By OBAKENG MAJE

The security officers are regarded as frontline personnel providing security in almost every facet of life in South Africa. However, most security guards continued to be exploited by their employers.

This was palpable yesterday in Taung after security guards from Diphetogo Private Security Company, which is contracted to the Greater Taung Local Municipality (GTLM), embarked on a violent protest citing unfair dismissal and non-payments.

They alleged the company continues to violate them and unfairly dismissed some of their colleagues. Therefore, the smooth-running of the municipality was affected after the disgruntled security guards down tools and barricaded all the municipal entrances with burning tyres and rocks.

One of the security guards who refused to be named for fear of reprisal said: “The company does not care about us. Even the managers here, told us to go and jump because there are so many people who are looking for a job. So, ill-treatment towards security guards compromises security.

“It is imperative for government to adopt security guards and pay them directly. This will assist to provide effective training and coherent registration of security guards and stop paying millions of rand to private companies,” he said.

Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) Labour Desk administrator at the municipality, Mosimanegape Jafta said: “We joined the protest in quest of assisting these poor employees. The company continues to violate them and it is alleged that some employees were unfairly dismissed.  

“They were allegedly fired without under-going any disciplinary actions. It is alleged that the company is also purging those who stand in solidarity with those who were fired. The company has sent them dismissal letters without any explanation.”

Jafta said the security guards’ job, is critical and they need to be treated better. He said most of them receive ‘diminutive’ salaries and wake up early in the morning at around 3am, while putting their lives at risk.

Re Aga Taung Civic Organisation (RATCO) chairperson, Modisaotsile Lebitse shared the same sentiments. Lebitse said even though the role of labour broking in the private security industry is permissible in the country, most of these companies go to rural areas, get lucrative contracts, but exploited their employees.  

“Unfair labour practices especially in the security industry create a vicious cycle of poverty for others and unfortunately, the security guards bear the brunt of this variance.

“These security guards have also been reporting the unfair labour practices of their employers to the municipality, but they have been largely ignored. So, we call on the municipality to terminate the contract of Diphetogo Private Security Company with immediate effect,” he said.

Meanwhile, the municipal mayor, Oageng Seleke said he could not comment on the matter as they were still engaged in a meeting. Diphetogo Private Security Company management was also not available before publishing this article, but the meeting between all stakeholders is expected to take place on Thursday to find a ‘lasting solution’ to the matter.  

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By OBAKENG MAJE

A 29-YEAR-OLD man will briefly appear at Taung Magistrate’s Court for a formal bail application on Tuesday. Gideon Matsitle was arrested for murder after he allegedly stabbed Reaoleboga “Masango” Sesing (27) to death with a broken bottle at a local tavern in Maphoitsile village, near Taung a week ago.

North West police spokesperson, Brig Sabata Mokgwabone said: “We can confirm that the occurrence did take place. As a result, a case of murder was opened after a man was allegedly stabbed to death with a broken bottle.

“A suspect was subsequently arrested and charged with murder. He appeared in Taung Magistrate’s Court on Monday and was remanded in custody until 15 June 2021 for a formal bail application,” Mokgwabone said.

Meanwhile, Mokgwabone said the tavern owner was fined R5000 for contravention of the Disaster Management Act Regulations after he alleged organized a 24-hour bash – selling of liquor during the curfew.

Mokgwabone said no fine was previously issued to the owner for non-compliance. This was contrary to some people who alleged that the tavern owner’s license was previously confiscated for contravention of the Disaster Management. 

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By OBAKENG MAJE

High rate of unemployment continues to ravage the youth in South Africa. According to www.statssa.gov.za, the burden of unemployment is also concentrated amongst the youth as they account for over 60% of the total number of unemployed persons.

The website said the unemployment rate among the youth is higher irrespective of education level. It reported that 2018, the graduate unemployment rate was 33,5% for those aged 15–24 and 10,2% among those aged 25–34 years, while the rate among adults (aged 35–64 years) was 4,7%.

“Just over 30% of the youth have jobs and about half of them participate in the labour market. Within the youth, those aged 15–24 years are more vulnerable in the labour market with an unemployment rate of over 52%, an absorption rate of about 12,2% and a labour force participation rate of 25,6%.

“When young people are employed in the South African labour market, their employment intensity is the highest amongst the Trade, Agriculture, and Finance and other business services industries.”

The www.statssa.gov.za reported that low and semi-skilled youth employment is concentrated in the Trade industry, while high-skilled youth employment is in the Community and social services as well as Finance and other business services industries.

Even though the South African President, Cyril Ramaphosa shared the same sentiments, he said creating more opportunities for young people and supporting them to access these opportunities, is the government’s foremost priority.

