DA accuses Kenny Kunene of having underworld links  

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Picture: Patriotic Alliance Deputy President, Kenny Kunene

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

22 July 2025- The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Johannesburg said criminality and underworld links seem to be entrenched in the Patriotic Alliance (PA) as their Johannesburg leader, Kenny Kunene, who was allegedly found at the home of a suspected murderer during his arrest.

The DA said Kunene’s role as MMC for Transport is absolutely untenable, after he was found by police at the home of a murder suspect, as police arrived to arrest the suspect.

DA Johannesburg Caucus Leader, Belinda Kayser-Echeozonjoku calls for Kunene’s immediate resignation and if he will not resign, mayor Dada Morero must fire him. Kayser-Echeozonjoku said the laughable alibi offered by Kunene on ENCA this afternoon must be rejected out of hand by any reasonable South African.

“No Kenny, you were not at a murder suspect’s house to drive a journalist there. The Patriotic Alliance shows itself more and more every day to not have the best interests of South Africa at heart.

“It is a selfish, underworld organisation that associates with crime and corruption. The people of South Africa do not deserve their local governments led by people who are at home with murder suspects,” she said.

Kayser-Echeozonjoku further said the people of Johannesburg do not deserve the underworld connections that Kunene allegedly brings to the Mayoral Committee in their City. She added that trust in politics comes from keeping promises and upholding the rule of law.

“The Patriotic Alliance never keeps their promises and does not uphold the rule of law. Historically, the DA called for Gwamanda to step down amid his criminal investigations and Kunene must do the same.

“The office of the Executive Mayor must be beyond reproach. It is a slippery slope – once a figure like Kunene associates with murder suspects, there is no law he will be afraid to break,” said Kayser-Echeozonjoku.

She said Kunene must resign or be fired immediately.

Meanwhile, Kunene refuted allegations that he might be an associate to the murder accused, Katiso Molefe. Kunene told SABC News that he was actually in the company of a certain young journalist to interview Molefe.

Molefe is linked to the murder of DJ Sumbody.

“There was a person who actually facilitated the interviews and they insisted that I must bring a journalist. He sent me the address, which we followed to the house. We got there and as if we were standing in the driveway, I do not know if it was the son or what, but he came running and said the police are kicking the gate. Molefe came out and they requested him to open the gate.

“We were inside the premises, but in the driveway. I was the journalist, the person who facilitated the interviews and I. So, before we could even sit down, the police arrived carrying rifles. They then asked who the owner of the house was and Molefe said it’s him. They handcuffed him and requested our particulars. They asked me pertinent questions like what am I doing there and asked if I have Molefe’s number,” he said.

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Two more suspects nabbed in a murder case

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By REGINALD KANYANE

22 July 2025- Following a thorough investigation, the police successfully traced and arrested Petrus Pontsho Mzisa (29) at Hammanskraal Township, near Pretoria and Kagiso Patricia Molefe (37) in Moruleng, near Rustenburg on 17 July 2025. The duo together with Mkhize, briefly appeared before the Mogwase Magistrate’s Court on 21 July 2025, on two counts of house robbery, car hijacking and kidnapping.

The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Adele Myburgh said their arrests emanate from a missing person case reported at Mogwase in June 2025. Myburgh said a multi-disciplinary investigation and tracking team consisting of Crime Intelligence, Provincial Murder and Robbery Unit, Rustenburg Vehicle Crime Investigating Unit (VCIU) and Mogwase Detectives, was tasked to activate a 72-hour operation to unravel the disappearance of the victim, David Filmone Monese (59).

“Monese was last seen at work on 27 June 2025. The team immediately got down to work, following a number of leads, which led to the identification and subsequent arrest of a suspect, Lucas Enock Mkhize (39) on 7 July 2025, on the N18 road, near Ramatlabama village, in Mahikeng, while evading police.

“The police took him to an address at Ramatlabama six hundred, where police confiscated cell phones and clothing believed to be ill-gotten loot from his criminal acts. He proceeded to take police to Hebron village in the Bangladesh Section, where the decomposed body of Monase was discovered in an open field, where he was dumped after being killed,” she said.

Myburgh further said a case of murder was immediately opened in Hebron against the suspect, before he was taken to Mogwase Police Cells, where further cases of kidnapping, house robbery and carjacking were opened. She added that Mkhize appeared before the Ga-Rankuwa Magistrate’s Court on 9 July 2025, on charges of murder, kidnapping, house robbery and carjacking.

