Collaborative effort yields forfeiture success

NEWS Leave a comment

By AGISANANG SCUFF

3 October 2025- A collaboration between Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation’s Priority Crime Specialised Investigation (PCSI) and National Prosecuting Authority’s Asset Forfeiture unit (AFU) bore fruits when the Northern Cape High Court sitting in Kimberley, granted the two government agencies a number of forfeiture orders against various law transgressors in the province, bringing to an end a successful month in terms of the number of orders issued in a single month.

The Hawks spokesperson in Northern Cape, Lieutenant Colonel Tebogo Thebe said during February 2024, police in Postmasburg arrested a suspect, after he sold what looked like tik and mandrax to the agent, R15 400 was seized and booked in SAP13. Thebe said a forfeiture order was granted after the two agencies applied on the basis of the funds being proceeds of crime. 

“The police in Roodepan received information about a person selling dagga at a nearby farm in March 2024, Police followed up on the information and found dagga and an amount of R18 674, the suspect was arrested and the dagga and the money were seized for further investigation. Court granted a forfeiture order of the said amount.

“In another incident, the police in Kuruman received information about a person attempting to privately sell five cows to one of the community members. The following day, the concerned community member tracked the cows at a nearby abattoir, police were called to the scene and the suspect was arrested resulting in his vehicle, an Isuzu LDV worth R130 000 being confiscated,” he said.

Thebe further said after an application was lodged with the court, a forfeiture order of R130 000 was granted for the vehicle. He added that the suspect was arrested for stock theft.

“Another Isuzu bakkie worth R80 000 was forfeited to the state after being found with stolen goats in Mothibistad rural areas during February 2025. SAPS members attached to Schmidtsdrift Station stopped a Tata bakkie towing a large trailer loaded with cattle.

“Officers requested the necessary transportation permits in terms of the law, the driver could not produce the necessary documents, the vehicle was then seized for further investigation resulting in the preservation order of the vehicle worth R280 000 being granted by the court. Video footage confirming the theft of the cattle was made available,” said Thebe.

Meanwhile, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation Provincial Head Major General Stephen Mabuela  said: “Our proactive measures have ensured that those who do wrong don’t get to enjoy the proceeds of crime, those who allow others to use their properties such as vehicles to commit crime will also lose them.”

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Veteran Broadcaster Tim Modise to Deliver Public Lecture on Media and Cultural Identity in South Africa

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: Veteran broadcaster, Tim Modise

By BAKANG MOKOTO

3 October 2025- The North West University (NWU), through the Indigenous Language Media in Africa (ILMA) research niche area, in collaboration with the Tim Modise Foundation, will host a special public lecture. The lecture, titled: “Perspectives on the broadcast media as the cultural expression of the democratic South Africa”, will explore the powerful role of media in shaping cultural identity in the country’s democratic era.

The NWU Communications Manager (Mahikeng campus), Oscar Mosiane said, for Modise, this occasion represents a homecoming. Mosiane said his illustrious broadcasting career began at Radio Bop in Mahikeng before he rose to national prominence as an anchor of leading programmes such as Good Morning South Africa, Agenda, Lekgotleng le Modise, Modise ka 9, and the historic election broadcasts of 1994 and 1999.

“Over more than three decades, Modise has worked across multiple platforms including SABC TV and Radio, eNCA, Business Day TV, Radio 702, SAFM, Metro FM, BBC Radio, Soweto TV, M-Net Carte Blanche, and Radio Bop. He has received numerous accolades, including being named SABC Broadcaster of the Year (1991), his induction into the South African Radio Hall of Fame (2011), and the Reconciliation Award from the Institute of Reconciliation and Justice conferred by the late Archbishop Desmond Tutu.

“Internationally, he was honoured with the Human Rights Award by the Jaime Brunet Foundation at the University of Navarra in Spain. The event will take place at Building A1, Room 261, Mahikeng Campus, North West University on 6 October 2025 at 12pm,” he said.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

ANC welcomes Makwetla’s decision to step aside amid corruption case

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: Former Deputy Minister of Correctional Services, Thabang Makwetla

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

3 October 2025- The African National Congress (ANC) said it welcomes the principled and voluntary decision by Thabang Makwetla, a member of the National Executive Committee (NEC), to step aside from his responsibilities following his appearance at the Palm Ridge Specialised Commercial Crimes Court. The party said in line with the ANC Constitution and the resolutions of the 55th National Conference, Makwetla has acted with exemplary discipline and political maturity by stepping aside without being directed to do so.

