MRM calls for rural safety operations targeting stock theft syndicates

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Picture: The cattle seized by police/Supplied 

By BAKANG MOKOTO

14 December 2024- The Moral Regeneration Movement (MRM) in the North West called for rural safety operations targeting stock theft syndicates and opportunistic crime throughout the festive season. The MRM’s call for increased police visibility and regular patrols in rural communities follows 11 December 2024’s arrest of two men reportedly found in possession of nine suspected stolen cattle near Stella, outside Vryburg.

A Convenor of the MRM Provincial Interim Committee, Pastor Lesiba Kgwele commend the vigilance of farmers around the area, who were in hot pursuit of the two culprits when Jacobus Venter (28) phoned police alleging that his life and that of Isaac Matebele (44) with whom he was driving were in danger.

Kgwele said they welcomed the arrest of Venter and Matebele, whose single cab they were driving in was nearly torched by 50 local farmers who had responded to the alleged stock theft incident.

“Although this was understandably an emotionally charged encounter due to the devastating impact of stock theft on subsistence and commercial farmers, who are impoverished by crime, we appeal to farmers not to take the law into their own hands and to respect the rule of law.

“According to police, preliminary investigations revealed that the pair allegedly stole livestock on three different occasions in Ramabesa Section, Setlagole village between 20 November and 4 December 2024, then sold them at an auction in Ottosdal,” he said.

Kgwele urged police not to leave any stone unturned, adding that an in-depth probe will establish whether the pair who appeared in court earlier in the day were involved in other incidents of stock theft.

“If found guilty, forfeiture of the bakkie and trailer should follow to send an unequivocal message that vehicles used in the commission of crime are regarded as proceeds of crime,” he added.

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, welcomed the arrest, which he said will definitely assist in solving several stock theft cases.

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DA concerned regarding shortage of EHPs

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Picture: Spaza shops raided across the country/Generic

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

14 December 2024- The Democratic Alliance (DA) said it is deeply concerned by the alarming failure of the National Department of Health to address the critical shortage of Environmental Health Practitioners (EHPs), with 73 vacant posts still unfilled.

The DA said this neglect is occurring in the face of an escalating crisis of food contamination, which has already claimed 23 lives, including a heart-breaking majority of children aged 3 to 6 years.

DA spokesperson on Health, Michele Clarke said the President’s declaration of this issue as a national disaster underscores its gravity. Clarke said yet, the Department of Health has not taken the necessary steps to empower EHPs to perform vital inspections and enforce food safety standards.

“These health practitioners play an essential role in ensuring that food provided through school feeding schemes and sold at spaza shops meets safety regulations.

“Their work is critical to protecting the wellbeing of our children and communities, particularly as the festive season approaches and the risk of further incidents looms large,” she said.

Clarke further said the DA is appalled by the continued inaction, which has left communities vulnerable to preventable tragedies. She added that as a nation, they cannot afford the cost of human lives resulting from contaminated food due to insufficient oversight and inspection.

“To address this dire situation, the DA will be writing to Minister Aaron Motsoaledi to demand immediate feedback on the timeline for filling these essential positions. We will seek clarity on the department’s plans to mitigate the current crisis and ensure that necessary inspections are carried out to prevent further loss of life.

“We call on the government to prioritize the recruitment and deployment of Environmental Health Practitioners without delay. The safety and health of our children must not be compromised due to bureaucratic delays and inefficiencies,” she said.

Clarke said the DA will continue to hold the government accountable and work tirelessly to ensure that every South African has access to safe and uncontaminated food. She urged communities to report any concerns about food safety to local authorities and support efforts to safeguard public health.

Meanwhile, the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), Minister: Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa said the government strengthened action against foodborne illnesses to protect lives and livelihoods. Hlabisa said the government recognizes constitutional obligation to protect, promote, and fulfil the rights enshrined in the Bill of Rights.

“This duty takes on even greater urgency in light of the alarming escalation of foodborne illnesses, which have disproportionately affected children and vulnerable communities, leaving a tragic wake of loss and hardship.

“With over 25 young lives lost to recent food poisoning outbreaks, this growing crisis has highlighted the grave danger foodborne illesses pose to public health, especially in under-resourced townships and rural areas,” he said.

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‘Lack of communication between Minister of Public Works and IDT’

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By REGINALD KANYANE

14 December2024 – The Portfolio Committee on Public Works and Infrastructure said it is deeply concerned about the lack of communication between the Minister of the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) and the Independent Development Trust (IDT).

