Committee applauds DCS for baking its own bread  

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

1 July 2025 – The Portfolio Committee on Correctional Services said it has noted with concern the steep increase in the price of the bread procured by the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) – the price increased from R13.36 in 2024/25 to R22.95 per loaf in 2025/26. The committee said it received a briefing from the DCS on the use of consultants and an update on the establishment of bakeries in correctional centres, including the cost breakdown on bread supplied by external suppliers versus internal sources.

The Chairperson of the Committee, Kgomotso Anthea Ramolobeng said the members of the committee expressed their dissatisfaction, indicating that the DCS is now paying more per loaf for the bulk supply of bread than a normal South African pays in a retail store.

“It cannot be that we are paying so much. We note and welcome the input by the Minister that the procedure of appointment of contractors is being re-worked, as the price is excessive.

“Nonetheless, the committee commended the DCS’s efforts to achieve self-sufficiency in baking its own bread, which has led to savings of over R27.4m for the 2024/25 financial year. Although the committee is pleased with this effort, much more needs to be done to ensure that all correctional facilities have their own bakeries,” she said.

Ramolobeng further said the committee heard that currently the DCS has 11 bakeries nationally that are managed by correctional officials. She added that these bakeries contribute towards the implementation of self-sufficiency and sustainability.

“They also provide work opportunities to offenders and contribute to offender skills development and cost savings. The first departmental bakery was opened in 1992 at Kgosi Mampuru II facility. Since then, additional bakeries have been established across six regions.

“The Standerton and Pietermaritzburg bakeries were opened during the 2024/25 financial year, and the Durban bakery was commissioned on 23 June 2025 for test baking. When it becomes operational, 12 correctional centres will have bakeries,” said Ramolobeng.

She said the committee heard that in the 2024/25 financial year, 5.27 million loaves of bread were required/ordered from departmental bakeries and just over five million were baked – a shortfall of 270 870. Ramolobeng said these loaves of bread had to be procured from outside suppliers, costing the DCS almost double what it would have, if the bread was baked in a correctional facility.

“In the past financial year, it cost DCS R7.91 to bake a loaf of bread compared to R13.36 it paid to buy it from an outside supplier. Regarding the use of consultants, the committee heard that the DCS has a historical challenge in governance matters and non-compliance with prescripts in highly regulated areas.

“This has contributed to the perception of poor performance in certain areas of the DCS. To resolve these challenges, the DCS undertook an assessment, identifying skills gaps and using outside expertise in efforts to improve performance,” she said.

Ramolobeng said in the 2024/25 financial year, the DCS spent R119 273 000 on consultants. She said the committee raised concerns about this, enquiring whether skills were transferred to stop this reliance on consultants.

“The committee was assured that the transfer of skills forms part of the DCS’s contracts with consultants,” she said.

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Financial constraints and vacancies at StatsSA

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

1 July 2025– The Portfolio Committee on Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation expressed concerns about financial constraints and vacancies at Statistics South Africa (SA), which hampers its effectiveness as the national statistical agency. The committee said it was briefed by Stats SA, Brand South Africa (Brand SA) and the Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation (DPME) on their annual performance and strategic plans.

The Chairperson of the Committee, Teliswa Mgweba said regarding vacancy rates, the committee was concerned that they impact the quality and timeliness of statistical products, as well as the agency’s ability to retain skilled personnel. Mgweba further said the committee urged StatsSA to develop a strategy for retaining skilled workers and to explore partnerships to enhance data collection and statistical capabilities.

“We also questioned if StatsSA’s infrastructure is fit for purpose to meet the demands of a technologically evolving world. We noted that the ICT systems are outdated and urged the entity to invest more in modernising its systems.

“Modernising ICT infrastructure is crucial for maintaining data integrity and improving operational efficiency. Following the DPME presentation, members emphasised the need to align the Medium-Term Development Plan with departmental budgets while improving capacity to address implementation challenges,” she said.

Mgweba further said they urged BrandSA to refine its performance indicators and targets so that the impact of its nation-branding is more quantifiable and effective. She added that acknowledging this, BrandSA vowed to refine its performance framework to showcase the entity’s impact better.

“The committee also raised concerns about BrandSA’s agility, particularly in its response to changes in socio-economic contexts, emphasising the need for partnerships and collaboration to address the evolving needs of all people in South Africa.

