Category Archives: NEWS

Largest frog in more than 100 years discovered in Africa

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Picture: A new species of African bullfrog has been discovered/Supplied 

By OBAKENG MAJE 

A new species of African bullfrog has been discovered in North Eastern of Namibia, Southern Angola, South Western of Zambia and North Western of Botswana. It is the largest frog species discovered in more than 100 years.

The researcher from North West University (NWU), Professor Louis du Preez said, the largest specimen found is 210 millimetres long and weighs 1 kilogram. Preez said they were once three, now they are four.

“We have discovered a new species of African bullfrog, called Pyxicephalus beytelli. This is only the fourth species of bullfrog ever identified in Southern Africa. The species occurs in parts of North Eastern of Namibia, Southern Angola, South Western of Zambia and North Western of Botswana. 

“It is named after the late Ben Beytell, the Director of Parks and Wildlife Management in Namibia, who was instrumental in the proclamation of the Khaudum National Park in Namibia, where the species occurs,” he said.

Preez further said the new species is similar to all other species of bullfrogs in its external structure, internal anatomy and general behaviour. However, he added that two of the main distinguishing features of Pyxicephalus beytelli are its bright yellow and lime green colouring, blue spots and a white vertebral line running down its body. 

“Then there are its prominent and somewhat ferocious teeth, which are sloped backwards (recurved), and two large bony protrusions on the lower jaw. Their teeth really stand out, and we are excited to learn more about their feeding habits. I can promise you that this frog has a big bite. 

“Bullfrogs have a varied diet that includes mice, small birds, snakes, insects and even other frogs. I and a former student, Marleen Byron, first encountered the bullfrog in Okavango 12 years ago,” said Preez. 

He said they immediately realised “there was something different about this frog”. Preez said in late 2021, he was commissioned by the Namibian Nature Foundation to conduct a survey of amphibians and reptiles in Khaudum National Park. 

“When I saw the bullfrog again, I knew it was the one I had seen a decade earlier. A thorough and painstaking process then began, in which the specimens collected were carefully detailed and compared with existing known species.

“We attribute the belated discovery of Pyxicephalus beytelli to its habitat. Getting to some of the places where Pyxicephalus beytelli can be found is extremely difficult. These places are remote and you have to cross rough terrain to get there,” he said. 

Preez said also, people simply did not realise that, it was a different species. He said from a conservation perspective, the identification of new species is of paramount importance to ensure their protection.

“Frogs evolved about 350 million years ago and have diversified from there. Today, they are the most threatened group of vertebrates in the world. A big reason for this is the destruction of their natural habitat. 

“The more we know about a species, such as its location and range, the better we can protect it. It is only when we have caused the extinction of a species that we realise what we have lost,” said Preez. 

He said there is still a lot to learn about this new species, and the fun will be in finding out.

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North West govt distance itself from 2024 Investments and Economic Development Summit

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By OBAKENG MAJE 

The North West Provincial Government (NWPG) said it has noted with great concern the illegitimate use of its brand and names of some Members of Executive Council (MECs) to market the so-called North West Investments and Economic Development Summit 2024, which none of the provincial government departments and their entities have expressed any intentions to participate in.

The NWPG spokesperson, Brian Setswambung said, the provincial government views the conduct of the organisers of this summit as not only unprofessional and unethical, but mischievous as well. Setswambung said, organisers intend to lure unsuspecting stakeholders in the economic sector to attend this summit with the pretence that the provincial government is involved.

“As we distance the provincial government from the hosting of this summit, we call upon its organisers to desist from this unacceptable and dishonest conduct, and withdraw the unethical use of the North West Provincial Government (NWPG) brand from its marketing material. 

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Picture: The NWPG logo  

Ramaphosa: “Our relationship with the US is built on mutual respect and cooperation”  

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Picture: RSA president, Cyril Ramaphosa 

By CYRIL RAMAPHOSA 

The relationship between South Africa and the United States has received a great deal of attention recently. Strengthening ties between the two countries was among the important issues that Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, discussed with US officials during a working visit to Washington last week. 

The topic also featured prominently in a meeting that I had in Cape Town last month with a bipartisan delegation from the US Congress. Also last week, a committee of the US House of Representatives discussed a proposed bill that would require a full review of the bilateral relationship between the United States and South Africa. 

These discussions provide an opportunity to clarify our positions and to correct misperceptions about our foreign policy. 

An important starting point for that discussion is that since the advent of democracy in 1994, South Africa has sought through its foreign policy to promote peace, security and development on the African continent and across the world.  