“He was remanded in custody until 24 July 2025. Mzisa and Molefe were remanded in custody until 7 August 2025. Investigation into the matter continues,” said Myburgh.

Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, West, Major General Patrick Asaneng said: “This dastardly, barbaric and abominable crime by these heartless ruffians has robbed the family, relatives and society of a hardworking, valuable member of the community and all the available police resources and expertise shall be deployed to make sure that justice is served.”

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A Director and Accountant nabbed for defrauding SARS

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By OBAKENG MAJE

22 July 2025- The Director of Gaptu Project Management & Construction, Gabriel Nare Nkgweng (53) and Accountant from Tseba Business Accountants, Tsekiso Moloi (43), briefly appeared before the Tlhabane Magistrate’s Court facing 13 counts of fraud and 8 counts for Contravening Section 234(d) read with Sections 1,4,23,25, 151, 153 (3) and 238 of the Tax Administration Act 28 of 2011.

The accused persons, Nkgweng and Moloi were arrested yesterday by Hawks Serious Commercial Crime Investigation. It is alleged that Nkgweng and Moloi, on behalf of Gaptu Project Management & Construction, submitted their 2012 and 2013 Corporate Income Tax (CIT) returns with nil declaration, while the company was operational and earning an income, resulting in outstanding taxes to the amount of R9 million.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson, Sivenathi Gunya said an audit on the company’s Value Added Tax (VAT) for the period January 2014 until January 2018, was conducted as the company submitted nil VAT returns. Gunya said it was discovered that the company has been earning income, but failed to declare and South African Revenue Services (SARS) suffered an actual prejudice of over R800 000 through undeclared VAT output.

“In court, both accused were granted bail set at R20 000 each with normal bail conditions that they should not interfere with investigations or witnesses and communicate with the investigating officer when leaving the court jurisdiction.

“The case has been adjourned to 1 September 2025 for the state to provide the defence with copies of the dockets. Criminal prosecution remains a key instrument in addressing willful non-compliance with tax laws,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Director of Public Prosecutions in the North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, together with Brigadier Silas Munzhedzi, the acting North West Hawks Head, has commended all role players for finally placing this matter on the court roll. The NPA and the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigations (DPCI) remain committed to ensuring accountability and reinforcing a culture of tax compliance.

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A man nabbed with cannabis worth R66 300

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Picture: A cannabis seized by the police/Supplied

By AGISANANG SCUFF

22 July 2025- The police said the members attached to the Springbok Public Order Police unit have displayed their relentless efforts in eradicating drugs from the community,  which was evident when they arrested a man (35) for allegedly dealing in cannabis.  The police said the arrest was made on 21 July 2025, at approximately 12:30 after acting on a tip-off received from an informer.

The Namakwa District police spokesperson, Captain Ivan Magerman said the suspect was stopped in front of a retail store in the main road in Springbok and upon searching the parcel, cannabis with an estimated value of R66 300 were found. Magerman said the suspect is facing a charge of dealing in cannabis and will appear in the Springbok Magistrate’s Court soon.

Meanwhile, the District Police Commissioner, Brigadier Schalk Andrews, commended the efforts of the Springbok POPS unit for their unabated efforts in squeezing the space for criminals to operate.

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A woman nabbed for dealing in drugs

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Picture: Some of drugs seized by the police/Supplied

By BAKANG MOKOTO

22 Jul 2025- A woman (42) from Rosedale was arrested for dealing in drugs on 21 July 2025. This comes after Upington Border Police members received a tip-off about an alleged drug house in the Rosedale area and operationalized it.

The ZF Mgcawu District police spokesperson, Sergeant Omphile Masegela said the police searched the said residence and discovered mandrax tablets, methamphetamine, cash and suspected stolen jewellery to the total estimated value of R 95 000. Masegela said the suspect was detained and she will appear in court soon.

Meanwhile, the ZF Mgcawu District Police Commissioner, Major General Monica Sebili, commended the members for the efforts towards eradicating drugs from the streets.

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Action SA: “Ramaphosa Finally Acts Against Dodgy Director of Public Prosecutions”

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Picture: Action SA Member of Parliament (MP), Athol Trollip

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

22 July 2025- Action SA said it welcomes the eventual and long overdue suspension of the ‘dodgy’ South Gauteng Director of Public Prosecutions, Andrew Chauke, following its sustained pressure on President Cyril Ramaphosa to stop dragging his feet and act against Chauke, who ‘sits’ at the centre of several maliciously botched prosecutions.