This has become apparent in the Minister’s meeting with the committee on 27 November 2024 and in recent media reports alleging the involvement of the IDT in the tender process to install PSA Oxygen Plants at 55 public hospitals.

The Chairperson of Committee, Carol Phiri said the Minister informed the committee on 27 November about the alleged irregularities involving the installation of the PSA Oxygen tanks at public hospitals. Phiri said these allegations were subsequently reported in the media, including electronic media.

“Unfortunately, most reports and comments lacked substance and material evidence about the alleged irregularities. As the executive authority leading the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, the Minister has substantial power that includes calling on the boards of entities and boards of Trustees to fully report to him on any matter.

“Since his appointment, the Minister has not met with the IDT. This seems to be at the heart of the narrative that the IDT, its Board, and its officials acted irregularly in the tendering process,” she said.

Phiri further said, if material evidence shows culpability on their part, however, this committee will call for legal actions against the entity. She added that, currently, it remains to search for what lies behind this narrative.

“In order to ensure the veracity of the information, we had a meeting with IDT on 12 December 2024, to get information from the entity on the allegations made by Daily Maverick.

“What has come to light is that the appointment of the service providers was undertaken based on the concurrence and budget confirmation received from the national Department of Health (DOH) and the funder of the project, the Global Fund (GF),” said Phiri.

She said a phased approach which includes the maintenance period was approved by both the DoH and the GF. According to Phiri, furthermore, the GF Country Team, after satisfying themselves with the processes undertaken, approved that the IDT could commence with the installation of the PSA Oxygen tanks in the form of a “No Objection Letter.”

“Despite this important information being accessible from the IDT, the allegations seemed to have been stretched into the domain of the IDT as the implementing agent of the DoH.

“This is a serious matter as it continues to erode the integrity of the IDT, its Board, and its officials. It is unfortunately also hurting the DPWI. The committee will soon request the IDT to formally report to it and put on record a sequence of events leading to the appointment of the service providers,” she said.

Phiri said: “I urge the public to allow law enforcement agencies to do their work as there is an ongoing investigation by the Hawks on this matter.

“The committee commends the Minister of Health for his media statement particularly radio interviews where he continuously urged the media not to speculate and put the IDT and the HoD through the court of public opinion, but to allow the investigations to unfold.”

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Parliament delighted with its progress

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Picture: The Speaker of the National Assembly, Thoko Didiza

By BAKANG MOKOTO

14 December 2024 – Parliament said it is delighted with its progress during the first six months of operation after the National and Provincial Elections. Parliament said since the establishment of the 7th democratic administration has hit the ground running, demonstrating a strong commitment to its constitutional mandate and the people it serves.

The Speaker of the National Assembly (NA), Thoko Didiza said in this short period, Parliament has successfully convened multiple sittings, engaged in debates and passed several key pieces of legislation. Didiza said the various parliamentary committees have been particularly active, conducting oversight visits, holding public hearings and scrutinizing government actions with diligence.

“The public engagement has taken centre stage with Parliament implementing new initiatives to involve citizens in the legislative process. The institution has leveraged technology to enhance transparency and accessibility.

“This includes streaming debates and committee meetings online, while ensuring that the limited committee rooms and plenary venues are optimally utilised to accommodate members of the public,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP), Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane, expressed satisfaction with the milestones achieved by the 7th Parliament so far. Mtshweni-Tsipane said the establishment of the Joint Rules Committee was a critical step, paving the way for separate Rules Committees in both Houses.

“These pre-eminent committees are responsible for developing the procedures and policies that govern the operations of the NA and the NCOP. In the NA, 34 oversight committees were established, along with the election of chairpersons and the designation of members to serve in these structures.

“These committees were configured to align with the cabinet structure, ensuring dedicated oversight of each government department and its entities. In the NCOP, 10 Select Committees were constituted and appropriately clustered to prioritise the interests of provinces in the national sphere,” she said.

Mtshweni-Tsipane said these parliamentary committees serve as the “engine room” of Parliament, overseeing the performance and accountability of various government departments. She said a priority has been placed on building the technical and resource capacity of committees to strengthen their ability to scrutinise the actions of government departments and entities.

“These committees have already made significant strides, successfully passing all departmental budgets, reviving key Bills that had lapsed at the end of the Sixth Parliament, and conducting effective oversight.

“Between July and December, the NCOP held 39 hybrid and virtual sittings, serving as important platforms for fulfilling its constitutional mandate. These sittings focused on critical areas such as budget votes, statutory appointments, the passage of legislation, and debates on pressing national issues,” said Mthsweni-Tsipane.

