Picture: Former Head of Department at North West Department of Health, Dr Thabo Lekalakala, and Director of Raliform Investment, Joseph Leshabane/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

The former Head of Department at North West Department of Health, Dr Thabo Lekalaka (58) and Director of Raliform Investment, Joseph Leshabane (61) were arrested by the Hawks on Monday for fraud. Lekalakala and Leshabane briefly appeared at the Molopo Magistrate’s Court and their case was postponed to 31 January 2023.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson, Henry Mamothame said Lekalakala is facing two charges of contravening the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) and two of fraud. Mamothame said Lekalakala was granted R10 000 bail.

“Leshabane is charged with his company, Raliform Investment, on six counts of fraud amounting to over R49 million and he was granted R50 000 bail. The two were arrested by members of the Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation and Serious Commercial Crime Investigation Units on 2 October 2023, around Mahikeng.

“Their matter is linked to the case of Dr Lydia Keneilwe Sebego (63), the former Head of Department at the North West Department of Health, Vuyo Mbulawa (54), Chief Director at the North West Department of Health, and Roulgh Lotwane Mabe (69), a service provider, who appeared before court on 29 September 2023,” he said.

Mamothame said the court granted Sebego R10 000 bail, Mbulawa R20 000 and Mabe R100 000. He said Sebego is facing two charges of Contravening the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA), Mbulawa is facing ten charges of fraud, and Mabe is charged with six counts of fraud.

“During 2008 and 2009, the North West sought to build two hospitals, Moses Kotane Hospital, Ledig Joe Morolong Hospital in Vryburg. A tender was subsequently awarded to MR Property (Pty)Ltd, a company belonging to Mabe.

“The charges against the two former heads of department relate to Service Level Agreements (SLA) that were signed between the two companies and their directors on services that needed to be rendered to the two hospitals,” SAID Mamothame.

However, he said services were not rendered, while these companies allegedly submitted fraudulent invoices, which were paid by the department after being authorised by Mbulawa. Mamothame said this allegedly led to a loss of over R86 million to the department, paid to Mabe’s company and over R49 million paid to Leshabane’s company.

“The state’s evidence further reveals that the two HoDs signed the SLAs while they knew that the two companies were not compliant and did not meet the requirements.

“Lekalala has a separate pending case, where he is charged with two counts of fraud and one of contravening the PFMA. He allegedly fraudulently awarded a contract for sourcing mobile clinics to Mediosa Health, a company linked to the Gupta family,” he said.

Mamothame said Lekalakala is out on R5000 bail and the matter is back in court on 12 February 2024 for further trial.

Meanwhile, the Director of Public Prosecutions in the North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, together with the Provincial Head for the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, Major General Patrick Mbotho, welcome the arrest and court appearance of the remaining suspects.

They are hopeful of the completion of investigations in order for a trial to commence and for the accused to face the might of the law.

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Picture: Athletes who represented SA at the Special Olympics World Games in Germany

By OBAKENG MAJE

Athletes who represented South Africa at the Special Olympics World Games had lunch with present Cyril Ramaphosa at Union Buildings, Pretoria on Tuesday. Ramaphosa has commended the outstanding performance of South Africa’s national team, which excelled at this year’s Special Olympics World Games.

“Competing against 7000 athletes from over 180 countries at the Special Olympics World Games in Berlin, Germany in June 2023, the national team returned with 22 gold, 20 silver and seven bronze medals.

“Special Olympics is a global movement of people creating a new world of inclusion and community, where every person is welcome, regardless of ability or disability,” he said. 

Ramaphosa further said the success of the Special Olympics shows what happens when government and civil society – represented here by Special Olympics South Africa – work together to ensure that they leave no one behind.

He added that South Africa is honoured to be one of the first countries to support the Special Olympics Global Leadership Coalition for Inclusion, which reflects our commitment to the inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities in all areas of our society.

“Having hosted a number of national teams at the Union Buildings as part of the government’s celebration for outstanding achievements by athletes in various sporting codes, we express pride in Team South Africa’s performance.

“We are proud that Team South Africa flew the flag for social inclusion and the advancement of human rights, which are a hallmark of the nation we have built during nearly 30 years of freedom,” said Ramaphosa.

He said Team South Africa are heroes that they can look up to and be inspired by in athletic arenas and in every walk of life in the country. Ramaphosa said may their commitment to inclusion as a nation shine as brightly as the achievements of our Special Olympics Team.

“The team’s dedication, perseverance and unwavering commitment to their sport has not only brought glory to the nation but it has also shattered the barriers that once confined them,” said Ramaphosa.

He said the team is being led by the Chairperson of Special Olympics South Africa, Dr Mathews Phosa, who was recently honoured at the 19th Special Olympics Africa Leadership Conference in Addis Ababa.