“Members were particularly interested in how BrandSA collaborates with other government entities, such as Government Communication Information Systems (GCIS) and the Department of Trade and Industry, to improve its nation-branding efforts and the strategies in place to counter negative perceptions of South Africa around the world,” said Mgweba.

She said the committee emphasised the importance of collaboration to ensure that the department and its entities support the country’s development agenda. Mgweba said the committee’s inputs and recommendations will now be consolidated into the Budget Review and Recommendations Report that will inform the upcoming budget vote debates.

Meanwhile, the Director-General of the Department, Dr Themba Mhlongo, acknowledged the necessity for stronger legislative frameworks to empower the department and ensure compliance from other entities.

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SAPS website experiences clinches

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Picture: The SAPS members during parade

By AGISANANG SCUFF

1 July 2025- The South African Police Service (SAPS) said its official website continues to receive large volumes of applications for the Basic Police Learning Development Programme (BPLDP) through its e-recruitment system. In the first 24 hours, the SAPS received in excess of 67 774 applications from various parts of the country.

The SAPS national spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said they are aware that the website is experiencing a delayed response due to traffic volumes. Mathe said the Technology Management Services (TMS) , inclusive of IT experts, are continuously monitoring the influx of applications.

“Applicants are therefore advised to be patient and to continue to refresh the careers page. Applicants are reminded that the closing date is 18 July 2025, and all applications should be submitted via the website portal and not via email,” she said.

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A man sentenced to life imprisonment for killing his wife

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Picture: A body of a human being buried in a shallow grave/Generic

By BAKANG MOKOTO

June 2025- A man (55) sentenced to life imprisonment for killing his wife. On 15 April 2022, the accused, Charles Matthys beat his wife, Annamary Matthys (40) to death at their home and buried her in a shallow grave behind a school in Calvinia.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Sergio Kock said the police were alerted by a community member. Kock said the husband was found with blood-stained clothes and subsequently arrested.

“On 27 June 2025, Matthys was sentenced to life imprisonment for murder, one year for assault common, and 6 months for defeating the ends of justice. He was also declared unfit to possess a firearm,” he said.

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola commended Detective Sergeant Jaco Swartz from Calvinia Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences unit for his meticulous investigation that led to the outstanding Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) sentence. Otola also extended her appreciation for the collaboration with the community and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), state prosecutor, advocate Neshmi Pillay for their role in ensuring that justice is served and to eradicate GBVF from our communities.

“If you see something, say something,” she said.

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Visible policing can reduce incidents of burglaries

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Picture:The police engaging with motorists during Operation Shanela/Generic

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

1 July 2025- The South African Police Service (SAPS) said it has enhanced and intensified their efforts in preventing and reducing incidents of burglaries at both residential and business premises through effective visible policing and positive emergency response in terms of dealing with burglaries. However, despite all the preventative efforts and policing of these property related crimes, it remains a priority in the province.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Sergio Kock said if residents encounter a burglary in progress or are a victim of burglary, they prioritize safety above all else. Kock said during a burglary, they should remain calm and think clearly to ensure their safety.

“Avoid confronting the burglar(s) directly, as this can escalate the situation. If possible, find a safe place to hide and stay there until the situation is resolved. After a burglary, kindly contact and report it to the police immediately.

“Prove as much detail as possible. Preserve evidence by avoiding touching or disturbing potential evidence such as fingerprints or DNA, to aid in the investigation. Secure your property and take steps to make your property safe to prevent further incidents,” he said.

He further said people should always have emergency numbers pasted on their fridges in case of an emergency. Kock added that people should install security systems such as alarms and CCTV cameras to deter burglars.

“Secure and ensure doors and windows are fitted with burglar doors/bars and are locked to prevent unauthorized entry. Be aware of your surroundings and stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities. Request neighbours to keep an eye when you are away for an extended stay, especially as it is school holidays.

“Do not open doors or gates for strangers. Do not keep huge amounts of money on your premises. Do not leave bicycles, hose pipes or braai stands in plain sight, as it attracts criminals to your property,” he said.

Kock encouraged individuals to get a watchdog. He said people should never leave cars unlocked or windows open when parked inside or outside your yard.

“Know your neighbours. Verify the details of anyone before you employ them and check authenticity of an employee or contractor before you allow them access to your property. By prioritizing your safety and taking proactive measures, you can minimize the risk of burglary and ensure a swift response in case of an emergency.

“SAPS also urges all residential and business owners to also take responsibility in installing and improving their security measures in an effort to reduce the risk. Remember you can call your local police station or contact the SAPS Crime Stop number 08600 10111,” said Kock.