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SPAR Proteas one step closer to glory

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Picture: The SPAR Proteas players during the game/Supplied 

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

14 December 2024- The SPAR Proteas are one step closer to African Netball glory, securing a 63-41 victory over Zimbabwe in the 2024 Africa Netball Cup semi-finals. The SPAR Proteas put up an impressive performance, overpowering a determined Zimbabwean side that fought tirelessly until the final whistle.

The South Africans displayed superior speed, accuracy and court coverage in the first semi-final clash. They took a narrow 17-13 lead in the first quarter, capitalising on strong centre-court play and accurate shooting.

In the second quarter, SA extended their lead with pinpoint passing, effective centre-court pressure and clinical shooting from the circle. They went to the break leading 34-21.

The SPAR Proteas continued to dominate in the third quarter, maintaining a strong defensive presence and consistently finding gaps in the Zimbabwean defence. During this period, the score increased to 50-32 in favour of the Proteas.

In the final quarter, Jenny van Dyk’s charges maintained their composure, ultimately securing a 63-41 victory over Zimbabwe. This victory extends South Africa’s unbeaten record against its opponents in recent years, winning all 11 encounters against Zimbabwe.

SPAR Proteas “Ready” for Uganda Final Showdown

Ahead of the highly anticipated final against Uganda, SPAR Proteas coach Jenny Van Dyk shared her thoughts on the team’s preparations and the challenge ahead. Reflecting on the semi-final victory over Zimbabwe, she emphasised the importance of maintaining consistency throughout the match while highlighting the depth of the South African squad.

“We take on Uganda exactly as expected. We have prepared for this from the very start and we have prepared with them in mind. The players had a rough start to the semis.

“But before the end of that first quarter, they pulled it back so well, so good job for Zimbabwe. They started strong in that match, but also an excellent performance from our South African players to keep the consistency throughout most of the game,” she said.

Van Dyk further said she meant, being able to play all 12 players in the semi-finals speaks volumes of the type of players they have. She added that the team is ready.

“We’ll be doing quite a lot of work. From now till tomorrow, we will prepare for the final preparation for Uganda. But we are already confident that we will go out there and do our utmost best,” said.

Meanwhile, the SPAR Proteas played Uganda in the 2024 Africa Netball Cup final on Saturday at 2pm. Uganda secured their place in the final with a 51-43 victory over Malawi in the second semi-final, setting the stage for their 20th encounter with the Proteas.

Head-to-Head History

South Africa hold a dominant 15-4 record against Uganda in their previous 19 meetings. While South Africa has enjoyed significant success in recent years, including a string of victories in 2021, Uganda has shown a growing competitive edge, notably securing a 54-48 win in Birmingham in 2022.

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14 illegal foreign miners sentenced to two years imprisonment

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By REGINALD KANYANE

14 December 2024- Nineteen illegal miners were sentenced to two years imprisonment by the Stilfontein Magistrate’s Court on 11 December 2024. The convicts comprise of 14 Lesotho, 4 Mozambique and 1 Zimbabwe undocumented foreign nationals aged between 20 and 40.

The North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said each of the convicts was sentenced to 24 months imprisonment, which is wholly suspended for the period of five years on condition that the accused person is not convicted for contravention of Section 5A of Act 28 of 2008 read with Section 1, illegal mining committed during the period of suspension.

“In addition, each accused person was sentenced to six months imprisonment or a fine of R6000, which is wholly suspended for the period of five years on condition that the accused person is not convicted for contravention of Section 49(1)(a) read with section 1, 9(3) & (4) of Act No. 13 of 2002 (illegal immigrant – illegal entry) committed during the period of suspension,” he said.

Mokgwabone further said the accused are part of scores of illegal miners arrested in November 2024, after resurfacing at Margaret Shaft, in Stilfontein. He added that the Vala Umgodi operations in the province continue to assert the authority of the state.

“Meanwhile, the Department of Home Affairs is currently processing the convicts for deportation. The sentencing shows that the integrated and relentless efforts to fight illegal mining were strengthened,” said Mokgwabone.

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Police looking for suspects linked to business robbery

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

11 December 2024- The police in Ikageng request the community’s assistance in locating and identifying a man as per attached identikit. On 13 November 2024, at around 8:30pm, a complainant (27), was allegedly busy helping customers in a tuck shop in Mogolodi Street, Extension 7, in Ikageng Township, near Potchefstroom, when two unknown suspects entered.

The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Adele Myburgh said one of them was armed with a firearm and demanded money.