Ramaphosa further said everything that they do as a government, contributes towards improving the lives of young people.

“Tackling youth unemployment requires accelerating economic growth, particularly in labour-intensive sectors, and building the capability of the state to fulfil its developmental role.

“We are also driving this agenda through a series of targeted interventions. These include the Presidential Employment Stimulus, which has provided work opportunities and livelihoods support for many young people,” said Ramaphosa.

Ramaphosa added that this week, on Youth Day, they will be launching a range of additional measures to create opportunities, enhance skills development, support young entrepreneurs and enable the full participation of young people in the economy.

He said this includes the establishment of a National Pathway Management Network, SA Youth, to make it easier for young people to view and access opportunities and receive active support to find pathways into the labour market.

“These are among the priority actions of the Presidential Youth Employment Intervention, which was launched just weeks before we entered a national lockdown last year and which is now entering full implementation.

“The Presidential Youth Employment Intervention was built on the understanding that to address the youth unemployment crisis requires innovative thinking and strong partnerships across society,” said Ramaphosa.

He said government’s ultimate objective is to find models that work, whether in skills development or active labour market policies, and to scale these models rapidly to reach as many young people as possible.

Ramaphosa said most importantly, it recognises that young people must be at the centre of any effort to boost youth employment.

“Young people are our greatest asset, and our greatest weapon in this fight. As we pay tribute to the youth whose courageous activism won us our freedom, we also salute the resilience of every young person who is playing their part to build and develop this country.

“They are the young people volunteering in our communities, building our country through the Presidential Employment Stimulus, running their own businesses and studying to better themselves,” he said.

The South African National Civic Organisation (SANCO) in the North West said it defined youth unemployment as a ‘ticking time bomb’ that needs to be urgently defused.

SANCO provincial chairperson, Paul Sebegoe said: “The youth economic participation is critical to extricate them from the cyclical poverty trap characterised by rising unemployment and inequality.

“The efforts of government departments as well as State-Owned Enterprises (SOE’s) must be geared towards effectively addressing youth development including job creation identified as key priorities in the National Development Plan and reaffirmed in the Economic Recovery Plan.”

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By OBAKENG MAJE

The Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) scandal has rocked the North West Education department. This comes after the department allegedly irregularly appointed a service provider to provide 50 000 three-layered masks to the tune of R1.2 million.

According to the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) spokesperson, Kaizer Kganyago, the service provider allegedly inflated prices.  

“As part of the investigations in the North West Education department, the SIU received allegations that the service provider was irregularly appointed to supply 50 000 layered masks to the department to the value of R1.2 million.

“We have since found irregularities in the part of Supply Chain Management process and the service provider has supplied the PPEs at the inflated price. We have also not found facts that the service provider has indeed delivered the masks,” Kganyago said.

He further said the SIU has recommended that disciplinary action be taken against the official involved in corruption. Kganyago added that they are also going to brief the council to try and set aside the contract and recover any money losses that might have been suffered.

The North West Education department did not respond to our text messages and calls before publishing this article.

Meanwhile, the Ad Hoc Committee on Section 100 Intervention in the North West Province chairperson, China Dodovu said they have met with the law enforcement agencies on Friday to receive updates on investigations into allegations of fraud and corruption related to the section 100 intervention.

Dodovu said the committee received updates from the Hawks, the Special Investigative Unit (SIU), National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and the Asset Forfeiture Unit on different cases under investigations relating to allegations of fraud and corruption that led to the government placing the provincial administration under administration in 2018.

“These cases are intense, heavy stuff, like a horror movie, it is unbelievable that these things are happening where people just steal, loot and plunder resources of the state in this manner, it is very shocking and concerning that we had to deteriorate to this level”, said the Chairperson of the committee.

“The law enforcement agencies must save the country from criminality, by ensuring that those who plunder state resources are dealt with according to law. The committee was, however, concerned about the pace of the North West investigations and the capacity of the law enforcement agencies. The Zondo Commission is moving closer to completion and there is anticipation that there will be a lot of cases to be investigated,” he said.

Dodovo asked: “With the pace that you are moving with the North West investigations, will you have the capacity to deal with all the cases?”

The lifespan of the Ad Hoc committee will come to an end on the 24th of June 2021 and the committee will table its report before the National Council of Provinces (NCOP). Its recommendations will include proposals to strengthen the capacity of the law enforcement agencies.

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By OBAKENG MAJE

A man is disgruntled after he alleged that Taung Police Station failed to assist him. Amogelang Itumeleng from Magogong village, near Taung alleges that he was assaulted by four Nigerians after accusing him of robbery.

