Heroic welcome for Comrade Marathon winner

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Picture: The 2025 Comrade Marathon winner, Tete Dijana

By OBAKENG MAJE

12 June 2025- South African superstar, Tete Dijana has further strengthened his status as one of the world’s best ultra-distance runners. This comes after a Signal Hill-born runner emerged triumphant once again in the Comrades Marathon on 8 June 2025.

Dijana, the winner in 2022 and 2023, crossed the line first in 5:25:28. In the men’s race, the Sekhing-born runner, Onalenna Khonkhobe, led for most of the race, but he was eventually caught with less than 20km to go. Dijana surged into the lead, but struggled to shake off the determined challenge of 2024 winner, Dutchman Piet Wiersma.

The South African had to dig deep to maintain his small lead, and in a repeat finish of the 2023 race, Dijana took the win in 5:25:27, with Wiersma crossing the line in 5:25:32.

“I came prepared and stuck to my race plan. In the last 10km, I saw Piet was closing, so I accelerated and opened the gap, and I felt like I was in control,” he said.

The Comrade Marathon Association (CMA) General Manager, Alain Dalais said this was the 98th edition of the iconic ultra between the cities of Pietermaritzburg and Durban, run in alternating directions each year, and this was the 49th edition of the Down Run.

Dalais said the official distance of this year’s race was 89.98km and as the event builds up to its much-anticipated 100th edition in 2027, the 2025 race attracted a record field for the Down Run of 22,677 qualifying entrants. He further said this prompted the Comrades Marathon Association’s decision to introduce the first ever split start in the event’s history, for safety reasons and to allow all runners in the field the opportunity to get over the start line quicker.

“The is saw Group 1 starting at 5:45am, and Group 2 setting off at 6:00am, as a slightly later start than the traditional 5:30am start, in order for the runners to enjoy better light conditions in the early kilometres, notably on the descent of Polly Shortts hill.

“Both start groups still had 12 hours to finish the race. Another innovation in the 2025 race was a new street finish in Masabalala Yengwa Avenue, with a festive hospitality and club area next to the finish in People’s Park,” added Dalais.

Reflecting on a successful 98th edition of the race, he said, “We are really happy with the way the split start worked so well, with both Start Groups clearing the start line within six minutes.

“We’ve also received a lot of positive feedback about the new street finish, and we look forward to building on these aspects as we prepare for 2027. We treated this 2025 race as a dress rehearsal for the 100th edition, and while every race will have things that we can improve on, we are happy with the innovations introduced this year, and feel we are on track for an even better Down Run in 2027.”

Dalais said he would like to congratulate all the runners who took part in the race, from Tete Dijana and Gerda Steyn to the final finishers in the last hour, from the novices tackling their first Comrades Marathon and those earning their Back-to-Back medals, to the Yellow Number Runners completing their 10th and earning their Green Numbers, and all the way to Louis Massyn, finishing his 50th and becoming the first athlete ever to reach this incredible Quintuple Green Number milestone.

Meanwhile, the North West Department of Arts, Culture, Sports, and Recreation spokesperson, Shuping Sebolecwe said: “We are organising a welcome ceremony for our winners led by the 98th Comrades Marathon Winner Morena Tete Dijana. The athletes will be travelling from Rustenburg on N4.

“Over the years, the North West has become a notable contributor to this national event, consistently producing top-performing long-distance athletes. These athletes not only showcase extraordinary physical prowess but also promote a sense of pride, resilience, and hope within their communities.”

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A man sentenced to three years imprisonment for housebreaking and theft

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Picture: A man sentenced to three years imprisonment for housebreaking and theft/Generic

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

11 June 2025- A man (32) was sentenced to three years imprisonment by the Douglas Magistrate’s Court for housebreaking theft. This comes after the accused, Danzil Plaatjies was found guilty.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Molefi Shemane said the dedication and investigative diligence of Detective Constable Thembani Makamba of the Campbell SAPS, has resulted in the successful conviction and sentencing of a housebreaking and theft suspect. Shemane said this follows two housebreaking incidents reported on Kriel Street, Campbell, which occurred between 4 November and 14 November 2024.

“The case was assigned to Makamba, who immediately commenced with investigations. His efforts led to the swift tracing and arrest of the suspect after stolen property was recovered in the suspect’s possession.

