Unauthorised taxis in Vryburg raise concerns  

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Picture: NAMTA leadership during meeting/Facebook

By REGINALD KANYANE

21 January 2025- The drivers and operators under the Naledi Municipality Taxi Association (NAMTA) said they are deeply frustrated and concerned over ongoing challenges that are severely affecting formal taxi operations in the region. The association said following a meeting held on 16 January 2025, they have identified some challenges such as unauthorised transport and illegal taxi ranks.

The Chairperson of NAMTA, Jacob Machogo said the presence of unauthorised transport operators and illegal taxi ranks continue to undercut legitimate taxi businesses. Machogo said these operators are not only operating outside the law, but are also taking away a significant portion of the formal taxi industry’s clientele, leading to financial instability for many legal operators.

“Corruption within law enforcement and regulatory bodies is compounding the problem. As much as our dedicated officers who have assisted us in the ongoing struggle, some individuals within these institutions are allegedly enabling illegal activities, leaving formal operators in a dire financial situation.

“The proximity of a tavern to the taxi rank has fostered substance abuse, illegal gambling, and violent crimes. These social issues not only threaten the safety of commuters and operators, but also tarnish the image of the taxi rank as a safe and reliable transport hub,” he said.

Manchogo further said the financial and social impact have led to a significant financial decline for formal taxi operators. He added that vehicles are being repossessed due to lack of business, while drivers and their families face mounting economic hardship.

“The inability of relevant state organs to address these issues has left operators with no recourse, despite numerous attempts to engage with authorities. NAMTA and its drivers appeal to the Vryburg community to unite and support efforts to curb this dark cloud hovering over our society and economy.

“We call on residents, stakeholders, and government officials to assist in reporting unauthorised transport operators. We demand accountability from law enforcement and regulators,” said Machogo.

He said they believe that the phrase that says: “Pela e tlhokile mogatlha ka go romeletsa” which is loosely translated, the buck stops here, symbolizes their collective resolve to restore order and fairness in their community. Machogo said NAMTA remains committed to providing safe, reliable, and lawful transport services to the Vryburg community.

“We urge all stakeholders to take immediate action to address these pressing concerns and ensure a sustainable future for formal taxi operations in our town,” he said.

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Escape of alleged illegal mining kingpin in Stilfontein mine despicable and worst betrayal of public trust

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Picture: The alleged illegal mining kingpin, James Neo Tshoaeli/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

21 January 2025- The Moral Regeneration Movement (MRM) in the North West described the reported escape of alleged illegal mining kingpin, James Neo Tshoaeli from police custody as a despicable act and worst betray of public trust that has significantly dented the image of the South African Police Service (SAPS).

The police have confirmed that they have embarked on a search for the Lesotho national commonly known as “Tiger” after realising that though he was arrested, but not admitted to any hospital nor held in their custody, raising suspicion that he was assisted to flee by the SAPS officials after exiting from Buffelsfontein mine shaft 11, last week.

The Convenor of the MRM Provincial Interim Committee, Pastor Lesiba Kgwele said, the civil society led movement promoting the Charter of Positive Values and ethical leadership is disappointed that police failed the ultimate morality and integrity test at a crucial stage of their investigations.

“How the matter is dealt with will have far reaching consequences on confidence in policing because it occurred when police were supposed to wrap up the Vala Umgodi Stilfontein operation and present the alleged ruthless kingpin and his accomplices accused of torture, murder, hording food and other worst atrocities committed underground before court.

“The escape has not only laid bare what is at stake, but has also confirmed long-held suspicions that the massive and sophisticated criminal network could not have survived and established critical infrastructure without police detection and those within SAPS and the broader community who must have been deeply embedded in its above ground cover-up operation,” he said.

Kgwele further said no stone should be left unturned to unmask those who aided the fugitive’s escape. He added that the gauntlet should be thrown at those who were part of the operation and arrest of the last batch of 246 illegal miners to resurface.

“Lie detector tests, lifestyle audits and a complete shake-up must follow. If democratic accountable policing that acts in the best interest of our communities is to be re-established in the area and elsewhere across the country, where lawlessness is encroaching.

“The only a corrupt free SAPS will be able to win the war against crime with the support of communities,” said Kgwele.

