By OBAKENG MAJE

Listeners of the newly-launched community radio station, Bodumedi FM said they are grateful to finally have a fully-fletched radio station in their area. The Schweizer Reneke-based radio station was established back in 2015 and operating as a makeshift until it received funding from the Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA) recently.

The station received state-of-the-art studio equipment including computers from MDDA. One of the listeners, Mosimanemang Sirwe from Amalia said: “We are grateful to finally have a proper radio station in our area. We hope the station management will continue to serve us diligently without fear or favour.

“As the community of Schweizer Reneke, we will continue to give the management our unwavering support. We also want to see the station growing abundantly. So, we want to send our appreciation to the MDDA and the Office of the Presidency for their support.”

Sirwe also encouraged local businesses to support the station through advertising.

The Member of Parliament (MP) and Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Thembi Sewiya, who was the keynote speaker, urged community members to embrace the radio station as it will be used as a tool to disseminate information.  

“This radio station will empower the community of Schweizer Reneke and its surroundings. The Bodumedi FM’s presence will ensure that community members are able to make informed decisions regarding issues such as health, dealing with family matters and etc.

“Part of the MDDA is to create an enabling environment for media development and diversity, which reflects the needs and aspirations of all South Africans. The agency is glad to be able to lend a hand in growing what the station started with a make-shift studio in 2017,” Sewiya said.

She also urged community members not to burn the radio station during service delivery protests.

Meanwhile, the executive mayor of Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality, Motseokae Sense Maje shared the same sentiments. Maje said one of the critical components of under-development is information poverty.

“I am raising this deputy minister because we are gathered here today in an effort to address and unlock this challenge facing our people. We are gathered here today to create access to information and knowledge in the process of developing our people.

“Our people can only become better through sharing of information and being integrated into the entire global family. To that effect, we as the municipality, want to appreciate the effort of MDDA working together with the Office of the Presidency,” he said.

Maje said the entire efforts made, realised that the rural community members form part of the entire country and ultimately, the global community. He said the municipality pledges to assist Bodumedi FM with fully-fletched branding materials. 

“The municipality will continue to show enormous support to community media as it plays a crucial role within communities,” said Maje.

In his address to the ceremony, a board member of Bodumedi FM, Ivan Otsheleng thanked the government for the support and re-committed that the radio station will work with all relevant stakeholders in advancing the interest and the development of society.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

By OBAKENG MAJE

The North West Provincial Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Premier, Finance, Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements, and Traditional Affairs chairperson, Aaron Mocwana has lambasted the North West Housing Corporation (NWHC) for its lacklustre performance in complying with the committee resolutions since 2019.

The committee embarked on special oversight visits to engage all municipalities, where the province has properties. Mocwana said the committee is conducting special oversight visits on the NWHC’s cross-border properties (residential/business/vacant land) in Ga-Rankuwa and Mabopane in Gauteng.

“As part of the special oversight visits in Gauteng, the committee held a meeting with the board members and management of the entity as well as conducted visits to the properties in Mabopane and Ga-Rankuwa, where members of the committee interacted with residents who occupied properties of the entity.

“We needed a comprehensive report and plans with timeframes on what the housing corporation plans to do with those properties and vacant land. If the entity is experiencing challenges with certain government entities such as the City of Tshwane, the intergovernmental relations processes should take place such as involving the Department of Human Settlements and Office of the Premier, which can engage with their counterparts in Gauteng and other provinces to resolve the long outstanding issues,” Mocwana said.

He further said he is worried that the human settlements department is not involved in the processes as it has failed to appear before the committee on the issues of the housing corporation.

“The department is not playing its role as a shareholder within the entity. The Office of the Premier appropriated around R5million to revive the entities but there are no concrete plans on how the processes will unfold,” said Mocwana.

Meanwhile, the NWHC CEO, Sello Mogodiri said: “The entity has properties in the asset register classified as 99-lease properties (old two and four-roomed houses built before 1994 by the old South African government.

