the north-eastern parts of the country”.

Farmers using irrigation have been urged to comply with water restrictions in their areas, and continually conserve resources in accordance with the Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act (CARA), 1983 (Act No. 43 of 1983).

The department further urged farmers to keep livestock in balance with the carrying capacity of the veld and provided with additional feed, including relevant licks.

“Livestock should be provided with enough water points on the farm, as well as shelter during bad weather conditions,” the department said.

Fire belts

The department further noted veld fires in several provinces, which resulted in damage to grazing land and infrastructure, and livestock fatalities.

“Winter rainfall areas are drying out, increasing favourable conditions for veld fires. Therefore, the creation and maintenance of fire belts should be prioritised as well as adherence to veld fire warnings.

“Episodes of heatwaves have occurred, as well as localised flooding and remain likely for the remainder of summer. Preventive measures should be in place and farmers are encouraged to implement strategies provided in the early-warning information issued.”

The department said it will continue to monitor the seasonal forecasts and provide updates when necessary.

“In addition, the department will partner with all relevant stakeholders to continue raising awareness in the sector and capacitate farmers on understanding, interpretation and utilisation of early-warning information for disaster risk mitigation and response.” – SAnews.gov.za 

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North West Media Awards Announces Hosts for the 2024 Ceremony

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Picture: Three hosts of NWMA24 revealed/Supplied  

By OBAKENG MAJE

11 November 2024- The North West Media Awards (NWMA) organisers said they are excited to reveal this year’s esteemed hosts for the ceremony. The organisers said the stage will be graced by three prominent figures, Jones “Blaq Gzus” Modibane, Berlina Lekgethwane, and You FM’s beloved presenter, Sydney “Sydnature” Letsapa.

The NWMA chairperson, Ananius Ndlovu said these accomplished individuals, each a powerhouse in their own right, will guide the night’s celebrations at the Orion Safari Hotel in Rustenburg on 6 December 2024. Ndlovu said the hosts will showcase the very best of North West province’s talent and dedication to excellence.

“Letsapa, who is better known as Sydnature, brings a wealth of broadcasting experience to the event, with a career spanning two decades across both commercial and community radio.

A North West University (NWU) graduate with a BA in Communication and a BSc Honours in Political Studies and International Relations, Letsapa has been a trusted voice in South African media since 2004,” said Ndlovu.

He further said known for his humility and skill, Letsapa is a proud North West native, committed to highlighting local stories and voices. Ndlovu added that Lekgethwane was recently crowned Mrs World Peace 2024 and Mrs Worldwide Special Queen Ambassador.

“She is celebrated for her contributions to women and youth empowerment. As the CEO of the Berlina Lekgethwane Foundation, she has dedicated herself to community development, championing diversity, inclusion, and collaboration.

“Lekgethwane’s awards and ambassadorships underscore her commitment to social progress and inspire others to contribute to the region’s growth,” he said.

Ndlovu said Modibane, who is an all-around entertainer, comedian, and arts advocate, will bring his charisma and humour to the stage. He said Modibane is known for his work as Motsweding FM’s movie reviewer and as the creator of Rustenburg’s Annual Platinum Comedy Show.

“He embodies the energy and spirit of North West’s vibrant arts scene. His work with the Joyous Celebration DVD recordings and as a finalist in SABC’s 2014 World Cup Presenter Search, has made him a familiar face in the entertainment industry.

“So, join us for an unforgettable night as these three icons guide us through a celebration of local media talent and community leadership at the North West Media Awards 2024,” he said.

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NWU Law Professor, Boitumelo Mmusinyane calls for decolonisation of SA’s legal system

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Picture: NWU Law Professor, Boitumelo Mmusinyane/Twitter 

By BAKANG MOKOTO

11 November 2024- Decolonization is important because it aims to achieve cultural, psychological, and economic freedom for indigenous people, and to challenge the legacy of colonialism. North West University (NWU) Law Professor, Boitumelo Mmusinyane challenges students as he advocates for their greater involvement in efforts to decolonise South Africa’s legal system.

Mmusinyane further said the ongoing challenge of integrating indigenous knowledge into the country’s Eurocentric Legal Framework, is a legacy of colonisation and apartheid that continues to marginalise African governance traditions.

He added that South Africa’s judiciary remains deeply influenced by European legal and governance systems, even as it plays a role in transforming society.

“Will you be a benchwarmer, enforcing the status quo, or will you be part of the legal revolution? Our judiciary continues to mirror Eurocentric Legal Frameworks, yet it is responsible for societal transformation.

While lawyers are well-trained in navigating the current system through established precedents, they often face difficulties incorporating African legal principles into their practice,” said Mmusinyane.

He said a major issue is the untapped potential of indigenous knowledge, which has been neglected for centuries. Mmusinyane noted that indigenous governance systems, which were once central to African societies, have been overshadowed by laws introduced during colonialism.

“The African population is trying to navigate a legal system that contributed to the dismantling of their traditional governance structures. There is a resistance that often accompanies discussions about the integration of indigenous laws.

