Picture: Police engaging with community members over GBV matters

By OBAKENG MAJE

The Frances Baard District Police in conjunction with the Community Police Forum (CPF) Board, Spiritual Crime Prevention (SCP) and the District Youth Crime Prevention Youth Desk, engaged with residents in Galeshewe Township, near Kimberly.

Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Timothy Sam said they engaged community members on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) at Keitumetsi Tavern on 20 October 2023.

“The programme was supported by the Northern Cape Liquor Board, The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and the Galeshewe Liquor Trader’s Forum,” said Sam.

Ward 7 councillor, Nomazizi Maputle, who is also the Speaker for the Sol Plaatje Local Municipality in her welcoming remarks, thanked the police for hosting a programme of this nature in her ward as it is faced with numerous GBV challenges.

The Frances Baard District Visible Policing Commander, Brigadier Charlotte Makgari in outlining the purpose of the day, stated that whilst people of all genders perpetrate and experience intimate partner and or sexual violence, men are most often the perpetrators and women and children the victims.

Makgari further said male leadership in relationships is seen as the norm as men hold the majority of power. She added that women should be in a position to protect their bodies, meet their basic needs, and participate fully in society and likewise, women too can perpetrate violence against men.

“GBV can be physical, sexual, emotional, financial or structural, and can be perpetrated by intimate partners, acquaintances, strangers and institutions.

“The different stakeholders when presenting their words of support, highlighted issues of compliance by traders, parental responsibility, safety and security concerns at home and taverns, sexual grooming, community responsibility in reporting any wrongdoing pertaining to GBVF as well as Youth involvement in addressing GBVF drivers amongst themselves,” said Makgari.

The Frances Baard Police representative, Colonel Regina Minnies in crafting a way forward, pleaded with all stakeholders, including the tavern owners to work together with the police in making a difference.

“All stakeholders including patrons of the tavern committed to collectively work towards the elimination of GBVF in Galeshewe through the signing of a pledge,” she said.

The Galeshewe Station Commander, Brigadier Mhlolo Ngcotholozi thanked all stakeholders, the ward 7 and Sector C community, the tavern owners for taking a stand against GBVF, Pastor Grey, who is the SCP member for the prayers and Constable Boipelo Leeuw for diligently directing the programme of the day.

He cited people should desist from being driven by alcohol to solve their social problems. Ngcotholozi added that there is always assistance within our communities and government.

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Picture: The police discover dagga in a plastic bag in the veld/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

Dagga worth R500 000 was discovered in a veld in Rietfontein on Tuesday. The police were allegedly conducting a rural safety crime prevention patrol when they noticed a black bag lying in the veld. The ZF Mgcawu District Police spokesperson, Sergeant Omphile Masegela said the police decided to go and investigate what was in the bag as it appeared strange to them.

“The police got a strong scent of dagga and opened the bag. It contained compressed dagga with an estimated street value of R568 464-65,” said Masegela.

The Rietfontein Station Commander, Captain Mthuthuzeli Block applauded the police for their vigilance.

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Picture: The matric dance farewell/Generic  

By OBAKENG MAJE

Many Grade 12 learners continue to embark on some matric valedictory celebrations across the country. Most matric dance farewell parties come with excitement and enchantment.

However, many incidents take place in the process. Now the Northern Cape police call on individuals to be cautious during these celebrations. The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Colonel Cherelle Ehlers said they urge the learners to be vigilant and stay safe by adhering to safety measures.

“Never get into a car with someone you do not know, even if they call you by your name. Do not accept beverages from a person you do not know and always inform your parents/guardians on your whereabouts.

“Kindly inform them where you are going and when you will return. Your body is private, so you have the right to say no. Never walk around alone and be on the lookout for strange cars or people,” said Ehlers.

She further advises learners to walk in well-lit busy streets and in a group. Ehlers added that they should also know the dangers of youth/underage drinking.

“Ask for help and say no. When travelling in a car, do not give strangers a lift and avoid stopping in remote places. Park your vehicle in places that are well lit and if something seems suspicious, drive away.

“If you see something, say something by calling Crime Stop on 0860010111,” added Ehlers.