“Makamba successfully opposed bail, ensuring the accused remained in custody until the matter was finalised in court,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Pixley Ka Seme District Management has commended Makamba for his dedication and excellent investigative work, which ensured that a perpetrator of property-related crimes has been removed from society.

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Police urge public to be cautious ahead of Youth Day celebration

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By REGINALD KANYANE

11 June 2025- The police in Northern Cape said policing of contact crimes remains a priority for the province. The police said as the long weekend approaches, they are urging the public not to overindulge, to enjoy themselves responsibly and to know their limit.

Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colone Sergio Kock said it is against this backdrop that communities are urged to adhere to the safety hints to prevent falling prey or being a victim of contact crimes. Kock said individuals should stay alert – awareness is their best defense.

“Taking self-defense lessons is a valuable option. Always leave venues with friends wherever possible. Never go to the bathroom alone, always use a buddy system at public venues. Never accept drinks or lifts from strangers

“Always stay in well-lit areas and never walk alone in secluded areas. Travel as if you know where you are going. Take the most direct route and try to stay within areas where other people are around. Trust your instincts – if you think something is wrong then act on it,” he said.

He further said individuals should avoid flashing valuable items as it attracts criminals for robbery and sexual assault. Kock added that, they should have their keys available when they reach their home or car.

“Keep money for transport and planning – the expense is worth it. Carry a personal alarm and use it when necessary. If you are a victim-

get help immediately. Make as much noise as you can to alert people when you are in trouble.

“If you have been attacked, do not shower or change your clothes as it may destroy evidence. Always give the police all the details you have about the area and suspect, if you are a victim of contact crimes. If you have had your keys taken, robbed, or lost, ensure you change the locks,” said Kock.

He said individuals should drink responsibly and refrain from excessive alcohol consumption. Kock said they need to give a clear account of what happened.

“Never leave your drink unattended as it could be tampered with, leaving you a victim of date rape. Stay alert and safe. Don’t physically intervene in fights – you could get hurt yourself, rather call the police. If it is safe to do so, take a photograph or video on your mobile phone, remember however, that the police are likely to need your phone as evidence.

“Record details of times, number plates, descriptions, and so on, If you don’t have a pen with you, leave a voicemail message on your mobile phone or write a draft text message. Immediately get out of any abusive relationship and contact family or the police,” he said.

Kock said individuals should always have an emergency contact on speed dial. He said they should contact their nearest police station or 0860010111, when they find themselves in a dangerous situation.

“Call the Stop Gender Violence Helpline at 0800 150 150 or report GBVF crime using the MySAPS app,” said Kock.

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Broos faces selection headache due to depth

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Picture: Bafana Bafana coach, Hugo Broos

By OBAKENG MAJE

11 June 2025- Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos said he is happy to face a selection headache when the South African senior men’s national team assembles again during the next FIFA window. Broos did not select Mamelodi Sundowns FC players during the current window as the Brazilians are participating in the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States of America.

He said he used the opportunity to introduce several new faces to the national team setup and he is happy with what he saw in the last few days. Broos further said the Bafana Bafana drew 0-0 with Tanzania in the first game at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane on Friday last week and followed this result with a comfortable 2-0 win over Mozambique on Tuesday night, 10 June 2025.

“I used different starting line-ups in both matches and now have incredible depth that includes the players I used against Tanzania and Mozambique. The players currently playing in the COSAFA Cup in Bloemfontein under coach Vela Khumalo, the Mamelodi Sundowns players I did not select and the South African men’s U20 national team that won the U20 CAF Africa Cup of Nations a few weeks ago.

“Add the players that were already on my radar both here at home and in Europe, but who have not been called up to the South African senior men’s national team yet,” he said.

He added that, they scored twice (against Mozambique), so everything is positive about the past few days. Broos said this is something that will make his job very difficult in the next few months when he sees that they have 23 players there in Polokwane.

“You know that there are still maybe also 23 who are with their clubs, still with their clubs or who are at home. So that means we can choose now between 40 players.

“This will be difficult because you have to drop players in September, players maybe who deserved it, but ok. I have to make choices, but this also means players will be more motivated because they know that there are guys behind them who are waiting to take their places,” he said.

Broos said this will bring the level higher, certainly, that will bring the level higher.