The ANC national spokesperson, Mahlengi Bhengu said this includes relinquishing his roles as the Chairperson of the NEC Subcommittee on Peace and Stability, as well as Convener of Deployees in the Limpopo Province. Bhengu said the 55th National Conference reaffirmed that cadres of the ANC who are formally charged should not await instruction from the movement but must voluntarily step aside to protect the integrity and image of the organisation.

“Such conduct reflects a deep understanding of revolutionary morality, accountability, and the principle that leadership within the ANC must be beyond reproach. The ANC recognises this step as an affirmation of our movement’s renewal agenda and commitment to the National Democratic Revolution.

“It is also a demonstration that our members and leaders remain bound by the solemn oath taken upon joining the ANC; to defend the unity and integrity of the organisation and to act in a manner consistent with its values and principles,” she said.

Bhengu further said the ANC reiterates that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven otherwise. She added that the step-aside rule is not a declaration of guilt, but a measure to safeguard the standing of the ANC in the eyes of the people of South Africa while due legal processes take their course.

“The organisation thanks Makwetla for his leadership and discipline in this regard. His decision strengthens the collective efforts of the ANC to restore public confidence, uphold accountability, and demonstrate that no individual is above the organisation,” said Bhengu.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Picture: Former Deputy Minister of Correctional Services, Thabang Makwetla

A call for Ramaphosa and Mchunu’s resignations

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: RSA president, Cyril Ramqphosa

By REGINALD KANYANE

3 October 2025- Activists and Citizens Forum said it is neither surprised nor shocked with the lengthy adjournment of the Madlanga Commission until 13 October.  The forum said when the Republic of South Africa (RSA) president, Cyril Ramaphosa, announced that he had decided to appoint a Commission of Inquiry to investigate the explosive allegations by the KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi of criminal syndicates who have infiltrated the criminal justice system.

Activists and Citizens Forum spokesperson, Dennis Bloem said a cartel is in operation. Bloem alleged that the suspended Minister of Police, Senzo Mchunu, was working with these syndicates.

“We knew this was a delaying tactic and strategy to suppress the truth. However, Ramaphosa and his inner circle are too late to block the police leadership to tell the country the truth. Over the past few days, the country heard horrific revelations from Mkhwanazi, National Police Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola, General Marga van Rooyen, and Head of Crime Intelligence, Dumisani Khumalo –  absolutely too late to shut their mouths.

“The country can expect more desperate attempts to divert the attention of the public from the Madlanga Commission. On 6 July 2025, during his press conference, Mkhwanazi said that he would produce evidence of all his allegations, and that is exactly what is happening before the commission,” he said.

Bloem further said no doubt – there is no place to hide for corrupt leadership in government. He added that with the amount of damning revelations that were laid bare at the Commission, it will be advisable for Ramaphosa and Mchunu to do the honourable thing and resign immediately, to save the country from more embarrassment.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

A demand for immediate release of South Africans abducted by Israel

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: South Africans abducted in Israel/Google

By OBAKENG MAJE

3 October 2025- The Republic of South Africa (RSA) president, Cyril Ramaphosa said interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla is another grave offence by Israel of global solidarity and sentiment that is aimed at relieving suffering in Gaza and advancing peace in the region. Ramaphosa said on behalf of the government and nation, he calls on Israel to immediately release the South Africans abducted in international waters, and to release other nationals, who have tried to reach Gaza with humanitarian aid.

He further said the interception of the flotilla in international waters is contrary to international law and violates the sovereignty of every nation whose flag was flown on the dozens of vessels in the flotilla. Ramaphosa added that this action also violates an International Court of Justice injunction that humanitarian aid must be allowed to flow unimpeded.

“South Africa calls on Israel to ensure that the life-saving cargo transported by this flotilla reaches the people of Gaza, as the flotilla represents solidarity with Gaza, not confrontation with Israel. South Africa supports the call by the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights for Israel to urgently lift the blockade on Gaza and allow the entry of life-saving material through all means possible.

“My thoughts are with all of the abductees and their families and it is my expectation that Israel will release the human rights activists as these abductions serve no purpose in the context of efforts to secure peace in the Middle East,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Forum for South Africa (FOSA) said it strongly condemns the unlawful abduction of South African citizens and other international activists by the Israeli regime after the interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla in international waters off Gaza. FOSA said the flotilla was a humanitarian mission, carrying food and medical supplies destined for Palestinians living under an illegal and brutal blockade.

The National Leader of Forum for South Africa, Tebogo Mashilompane said the Israeli navy’s violent interception and seizure is a direct violation of international law and basic human rights. Mashilompane said among those detained are South Africans who courageously stood up for justice and peace, including author and activist Zukiswa Wanner, who had warned in advance that she might be kidnapped by the occupying forces.