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Molapisi to address challenges at embattled Ditsobotla Local Municipality  

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Picture: The embattled Ditsobotla Local Municipality

By BAKANG MOKOTO

21 January 2025- The North West MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), Oageng Molapisi is set to meet with all the councillors of the embattled Ditsobotla Local Municipality.

According to Molapisi spokesperson, Lerato Gambu, the purpose of the meeting is to discuss the support provided to the municipality in line with Section 154 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, which dictates that national government and provincial governments, by legislative and other measures, must support and strengthen the capacity of municipalities to manage their own affairs, to exercise their powers and to perform their functions.

Gambu said the meeting will be convened at the embattled Ditsobotla Local Municipality offices at 2pm.

Following the embattled Ditsobotla Local Municipality spokesperson, Pius Batsile said the municipal council held a special council sitting on 17 January 2025, and Mazwi Moruri was unanimously elected as the new mayor of Ditsobotla Local Municipality after the removal of Thabo Nkashe, through a motion of no confidence.

“In the same breath, Rasupang Mooketsi was duly appointed as the acting Municipal Manager effective immediately following a council’s decision to place Olaotswe Bojosinyane on special leave pending the review of the MEC’s court application regarding his appointment as Municipal Manager.

Meanwhile, the suspended Municipal Manager, Olaotswe Bojosinyane sent a letter to all employees saying that, the municipal speaker decided to continue with an irregularly convened council sitting, despite the content of his letter dated 15 January 2025.

“Having noted the impact and the potential to cause political and administrative disruptions. We continue to condemn the delinquent, delusional, and mediocrity paranoia displayed by the Speaker by adjoining the irregular sitting and went on to convene bogus council sitting after he adjourned irregular council.

“Furthermore, all union affiliates and employees are advised to keep calm, despite grandiose delusional disorder displayed on 17 January 2025, bogus council sitting, though its decision will cause financial implications to the institution,” he said.

Bojosinyane said they are convinced that employees are not agitated by such decisions and will be calm, while alternative processes are followed by the affected and aggrieved parties to this regard. He added that they hope this will sit well with them and their extreme calmness will be highly appreciated.

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A double murder case postponed  

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

21 January 2025- A man (23) from Letlhabile village, near Brits, briefly appeared before the Brits Magistrate’s Court. Kagiso Stock Malematje is facing charges of two counts of murder and a count of robbery with aggravating circumstances. 

It is alleged that in the early hours of 16 January 2025, the accused, along with three other men, targeted a tuck shop in Maboloka village. The group reportedly robbed the deceased of cash, cigarettes, airtime, and two cell phones before fatally shooting them in front of their two minor children.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Gauteng, Lumka Mahanjana said on 17 January 2025, a witness reported the incident to the police. Mahanjana said Malematje was subsequently identified and arrested on the same day.

“Another suspect believed to have been involved in the crime was also arrested, but did not appear in court. The case has been remanded to 17 February 2025, to allow for further investigations,” she said.

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Attempted murder and murder case against owner of Meat Brother’s Pub back in court

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Picture: The owner of the Meat Brother’s Pub, Tshwaro Mangwegape  

By OBAKENG MAJE

21 Janyuary 2025- An attempted murder and murder case against the owner of Meat Brother’s Pub, Tshwaro Mangwegape (41), is expected to resume today at the Taung Regional Court. Mangwegape, who is out on a R5000 bail, is accused of shooting and killing the NWU Soccer Institute player, Undivile “Vilo” Mdi (28) and injuring his friend, Aobakwe Ernest Kokwe (33).

On 17 December 2023, Mdi and Kokwe were amongst patrons who visited the Meat Brother’s Pub that was full to capacity. It is alleged that the security guards refused entry to patrons who did not have Identification Documents (IDs) and that led to a stampede.

Mdi and Kokowe allegedly tried to gain entry forcefully, but Mangwegape pulled out a gun and shot them. Mdi was fatally shot, while his friend was rushed to the hospital with terrible gunshot wounds.

The state also highlighted that the ballistic test results have also arrived and it is ready to go to trial.

Meanwhile, the ANCYL spokesperson in North West, Molebang Mohlomi said in a statement that, they condemn violence meted against patrons at the Meat Brother’s Pub. Mohlomi said it is alleged that security guards and bouncers unleashed live ammunition towards unarmed civilians, who were trying to gain access to the establishment.

“This barbaric behaviour bothers public safety. This shows how business owners lack respect for their clients. A clinical approach to review licences of public places must be applied to ensure those who are bestowed with the responsibility to protect patrons are PSIRA compliant.