Now, Itumeleng said he fears for his life because these ‘suspects’ continue to harass him.    

“On 26 January 2021, I was assaulted by four foreigners claiming that I robbed them of a cellphone. On the very same night, my friends went to the Taung Police Station to seek help. Unfortunately, the police who attended the complaint did nothing on their arrival, instead, they instructed me to go and lay a charge at the police station the following day.

“Indeed, I went there to the police station the following day and I was given a J88 form (I still have it today) to be filled by the doctor and nurses who attended to my injuries at the hospital,” he said.

However, without outlining reasons, Itumeleng alleged that the doctor and nurses refused to fill in his J88 form.

“The case was opened, but there was no follow-up till today. The only thing I wish to see now is justice to be served so those foreigners could leave me alone. They are still coming after me on daily basis with death threats too.

“I am not safe where I am and I blame the police for this. They know the side of my story very well, and the only thing I am asking from them is to take a step and hand this matter to the court so that justice could be served,” said Itumeleng.

Meanwhile, the North West police spokesperson, Colonel Adele Myburgh said: “A case of common assault was under investigation at Taung Police Station. However, the victim could not identify the four perpetrators.

“So, the case was withdrawn by the SPP on 25 February 2021 and the victim/complainant was informed by the Investigating Officer. If new information comes to light, a case can be re-opened at any time and the investigation can continue.”

Myburgh further said the police management is committed to professional service delivery. She said if any problems are experienced, the communities are advised to contact their local station commanders.

According to the www.saps.org.za website, the SAPS Service Complaint Centre, which forms part of the Component: Inspectorate Analysis Centre and Service Complaints at the Division Inspectorate is in place to help the community to receive optimal service delivery and reduce complaints against the police. 

“The aim of the process is to redress and investigate a dissatisfaction or disappointment experienced by any person or an organisation, locally, regionally, continentally, or internationally, in relation to an action or inaction regarding the service that was rendered or supposed to be rendered by the SAPS represented by its employee(s). 

“Besides for complaints to be dealt with on an individual basis, an aggregation of all complaints is also done with a view to identify trends through analysis, of which the findings are then utilised to inform management to effect corrective action,” the statement said. 

It says complaints can vary from poor service delivery regarding communication, response, investigations, police negligence, police misconduct and complaints against the SAPS Management or members and general complaints. 

“For easy referral when reporting a complaint, the “Minimum complaint information” required includes, but is not limited to – Full names and surname of the complainant; Identity number, residential/business address, telephone and cell phone numbers and email address. 

“Also provide a description of the complaint including the province in which the complaint originated, the name of the police station, the case number (if applicable), details of the SAPS employees involved, etc.” 

Complainants may submit a complaint directly by visiting your local police station community service centre (CSC), Station Commander, District / Cluster Commander’s office or Provincial Complaints Coordinators: Inspectorate. 
OR you can contact us on the following: 

Although it is advisable for any person to lodge a complaint at respective local police stations, when all attempts to get assistance from a station or provinces have failed you, you can contact the National Service Complaints Call Centre on 0800 333 177 or fax to 012 393 5452 or email” complaintsnodalpoint@saps.gov.za 

Please note: 10111 is only used for crime-related emergencies and not for service delivery complaints against the SAPS.

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By OBAKENG MAJE

A 53-YEAR-OLD man was arrested for possession of illicit cigarettes on Tuesday. North West police spokesperson, Capt Sam Tselanyane said customs officials at Kopfontein Port of Entry intercepted a truck driver, Petrus Toppies who entered the South African borders at around 5pm.

“In a bid to curb transnational crime, police were busy with their daily duties, when they pulled off a truck driver to the search area. The truck which was pulling a trailer was entering South Africa from Zambia via Botswana. 

“Moreover, the driver who was alone in the truck, declared that he was transporting liquid molasses for cows. Upon further investigation by the customs officials, the driver allegedly disclosed that the middle compartment of the trailer contained illicit cigarettes,” Tselanyane said.

He said the police also discovered the liquid molasses at the trailer’s flank compartments, while the middle one was filled with 355 Master Cases of Pacific Blue Cigarettes to the estimated value of R4 805 200.

Tselanyane further said Toppies was immediately arrested and liquid molasses had to be drained out as it is not suitable for use in South Africa. He added that the truck and cigarettes were confiscated.

“Toppies appeared at the Zeerust Magistrate’s Court on Friday and he was remanded in custody until 18 June 2021 for a formal bail application. The case was handed over to the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) to continue with investigations,” he said.

The acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General Dintletse Molefe lauded the police and Customs officials for their vigilance and cooperation that resulted in the arrest. Molefe also pointed out that illicit cigarettes trade affects the economy of the country and the police will deal harshly with those who perpetrate the crime.

