Three men nabbed for GBH, malicious damage and murder back in court

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Picture: The deceased, Onalenna Mafane/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

28 May 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), will resume today in the Schweizer Reneke Magistrate’s Court to 28 May 2025.

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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North West dam levels slightly decline but stable

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Picture: Taung Dam/Generic

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

28 May 2025- According to the Department of Water and Sanitation weekly status of dams report, North West provincial dam levels are at full supply capacity at 100.4% this week, compared to 101.1% last week. Last year at this time, the overall provincial water storage recorded 74.5% water storage.

The Department of Water and Sanitation spokesperson, Wisane Mavasa said, although most of the provincial dams have experienced a slight decline this week, they are stable and at satisfactory levels. Mavaba said Ngotwane Dam has dropped from 91.9% to 91.3%, Hartbeespoort Dam moved from 97.8% to 97.6%, Bospoort Dam dropped from 102.4% to 102.2%, Roodekopjes Dam moved from 101.5% to 96.9%, Molatedi Dam dropped from 109.2% to 108.8%, Madikwe Dam dropped from 93.8% to 93.2%, Disaneng Dam shifted from 101.1% to 100.8%, Boskop Dam moved from 103.2% to 102.8%, and Setumo Dam slightly decreased from 99.8% to 99.6%.

“Buffelspoort Dam is at 100.8%, Lindleyspoort Dam at 100.4%, Koster Dam at 100.6%, Swartruggens Dam at 103.1%, Vaalkop Dam at 101.6%, Marico Bosveld Dam at 101.00%, Klein Marico Poort Dam at 100.7%, Klipvoor Dam at 101.1%, Olifantsnek Dam at 100.9% and Sehujwane Dam at 97.6%.

“The department urges communities to continue using water sparingly and to report illegal water use, connections and vandalism of the water infrastructure to their local authorities or call the department’s toll-free number on 0800 200 200 to report unauthorised water use,” she said.

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A man sentenced to 12 years imprisonment for murder

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Picture: close-up of man holding knife smeared with blood and still dripping

By REGINALD KANYANE

28 May 2025- A man (44) who is accused of murder was sentenced to 12 years imprisonment by the Kathu Regional Court. On 3 August 2024, Melon Kgokolo stabbed Johannes Olyn (45) several times in the neck with a butcher knife in Diepkloof, Olifantshoek after a brief argument.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Sergio Kock said the SAPS management commends the Investigating Officer, Detective Sergeant Danny Kgatlane of Olifantshoek Detectives for his unwavering dedication that led to this outstanding murder conviction. Kock said the SAPS will remain focused on eradicating senseless contact crimes from our communities and ensuring that justice is served.

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All systems go ahead of Banyana clashes

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WELLINGTON, NEW ZEALAND – AUGUST 02: Hildah Magaia of South Africa celebrates with teammates after scoring her team’s second goal during the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023 Group G match between South Africa and Italy at Wellington Regional Stadium on August 02, 2023 in Wellington, New Zealand. (Photo by Katelyn Mulcahy – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)

By OBAKENG MAJE

28 May 2025 – Banyana Banyana coach, Dr Desiree Ellis and her Botswana and Zambia counterparts met at the Lucas Moripe Stadium on Tuesday ahead of the highly anticipated #ThreeNations Series featuring the three countries. The #ThreeNations series, which serves as vital preparation for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco in July 2025, kicks off today in Atteridgeville, with Banyana Banyana squaring off against Botswana’s Mares at 3pm.

Ellis, Botswana’s head coach Alex Malete and Zambia’s Nora Häuptle, are happy to test themselves against their neighbours as part of their preparations.

The three COSAFA countries, who have all qualified for the upcoming continental tournament, are using the series to test combinations, assess readiness, and fine-tune tactical details ahead of WAFCON in July 2025. Ellis spoke about the value of facing two strong opponents, and how the series will reveal where the Sasol-sponsored South African senior women’s national team currently stands in their preparation journey.

“This will help us to see what we still need to work on. As I said, ever-improving Botswana and Zambia, who’ve been to back-to-back Olympics, bring that level of experience. As Coach Nora mentioned, having their U17s qualify for back-to-back World Cups also adds to that. We’ll have to test where we are and what still needs refining,” she said.

Botswana’s Malete welcomed the challenge of facing two strong teams, noting the importance of these matchups for his side’s development.

“These two games come at a time when we really need them, and against the two best teams in Africa. It’s all about refining the details. We had a short camp ahead of these matches, so we’ve been working on team tactics. After the games, we’ll review the videos and work on the finer details,” he said.

Zambia’s Häuptle, whose side only flew today due to political unrest back home, thanked her staff for ensuring the team could travel under challenging circumstances.

“We look forward to facing South Africa and Botswana – all three of us are WAFCON-qualified, and this will be a good test,” she said.