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Picture: Advocate Kholeka Gcaleka recommended occupying the Public Protector position

By OBAKENG MAJE

Forum 4 Service Delivery (F4SD) is the latest political party that unequivocally rejects the recommendation of Advocate Kholeka Gcaleka to become the next Public Protector by Parliament. F4SD Secretary-General, Masego Kodisang said they uphold the principle that the Public Protector’s Office must be held by an individual who can act independently and impartially, without being influenced by any political affiliations.

Kodisang said, regrettably, that Gcaleka does not fulfill this criterion. She further said, Gcaleka has a long history of association with the ANC.

“She was a former member of the ANCYL and served as the legal advisor to the former Home Affairs Minister, Malusi Gigaba. Her relationship with the ANC raises questions about her ability to remain unbiased in her decisions, particularly in cases involving individuals or entities associated with the ANC.

“This was evident in her handling of the recent investigation into the Phala Phala Farm scandal, where she cleared President Cyril Ramaphosa of any wrongdoings, despite clear

evidence from various parties, particularly the Parliament’s Section 89 Inquiry panel, which found that Ramaphosa has a prima face case to answer,” said Kodisang.

She added that, it is imperative that, the Public Protector remains above partisan interests, serving as a safeguard against corruption and abuse of power by public officials. According to Kodisang, they believe that Gcaleka’s affiliations with the ANC will hinder her ability to act without influence and protect her comrades from scrutiny.

“The potential appointment of Gcaleka, given the circumstances, will compromise the integrity of the office and undermine public trust in its ability to fulfill its mandate. So, F4SD calls for a robust and transparent selection process that upholds the highest standards of integrity, ethics, and impartiality.

“In the spirit of upholding accountability and promoting the common good, F4SD emphasizes the need for a nominee who is beyond reproach, free from any conflicts of interest, and dedicated to serving the interests of the South African people above all else,” she said.

The National Assembly (NA) spokesperson, Moloto Mothapo said: “In May 2023, the parliament noted that the now former Public Protector, Adv Busisiwe Mkhwebane’s term of office was coming to an end. The House established an Ad Hoc Committee to nominate a person for appointment as the next Public Protector – in accordance with section 193(5) of the constitution.

“The Public Protector is appointed by the President, on the recommendation of the NA, for a non-renewable term of seven years. The Ad Hoc Committee to nominate a person for appointment as Public Protector, met for the first time on 6 June 2023 and elected Cyril Xaba as its chairperson.”

Mothapo said Section 59(1) of the constitution provides for public access to and involvement in the processes of the NA. Broadly, the provision states that the NA must facilitate public involvement in its legislative and other processes conduct its business in an open manner, and hold its sittings, and those of its committees, in public.

He said the Committee accordingly conducted its business in an open and transparent manner. Mothapo said that, following the rigorous interview process, the committee met on 29 August 2023 to deliberate and agreed to recommend to the NA that, it nominate Gcaleka for appointment as Public Protector.

“Gcaleka has served as Deputy Public Protector since 1 February 2020 and has acted as Public Protector since the suspension of Mkhwebane by Ramaphosa in June 2022,” he said.

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Picture: The suspected stolen goats discovered/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

Two suspects aged 38 and 42 were arrested for being in possession of suspected stolen goats. It is alleged that, on 19 October 2023 at around 9pm, the police in Mothibistad received a tip-off regarding a vehicle stealing goats at Deurward village en route to Mothibistad.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Captain Nomvuyo Makoloi said: “The police followed up on the information and the identified vehicle was stopped at the Seoding Crossing with the community’s assistance.

“The police allegedly discovered 27 goats loaded on a white trailer. The suspects were arrested and will appear in court soon. The owner of the livestock arrived and identified his goats.”

Meanwhile, the John Taolo Gaetsewe District Police Commissioner, Major General Keagekae Besnaar, applauded the police for their swift response and relentless efforts in combating crime.

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Picture: The police conduct a search at one of the houses/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

Four suspects have been arrested for allegedly dealing in drugs. The police received a tip-off and clamp down on the suspects. Northern Cape police spokesperson, Captain Nomvuyo Makoloi said four suspects were found at their respective premises in Mapoteng, Mothibistad, and Magojaneng.