Action SA Member of Parliament (MP), Athol Trollip said they first raised the alarm in November 2024, after it was revealed that Ramaphosa had failed to act against Chauke, despite receiving a request for his suspension as far back as August 2023 from NPA Director, Advocate Shamila Batohi. Trollip said they were particularly disturbed by Chauke’s continued role, given that he has presided over a litany of questionable decisions, including the withdrawal of charges against former Crime Intelligence boss Richard Mdluli, the pursuit of the discredited Cato Manor case against General Johan Booysen, and the irrational withdrawal of corruption charges against ANC MP, Zizi Kodwa based on vague “representations” which the NPA is now reviewing.

“It is plain for all to see that Chauke’s conduct reflected a clear pattern that raised serious concerns about his impartiality and fitness to hold such an important prosecutorial office, concerns evidently shared by the NDPP herself.

“While the suspension is welcomed, Action SA cannot reconcile the fact that Ramaphosa dragged his feet for nearly two years on such a critical matter, only to announce his decision in the dead of night, a clear indication of wilful prevarication that continues to hamper efforts to fix the already emasculated NPA,” he said.

Trollip further said Action SA believes this is but only one step in the right direction. He added that, if they are to truly fix the rot within the criminal justice system, they face a long and difficult road ahead, especially if decisions and such action continue to be delayed in this manner.

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North West Schools Ready to Reopen for Third Term

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Picture: The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi

By REGINALD KANYANE

22 July 2025- The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi said is pleased to announce its readiness to reopen schools for the third quarter of the 2025 academic year, following the winter break. Motsumi has extended her heartfelt appreciation to the school community for their role in ensuring a productive and safe school environment during the holidays.

“We commend school principals, teachers, and Grade 12 learners for their commitment to the success of the winter camps held across the province. These camps were aimed at intensifying academic revision and improving learner performance ahead of the final examinations for the Class of 2025.

“I wish to take this time to thank principals, teachers, and the class of 2025 for their dedication shown during the winter camps as we approach the final stretch of the academic year,” she said.

Motsumi further said she also thanked the parents and guardians for providing care and support to younger learners during the school holidays, ensuring their safety and wellbeing while schools were closed. She said as schools reopen, they urge all parents to ensure that learners return to school on the very first day of the new term which is Tuesday.

“The third quarter is a critical period and we want to hit the ground running to strengthen learner performance across all grades. The department has completed all necessary preparations to ensure a smooth reopening, including the readiness of school infrastructure, learner-teacher support materials (LTSM), scholar transport, and school nutrition services.

“We wish all learners and teachers a productive and focused start to the third term,” said Motsumi.

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Monna o latofadiwang ka go tekete le go shupa ka sethunya o dira kopo ya beile

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Ka OBAKENG MAJE

22 Phukwi 2025- Monna wa kwa motseng wa Dikhuting, gaufi le Taung, o solofetswe go dira kopo ya beile kwa kgotlhatshekelo ya Taung mo letsatsing la gompieno. Se, se tla morago ga gore a latofadiwe ka go teketa le go shupa ka sethunya.

Go ya ka dipego, monna wa kwa Picong, Batsile Eric Sebico (43) one a tlhaselwa le go teketwa ke molatofadiwa, Korononea Jerimia Modise (34) ka kgwedi ya Seetebosigo mono ngwaga. Go begwa fa Sebico a ile a kgorogelwa ke banna ba ba neng ba tsamaya ka sejanaga sa Toyota GD6 ga mmogo le Volkswagen Polo e khibidu ka mmala kwa legaeng la gagwe.

Sebueledi sa sepodisi mono Bokone Bophirima, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone are go begwa fa banna ba, ba ile ba tsena kwa legae la mongongoregi le go mo teketa. Mokgwabone are go begwa fa Modise, a ile a thuntsa dokolo di le pedi mo setswalong sa mongongoregi pele ga ba ka tsamaya.

“Sepodisi se butse dikgetsi di le tharo kgatlhanong le babelaelwa eleng kgetsi ya go teketa, tshenyo ya dithoto ga mmogo le go shupa ka sethunya.

“Jaaka sepodisi, ga re na bopaki jwa gore babelaelwa ba tshabiwa ke sepodisi, ebile ba amega mo dikgetsing tse dingwe. Jaanong, re ikuela go mongwe le mongwe o a nang le bopaki mabapi le seo go tsenya ngongora gore sepodisi se batlisise ntlha eo,” Mokgwabone wa tlhalosa.