Consistent with our history, South Africa has taken a non-aligned position in our international relations. We have deliberately avoided aligning our country with any of the major powers or blocs. Rather we have sought to forge cordial relations with all countries. While we have taken a non-aligned position, we continue to pursue positions that are in keeping with the UN Charter. 

We have sought to advance an inclusive and representative world order, to strengthen multilateralism and to promote the resolution of conflict through dialogue. It is in pursuit of this approach that South Africa has worked to strengthen relations with countries around the world, including the United States. 

Our relationship with the US is characterised by mutual respect and a willingness to engage in constructive dialogue even on issues where we may differ. Even on contentious issues – such as the docking of a Russian ship in Simonstown in late 2022, the Russia-Ukraine conflict or the current conflict in Gaza – the South African and US governments have been able to share views in a frank and open manner.

The matter regarding the docking of the Russian ship at Simonstown was fully investigated and satisfactorily put to rest. South Africa’s participation in the African Peace Mission to Ukraine and Russia has led to South Africa’s continuing involvement together with many other countries, including the United States, in discussions that are aimed at finding solutions to the resolution of the war.

In this way, we have encouraged greater understanding and cooperation between ourselves as South Africa, the United States and many other countries on matters of mutual interest. 

One of the areas of contention on which there has been much commentary, as well as much misinformation, is the position that South Africa has taken on the conflict in Gaza. There has been a particular focus on the case that South Africa brought to the International Court of Justice, where we argued that the actions of the Israeli military in Gaza violate international law and includes actions that are prohibited under the Genocide Convention, to which South Africa, Israel and many other countries are signatories. 

Our application to the court is consistent not only with our obligations as a signatory to the Genocide Convention, but also the call we have always made for an inclusive negotiated settlement of the Israel-Palestinian conflict. This position is consistent with UN resolutions. We have always supported the legitimate aspirations of Palestinians to self-determination and statehood and of the state of Israel to peace and security. 

We have consistently called for the application of international law, condemning the atrocities committed by Hamas against Israeli civilians on 7 October last year and calling for the release of hostages. We continue to call for an immediate ceasefire, the urgent provision of humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza and meaningful negotiations towards a lasting solution. 

These are positions that are increasingly being taken up by more and more countries around the world. The suggestion that the position we have taken on the conflict could lead to a deterioration of our relations with the United States is therefore unfounded. 

South Africa has strong economic, political and social ties with the US. We remember the support from the American people during our struggle for democracy. Over the last 30 years, we have had, and continue to have, a supportive, mutually beneficial and cooperative relationship between our two countries. 

We are grateful for the support that the US has provided to South Africa over many years in the fight against HIV and AIDS. The PEPFAR programme has contributed significantly – and continues to contribute – to the remarkable progress we have made to deal with AIDS. 

South Africa and the US have firm and expanding trade and investment ties. South Africa is home to more than 600 US companies and the US is the second largest destination for South African exports. Some of our large companies, such as Sasol, have made significant investments in key economic sectors in the United States.

An important part of the economic ties between South Africa and the US is the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which grants qualifying African countries duty-free access to the US market for their exports. 

The recent AGOA Forum, held in South Africa in November last year, confirmed the value of AGOA to Africa’s industrialisation and integration and to the diversification of its economies. The trade and investment ties that have been developed through AGOA, provide a platform for US investors to participate in the opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area. 

We also welcome US participation in the Just Energy Transition Partnership alongside a growing number of other countries. South Africa has great opportunities for investment in the green economy and for the supply of critical minerals for the global energy transition. 

There is great potential to further develop our relationship with the United States and to find ways to work together for a more peaceful, stable and just world.

South Africa will continue to seek firm and friendly relations with countries around the world in pursuit of a better world. 

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A double murder case against Schweizer Reneke man resumes in court  

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By OBAKENG MAJE 

A double murder case against Onkemetse Thaganyane (40), set to resume today at Schweizer Reneke Magistrate’s Court. Thaganyane, who is facing two counts of murder and two counts of attempted murder, was arrested on 19 March 2024.

The North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said, Thaganyane allegedly shot and killed two people and injured two. Mokgwabone said, a confrontation ensued during a protest action at Extension 5, Ipelegeng Township in Schweizer Reneke.

“It is alleged that some members of the community demanded to be employed on a sewer pipeline project. During the confrontation, a shot was allegedly fired towards two construction vehicles, which were also pelted with stones, thus causing damage.  

“One of the construction vehicle drivers reportedly fired shots and in the process, a boy (11) and a man (33) were shot at. The minor died on the scene, while the man succumbed to injuries at Schweizer Reneke Hospital,” he said. 