“If you mention indigenous knowledge systems, people laugh or dismiss the idea. This reaction perpetuates the dominance of colonial legal frameworks and slows down efforts to revive African legal traditions,” he said.

African legal concepts were erased

Mmusinyane also raised important questions about the existence of African legal concepts in various areas, including insurance, construction law, intellectual property and trade. He asked if these laws exist?

“Yes, they existed, but were wiped out by the legal systems we rely on today. So, I challenge both legal professionals and students to take responsibility for rediscovering and developing these indigenous legal concepts.

“I would also like to caution against relying on the same colonial systems that shaped South Africa’s laws in the 20th century to address the country’s current legal challenges,” said Mmusinyane.

He said the majority of the laws they depend on today, were not created with the involvement of the entire population. Mmusinyane said many people’s beliefs and legal systems remain marginalised, even decades after the end of apartheid.

Indigenous languages come to the fore

Mmusinyane emphasised that decolonising the legal system is not limited to formal legal education. He said people do not need to study law in their mother tongues at university to challenge the system.

“Restoration of dignity to community laws is a shared responsibility. With the recent appointment of Justice Mandisa Maya as Chief Justice, we expect that, indigenous languages will soon play a larger role in South African law.

“We encourage students to prepare for this change. If tomorrow, the courts adopt Setswana, Xhosa, Zulu or Pedi as official languages, are you ready to engage with the law in your own language?” he asked.

Mmusinyane also reminded students that universities and legal scholars alone cannot overhaul the legal system. He said individuals also have a role to play in decolonising the law.

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North West Department of Education to probe corporal punishment allegations at Yarona Early Childhood Learning Centre

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Picture: The Yarona ECL principal, Mrs Thomas

By STAFF REPORTER

11 November 2024- A calamitous parent of a learner at Yarona Early Childhood Learning Centre (ECL) in Nhole village, near Taung, calls on the North West Department of Education to probe the school over corporal punishment allegations.

This comes after startling allegations that learners at the school might be subjected to corporal punishment.

According to a concerned parent, who cannot be named to protect the identity of a minor, his son came back home with wounds on his ears. The child alleged that a certain teacher called Boipelo, pulled him with ears and left him wounded.    

“It is disheartening what is happening at that school. This is not the first time my child came back home with wounds on his ears. The same thing happened in August this year, but I kept thinking that maybe it was a mistake.

“However, the same thing happened last week. I called the principal of the school, Mrs Thomas who alleged that the child was not assaulted by a teacher, but by other learners. So, I asked her if they are harbouring bullies at the school and she never had the guts to inform me? However, she could not answer,” he said.

Insert: A learner left with wounds on his ears after being allegedly assaulted by a teacher

A concerned parent further said, Thomas did not want to account because if learners can beat each other without being reprimanded, then that means the environment is not safe for teaching and learning. He added that some parents that he spoke to, also shared the same sentiments, and alleged that their children were assaulted at some point by the same teacher.

“Corporal punishment has been abolished in schools and what is upsetting is that, I also called the teacher who is accused, but she said learners have a tendency of lying to their parents and alleged that she is the one who assaulted them.

“She also accused parents of being over-protective of their children. I told her that there are so many ways to discipline learners, instead of practising corporal punishment,” he said.

The North West Department of Education spokesperson, Mphata Molokwane said they have launched an investigation over the allegations. Molokwane said as the department, they condemn acts of corporal punishment in schools.

“Corporal punishment has long been abolished and is therefore considered a criminal offense. The Department of Labour Relations will conduct an investigation into the allegations that a teacher applied corporal punishment to a learner at Ya Rona ELC,” he said.

Thomas did not respond to our media inquiry before publishing this article. Her response will be incorporated in the article once received.

Meanwhile, the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child said: “The prohibition of corporal punishment in schools has been in place since 1996 with the passage of the South African Schools Act 84 of 1996. The Act states that: 1. 2.

“No person may administer corporal punishment at a school to a learner and any person who administers corporal punishment is guilty of an offence, and is liable on conviction to a sentence which could be imposed for assault.”

The organisation said the National Education Policy Act (1996) states that no person shall administer corporal punishment or subject a student to psychological or physical abuse at any educational institution.”

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Mdluli appeals Legal Aid’s decision denying him legal assistance

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Picture: Former Crime Intelligence Boss, Richard Mdluli

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

11 November 2024- The Pretoria High Court postponed the corruption case against Richard Mdluli and his co-accused to 21 November 2024, for an outcome on his review application to Legal Aid South Africa after his application for legal assistance was denied. Legal Aid South Africa has however appointed an attorney to assist him with the review process.

The Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) spokesperson, Henry Mamothame said Mdluli’s application for leave to appeal on the high court’s decision that dismissed his application for the South African Police Service (SAPS) to pay his legal fees, was dismissed by the high court with costs.

“Mdluli, together with the former South African Police Service (SAPS) Supply Chain Manager, Heine Barnard and Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Solomon Lazarus, are facing charges of corruption, fraud and theft relating to the police’s secret slush fund from the time they were employed by the SAPS in the Crime Intelligence Services, between 2008 and 2012,” he said.

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