“With such a hard-working and distinguished captain at the helm of Special Olympics South Africa we can only expect even greater things from Team South Africa,” he said.

Meanwhile, Phosa spoke about the importance of the inclusion of people with an intellectual disability.

“Our athletes want to be heard and they demand inclusion, respect and equal opportunities. They declare that they are here to show the world their talents and abilities. They deserve nothing else but our unwavering support,” he said.

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Picture: The Optog Teen Plaasmoorde pamphlet doing rounds on social media platforms

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

The South African Police Service (SAPS) management in the province said it is concerned about the pamphlet doing the rounds on social media platforms titled: “Optog Teen Plaasmoorde.” It is alleged that, the distributor of the pamphlet is organising a march in Brits scheduled for 10 October 2023.

The North West Police Chairperson of the Rural Safety Priority Committee, Major General Patrick Asaneng said they have a Priority Committee, which is in line with the National Rural Safety Strategy, ensures an effective and sustainable approach to optimal service delivery to rural communities, including on farms and smallholdings.

“The march organiser is neither known nor plays any active role in ensuring the safety of the farming communities. At the same time, misleads the public and creates a perception that nothing is being done about crime in rural areas.

“In fact, the District Commissioner of Bojanala Platinum Sub-District 1 and the Station Commander of Brits have a good working relationship with farmers, farm workers, Community Police Forum (CPF) and other stakeholders,” he said.

Asane further said, that while volunteers and partners are welcomed in the fight against crime, it is imperative that those who do that, work together with the police through recognised structures such as the Community Policing Forum (CPF) to address safety and security on farms. He added that everyone has the right in terms of the Constitution to peacefully demonstrate, assemble, picket, and present petitions, but that must be done in a responsible manner.  

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Picture: The tombstone damaged at Lokgabeng/Facebook

By OBAKENG MAJE

The Serolong family in Lokgabeng village, near Taung, was left dejected after their tombstones were vandalised by unknown people just a week after the unveiling.

Lesego Serolong said they held a successful ceremony on 30 September 2023 in honour of their grandfather, Daniel Masasa Serolong, grandmother, Sophie Galoname Serolong, and her father, Goitseone Staross Serolong.

She said Sophie was a philanthropist who contributed positively to the society. Lesego further said her grandmother as a teacher and a leader of society, always vanguard for a change is the lives of many.

“Sophie studied at the icon Tigerkloof near Vryburg and became a teacher a few years later. She taught at various schools across the country, including at Setshwarapelo Primary School in Lokgabeng. She was also involved in community work and as a leader of a Girl Guide initiative, she mentored a lot of girls.

“She advocated for education and this was a form of celebrating her legacy and influence, hence we did the celebration ceremony at her house. The celebration also included the unveiling of my father, Goitseone Staross Serolong’s tombstone, who was affectionately known as Motlotlegi Chesa in a Setswana drama during the Bophuthatswana era,” said Lesego.

She further said, her father was also a soldier by profession and a remarkable individual. Lesego added that Staross’ teachings and love, resonated uniquely and strongly.

“They left an irreplaceable void that only Christ can console. His distinct presence illuminated our lives. Every moment spent in his company is treasured and left a tapestry of memories woven with care and warmth.

“This also goes to the legacy that Daniel and Sophie left behind. She was a beacon of light that will forever inspire. Rakgadi’s unwavering faith and bundles of love enriched our lives and shaped our paths,” she said.

Lesego said they now have a scholar program under Sophie Serolong Umbrella, where they provide bursaries to young people. She said they were shattered after they were informed about the vandalism.

“We call on community members to assist with any information to ensure that culprits are brought to book. There might be a reward because I think it is not fair to destroy gravesites.

“We cannot fold our arms and let criminals target the sacred grounds. What surprises us is that nothing was stolen but some people just decided to vandalise those tombstones with a hammer for no apparent reason or only known to them,” said Lesego.

Meanwhile, the North West police spokesperson in Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati cluster, Warrant Officer Tryphosa van Rooyen said: “Yes, there is a criminal case that was opened and investigations are underway. The damages are estimated at R20 000.”

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Picture: The protesters allegedly damaged the vehicle belonging to the municipal councillor, Itumeleng Maribe/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

The irate protesters from Itireleng village, near Taung vow to resume their service delivery protest, if there is no action taken by the embattled Greater Taung Local Municipality (GTLM) mayor, Tumisang Gaoraelwe. A week ago, protesters barricaded the N18 road that links Taung and Hartswater with burning tyres and debris demanding the construction of the 2.5km internal road.