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A former Highway Driving School instructor sentenced to three years imprisonment  

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By REGINALD KANYANE

1 July 2025- A former Highway Driving School instructor, Moatlhodi Matthews Nthutang (64), sentenced to three years imprisonment by the Hartswater Magistrate’s Court for corruption. Nthutang was arrested in March 2021, with a traffic official at Jan Kempdorp after accepting a bribe for driver’s license during a sting operation by the Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation team.

The Hawks spokesperson in Northern Cape, Warrant Officer Nomthandazo Mnisi said during February 2021, they received a tip-off regarding the traffic official and the driving school instructor issuing code 14 driver’s license without proper testing of the candidates. Mnisi said learner’s drivers were instructed to pay an amount of R3 500 for them to receive the driver’s license.

“Nthutang was later found guilty and sentenced, whereas the traffic officer was acquitted,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation Provincial Head in the Northern Cape, Major General Steven Mabuela, congratulated his members including the prosecution team for their resilience in solving cases.

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Police urge public to be cautious of online scammers

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Picture: Residents are been cautioned of scammers

By OBAKENG MAJE

1 July 2025- The police in Northern Cape said its management has noted a surge in online scams and fraud that pose significant challenges to society and the management of crime. The police said the safety hints can be observed and practiced to ensure that unsuspecting victims do not fall victim to these scams.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Timothy Sam urged individuals to always exercise extreme caution when purchasing goods online. Sam further said they should always use reputable sites and verify details.

“Unscrupulous fraudsters lure unsuspecting victims through false advertisement. Be discreet in making payments via transfers or deposits before viewing. Always conclude a transaction in person after verifying the seller’s details.

“Be aware of persons walking behind you, as scammers are able to scan or tap cards from back pockets of victims. Don’t share your banking details, card and pin with anyone,” he said.

Sam further said the people should be aware of imposters, fraudsters who impose themselves as police officers, pastors, government officials and more, who would call inviting you to an interview, conference, seminar, revival service and so forth. He added that people should be discreet in providing information to such characters.

“Remember, online fraud and scam is deceptive by nature. So, be careful of misleading information, that is meant to trick one into parting ways with your hard earned money and or personal information,” said Sam. 

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SAPS in quest to recruit 5 500 aspiring police officers

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Picture: SAPS members during parade/Generic

By AGISANANG SCUFF

30 June 2025- The South African Police Service (SAPS) said it has launched its much anticipated e-Recruitment drive on its official website for 5 500 aspiring police officers to join its ranks. SAPS said for the first time in the history of the existence of the organisation, the SAPS is utilising an Electronic Recruitment System, through which youth from all walks of life, can submit their applications to be considered for the entry level Police Trainee posts.

The police national spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said the shift to a digital platform is expected to reduce paperwork, curb corruption and nepotism and prevent lost applications. Mathe said will also enhance fairness, efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and improve the integrity and speed of the recruitment process.

“The nationwide recruitment drive begins on 30 June 2025, with online applications closing on 18 July 2025. It targets young men and women aged 18 to 35 to join as police trainees for the 2025/2026 financial year.

“Qualifying young men and women without criminal records and/or pending criminal cases are encouraged to apply by visiting http://www.saps.gov.za/careers then select the e-Recruitment portal from the drop down menu,” she said.

Mathe further said it is worth mentioning that the SAPS will implement a targeted recruitment process to identify and consider applicants with specific skills and/or qualifications, i.e., Graduates in Law, Policing, Criminology, Law Enforcement, Forensic Investigation, and Information Technology, for placement in the specialised environments such as the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), Detective and Forensic Services as well as Crime Intelligence (CI).

She added that, to ensure that the SAPS enlist disciplined, energetic, intelligent, physically and mentally fit individuals, dedicated to serving their country through Policing, applicants will be subjected to a rigorous selection process, which entails: psychometric, integrity, physical fitness assessments and fingerprint/vetting screening as well as medical evaluations.

“Successful recruits will undergo nine-month-long training at the SAPS training academies nationwide and receive a monthly stipend of R4 500.

“The organisation said in the last three years, the SAPS Project 10 000, an initiative led by the Republic of South Africa (RSA) president, Cyril Ramaphosa to bolster crime prevention efforts, has led to the recruitment and training of 30 393 young people between the ages of 18 and 35 as fully-fledged police officers,” said Mathe.