“The total number of those properties is 4886 and we also have new stock of about 4004 properties built by the former Bophuthatswana government using the loan from Sebowana Holdings (now Public Investment Corporation).”

Mogodiri added that the provincial entity has properties with lease agreements (rentals) signed by the occupants at a total of 462 and vacant land that has been purchased, where clients only paid a 10% deposit and still owe a total of 490.

He said in Gauteng, the entity has experienced several challenges which include unreliable asset register as stipulated on the audit outcomes, illegal occupation of the properties and vacant land, lack of cooperation between the entity and the City of Tshwane on some of the properties, and illegal and fraudulent selling of the properties by residents and crime syndicates.

“The City of Tshwane is refusing to sign a memorandum of agreement with us and continues to sell some of our properties and vacant land. In Mabopane for example, the City of Tshwane built a wastewater treatment plant on our vacant land with a market value of R36.7million.

Mocwana said they have resolved that the entity concludes the matter of ongoing disputes on property ownership; maintaining an updated and accurate asset register, and submitting a detailed report on the number of municipalities that are reluctant to transfer old stock properties including the proof of letters that written to those municipalities.

NB: The article will be updated after receiving the City of Tshwane’s comment.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

The murder case against nine accused, Oleogeng Donald Bohelo (29), Tumisang Duncan Lobelo (23), Bakang Makolonkwane (42), Mosepele Gideon Mompati (64), Amos Mbolelo Sanoke (27), Grace Molemoeng Segacwe (41), Frans Seabelo Thae (54), Gobonamang Thae (39) and Tekoetsile Francis Thae (58) was postponed by the Taung Magistrate’s Court until 27 July 2022 for further investigations.

The accused were arrested on 29 June 2022 for allegedly killing Dikakanyo Sanoke (19) at Loselong village near Pudimoe.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson, Henry Mamothame said: “It is alleged that the mob fetched Sanoke from his home on 28 June 2022 after accusing him of house-breaking.

“The accused allegedly forcefully took him to the nearby bushes and beat him to death. They were subsequently traced, arrested, and appeared before the Taung Magistrate’s Court and charged with murder.”

He said the police reports indicated that further arrests are imminent and the accused will remain in police custody until their next court appearance.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

By REGINALD KANYANE

A triple murder case against Kitso Ben Jood (55) and the other eleven accused was postponed by the Ganyesa Magistrate’s Court until 28 July 2022 for further investigations. Jood and his accused are facing charges of kidnapping, arson, and murder of three men in Morokweng village near Ganyesa.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in North West, Henry Mamothame said: “The police report reveals that eleven of the suspects were arrested in the early hours of Friday morning on 27 May 2022 during a crime intelligence-driven operation by a multi-disciplinary team, comprising of Tactical Response Team (TRT), Public Order Police (POP) and Detectives.

“The report further reveals that on 24 May 2022, some members of the community went to a rented house at Ga-Mokgopha Section, where Bonakele Sabasaba (32), Khayalethu Sabasaba (22), and Zanaflex Sabasaba (26), who are all South Africans from Carletonville in Gauteng Province lived.”

Mamothame said the group allegedly pelted the house with stones to force out the trio. He further said in the process of escaping the attack, the victims allegedly stabbed and injured some of the attackers.

“The group then chased and caught the men, who were accused of dealing with drugs. The

men were then taken back to the house, which was eventually set alight. Sadly, the victims burnt and died in the house.

“The police managed to confiscate a vehicle that was allegedly used during the commission of the crimes. The investigations into the matter continue and the state also intends to have all twelve appearing before the court on 28 July 2022,” he said.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

By REGINALD KANYANE

A murder case against Thabang Moswane (24) has been postponed by the Koster Magistrate’s Court to 1 August 2022. The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in North West, Henry Mamothame said the delay was caused by the autopsy report and police photo albums to complete investigations.

Mamothame said the Boons police were summoned to a horrific murder scene in Mathopestad on the 9 May 2022 afternoon. He said initial information indicated that there was a fight between Kedisaletse Elizabeth Moswane (53), and her son, Thabang Moswane.