“Their only crime was solidarity with the oppressed people of Palestine. FOSA echoes the call by President Cyril Ramaphosa for the immediate release of all South Africans and other detained activists. We further demand that the South African government take urgent diplomatic and legal steps to secure their freedom.

“The United Nations and international community hold Israel accountable for its continued defiance of international law. Humanitarian missions are protected from illegal interference so that desperately needed aid reaches Gaza. South Africa knows from its own history that international solidarity is not a crime — it is a duty,” he said.

Mashilompane said just as the world stood with them in their darkest days of apartheid, today they stand firmly with the people of Palestine in their struggle for freedom, dignity, and peace. He said that Israel should free their activists, Palestine and end the blockade.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Uncle remanded in custody after allegedly raping his niece

NEWS Leave a comment

By BAKANG MOKOTO

2 Diphalane 2024- A man (33) was remanded in custody when he appeared before the Brits Magistrate’s Court on 30 September 2025, on a charge of rape. The accused is expected to make a second appearance before the same court on 8 October 2025, for a formal bail application.

The North West police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Sam Tselanyane said the accused was apprehended on 29 September 2025, for allegedly raping his niece (12) on 28 September 2025, in Oukasie Location, near Brits. Tselanyane said it is alleged the niece arrived at her grandmother’s place and found his uncle sitting in a couch.

“The niece proceeded to the kitchen, and the uncle grabbed her from behind and forcefully took her to his bedroom where he allegedly raped her. Following the incident, the accused allegedly threatened the victim and warned her not to tell anyone about the incident.

“The victim went home and despite the threats, she reported the matter to her mother who in turn informed the police. A case of rape was registered, and the accused was successfully traced and arrested a few hours later,” he said.

Tselanyane further said investigation into the matter continues.

Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General Patrick Asaneng said: “Sexual paedophiles and predators like this one must never be allowed to prey on defenceless and vulnerable children and hopefully he will face the full might of the law.”

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Mapodisi a le mararo kwa Vryburg ba latofadiwa ka go utswa dinku

NEWS Leave a comment

Ka OBAKENG MAJE

2 Diphalane 2025- Mapodisi a le mararo ba tlhageletse kwa kgotlhatshekelo ya Vryburg mo letsatsing la gompieno morago ga go latofadiwa ka bogodu jwa leruo. Go begwa fa mapodisi a, eleng Sarasanta Difedile Modisaotsile (43), Mosimanegape Mokoena (40) ga mmogo le Constable Lemogang Gaelesiwe (31), ba eleng matseka kwa seteisheneng sa sepodisi sa Vryburg, ba ile ba tshwarwa fa Lwetse a ne a tlhola matsatsi a le 30.

Go ya ka sebueledi sa sepodisi mono Bokone Bophirima, Lieutenant Colonel Sam Tselanyane, morui mongwe wa kwa polasing ya Broedersput, o ile a lemoga fa dinku tsa gagwe di le nne di tlhaela fa a ne a bala leruo la gagwe. Tselanyane are, go begwa fa morui o, a ile a tsamaya go dukuloga polasi ya gagwe, mme o ile a bona motlhala o sa itsiweng wa sejanaga.

“Seo, se ile sa mo rotloetse go ya go lebelela kgatiso ya ditshwantsho tsa motsikinyego (CCTV camera). Go begwa fa a ile a bona sejanaga sa modiro wa Nissan NP300 bakkie se se tshweu se tsamaya-tsamaya mo polasing ya gagwe.

“Dipatlisiso tsa go sale gale tse di dirilweng ke sepodisi, di shupa fa sejanaga seo, ele sa sepodisi. Dipatlisiso di ile tsa bolodiwa ke unit ya sepodisi sa Vryburg K9, Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit (STES), District and Vryburg Detectives, Vryburg Crime Intelligence and Local Criminal Record Centre (LCRC), mme di ile tsa lebisa kwa motseng wa Dithakwaneng, kwa ntlenyana ga Vryburg,” Tselanyane wa bega.

Tselanyane are sepodisi se ile sa fitlha kwa ntlung nngwe, kwa se fitlhetseng nama ya dinku di le pedi teng. Tselanyane are mmelaelwa wa dingwaga di le 43, eleng Loeto Moncho, o ile a lelelwa ke ditshipi mme a latofadiwa ka go tshola nama ya nku e go belaelwang fa e utswitswe.