Zambia will open their #ThreeNations campaign on 31 May, against Botswana, before closing the series against Banyana Banyana on 3 June 2025, also at Lucas Moripe Stadium. All matches in the series will kick off at 3pm.

Meanwhile, tickets for the matches are available on Ticketpro, priced at R40 for adults and R20 for children. The #ThreeNations Series not only celebrates top-tier African women’s football but provides crucial match minutes and preparation for all three nations ahead of one of the continent’s most prestigious tournaments.

South African fans are encouraged to come out in numbers to support Banyana Banyana as they defend their continental crown. Ticketpro – Banyana Banyana vs Botswana – 28 May 2025.

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Seven suspects nabbed for alleged illegal hunting

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Picture: A Gemsbok killed/Supplied

By BAKANG MOKOTO

27 May 2025- Seven suspects aged between 28 and 47, were arrested by the police in Aggeneys for allegedly hunting without a permit. The police allegedly received a tip-off about a Gemsbok that was slaughtered on the Lus10 – Aggeneys road and left under a bridge.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Captain Ivan Magerman said the police allegedly intercepted and stopped the vehicle the suspects were traveling in. Magerman said the Gemsbok was found at the back of the bakkie.

“All suspects are expected to appear in the Pofadder Magistrate’s Court on 2 May 2025. The police in the Namakwa District are committed towards protecting endangered species in the area and will ensure that perpetrators, who commit crimes related to the endangerment, therefore face the full might of the law,” he said.

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Molapisi assess progress in the Redirile Housing Project

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Picture: The North West MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), Oageng Molapisi/Supplied

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI  

27 May 2025- The North West MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), Oageng Molapisi expressed his satisfaction on the progress registered. This comes after Molapisi’s recent visit to Redirile Housing Project, wherein 385 housing units are being constructed in Redirile Township, in Derby.

He said this demonstrates the department’s commitment to ensuring that the elderly, people with disabilities and child-headed families are provided with quality housing, their living conditions are improved and they regain their dignity.

“I am very pleased with the speed in which the project is moving at. This shows that we are moving in the right direction to ensuring that our communities have decent housing.

“As a department, ours is to ensure that we create and facilitate sustainable human settlements for our people as this will help to improve the quality of their households,” said Molapisi.

He said the Redirile Housing Project is part of the department’s efforts, which aims to provide quality housing to residents, particularly those who have been living in very dire conditions for years. Molapisi said the project, which started in 2022 is currently at 90% completion, with less than 30 units remaining to be completed and handed over to beneficiaries.

“If the department can keep up with this speed, they will be able to tackle all the housing backlogs they are faced with, thereby providing communities with decent homes and improving their livelihoods,” he said.

Moreover, Molapisi together with the Head of Department, Kgomotso Mahlobo and departmental officials paid visit to an elderly woman (84), who has been staying in a dilapidated shack with her six grandchildren for years and has not benefited from the government’s low-cost housing scheme. He expressed his concerns on the family’s living conditions and committed that his department together with the local municipality will follow-up on the matter to ensure that the household situation improves and the elderly woman gets a decent house.

“It cannot be correct that an elder at her age is still exposed to such living conditions. As the department, we will ensure that all necessary measures are taken to ensure that a house is being built for her,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Head of Department, Kgomotso Mahlobo echoed the Molapisi’ sentiments that the department, working together with municipalities, will continue to identify elders and assist them. Mahlobo further stressed the importance of regular applications follow-ups and reviewing housing policies to ensure that they are appropriate for identifying deserving applicants.

“By doing so, the department can better support vulnerable community members and provide them with the assistance they need,” she said.

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Boost for Bloemhof fishermen sparks economic hopes

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Picture: The North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi showcases the fishing equipment donated by the North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development

By REGINALD KANYANE

27 May 2025- In a powerful show of the government’s commitment to grassroots development, North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi handed over vital fishing equipment to the Makweteng Fishery Cooperative in Boitumelong Township, near Bloemhof on Friday. The handover was part of the final instalment of Phase 4 of the Thuntsha Lerole Service Delivery Programme aims to bolster sustainable livelihoods and stimulate local economic activity along the Vaal River.

Mokgosi emphasised the importance of not only addressing service delivery issues, but also laying the foundation for economic self-reliance and dignity. He said this is more than just the provision of equipment.

“It is a step toward empowering our communities to thrive economically, while ensuring they operate safely and sustainably. The accelerated service delivery programme is aimed at bridging service delivery gaps and promoting inclusive economic opportunities across the province.

“The fishing equipment, which includes nets, rods, protective gear and cold storage containers, is expected to significantly enhance the productivity and safety of local fishermen operating along the Vaal River. This further helps to ensure a stable supply of fish, which is an important source of protein and nutrition,” said Mokgosi.