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Ipelegeng murder case postponed

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Picture: The deceased, Onalenna Mafane

By REGINALD KANYANE

10 June 2025- A case of assault with intent to do Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH), malicious damage to property and murder against three accused, Reginald Sepoko Moeme (30), Tumelo Ernest Riberry Bart (26) and Otlotleng Berry Kagisho Segole (28), was postponed by the Schweizer Reneke Magistrate’s Court until 30 June 2025, for formal bail application.

Moeme, Bart and Segole, were arrested following the outbreak of violent confrontations apparently between two local rival groups known as TRT allegedly operating from the Ahmed Kathrada Section and the Hawks Patrollers from Extension 8, in Ipelegeng Township, near Schweizer Reneke.

The acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General Patrick Asaneng said in response to this violence which posed a serious threat to peace and stability in Ipelegeng Township, he immediately directed the acting Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Commissioner, Brigadier Tshelo Tlotleng, to activate the Joint Operational Command Centre (JOC). Asaneng said the JOC was constituted by among others, local ward councillors, Community Police Forum (CPF), local businesses, taxi associations, different government departments such as the Department of Education, Health and Traffic to ensure that the situation is dealt with speedily and without further escalation of unrest and tension.

“In order to speedily respond to this public unrest, Tlotleng has further issued a stern warning to those involved and  instructed that those responsible for incitement of  public violence that have seen throngs of mostly youth from these rival groupings running amok in Ipelegeng, be identified, tracked and arrested.

“Unfortunately this senseless anarchy and violence has resulted in the brutal death of Onalenna Mafane (19). Mafane was allegedly found lying dead with stab wounds in the chest on Tuesday evening, 20 May 2025, along the Amalia/Schweizer-Reneke road,” he said.

Asaneng further said the reports of local residents, neighbours, friends and fellow residents, including adults brandishing and attacking one another with an assortment of dangerous weapons points to a serious disintegration of the social fabric and moral decay within Ipelegeng.

He added that, the public violence in Ipelegeng is not a spontaneous occurrence, but the result of a long primed ticking time-bomb which happened under the watch of parents and community leaders.

“Surely the signs have been there for local community leaders and parents, who should have acted swiftly and decisively. This violent confrontation involving mostly young persons could have been averted,” said Asaneng.

He said they have deployed a large contingent of police units that include Public Order Police (POP), Provincial Anti-Gang, Tactical Response Team (TRT), Mounted Unit and K9 to normalise the situation and to prevent damage to public and private property, loss of lives, injuries and the escalation of violence that may result in the disruption of day-to-day activities, which include schooling, public transport, businesses, health and emergency services.

Meanwhile, Moeme is facing four cases including two of assault with intent to do Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH), malicious damage to property and a murder. Bart and Segole are both linked to a house robbery case.

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Outcry as a girl mauled by dogs in Vryburg

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Picture: The victim, Remoratile Maphike/Facebook

By OBAKENG MAJE

10 June 2025- A girl (13) was allegedly mauled by the dogs in Vryburg. It is alleged that, the victim, Remoratile Maphike, was attacked by the dogs of the suspects, Anneme Bam-Smith (42) and Raynold Izak van Niekerk (46), after entering the yard, to get to the residence, where they rented a room with her family.

The Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Tryphosa van Rooyen said, following the attack, Remoratile was taken to hospital for medical attention.

“The suspects were summoned and are attending court. The case was investigated, then taken to prosecution for a decision, hence the suspects were summonsed.

“Their next court date is on 17 June 2025,” said van Rooyen.

Meanwhile, one of the residents only known as Ndede Uncle Dee said the upcoming court case set for 17 June 2025, highlights the urgent need for accountability in cases of dog attacks, particularly those involving vulnerable individuals such as children. Ndede Uncle Dee said a young girl, who remains severely injured after being mauled by two dogs, is at the centre of this case, which has drawn attention to the responsibilities of dog owners under South African law.

“Both accused, believed to be the owners of the dogs involved in the incident, have been charged under Section 1 to 6 of the Animal Matters Amendment Act 42 of 1993.

“This legislation serves to protect the public from reckless and irresponsible pet ownership, emphasizing that owners must take necessary precautions to prevent their animals from causing harm,” he said.

Ndede Uncle Dee further said the allegations against the accused reflect a serious disregard for these legal obligations. He added that, despite the charges, both individuals have been released on warning, raising concerns about the message this sends regarding the seriousness of dog attacks and the responsibilities of pet owners.