One of the community leaders, Itumeleng Pholo said the community members threatened to resume their service delivery protest because they have not received any communication from the municipality thus far.

“We have given them ample time to come up with a solution to our demand. However, it seems they are taking us for a ride and now is the time for action. We only need answers regarding the R10 million construction road project that was budgeted for.  

“Gaoraelwe told us that, there was a R10 million budget set aside for this project, but he continues to send us from pillar to post. So, as the community, we feel disrespected by the manner in which he is handling this matter,” he said.

Pholo also alleged that, there were allegations that there was a R6 million budget that was part of the budget, but it is missing.

However, the municipality’s Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Infrastructure, Itumeleng Maribe said, they will visit the area on Tuesday at 2pm and meet with aggrieved residents.

Last week, Maribe’s vehicle was damaged during a protest.

“I was on duty travelling from Kgomotso village to Taung and utilising my private vehicle, which is a grey Toyota Legend when I came across protesters on N18 road next to Taung Hotel School.

“The police were dispersing protesters with rubber bullets and teargas when one of the protesters threw a large stone at my vehicle. This resulted in the stone damaging the rear passenger door,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Democratic Alliance (DA) Caucus Leader in Greater Taung Local Municipality, Sam Nape lambasted Gaoraelwe for the ‘delay tactics’ in addressing the residents. Nape said all this is happening because Gaoraelwe made empty promises to the residents back in 2022.

“He promised the residents that the municipality would construct an internal road connecting them to the N18. This is a typical ANC fashion as Gaoraelwe made politically expedient promises to residents knowing full well that, the municipality did not have the funding nor the capacity to build such a road.

“Neither does the road fall under the jurisdiction of the municipality. The road is a competency of the North West Provincial Government (NWPG). The DA would in principle support the construction of a road, but it must follow the correct process and procedures,” he said.

Nape further said, that when the matter appeared before the council, they raised concerns that this would be an unfunded project. He added that the municipality also has no jurisdiction to construct this road since it is a provincial road and that the cost of R10 million seemed excessive.

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Picture: The accused, Sibongeseni Ngubane who is linked to Ben Gumbi’s murder/Sowetanlive

By OBAKENG MAJE

One of the accused, Sibongiseni Ngubane who was arrested after being linked to the murder of the North West prominent businessman, Ben Gumbi (49) was granted the re-opening of the bail hearing by the Rustenburg Magistrate’s Court on 3 October 2023.

Ngubane took a stand and testified that he is an Uber driver and he will suffer the loss of income if he is not released on bail. He further testified that his life would not be endangered should bail be granted.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson, Henry Mamothame said Ngubane was arrested by members of a multi-disciplinary team, which was established after the ruthless murder of Gumbi (49). Mamothame said Gumbi was gunned down by two men outside a restaurant in the Rustenburg Central Business District (CBD) on 23 August 2023.

“The suspects then fled the scene with a blue Volkswagen Polo car, which was found a few minutes after the incident, abandoned at the corner of Helen Joseph and Lourie Streets. The car was confirmed to have been stolen, and the number plates that were on the car were false.

“Ngubane was arrested on 12 September 2023 in Germiston, after attending a court case in which he is facing a charge of armed robbery, wherein he is out on R3000 bail. He also has a pending case of possession of a firearm and ammunition in Alberton, wherein he was granted an R1000 bail,” he said.

He further said during cross-examination, the state asked Ngubane why he used a stolen vehicle, which was later abandoned, instead of his registered Uber vehicle as he claimed he was just hired to transport people to Rustenburg. Mamothame added that Ngubane was further interrogated on the R15 000, which he alleges was his payment for the transport service.

“The state will argue strongly against the granting of bail after consulting with the investigating officer. The investigating officer, in taking the stand prior to the reopening of the bail hearing, urged the court to consider the seriousness of the offence, as the accused is facing a schedule 6 offence of premeditated murder.

“He alluded to the safety of the accused against three other suspects, who were on the run and may endanger his life. The accused was also pointed out at an identity parade by several witnesses,” said Mamothame.

He said the state also highlighted the community’s interest in the matter, following the circulation of a recording of the alleged incident on social media platforms. Mamothame said the state urged the court to consider the gruesome manner in which the alleged murder was committed.

The matter was postponed to 5 October 2023 for closing arguments.

Meanwhile, police investigations are underway to track down three other suspects who are believed to be on the run.

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Picture: Former principal of Sunrise View Secondary School in Rustenburg, Agnes Rasesemola/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

The former principal, Agnes Rasesemola who is now the Circuit Manager, will be representing the North West province in a panel of discussion composed of other international prize laureates in the UNESCO headquarters in Paris, France on 5-6 October 2023.