Mokgwabone further said in addition, two other men were taken to hospital due to serious injuries they sustained. He added that the police arrested the suspect and seized his firearm.  

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, is shocked about the loss of lives and at the same time conveyed condolences to the deceased’s families. Kwena warned the public about the danger of violent protests, where even children and the innocent are often used.

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Three suspects who allegedly robbed a supermarket in Veertien to appear in court

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Picture: One of the vehicles allegedly used in commission of crime seized by the police/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE 

Three suspects aged 30, 37 and 47, who were arrested for business robbery, attempted murder, illegal possession of firearms and ammunition amongst others in Veertien village, near Taung, are set to appear at Taung Magistrate’s Court on Monday.

The suspects allegedly robbed a supermarket of an undisclosed amount of money on Thursday. According to the North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone, the police were summoned to the scene. 

“Upon arrival, they were briefed about the incident in which five armed men wearing balaclavas robbed the store of an undisclosed amount of cash and cigarettes. The suspects’ vehicles, a white Renault and a silver Volkswagen Polo, which were still in the vicinity, were spotted. 

“That led to a car chase and the suspects allegedly shot at the police, who returned fire. One of the vehicles came to a halt after its tyre was deflated, while the other capsized after the driver lost control,” he said. 

Mokgwabone further said three suspects were arrested, whilst the vehicles used in the commission of the crime and the stolen items were confiscated. He added that the suspects are expected to appear in the Taung Magistrate’s Court on 25 March 2024. 

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, commended the police in Taung for their swift reactions to the crimes. Kwena also lauded them for ensuring that the alleged perpetrators are apprehended. 

“We would also like to thank community members for the role they played to ensure the arrests of the suspects,” he said.

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More than 216 suspects nabbed during Operation Shanela 

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Picture: Some of the drugs confiscated by the police/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE 

More than 216 suspects were arrested for various crimes during Operation Shanela. The suspects were arrested for murder, attempted murder, rape robbery, assault, burglary, malicious damage to property, dealing and possession of drugs, illicit mining, possession of counterfeit goods, possession of suspected stolen stock, undocumented illegal immigrants, possession of precious metals, as well as illegal dealing in liquor. 

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Timothy Sam said, this resulted in the closure of 10 liquor outlets. Sam said 871 daily wanted suspects were traced and arrested by detectives for evading court appearances and contravening court orders.

“Actions and police activities executed during Operation Shanela, which is a weekly multi-disciplinary high density operation. The operation commenced from 18 until 24 March 2024, with a focus on the reduction of contact and violent crimes in hotspots.

“The disruptive actions include Vehicle Check Points (VCPs), stop and searches, foot and vehicle patrols, compliance inspections, smuggling of drugs and other commodities. VCPs and roadblocks were conducted across the province during which 3244 vehicles and 5999 persons were stopped and searched,” he said.

Sam further said the police also confiscated large volumes of alcoholic beverages and non-ferrous metal items during inspections. He added that drugs valued at R10 000 were seized at a roadblock between Askham and Upington in the ZF Mgcawu District, as well as cash that is believed to be the proceeds of crime.

“Numerous compliance inspections at secondhand dealers, scrapyards, recyclers, private security, firearm dealers, formal and informal businesses, farms and mines were executed,” said Sam. 

Meanwhile, the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, indicated that the success of Operation Shanela, guarantees the human rights of the residents of Northern Cape. Otola said the police will combat any unlawful violence against its citizens and ensure special care to victims of Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF).

“We invite the public to rate the police efforts in fighting contact crimes by participating in the “RATE OUR SERVICE” online survey to assist the police in improving services,” she said. 

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More than 18 suspects nabbed for various crimes 

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Picture: Some of the equipment used for illegal mining confiscated/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE 

More than 18 suspects were arrested for various crimes during Operation Vala Umgodi in Kleinzee on Saturday. The police, joined by the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and the Department of Home Affairs, conducted disruptive operations that led to the arrest of 11 suspects for illegal mining, 3 undocumented persons and 4 suspects for drug-related crimes.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Molefi Shemane said, numerous mining equipment, including bags with diamond bearing gravel, generators, drugs and money believed to be the proceeds of crime were confiscated.

“If you see something, say something. Report illegal mining to the SAPS Crime Stop 08600 10111,” he said. 

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Eight men nabbed for armed robbery

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By OBAKENG MAJE 

Eight men aged between 25 and 48, were arrested for attempted armed robbery in Jouberton Township, near Klerksdorp in the early hours of Saturday. It is alleged that the suspects used various social media platforms to advertise the sale of a Toyota Avanza vehicle. 