“After the searches were executed, drugs were found confirming the information received. During the raids, the police confiscated mandrax, dagga, and cash believed to be the proceeds of drug sales.

“The Mothibistad police will continue with their bid to clamp down on crime,” said Makoloi.

Meanwhile, the John Taolo Gaetsewe District Police Commissioner, Major General Keagekae Besnaar, applauded the police for their relentless efforts in squeezing the space for drug dealers to operate. Besnaar said the police appreciated and commended the community for their active role in fighting crime.

“We urge them to continue being the eyes and ears of the police,” he said.

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By OBAKENG MAJE

Four suspects who were arrested for theft by the Hawks’ Serious Commercial Crime Investigation, briefly appeared at Schweizer Reneke Magistrate Court on Friday. Kopano Katlego Itholeng (23), Vanessa Phokompe (27), Bongane Mcdonald Ndongwane (35), and Ratselane Samuel Kaweng (39) were charged for theft and acquisition, possession, or use of proceeds of unlawful activities in contravention of Section 6 of the Prevention of Organised Crime Act 121 of 1998.

The Hawks spokesperson in North West, Lieutenant Colonel Tinyiko Mathebula said the accused were arrested on 19 October 2023, following an investigation into their alleged theft of the complainant’s Road Accident Fund (RAF) pay-out.

“It is alleged that, on April 2022, the complainant received a pay-out of over R370 000 from the RAF claim. In May 2022, reports indicate that, an amount of R260 000 was transferred from the complainant’s account into the account of Itholeng.

“Furthermore, an amount of R38 000 was transferred into Ratselane Kaweng’s bank account. Following a sterling investigative work, a warrant of arrest against the four accused was issued and they were subsequently arrested on Wednesday,” said Mathebula.

He further said Itholeng and Phokompe, were released on R5 000 bail, while the matter against Ndongwane and Kaweng was postponed to 27 October 2023 for formal bail application.

Meanwhile, the North West Provincial Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, Major General Patrick Mbotho, and the Director of Public Prosecutions, Dr Rachel Makhari, commended the investigation and prosecution team for working tirelessly to ensure that the suspects are brought to book.

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Picture: The construction site of a reservoir project in Potchefstroom 

By REGINALD KANYANE

Operation Bulela Metsi might be what the residents of the North West need to do away with water scarcity. The residents across the province continue to struggle to access clean and drinkable water.

However, the minister of water and sanitation, Senzo Mchunu said his department has rolled up its sleeves as a means to accelerate the provision of water in the province. Mchunu said this will be done through the implementation of Operation Bulela Metsi, which is an initiative geared towards enhancing access to consistent and reliable water supply in the province.

On Friday, the Republic of South Africa (RSA) President, Cyril Ramaphosa accompanied Mchunu and several other ministers, conducted an oversight inspection at a construction site of a reservoir in Ikageng Township, near Potchefstroom.

“This is evident as all hands are on deck in the construction of the Ikageng 25 mega litres ground reservoir. The construction of the reservoir is funded through the Department’s Regional Bulk Infrastructure Grant (RBIG) with the municipality as the Water Services Authority, appointed as the implementing agent.

“Work commenced in January this year and is expected to be completed by July 2024, with more than 100 job opportunities for locals in the pipeline. The reservoir and the new bulk distribution (gravity) pipeline will supply water to communities in Ikageng Proper, Ikageng Ext. 1,4,5 9, 12, Potchindustria, Mohadin as well as the Northern portion of Ikageng Ext. 7,” he said.

Mchunu further said the project came about as a result of the decommissioning of the Ikageng West Reservoirs, which rendered the Ikageng Proper and Potchindustria networks without any storage capacity. He added that they have made a commitment to fast-track the implementation of bulk water projects in water-strained communities.

“The department has since put wheels in motion to collaboratively work with the provincial government and its entities with an aim of ensuring water security in the province and across the country.

“Close to 22,000 households and a population of 94 201 will benefit from the successful completion of the reservoir. In addition, the reservoir site is suitable to cater for the future developments at Mooibank to the south of the N12, and the platform will be ready to accept additional ground reservoirs,” said Mchunu.