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By STAFF REPORTER

Itsoseng Regional Court sentenced a man found to be in possession of pieces of elephant ivory worth R1million to eight years imprisonment on Thursday. Moabi Victor Moribe was found guilty of contravening Section 57(1) of the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act No. 10 of 2004).

However, the North West police spokesperson, Brig Sabata Mokgwabone said the sentence was wholly suspended for five years after Moribe pleaded guilty to the charge.

“The sentence was wholly suspended for five years on condition that the accused is not convicted for the same offence during the period of suspension. Moribe’s apprehension and subsequent sentencing emanate from an incident in which six suspects were arrested in Zone 1, Itsoseng on 11 June 2018 by members of the Provincial Stock Theft Task Team.

“The police acted on a tip-off after being informed that the elephant ivories were kept in a house in Zone 1, Itsoseng. During the search, six pieces of elephant ivory worth over R1 million were found and confiscated,” Mokgwabone said.

He further said Moribe who is the owner of the house, managed to evade arrest. Mokgwabone added that as a result, the case against six accused was not enrolled, but a warrant was issued for the arrest of Moribe.

Moribe was arrested on 3 June 2021 during a crime intelligence-driven operation by the Sannieshof Stock theft and Endangered Species (STES) Unit.

Acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General Dintletse Molefe welcomed the sentencing of Moribe. Molefe said this should serve as a lesson that the long arm of the law will always catch up with those who think that they can commit crime and get away with it.

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By STAFF REPORTER

More than 70% of schools across the province will benefit from Information and Communication Technology (ICT) rollout programme. North West MEC for Education, Wendy Matsemela said since the entire world is moving fast towards the 4^th Industralisation Revolution (4IR), plans are afoot to spend R12 million to connect 75% of schools through WiFi and broadband for learning in this financial year.

“This will be a significant leap from the current 25%, and we hope to reach 100% in the

2022 financial year. To that end, the department will provide internet connection to all Quintile 1 to 3 schools (836 in total) through WiFi and Broadband using fibre where available and mobile broadband.

“This will ensure that all learners (638 801) in these no-fee schools, that constitute 75% of our learner population are catered for. Following a feasibility study on the project, the department is now ready to go out on tender,” Matsemela said.

She further said the 4IR sector has prioritised the usage of ICT in schools. Matsemela added that during the 2020 academic year, Covid-19 disrupted teaching and learning in most of the schools across the country.

“In most areas, remote teaching and learning could not take place during the hard lockdown due to lack of resources. To mitigate the impact of Covid-19 on the education system, the department has procured 30 292 tablets for Grade 12 learners and 1 198 laptops for Grade 12 teachers.

“The intervention is done with the view of enhancing teaching and learning in and outside the classroom environment. We should continue to appreciate the private sector that continues to work with us in ensuring that we provide quality education to learners at all times by building schools of high quality.

“I want to convey my sincerest gratitude to those mining houses that have collaborated on a 50/50 partnership with the department in building the schools infrastructure, namely, Royal Bafokeng Platinum, Samancor and Impala Platinum Mine,” said Matsemela.

She also applauded both MTN SA Foundation and Vodacom for their varied donations that included electronic gadgets, data and content to schools. Matsemela said this budget underpinned by consolidation of their work, and on guiding and deepening learning and teaching in this new era, where teaching extends beyond the classroom.

“However, we are ready to vigorously confront these persistent challenges within the basic education sector. This pandemic with all its challenges, has afforded the department an opportunity to build different and better schools. The process is expected to be concluded at the end of September 2021.

“Furthermore, to mitigate the pandemic’s impact on learning, the department provided a total of 30 292 tablets to the Grade 12 learners for interactive learning. Distribution per

District, is based on learner enrolment. Bojanala district received 11 907 tablets, Ngaka Modiri Molema received 8 243 tablets, while Dr Kenneth Kaunda received 4 870 tablets and the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati received 5 272 tablets,” she said.

Meanwhile, www.4irsa.org.za website said: “The digital revolution – otherwise known as 4IR – has been identified by policymakers, researchers, global forums and the youth as one way to get youngsters ready for the future world of work. The World Economic Forum estimates that 65% of children entering primary school today will end up working in jobs that currently do not exist.

“To prepare pupils for these changes, the Basic Education Department has trained nearly 44,000 teachers in computer skills. In addition, the University of South Africa has partnered with the department by making its 24 ICT laboratories across the country available to train teachers in coding. From next year, coding as a subject will be piloted in 1000 schools. It is already being offered at some private schools.”

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