“Moncho o ile a tlhagelela ka boripana kwa kgotlhatshekelo ya Vryburg, mme o ile a neelwa beile ya R500. Batlhankela ba, ba sepodisi, le bone ba ile ba tlhagelela ka boripana kwa kgotlhatshekelo, mme ba neelwa beile ya R1000 mongwe le mongwe. Dikgetsi di buseditswe morago go fitlha Ngwanatsele a tlhola matsatsi a le 11,” Tselanyane wa tlhalosa.

Kgabagare, mokomishinara wa sepodisi wa nama o sa tshwere mono Bokone Bophirima, Major General Patrick Asaneng are: “Lephata la sepodisi ga se tulo ya batho ba ba itshwereng makgasa jaaka batlhankela ba ba sepodisi ba ba tshwanetsweng ke gore ba be ba le kwa kgolegelong,” Tselanyane wa tlhalosa.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Former Home Affairs employees found guilty of fraud

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: Former Home Affairs employee, Dawn Celeste Pieterson/Supplied

By AGISANANG SCUFF

2 October 2025- Former Home Affairs employee, Dawn Celeste Pieterson (45) was found guilty on all nine counts of fraud, read with the provisions of Section 99, 103, and 224 of the Criminal Procedure Act of 1977 as well as two counts of contravention Section 31 (1) (d) of Birth and Death Registration Act 51 of 1992 by the Calvinia Magistrate’s Court. Pieterson’s misdeeds took place between February 2019 and September 2022, when she was an employee of the Department of Home Affairs based in Calvinia.

The Hawks spokesperson in Northern Cape, Lieutenant Colonel Tebogo Thebe said as part of her duties, she had access to the national population register. Thebe said Pieterson took funeral covers from reputable insurance companies and nominated herself as a beneficiary.

“To benefit, she manipulated the national population register by falsely issuing BI-1663 forms (notice of death form) to reflect the fictitious death of the victims. The system registered the affected persons as deceased, resulting in a plethora of problems in the victims’ day to day lives.

“The matter was postponed to 26 January 2026 for sentencing,” he said. 

Meanwhile, the acting Provincial Head of the Hawks, Brigadier Prince Mashimbye, commended the great effort of the investigation and prosecution team.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

A man sentenced to six years imprisonment for business burglary and theft

NEWS Leave a comment

By BAKANG MOKOTO

2 October 2025- The Pixley Ka Seme District Police Management said it welcomes the conviction and sentencing of Ntlanzeko Mbatha (33). The police said on 29 September 2025, the De Aar Regional Court, found Mbatha guilty of business burglary and theft.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Molefi Shemane said he was sentenced to six years imprisonment and declared unfit to possess a firearm. Shemane said the incident occurred on 14 January 2025, at approximately 19:30, when the complainant secured his business premises, ensuring all doors and windows were properly locked.

“The following morning, 15 January 2025, a passerby alerted the complainant that the business had been broken into. The police were immediately activated and a case was registered. Investigations swiftly led to the tracing and arrest of the accused.

“Bail was successfully opposed by the investigating officer, resulting in the accused remaining in custody until his conviction and sentencing,” he said.

Shemane further said the Pixley Ka Seme District Police Management commended Detective Sergeant Zwelandile Nolusu for his dedication and thorough investigative work, which ensured that justice was served.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

‘Police officer swaps his badge for the holy cloth’

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel, Sergio Kock/Supplied

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

2 October 2025- The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Sergio Kock bids farewell to the organisation after 24 years of loyal and dedicated service. Kock will be transitioning full time into the ministry at TD Church in Kimberley to leverage his skills and passion for serving humanity in a new capacity.

He further said this calling aligns his heart for people with his faith, still enabling him to make a meaningful impact in his community. Kock added that he is thankful for the lessons learned, the triumphs celebrated, and the challenges overcome during his time in law enforcement.

“These experiences will undoubtedly enrich my ministry, allowing me to serve with empathy, wisdom, compassion and the love of Christ. As I embark on this new chapter, I’m eager to bring hope, healing, and support to those in need to experience the love of Jesus Christ and be disciples to change their world.

“I’m excited to work closely with our church community, schools, PG13, rehabs, government and NGO’s in serving as a vessel of God’s love and grace. I’d also like to express my deepest appreciation to everyone who has supported me throughout my career, especially my family, church, Brigadier Mashay Gamieldien and our marvellous communications team (unfortunately too many to mention but everyone is included in love),” said Kock.

He said as he swapped the camera and pen for his continuous walk with God in His Word and he truly looking forward to staying connected to all of them as he begins this new journey. Kock said may God bless the community, and may his love guide them all.

Meanwhile, the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola and the Provincial Management wish Kock success on his new journey. Otola said they deeply appreciate the dedication, positivity, professionalism and meaningful contributions he has made in strengthening the image of the organization.

taungdailynews@gmail.com