He said the position of the new reservoir site is also suited to accommodate any future developments, once the urban edge is extended to the North West of the reservoir site as proposed in the recent Spatial Development Framework.

Mnchunu said the Operation Bulela Metsi project is a culmination of the hard work carried out by the technical task team established by the national and provincial government in January this year, to conduct an assessment of the state of water and sanitation services provision in the province and come up with measures to address the challenges and ensure sustainable provision of the services.

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Picture: Foreign tuckshop owners allegedly chased out of townships/Generic

By OBAKENG MAJE

Two children in the West Rand, Gauteng have died after allegedly eating poisonous food from a taxi rank last week. The incident comes days after two four-year-old-children in Soweto died allegedly after eating biscuits from a foreign-owned spaza shop.

Now, this has created a panic across North West as some parents fear for their children’s lives.

The chairperson of North West Provincial Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Economic Development, Environment, Tourism, Agriculture and Rural Development, Bitsa Lenkopane said she has been inundated with calls alleging that, there are children who were also reported dead after consuming poisonous food in the province.

“While no formal and or authenticated information and evidence have been received, the committee has been receiving calls from panicking parents and community members seeking remedies to protect communities from alleged traders who sell them products containing deadly poison.

“The department is urged to join hands and intensify the operation through district development model by thorough involvement with municipalities, and activation of the activists who will create awareness to ensure that communities understand that the state is in charge of such businesses,” she said.

Lenkopane further said the committee is appealing to the communities to remain calm. She added that, they called on the communities to remain vigilant, while further calling on the North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism and other relevant stakeholders to investigate these horrifying allegations.

“We are also calling on the department to do the inspections and furnish the committees with a detailed report, which should indicate trader categories and their respective consumable products which are further extended to school learners.

“This must include trader status, whether licensed or not, compliant with the business regulation act or not, which must indicate the compliance with Immigration Act 13 of 2002 regarding foreign-owned business,” said Lenkopane.

She urged the department to regularly communicate with communities through different platforms to ensure that they are accountable and responsible for all the operating businesses across the province, to reduce the amount of panic.

Lenkopane said the committee will rely on the report from the department that should be submitted within seven days and further engage communities on the work done and/or systems in place including communication of the database of all businesses, regulated or not.

“We equally appeal to communities to refrain from causing unnecessary unrest and rather report incidents and provide proof to the nearest police services. They should also provide accurate information to any government officials who might be dealing with the situation,” she said.

Meanwhile, no deaths of children consuming poisonous food in the province have been reported thus far.

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By OBAKENG MAJE

Alleged vigilantes who were arrested by police in Upper Majeakgoro village, near Pampierstad on Monday for allegedly beating a man (26) accused of stock theft to death, are set to appear at Kgomotso Magistrate’s Court today.

According to the Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Col Sergio Kock, the police arrested 18 suspects (14 men and 4 women) who were allegedly involved in the mob justice.

Kock said a group of community members allegedly went to the house of a person suspected to be involved in stock theft, beat his family members, and forcefully took him and his friend (20) to Upper Majaekgoro village.

“The community allegedly tied the two up and beat them with a pick handle and chains. The friends of the victims allegedly drove into the crowd of community members with a Toyota Bakkie and one person was also hospitalised, while other community members were left injured.

“Two men who were allegedly abducted and assaulted by the community members were both hospitalised. However, one of the victims (26), later succumbed to his injuries,” he said.

Kock further said 18 persons who were allegedly involved in the mob justice set to appear in court soon on charges of murder, attempted murder, and assault GBH. He added that, the police confirmed that, five of them (4 men and 1 woman) are part of the Community in Blue Patrollers in Pampierstad.

“A driver (50) of a bakkie was also arrested and charged with attempted murder. He will also appear in court soon,” said Kock.

Meanwhile, the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant Gen Koliswa Otola, condemned the attack and warned that mob justice is a violation of the law. Otola warned that, the community members who are implicated in this act will be arrested and face the full might of the law.

The police are currently monitoring the situation in Pampierstad and the investigations continue.

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