“On arrival, the police found Kedisaletse’s body inside a shack with numerous stab wounds. The police were informed that Thabang, was allegedly seen drinking his mother’s blood after stabbing her.

“He was immediately arrested and appeared before the Koster Magistrate’s Court. Thabang has abandoned his bail and he will remain in police custody until the next court appearance. He is charged with murder after he allegedly stabbed his mother to death,” he said.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

By BAKANG MOKOTO

A 22-YEAR-OLD man has been arrested for the alleged murder of his nephew, Neo Refemetswe Tlhame (2) in Extension 3, Blydeville outside Lichtenburg. This comes after the lifeless body of Tlhame was allegedly found in a shallow grave near a river on 5 July 2022.

The North West police spokesperson, Lieutenant Col, Amanda Funani said the suspect was arrested after being questioned and linked with the case.

“According to the information received, police were called by Neo’s mother after they spotted a suspicious grave near the river. The grave was dug out and the decomposed body of young Neo was identified with the clothes he was wearing on the day of his disappearance.

“Neo went missing on 24 May 2022, while with his grandparents. However, his disappearance was established by his mother when she went to fetch him after work,” Funani said.  

She said subsequent to the fruitless search by the community members and Neo’s family, a missing person inquiry was opened for investigation. Funani further said the police also joined the search, but Neo was never found.

“The suspect is expected to appear in the Lichtenburg Magistrate’s Court on 8 July 2022 for murder,” said Funani.  

North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena congratulated the Lichtenburg Detectives for the quick response that led to the arrest of the suspect. Kwena added that the police take crimes against children and women very seriously and this arrest proves that those who commit such heinous crimes will not be allowed to walk free in the province.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

By OBAKENG MAJE

SABC reporter, Tebogo Phakedi from Mahikeng has been nominated as one of the 50 most influential young people in the North West province by Rustenburg-based newspaper, Naledi News.

Phakedi, who is also the North West University alumnus said she was excited after her nomination. The Naledi News requested its readers and the general public to suggest young people, who they believe are goal-driven and influential.

“When the editors contacted me to inform me about the nomination, I was astonished. I am humbled to be part of such an incredible and inspiring list of young, driven people in the province.

“Initiatives like these play an important role in realising the ideals and goals of aspiring professionals. It is important for me to empower young people and crucial for them to further their education,” she said.

Phakedi further said there are so many resources young people can use to hone their skills and they just need help to access them. She added that technology is on their side and they just need to be intentional about the kind of education they attain to use it to their advantage.

Phakedi completed her master’s degree in public administration at the NWU in 2018, with her dissertation focusing on public procurement systems–the laws regulating tenders in the country.

With South Africa being a country with many reports and allegations of corruption, her study concluded that political influence plays a role in directing tenders to certain individuals as bribes are paid to solicit contracts.

She started her career as a writer at the Mahikeng Campus student newspaper, The Album.

“Journalism is my calling. From being an aspiring writer for the campus newspaper, to be a local community radio journalist and finally being employed by the SABC, it is truly a privilege to tell stories that change lives.

“I am also an alumnus of the Young African Leaders initiative, and also obtained a certificate in media management from FRAY-Intermedia in collaboration with SANEF. I am currently pursuing a PhD in public administration at the NWU. 

taungdailynews@gmail.com

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

A lifeless body of a boy (2) was found in a shallow grave in Extension 3, Blydeville near Lichtenburg on Tuesday. The North West police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Amanda Funani said the decomposed body of Neo Refemetswe Tlhame was identified by his mother.

“According to the information received, police were called by Neo’s mother after they spotted a suspicious grave near the river. The grave was dug out and the decomposed body of young Neo was identified with the clothes that he was wearing on the day of his disappearance.

“Neo, who was with his grandparents, went missing on 24 May 2022. His disappearance was established by his mother when she went to fetch him after work. Subsequently, a case of a missing person was opened after a fruitless search by the community members and Neo’s family,” Funani said.

She further said the police also joined the search, but Neo was never found. Funani added that the cause of his death is still unknown and no one has been arrested yet.  