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No one needs motivation to face Nigeria  

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Picture: Banyana Banyana coach, Dr Desiree Ellis

By AGISANANG SCUFF

22 July 2025- Banyana Banyana coach Dr Desiree Ellis said they are ready to tackle Nigeria in the semi-finals of the CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2024 on Tuesday at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca, Morocco.

The kick-off is at 6pm SA time (5PM local time in Morocco).

The clash between the South African senior women’s national team and the Super Falcons of Nigeria is a much-anticipated clash with both nations pursuing the trophy for different reasons. The African Champions want to successfully defend their title – becoming the first country after Nigeria to do so, while the West Africans are on Mission X – they have won a record nine titles and are gunning for the 10th trophy.

“Nigeria is a familiar team that we’ve played against over the last couple of years. We travelled yesterday and today, and we will have our final training session and there’s not much you can do in one day. But there are a few things that you can tweak, and a few things that you can work on.

“The technical team has been really busy behind the scenes and leaving no stone unturned, so I think you don’t need motivation for a semi-final, and we are ready for the game,” she said.

The four-time CAF Woman Coach of the Year believes that their previous meetings with Nigeria will not mean much as the stakes are now higher.

“I don’t think it means a lot, it does mean, however, that we know we can get over the line, but I think past results don’t really mean anything because it’s a different tournament and it’s three years down the line.

“Also, it’s a different coach and some new players, but it’s the same Nigeria and they have the quality. We have to be on top of our game to make sure we get over the hurdle. They are the only country that has defended back-to-back on numerous occasions, and it would be big for our country,” said Ellis.

The two teams travelled different paths to the last four, with Nigeria winning all their four games, with the quarterfinal being a complete run-over against Zambia. The Super Falcons are yet to concede.

Banyana Banyana drew one match and won three – with the last one decided on penalties against Senegal.

South Africa’s Gabriela Salgado, who made her debut in this tournament and scored against the Lionesses of Teranga, said they are up for the challenge.

“We know we’re going into the semi-final game, it’s going to be a challenge, but we are physically and mentally prepared. We know the responsibility we hold, and we just look forward to a good game and hopefully finishing it within the 90 minutes.

“Every game that we play we take our lessons, and we obviously take it into the next game and improve what we learned from that game. Just going into this game, I think the Senegal game of course brought us together as a team, we saw the desire, the hunger in each other’s eyes and it brought us just closer together knowing how we’ll need each other going into the next game,” said Salgado.

She further said she thinks the team is prepared. Salgado added that they are ready and they know what they have to do.

“I think everyone is just on the same page and we are excited for the game,” said Salgado.

The last meeting between the two women’s football giants was in 2022 in the group stages of the same tournament with South Africa winning 2-1, courtesy of goals from Jermaine Seoposenwe and Hilda Magaia. Banyana Banyana went on to win the continental title.

The winner of this semi-final clash between Banyana Banyana and the Super Falcons will face off with the last team standing in the other last four fixtures between hosts Morocco and Ghana.

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Four suspects arrested in connection with DJ Sumbody’s murder to appear in court

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Picture: The late DJ Sumbody

By BAKANG MOKOTO

22 July 2025- Four men who have been arrested in connection with the murder of SA DJ, Oupa John Sefoka, who was popularly known as DJ Sumbody are set to appear in Alexandra Magistrate’s Court. Sefoka was killed in a hail of bullets in November 2022.

The national police spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said Gauteng organised crime detectives worked on the case and later roped in the SAPS Political Killings Task Team to assist. Mathe said the arrests were all effected in Gauteng on Monday afternoon and three of the suspects are believed to be hitmen and one is believed to have ordered the hit on the DJ.

“The weapon allegedly used in the commission of the crime was seized and has since been linked to other murders. All four suspects are in police custody and are expected to appear in court soon,” she said.

Mathe said three hitmen and alleged mastermind are facing three counts of murder, these charges include the murder of DJ Sumbody and his two bodyguards, Sibusiso Mokoena and Sandile Myeza.

Meanwhile, the National Commissioner of Police, General Fannie Masemola, has welcomed the latest breakthrough by the SAPS Political Killings Task Team working closely with Gauteng Organised Crime Detectives. Masemola said this is a significant breakthrough that will hopefully provide closure to families involved.

“Well done to the teams that have been piecing together evidence since November 2022. This is a culmination of hard-work and dedication to justice. This is one of those complex cases that our teams needed to take their time in ensuring a thorough investigation so that we could ultimately bring a strong case before court,” he said.

Masemola said amongst the charges they are facing include murder and conspiracy to commit murder.

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