“They robbed the complainant of cash, an airtime machine, cellular phone and cigarettes. One of the suspects is dark in complexion with dark eyes, medium in height and a slender built body. He was wearing a black/dark blue sporty hat.

“Anyone with information that can assist the police to identify and trace the man, is requested to contact the Investigating Officer, Sergeant George Phamudi of Ikageng Detectives on 082 416 1015 or 018 294 1438,” she said.

Myburgh further said anonymous tip-offs can also be communicated via the MySAPS App on your smartphone or alternatively call Crime Stop on ‪08600 10111.

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A boy brutally killed in Vryburg

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Picture: The police at crime scene in Vryburg/Facebook 

By REGINALD KANYANE

11 December 2024- A boy (1) was brutally killed at Colour Block Extension in Vryburg on 7 December 2024. It is alleged that the mother of the boy was outside her house when her neighbour (27), allegedly approached her.

The North West police spokesperson in Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati cluster, Sergeant Tryphosa van Rooyen said the neighbour allegedly grabbed the boy from his mother, who was holding him in her arms. Van Rooyen said the suspect was allegedly armed with a knife.

“The mother shouted for help and community members came to assist. The suspect went inside his house and locked the door. Thereafter, he stabbed the boy to death and then stabbed himself.

“Both were declared dead on the scene. There was no relationship or conflict between the mother and the suspect, they are just neighbours. The suspect was arrested about two weeks back for assault GBH, after assaulting his own brother,” she said.

Van Rooyen further said this case was still going on in court.

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SA GETS OFF TO FLYING START AT 2024 AFRICA NETBALL CUP

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Picture: Netball South Africa players

By OBAKENG MAJE 

11 December 2024- South Africa got off to a flying start at the Africa Netball Cup 2024, which kicked off this Monday at the MTC Dome in Swakopmund. The men’s and women’s teams made resounding statements on the tournament’s opening day.

Owethu Ngubane was unable to travel with the squad to Namibia due to injury but will be ready to return for the series in Jamaica in January. South Africa’s men’s team, who are the defending champions, turned on a dominant performance, securing a 98-8 victory over Lesotho in their opening match. 

The team, led by Sicelo Gamede in Goal Defence, showcased exceptional strength, establishing a commanding 48-6 lead by halftime. They sealed their win in the final two quarters.

The victory marked the international debuts of several promising players, Vukile Zulu, Kwandile Sithole, Shane Labuschagne, Romeo Nqcaku, and Lwazi Nzama. In their second match, the South African men continued their winning streak with a convincing 67-38 victory over debutants Namibia.

They Were All Fired Up

Head Coach of the SA men’s team, Jabulani Vilane, praised his troops’ confidence and execution in the first match against Lesotho, while acknowledging areas for improvement observed in the second game against Namibia.

“The game was not that tough against Lesotho, but the boys’ confidence was good. They were all fired up and they performed all the combinations we tried very well,” said Vilane. 

Meanwhile, the South African women’s team, the SPAR Proteas, also enjoyed an impressive start to their campaign, securing a record-breaking 74-29 victory over Kenya.

This marks their largest-ever winning margin and highest-ever goal tally against Kenya in an Africa Netball Cup match. It surpassed their previous best of 67-25 (a 42-goal difference) in 2021. The SPAR Proteas demonstrated exceptional speed and precision, establishing a significant 21-5 lead after the first quarter.

The experienced captain, Khanyisa Chawane, led the charge.

Their dominance continued throughout the match. At halftime, they had a commanding 41-11 lead. They went on to win the third quarter by 58-20 points.

Tough One Against Malawi

SPAR Proteas coach Jenny van Dyk expressed satisfaction with the team’s victory over Kenya but said there is room for improvement. She highlighted the need for greater clinical execution and emphasised the importance of thorough analysis and adjustments before facing Malawi.

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A body of a man found on N18 road

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

11 December 2024- The Huhudi Detectives appeal to the community to assist them in identifying an unknown body of a man estimated to be in his thirties. The body was found on the N18 road near Tigerkloof.

The Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati cluster police spokesperson, Sergeant Tryphosa van Rooyen said the deceased is slender built, light in complexion, 1.88-metre-tall and was wearing a red t-shirt, grey beanie written “cool”, blue Chelsea long track pant with grey Adidas tekkies.

“The only item found in his possession was a Nedbank card written M Maine. Anyone who may have information that can assist the police in identifying the body, is requested to contact Captain Thabo Moremi on 082 661 7535,” she said.

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