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena condemned the incident and urged the Lichtenburg Detectives to do everything in their powers to arrest the alleged perpetrators of this crime.  

taungdailynews@gmail.com

By REGINALD KANYANE

A candle may have sparked the fire, which killed an elderly man in Lokgabeng village, near Mokgareng in Taung. The charred body of Mabula Samuel Gabonewe (79) was found by his granddaughter, Kealeboga Sekgetho (45) lying unresponsive in his house on Monday morning.

“We found our grandfather lying unresponsive in his house. However, we could not determine whether the fire was caused by a candle or not. As a family, we are downtrodden by the atrocity.

“We are still waiting for the post-mortem to determine the cause of his death. He was intensively burnt and we will talk about funeral preparations after we have received autopsy results,” Sekgetho said.

Meanwhile, the North West police spokesperson in Dr Ruth Segomotsi cluster, Sgt Tryphosa van Rooyen said: “The Taung police are investigating an inquest after it was reported on Monday that an elderly male was found lying unresponsive in his house.

“On arrival at the scene, the police found the elderly man, who was identified as Mabula Samuel Gabonewe by his granddaughter. Initial investigation of the scene indicated that the bedroom of the house had burned.”

Van Rooyen said the cause of death, as well as the cause of the fire, has not been established yet, but an investigation continues.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

By OBAKENG MAJE

A murder case against four men from Manthe village in Taung was postponed until 4 July 2022 by Taung Magistrate’s Court for further investigations. The alleged drug lord Bakang “Mahomed” Katong (31), Thabang Lenyai (23), Phenyo “The Great” Katong (34) and Katlego “Makita” Mosimege (31) were arrested two months ago in connection with the brutal murder of the late Thabiso Mothibedi (35).

It is alleged that Mothibedi stole R20 000 cash and cigarettes worth R600 from Katong’s house two days before his ‘untimely’ death.

The North West police spokesperson, Capt Sam Tselanyane said: “The preliminary investigation revealed that on 29 April 2022, the deceased was at Lenganeng village near Taung, when the suspects fetched and transported him to Manthe village. Upon arrival, the deceased was allegedly chained to a generator and assaulted.

“After the assault, the victim was reportedly transported to Manthe clinic by a group of men and requested nurses to check if he was still alive. However, Mothibedi was certified dead upon arrival.”

One of the community leaders, Ali Sakiele said they are sick and tired of drug lords who sell drugs to young people. Sakiele further said they have attended the court proceedings because they have taken a decision as a community of Manthe that they do not want to see anyone selling drugs anymore in their area.

“We urge the magistrate to deny the alleged perpetrators bail. We came to court to show support and to address our grievances in a coordinated manner. Drugs destroy many lives and livelihoods including dividing families, so as the community, we say #EnoughIsEnough,” he said.

The deceased’ sister, Boingotlo Mothibedi (37) said: “It is difficult to see my brother’s life being cut short by alleged drug lords. Even though Thabiso was not perfect, he was a peaceful person, who loved to engage positively with people. 

“So, what happened to him is inhumane. We call on the justice system to deal harshly with the perpetrators. It is not only Thabiso’s life that has been lost because of drugs but so many lives of young people are being destroyed on a daily basis”

She alleged that the perpetrators used her brother and killed him afterward.

Meanwhile, three houses and a bakkie belonging to Katong’s family were torched by irate community members on 1 May 2022. Another community member, Mothusi Motimeng said: “I blame Baga-Maidi Tribal Authority including incompetent police for all these shenanigans happening in our area.

“Everybody can see what is happening and as community members, we have been complaining about these drug lords, who sell nyaope to our youths. Now, these nyaope addicts broke into our houses, stole properties, and sold them, so that they can get money to feed their cravings.”

Motimeng further accused the alleged drug lords of using the deceased for their own benefits and killed him afterwards. He said as a community, they say #EnoughIsEnough because many communities are suffering from the effects of drug addiction and its wide-ranging impact.

taungdailynews@gmail.com