She said there are currently 5 500 young people in SAPS academies who are training to become fully-fledged police officers. Mathe said some will graduate in August 2025, while the rest will graduate in December 2025.

“The application process is free of charge, and no position within the SAPS is for sale. Applications must be submitted exclusively through the official SAPS website portal,” she said.

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Police looking for missing elderly woman

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Picture: Missing elderly woman, Tlhomphego Juliet Mokoka/Supplied  

By BAKANG MOKOTO

2025 – The police in Dwarsberg are requesting community assistance in locating a missing elderly woman, Tlhomphego Juliet Mokoka (85), of House No 10036, Vaal River Section, Sesobe village in Madikwe, outside Rustenburg. The police said according to information, Mokoka was last seen by her grandchild on 29 June 2025. 

The North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said a search was conducted with the assistance of the Local Community Police Forum (CPF) and Traditional Councillors around Dwarsberg policing precinct and all leads were followed up, but that did not yield positive results. Mokgwabone said at the time of her disappearance, she was wearing a brown skirt, brown jersey, brown flat shoes and a pink beanie.

“She is dark brown in complexion with round close together eyes and flat forehead, approximately 1.2 m tall, black hair and weighs 68kg. The missing granny suffers from Alzheimer’s disease.

“Anyone who may have information regarding her whereabouts is requested to contact the Investigating Officer, Sergeant Kelefilwe Simon Rampete on 071 251 0200 or call  the South African Police Service (SAPS) Crime Stop number: 08600 10111,” he said.

Mokgwabone further said anonymous tip-offs can be communicated via the MySAPS App.

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A man sentenced to 12 years imprisonment for defrauding school R500 000

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

30 June 2025- The Pretoria Specialised Commercial Crimes Court has sentenced Ralton Christopher Fischer (44), a former Human Resources Manager at New Hope School — a school catering for learners with special educational needs to 12 years’ imprisonment. Of which six years are suspended for five years, on condition that Fischer is not convicted of fraud or theft during the period of suspension.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Gauteng, Lumka Mahanjana said Fischer was convicted on 11 counts of fraud of over R6 million, committed between July 2018 and April 2022 while employed at the school. Mahanjana said Fischer’s duties included managing payments to staff members employed by the School Governing Body (SGB) and not by the Gauteng Department of Education.

“During this period, Fischer fraudulently made 11 payments into multiple bank accounts registered in his name, including accounts at ABSA, Standard Bank, Discovery Bank, Nedbank, Bidvest, FNB, and Capitec.

“The fraud came to light when Fischer scanned and sent documents to a colleague, requesting that they be forwarded to his personal email. The colleague noticed irregularities and raised the alarm,” she said.

Mahanjana further said a preliminary investigation uncovered payments to non-existent (ghost) employees. She added that the matter was reported to the police and Fischer was arrested on 4 April 2023.

“Fischer pleaded guilty, claiming he used the stolen funds to feed his gambling addiction and purchase a VW Golf GTI valued at R150 000.

“He further asked the court to impose a sentence of correctional supervision or a wholly suspended sentence. He cited his responsibilities as a father to four minor children, two of whom live with disabilities,” said Mahanjana.

She said the NPA remains unwavering in its commitment to protecting vulnerable communities, particularly children with special needs. Mahanjana said this case highlights the organisation’s zero tolerance for white-collar crime, especially when committed by individuals who abuse positions of trust.

“Stealing from a school that serves learners with disabilities is both morally and legally indefensible. The court’s firm sentence affirms that such betrayal will be met with the full force of the law.

“The NPA welcomes the outcome as a clear statement that those who exploit public institutions will be held accountable,” she said.

The state prosecutor, advocate Abram Machitela, argued for a custodial sentence, citing the seriousness of the offence, the abuse of a position of trust, and the lack of remorse shown by the accused. Machitela emphasised that Fischer’s actions directly prejudiced the school and its vulnerable learners, many of whom use wheelchairs and rely on specialised support.

“The school also suffered tax liabilities exceeding R500 000 due to Fischer’s criminal conduct,” he said.

Meanwhile, Magistrate Du Preez agreed with the prosecution, finding that Fischer’s crimes were not merely driven by addiction, but also by selfishness and greed. Du Preez said the court noted Fischer’s lack of genuine remorse and that his guilty plea was primarily due to the strength of the state’s case.

“So, I conclude that only a direct term of imprisonment is appropriate under the circumstances,” he said.

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