“The law clearly states that owners are liable for any injuries caused by their dogs, and it is imperative that we hold them accountable to ensure the safety of our communities.

“The young victim, whose identity is being protected, continues to suffer from the physical and emotional consequences of this attack. Her injuries have not only caused immense pain and suffering but have also resulted in significant financial burdens for her family,” said Ndede Uncle Dee.

He said medical bills, ongoing treatment, and psychological support are just a few of the costs that her parents are now facing as they seek to help their daughter recover. Ndede Uncle Dee said South African law provides a framework for addressing such incidents.

“This includes strict liability. Dog owners are held strictly liable for injuries caused by their dogs, regardless of whether they were aware of the dog’s aggressive tendencies.

“Owners are required to ensure that their dogs are properly restrained and controlled at all times to prevent harm to others. Failure to comply with these duties can result in criminal charges, fines, and civil liabilities,” he said.

Ndede Uncle Dee said this case serves as a critical reminder of the need for responsible pet ownership and the enforcement of laws designed to protect citizens. He said they call upon the community to support the young victim and her family as they navigate this challenging time and they urge the judicial system to take the necessary steps to ensure justice is served.

“As we approach the court date, we encourage the public and media to remain engaged and informed about this case and the broader implications for animal control and public safety in South Africa,” said Ndede Uncle Dee.

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A man who is accused of rape to apply for bail

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Picture: The rape accused, Kagalelo Setlhare

By OBAKENG MAJE

10 June 2025- A rape case against a well-known man (45) in Taung, will resume today in the Taung Magistrate’s Court, for formal bail application. This comes after the accused, Kagalelo Setlhare, who is affectionately known as Starzen, was arrested and charged for rape.

The North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said the complainant was attending a Taung Annual Gospel Music Festival at PH Moeketsi High School, a few months ago and she went outside the venue to look for her friend. Mokgwabone said Setlhare allegedly grabbed and pulled her to the nearby bushes, where he allegedly assaulted and raped her.

“Although the complainant works at the place in question, she was not on duty on the day of the incident, but attending a gospel festival. The accused appeared before the Taung Magistrate’s Court.

“He was arrested on Tuesday and charged with rape,” he said.

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Kgetsi ya polao e boela kgotlhatshekelo

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Setshwantsho: Molatofadiwa, Simon Molale 

Ka OBAKENG MAJE

10 Seetebosigo 2025- Kgetsi ya polao kgatlhanong le monna wa kwa motseng wa Lokgabeng, gaufi le Taung, Simon Molale (23) e tla boela kgotlhatshekelo ya Taung mo letsatsing la gompieno. Molale o latofadiwa ka go tlhaba le go bolaya lekgarebe la gagwe, eleng Tshepiso Medichane (21).

Go begwa fa Molale a ile a tlhabakaka Medichane ka thipa, mme a le botsa phokoje kwa lefelong la tiragalo fa a bonwa ke batho. Fela, go begwa fa ba lelapa la gagwe ba ne ba mo tshwara le go mo isa kwa seteisheneng sa sepodisi sa Taung di ura morago ga tiragalo.

Sebueledi sa sepodisi mo sedikeng sa Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati, Warrant Officer Tryphosa van Rooyen are Molale one a tshwarwa le go latofadiwa ka polao ya ga Medichane.

“Ke nnete molatofadiwa mo kgetsing e ya polao o tshwerwe. Molatofadiwa one a isiwa kwa seteisheneng sa sepodisi ke ba lelapa la gagwe.

“One a na le dikgobalo, mme o ile a amogelwa kwa bookelong jwa selegae. Molatofadiwa o lebagane le kgetsi ya polao, mme thipa e e dirisitsweng go bolaya moswi ene ya fitlhelwa kwa lefelong la tiragalo.”

Kgabagare, Molale one a ganelwa ka beile ke kgotlhatshekelo ya Taung morago ga magatwe a gore o lekile go tsaya botshelo jwa gagwe.

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More than 800 suspects nabbed during Operation Shanela

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Picture: Some of items seized by the police/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

10 June 2025 – More than 851 suspects were nabbed for various crimes during the weekly high density Operation Shanela. They were arrested for crimes ranging from burglaries at residential and non-residential premises, aggravated robberies, murders and rapes.