“We have sent our heartfelt condolences to the families that have lost their loved ones. Equally so, we call upon law enforcement agencies to speedily resolve this brutish crime,” he said.

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Nigerian man sentenced to 20 years for human trafficking

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By OBAKENG MAJE

21 January 2025- A Nigerian man (36) was sentenced to 20 years imprisonment by the Gauteng High Court sitting in Johannesburg for trafficking in persons, uttering and fraud, as well as Contravention of Immigration Act.

Emmanuel Uzoaga’s legal woes started in May 2021, when police in Upington received an anonymous tip-off that the accused was about to transport a victim (18) via public transport to Johannesburg for sexual exploitation. It transpired during the initial investigation that Uzoaga had transported the victim to the same place before.

The Hawks spokesperson in Northern Cape, Warrant Officer Nomthandazo Mnisi said the police applied for a search warrant at the identified place. Mnisi said the search was conducted in May 2021, at a house which was turned into a brothel in Lonehill, Johannesburg.

“During the execution of the search, police rescued three other victims and arrested two other suspects. The main accused, Uzoaga and his accomplice, James Okhudili Ugwuoke (32), both Nigerian nationals, have been in custody since their arrest in Upington and Johannesburg respectively.

“The third accused, Luzinda Pinky Abrahams (27) was part of the three victims initially rescued, but investigation revealed that she played a role in the crime and a warrant of arrest was issued for her arrest.

“All the victims were lured from Upington in the Northern Cape under false pretences by accused number three, Luzinda Pinky Abrahams, who was connected to accused number two (James Ugwuoke). Abraham worked as a middle lady in recruiting her friends to Johannesburg, where they were used for prostitution and were fed drugs daily,” she said.

Mnisi further said Abrahams was found guilty on the charge of forgery. She added that Uzoaga was sentenced to 20 years imprisonment on count of trafficking, 4 years imprisonment on count of uttering, 4 years imprisonment on count of fraud and 12 months imprisonment on count of illegal immigration.

“All counts will run concurrently. He was further declared unfit to possess a firearm. Abrahams was sentenced to pay a fine of R10 000 or 2 years imprisonment,” said Mnisi.

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 hard work.

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Police urge public to practice precautionary measure when swimming

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Picture: A person drowning raising hands for help/Generic

By REGINALD KANYANE
20 January 2025- As the Northern Cape province experiences extremely hot weather conditions, the public is urged to implement or practice the precautionary measures to ensure their safety when swimming or fishing in rivers, dams or canals. The police urge public not swim in areas where the current is strong.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Timothy Sam said people should never swim while they are intoxicated. Sam said they should look out for warning signs or flags indicating the area is dangerous for swimming.

“Avoid swimming immediately after a big meal, as there is a danger of having cramps. Do not dive into shallow water. Never leave a young child unattended near water and never make a child responsible for another child. Know your limits – don’t swim further than or hold your breath longer than you are able to. Wear a life jacket if you can’t swim or while on a boat.

“Don’t swim during storms or strong wind. Make sure you never swim of fish alone. Dont jump into water canals and or rivers to save a friend or loved one. Report children swimming in canals and or rivers to your nearest police station or use the police Crime Stop number 08600 10111,” he said.

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Illegal miner dies in hospital

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Picture: A body of illegal miner brought to the surface

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

20 January 2025- One of illegal miners who was admitted at Klerksdorp/Tshepong Tertiary Hospital died. The patient, who was identified as Koali Rankomo, was admitted after being diagnosed with gastroenteritis and dehydration.

According to the North West Department of Health spokesperson, Lucas Mothibedi, Koali passed away at around 4:23am this morning. Mothibedi said the deceased patient was part of a cohort of 33 illegal miners admitted at the hospital under police guard, following their arrest last week at the disused mine in Stilfotein during the National Rescue Operation.

“The department wishes to put it on record that so far, only 32 suspected illegal miners are under its care, with police keeping a hawkish eye on them,” he said.

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DA shocked by the escape of alleged illegal mining kingpin

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Picture: The alleged illegal mining kingpin, James Neo Tshoaledi/Supplied 

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

20 January 2025- The Democratic Alliance (DA) said the escape of alleged illegal mining kingpin, James Neo Tshoaledi, underscores why South Africa urgently needs an Anti-Extortion Plan combined with a robust, intelligence-driven approach to crime.