Last month, after responding to the advert, the unsuspecting potential buyer and those who accompanied him, were taken to a house in Jouberton for a transaction. However, it was during the transaction that a group of unidentified people and some pretending to be police officers, entered and tried to rob them. 

The North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said, however, a child ran out of the house and screamed for help. Mokgwabone said the suspects left without committing the robbery. 

“The crime intelligence interviewed victims following an attempted armed robbery. Soon after the establishment of the team, a tip-off was received regarding the gang’s conspiracy to rob another unsuspecting buyer. 

“On 22 March 2024, under police surveillance, the suspects tried to scam and rob the potential buyer, who responded to the advertisement of the same Toyota Avanza. However, the vigilant team consisting of Rustenburg and Provincial Crime Intelligence, Provincial Organised Crime, Potchefstroom Public Order Police (POP) and Potchefstroom Flying Squad, pounced on them in the early hours of Saturday,” he said. 

Mokgwabone further said, one of the suspects was found in possession of a police officer’s appointment card. He added that all the suspects are expected to appear in the Klerksdorp Magistrate’s Court on 25 March 2024, facing charges of armed robbery and impersonating a police officer. 

“The investigations into the matter are underway and the possibility of linking the suspects with other cases cannot be ruled out,” said Mokgwabone. 

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, lauded the police for their commitment to ascertain that organised groups such as this one are dealt with decisively.

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Newly-formed committee set to monitor initiation schools  

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Picture: The Executive of Mahikeng Local Municipality, Cllr Tshepiso Mphehlo (Middle front row) with the Convenor of MRM North West Interim Committee, Pastor Lesiba Kgwele (Third from the left back row) and nominated members of the Mahikeng Local Municipality committee of Principals of Initiation Schools/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE 

The Moral Regeneration Movement (MRM) in the North West said it welcomes the establishment of a local committee to bolster the capacity to monitor initiation schools ahead of the winter initiation term. This follows the deaths of four initiates at a bogus school that operated within the jurisdiction of Mahikeng during summer season.  

The inaugural initiation school Lekgotla was hosted by the executive mayor of Mahikeng Local Municipality, Tshepiso Mphehlo on Friday. According to the convenor of the Moral Regeneration Movement Provincial Interim Committee, Pastor Lesiba Kgwele, the committee aimed at ridding the municipality of unscrupulous swindlers. 

“The Lekgotla brought together over 50 principals of initiation schools and other stakeholders. We are encouraged that there is consensus that initiation is supposed to be a healthy, safe, positive learning as well as a bonding experience. 

“It was supposed to be a portal into manhood that is not associated with criminality, human rights abuse and loss of lives. Strict compliance with the Custom Initiation Act, No. 2 of 2021 is not negotiable, if customary practices are to be protected and the lives of innocent young people saved,” he said.

Kgwele further said that chancers and those who commit atrocities through bogus initiation schools undermine tradition, as well as culture and should be reported to authorities. He added that they applaud the commitment by the nominated committee to silence initiation songs sung by bullies, who have taken the character of gangsters that are undermining educators and school authorities at some of the schools. 

“These tyrants cannot force to be the first on the National School Nutrition Scheme queues ahead of uncircumcised learners at our schools. The MMR will work with the department of basic education towards School Governing Bodies (SGBs) to entrench a culture of human rights within value-driven schools,” said Kgwele.

Meanwhile, Mphehlo pointed out that, the immediate task of the nine-member committee is to establish cluster committees to cover all wards in order to assist the PICC with its vetting processes. He said this will assist in combating fronting and visit troubled schools to call bullies to order.

“The future generation of leaders should be brewed from traditional schools without discriminating against others, who by many beliefs and practices hold a different opinion than theirs. 

“The individuals nominated to serve on the committee have the requisite experience and share our vision to uphold the rule of law, as well as restore our cultural and community values,” said Mphehlo. 

He said they trust that all individuals will support the initiative, as it is part of their effort to better communities. 

The Chairperson of the Provincial Initiation Coordinating Committee (PICC) who also represented the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), Andries Stemmer said: “The best practice in terms of compliance with the 40 years’ minimum age requirement for principals of schools and the ten years after graduation was observed at Kagisano-Molopo Local Municipality, where the average age of principals is 59.

“We urge other municipalities to follow the example set by Mahikeng Local Municipality.”

Meanwhile, Keletso Leburu said that the North West Department of Health, will conduct screening of new initiates, advice of risks before admissions for registered schools are finalised. 

Leburu said they will also conduct unannounced inspections and regular check-ups for bleeding, dehydration and malnutrition.

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