The North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said this includes, dealing in and possession of drugs, driving under the influence of liquor, illegal possession of firearms and ammunition, illegal possession of explosives, which are used during illegal mining and cash in-transit robberies, among others.

Mokgwabone further said the operation was conducted between 2 and 8 June 2025. He added that, out of 851 arrested suspects, it is worth noting that 400 were arrested by the detectives as those on the circulated wanted suspects’ lists.

“Also, 28 illegal immigrants were arrested for being in the country in contravention of the Immigration Act, 2002. As part of the operation, the police identified crime generators through Joint law enforcement compliance inspections to enforce the provisions of the Liquor and Second Hand Goods Acts.

“Twenty six unlicensed Liquor outlets (shebeens) were closed and large quantities of liquor and items such as four vehicles and tobacco products were confiscated. In Rustenburg, a suspected rhino poacher, Sergio Django (40) is expected to make a second appearance in the Rustenburg Magistrate’s Court on 17 June 2025, for rhino poaching,” said Mokgwabone.

He said Django, who is  Mozambican, was arrested on Tuesday morning, 3 June 2025, after police and local farmers worked together to stop a vehicle believed to be linked to rhino poaching at Lindleyspoort, near Boshoek. Mokgwabone said the accused was found with an unlicensed hunting rifle, five rounds of ammunition and three knives.

“In Phokeng, crime intelligence led operation by the Rustenburg Tactical Response Team (TRT) led to the arrest of a man (48), for possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition on 5 June 2025, after being found in possession of a Revolver and 48 rounds of ammunition.

“He was granted R1000 bail upon appearance in the Bafokeng Magistrate’s Court on 6 June 2025. The case was postponed until 22 August 2025. In Klerksdorp, a disruptive illegal mining operation by a multidisciplinary team at Rocin mine in the area of Wolverine on 5 June 2025, led to the confiscation of illegal mining equipment,” he said.

Mokgwabone said among others, included various explosives, four generators, jack hammers, spades, a welding machine, gas bottles, a water pump, four self-made sifting contraptions commonly referred to as pendukas and gold bearing material.

Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General Patrick Asaneng said the arrests as well as seizures or confiscation of dangerous weapons, explosives made in a space of a week is testament to the hard work done by members during the Weekly Shanela High Density Operations. 

“What is disturbing is that, despite the correctional centres and courts that are overwhelmed by the volumes of detainees, the high levels of serious and violent crimes are not subsiding with Human and Civil Rights groups, wanting to blame this on the police.

“The message that should be clear and unambiguous is that the police will relentlessly pursue those who break the law and violate the rights of law-abiding, innocent and hard-working citizens,” said Asaneng.

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Be cautious of unnecessary fires

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Picture: Fire Department personnel extinguishes fire/Generic

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

10 June 2025- As the winter chill tightens its grip, communities across the North West are being urged to remain vigilant amid severe weather conditions as well as strong fire-spreading winds. The North West MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlement and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), Oageng Molapisi said as freezing weather is upon them, an increasing dependence on indoor heating techniques like paraffin stoves, heaters and open fires are likely to be the order of the day and community members are therefore advised to exercise extreme caution to avoid disastrous domestic and veld fires.

Molapisi said the weather forecasts indicate that the cold weather will persist over the next coming days, bringing with it a combination of snowfall in high-lying areas, strong winds, severe thunderstorms, and extremely cold daytime temperatures.

“Families are encouraged not to leave children unattended near open flames or heating devices, and to practice safe fire behaviours during the winter season.

“These conditions significantly increase the potential for uncontrolled fires, both in domestic settings and across open veld. Strong winds, in particular, can propel and rapidly spread veld fires, putting lives, property, and natural ecosystems at great risk,” he said.

Molapisi said, in addition, the use of heating appliances and open flames indoors during extremely cold weather often results in accidental domestic fires, especially in informal settlements. He further said they urge all residents and communities to take extra precautions during this winter season.

“Avoid leaving fires, candles, or stoves unattended. Use heating appliances safely and keep them away from flammable materials. Do not start fires in open areas, especially on dry, windy days.

“Report any signs of veld fires immediately to local disaster management or emergency services. Disaster management teams led by Provincial Disaster Management Centre, are on high alert and ready to respond for any eventuality,” said Molapisi.

He added that individuals should do their part to stay warm, safe and protect themselves from unnecessary fire disasters this winter.

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