The DA said it is believed that the suspect was assisted in escaping last week, despite the South African Police Service’s (SAPS) Operation Vala Umgodi.

The DA Spokesperson on Police, Ian Cameron, who is also a Member of Parliament (MP) said, this brazen escape illustrates the pervasive influence of criminal syndicates and highlights how they operate with impunity, often aided by corruption and compromised officials. Cameron said they have called for a Commission of Inquiry into the full events surrounding the Buffelsfontein mine saga.

“Yet, the links between illegal mining, extortion, and organised crime are undeniable. These syndicates not only exploit vulnerable communities, but in many cases, they take entire communities hostage, as seen in areas like Stilfontein.

“Residents, informal traders, and local businesses are forced to pay protection fees under threat of violence, creating a parallel economy built on fear and lawlessness. Illegal mining syndicates use their power to extort not only those directly involved in mining operations but also the surrounding communities, crippling their livelihoods and safety,” he said.

Camerona further said this extortion network is the lifeblood of their criminal enterprises, funding everything from weapons to bribery schemes and shielding their operations through systemic corruption. He added that extortion is at the heart of South Africa’s illegal mining economy.

“The DA’s Anti-Extortion Plan, launched in 2024, provides a comprehensive framework to combat these syndicates and dismantle the broader extortion economy.

“Proper crime intelligence is the cornerstone of this strategy, as it will expose the real power players—senior officials, compromised police officers, and the kingpins driving these operations—and enable effective intervention,”said Cameron.

He said the DA once again calls on the Minister of Police, Senzo Mchunu to immediately implement concrete steps such as establish a centralised intelligence gathering and analysis hub. Cameron said syndicates thrive in secrecy and fragmented intelligence systems allow them to operate unchecked.

“A unified intelligence hub will enable SAPS to track extortion networks, anticipate threats, and dismantle criminal operations from the top down. Enhance community reporting mechanisms.

“Communities like Stilfontein are on the front lines of extortion. They live in fear of retaliation for speaking out. Strengthening anonymous reporting channels and providing whistle-blower protection will empower these communities to assist law enforcement,” he said.

Cameron said to target the kingpins, not just the foot soldiers. He said low-level ‘zama-zamas’ are often scapegoated in SAPS operations, while the real organisers and financiers escape justice.

“Proper intelligence must expose and hold accountable the criminal masterminds, including any senior officials enabling these operations. Strengthen our criminal justice system.

“Extortion networks cannot be dismantled without greater collaboration between SAPS, the National Prosecuting Authority, Crime Intelligence, and other bodies,” said Cameron.

He said to restore public confidence, corruption within these institutions must be rooted out, and cases must be prosecuted decisively to ensure justice is served. Cameron said communities like Stilfontein cannot continue to live as hostages of criminal syndicates.

“Illegal mining is not just an economic or safety issue—it is part of a broader extortion crisis that affects every facet of South African life. The DA’s Anti-Extortion Plan, bolstered by proper crime intelligence, will not only dismantle these networks but also restore hope to communities living under siege.

“Failure to act decisively will embolden these syndicates further, allowing their extortionist grip on our nation to tighten. South Africans deserve better,” he said.

Cameron said it is time for the government to act to protect the communities, economy and the very fabric of democracy.

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Police need your assistance to locate a missing person

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Picture: The missing person, Tanki Thetso/Supplied  

By REGINALD KANYANE

20 January 2025– The police in Sun City request community assistance in locating a missing person, Tanki Thetso (23), who is Lesotho national. Thetso, who is residing at Lekwadi Section Ledig village, was last seen by his girlfriend on 22 August 2024. 

The North West police spokesperson, Captain Mpho Manyoba said a search was conducted around the village and surrounding areas of Sun City with no success. Manyoba said all leads were followed-up without successful results. 

“At the time of his disappearance, he was wearing blue overall. Thetso is dark in complexion with brown eyes, a medium built body, about 1,5m in length.

“Anyone who may have information regarding the missing person’s whereabouts is requested to contact the Investigating Officer, Constable Sydney Moitsheki on 0823739842 or the South African Police Service (SAPS) Crime Stop on 08600 10111,” she said.

Manyoba further said anonymous tip-offs can be communicated via the MySAPS App from your smartphone.

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