The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Head of Department, Thupi Mokhatla, urged the fishermen to use the resources responsibly. Mokhatla further said this handover marks a significant milestone in their efforts to support fishing communities in the province.

“These tools are not just equipment but symbols of opportunity meant to be used responsibly to boost productivity, strengthen food security, restore dignity and recognise the vital role small-scale fisheries play in driving local economies and improving livelihoods,” he said.

Meanwhile, the coordinator of Makweteng Fishery/Aquaculture Cooperative Ltd, Monnapule Sentshedi, thanked the department for its support.

“The fishing equipment will help us increase our fish catch and improve our income as local fishermen in Bloemhof. This handover will not only strengthen the work of the Makweteng Cooperative, but also reinforces the value of small-scale fisheries in driving local economic growth, supporting food security, and creating sustainable livelihoods in communities along the Vaal River,” said Sentshedi.

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Monna o tlhokafetse morago ga go shela mo ntlung

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Setshwantsho-papiso- Monna o tlhokafetse morago ga go shela mo ntlung

Ka OBAKENG MAJE

27 Motsheganong 2025- Sepodisi sa Taung se kaile fa se batlisisa kgetsi ya morago ga loso. Se, se tla morago ga gore monna wa dingwaga di le 51, a tlhokafale morago ga go shela mo ntlung kwa motseng wa Myra, gaufi le Taung mo letsatsing la Tshipi.

Go begwa fa kgabo ya molelo e ile a bonwa ke baagisani, mme ba itsise batima-molelo kwa Pudimoe ga mmogo le sepodisi.

Sebueledi sa sepodisi mo sedikeng sa Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati, Warrant Officer Tryphosa van Rooyen are setopo sa monna se ile sa fitlhelwa mo ntlung morago ga go tima molelo. Van Rooyen are ga ba belaele fa go ka tswa go na le letsogo la tshwene o tiragalong e.

“Ke nnete sepodisi se butse kgetsi ya morago ga loso,” van Rooyen wa tlhalosa.

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SA mourns the death of Tsotsi actor, Presley Chweneyagae

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Picture: The award-winning actor, Presley Chweneyagae

By OBAKENG MAJE

27 May 2025- The heartfelt condolences messages continue to pour in after the sudden death of South African actor, Presley Chweneyagae. Chweneyagae died in the early hours of Tuesday at his home in Pretoria aged 40.

The North West MEC for Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation, Virginia Tlhapi said they have learnt with a deep shock about the passing on of celebrated thespian, Presley Chweneyagae. Tlhapi said as a department, they extend their sympathies and support to the family, friends and the broader movie and theatre industry.

“This is a sad day for all of us as Chweneyagae’s talent was celebrated here and beyond. A son of the North West and an inspiration to the youth across the country, Chweneyagae cut his artistic teeth at the legendary Mmabana Sports, Arts and Culture Foundation in Mahikeng.

“We are proud to say he was a willing supporter of the work done at his alma mater, which is an arm of the department. He will be remembered for his warm personality and a sense of humour,” she said.

Tlhapi further said as the North West arts community, they are proud to have exported to the world such incredible talent. She added that his legacy will be that of an inspiration and motivation to the youth, not only in the province, but beyond the provincial and national borders.

“May his family and friends draw comfort in knowing that he lived a life with purpose and left an indelible mark in the artistic path he travelled with so many,” said Tlhapi.

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Family of South African actor, Presley Chweneyagae shocked by his sudden death

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Picture: South African actor, Presley Chweneyagae

By OBAKENG MAJE 

27 May 2025- The family of the South African actor, Presley Chweneyagae (40) at Phola village, in Ramosadi, near Mahikeng said, they are still reeling in shock after the sudden death of their son. According to Chweneyagae’s cousin at the family house in Phola, who requested not to be named because she is not supposed to speak to the media, they received a call from Chweneyagae’s wife regarding his death at around 1am. 

Picture: SA actor, Presley Chwenyagae family house in Phola village, Ramosadi in Mahikeng

She said Chweneyagae’s mother and other family members left for Pretoria to go and find out what might be the cause of his death. 

“Eish, for now we cannot say much because other family members are not here. We really do not know what transpired and more details will unfold later on. Please, do not quote me as I’m not supposed to speak to the media,” she said. 

According to Wikipedia, Chweneyagae rose to prominence for his starring role in Tsotsi, which won the Academy Award for Foreign Language Film at the 78th Academy Awards. He was named after his mother’s favourite singer, Elvis Presley. 

Following Chweneyagae’s debut feature film role in Tsotsi, he has continued to work on both stage and screen. His latest films include More Than Just a Game, State of Violence, and Africa United. He also performed in a play about Solomon Mahlangu, a former MK cadre, who was hanged at the age of 22. 

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