The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi said this is in preparation to kick-start World Teachers’ Month. Motsumi said the panel will discuss how teacher prizes improve the attractiveness of the teaching profession.

“This is aimed at raising the teacher status and recognition as well as exploring how teacher prizes encourage the implementation of best practices at national, regional, and global levels. This milestone is a pride for the entire North West teaching fraternity.

“It is a pleasant honour to have our teachers and principals join the global stage to discuss such delicate matters relating to teachers. I take this invitation as a universal recognition of Rasesemola and the North West teaching profession as a whole,” she said.

Motsumi further said to be recognised in such a platform and sharing experiences in it, is a great milestone. She added that, as a department, they wish Rasesemola luck.

“I am grateful for her dedication both in leadership and in the classroom. Rasesemola is a former principal of Sunrise View Secondary School in Rustenburg, a three-time National Teaching Awards winner in 2013, 2017 and 2011, an African Union Continental Teachers awards winner in 2021 and two Batho Pele award winners amongst others,” said Motsumi.

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Picture: Minister of Police, Bheki Cele/IOL

Minister of Police Bheki Cele has been ordered to pay 16 residents from Choseng village, near Pudimoe R50,000 each after they were unlawfully arrested and detained at Pudumoe Police Station.

The group which was initially 17, was arrested at different times and were collectively charged with the contravention of the National Road Traffic Act and the Regulation of Gatherings Act.

They were arrested after a protest took place on September 14, 2016 on the N18 Road at the cross road of Pudimoe and Choseng village. On the day of the protest, a police captain who is now deceased, told protesters to disperse within ten minutes and they didn’t listen.

After several attempts, he threw a stun grenade and they ran into different directions of the N18 road. The captain instructed police to arrest the protesters who continued protesting, which subsequently led to the arrest of 17 residents.

They spent less than a day in custody. Upon their release, they were given a notice to appear at Taung Magistrate’s Court.

In November 2016, they instituted action against the Minister of Police claiming R600,000 each for unlawful arrest, detention, inhuman treatment and emotional shock.

One of the applicants withdrew from the proceedings. Their application was heard at the North West High Court in Mafikeng.

In their application, the group said after they were arrested, they were given documents to sign without them being explained to them, they were then taken to filthy holding cells with unhealthy conditions, and they had no privacy when using the toilet.

When evaluating the evidence, Judge AJ Mahlangu said the complainants corroborated each other’s versions in many respects and none of them contradicted themselves.

“They were all calm, honest and I found them to be credible witnesses,” she said.

Meanwhile, she found the police to be cagey and evasive when testifying.

“They could not explain how the plaintiff’s rights were explained inside the boardroom. They could also not reasonably explain at what stage were the plaintiff’s rights and the reason for the arrest was explained at the scene of crime as it was chaotic,” said the judge.

Judge Mahlangu further added that no amount of compensation can undo the humiliation and human rights violation suffered by the applicants. She said they should be awarded total compensation in the amount of R50,000 each.

“I should pause to mention that the plaintiffs were arrested at different times and they spend different hours in custody.

“But it would be reasonable to compensate them with the same amount of money as they all spent less than 24 hours in custody,” read the judgment.

The judge ordered the Minister to pay the cost of the application.

Source: IOL

By REGINALD KANYANE

A Mozambican man was sentenced to life imprisonment for raping a minor. On 20 November 2022, a former tenant approached the victim’s mother and said she had a prophecy and the victim was in danger.

She enquired about her whereabouts and the mother pointed to the shack of a Mozambican national, Guilhermo Jose Thomas Uchaio (54), who was a tenant at the victim’s home in Freedom Park, Tlhabane, outside Rustenburg at the time.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson, Henry Mamothame said the victim was seen earlier assisting Uchaio with his chores. Mamothame said the former tenant went to look for the child at Uchaio’s shack, but there was no response.

“She testified that she saw the accused jumping out of his bed naked when she peeped through the window. She then went back to the mother to indicate that the child was not there, but the mother insisted that the child was inside the shack.

“They then went back, and upon arrival, they found the victim standing outside the door. She highlighted that, Uchaio raped her. She was immediately rushed to the doctor, who confirmed that the child was sexually violated. The matter was reported to the police and Uchaio was arrested and the court denied him bail,” he said.

In aggravation of sentence, the state prosecutor, Obed Molope urged the court to consider the psychological harm that the incident did to the minor, thus persuading it not to deviate from the prescribed minimum sentence of life imprisonment.

Magistrate Segakweng Moeng agreed with the state and remarked that the accused abused his powers, as he knew that the victim trusted him.

The Director of Public Prosecutions in the North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, lauded the prosecutor, investigating officer from the SAPS, as well as other role players who ensured that the perpetrator is brought to book.

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