Picture: A person of interest in a rape case/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
The police in Ikageng Township, near Potchefstroom, request the public’s assistance in identifying a person of interest. The North West police spokesperson, Captain Sam Tselanyane said the person is estimated to be in his 20s, dark in complexion with dark eyes.
Tselanyane said he also has a scar on his upper lip, three stars tattooed between his eyes as well as a picture of a knife tattooed on his right arm. He said furthermore, he is of medium height and slender.
“He can possibly assist the police in a rape case that was reported at midday on 8 August 2023. The incident took place in an open field at the Jammie Zakhele Dumping Site in Ikageng Township, near Potchefstroom.
“It was reported at the time of the incident that, a girl aged 12, was walking from Marikana Extension to Ikageng Township, near Potchefstroom when a man came to her aid because she was crying. He told her that he knows her brother and will help her find him,” said Tselanyane.
He said, whilst walking at the dumping site, the man allegedly threatened the girl with a knife and raped her. Tselanyane said anyone who can assist the police in identifying this person, is requested to contact the investigating officer, Sergeant Abigail Langford at Potchefstroom Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit (FCS) on 060 970 9120 or (018) 293 9200.
“They can also contact the nearest police stations. Alternatively, the South African Police Service (SAPS) Crime Stop can be called on 08600 10111. Anonymous tip-offs can also be communicated via the My SAPS App from a smartphone,” he said.
Picture: MM Sebitloane Special School in Taung to get a soccer field
By KABELO SELEBOGO
North West MEC for Arts, Culture, Sport and Recreation, Kenetswe Mosenogi said the MM Sebitloane Special School will get a new soccer field. Mosenogi said the school’s seven-a-side soccer team performed wonders during the Special Olympics World Games in Berlin, Germany in June 2023.
“We are here to celebrate North West athletes who contributed immensely to Team SA that recently competed at the Special Olympics World Games in Berlin, Germany. The Team SA bagged a total number of 49 medals, (22 Golds, 20 Silvers, and 7 bronzes in various sporting activities). North West athletes contributed 7 medals (4 gold, 2 silver, and 1 bronze).
“Our athletes, Kamogelo Moncho won gold in 5000m and 1500m bronze, whilst table tennis star, Innocentia Msikinya claimed a gold in mixed doubles and silver in singles. swimmer, Goitsemodimo Mosepele bagged gold in 25m freestyle, the MM Sebitloane Special School football team attained gold in 7-aside football, and swimmer, Aubrey James scooped silver in 100m freestyle with a shoulder injury and Cecilia Janse Van Rensburg, who participated in equestrian,” she said.
Mosenogi further said the games were staged on 17-25 June 2023 and attracted more than 7000 athletes from 190 countries who participated in 26 sporting codes. She added that the participants were athletes with intellectual disabilities.
“As a token of appreciation and support to the rural sports Development, Kgosi Lehatshe Mankuroane of Batlhaping Baga Phuduhucwana donated a piece of land to the MM Sebitloane Special School, which does not have a soccer field, despite their excellent performance at the Olympics.
“Our department has committed to give full support to athletes with special needs. We do not only celebrate the accomplishments of our athletes but give them the necessary support through the qualifying stages.
“We have sponsored them with logistics that include camping prior to the games, flights, meals as well as accommodation. Italy will play the host of the next World Winter Games in March 2025. Team North West is working on having more representatives on the national team in various disciplines,” said Mosenogi.
Picture: Some of the equipment confiscated from illegal miners/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
More than 90 alleged illegal miners have been arrested in Klerksdorp. The North West police spokesperson, Capt Sam Tselanyane said in an effort to curb the scourge of illegal mining, the police working together with other role players, arrested 91 illegal miners at two different places.
Tselanyane said the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Illegal Mining Team working together with the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), Klerksdorp and Provincial Tactical Response Teams (TRTs), Potchefstroom Public Order Police (POP), Stilfontein K9 and Private Security conducted an illegal mining operation at Wolwerand Shiva Mine near Hartbeesfontein, outside Klerksdorp on 25 August 2023.
“During the operation, three suspects were arrested. Sam Mashaba (37), Thapelo Mokoae (26) and Peter Nhlapo (45) were arrested. The police discovered and seized goods such as 32 super power 90 explosives, 220 metres solar cord detonating fuses and seven CarMax fuses.
“Also, 17 generators, 26 jackhammers, four water pumps, eight electrical motors with gearboxes, two borehole pumps, one submersible pump, 320-metre-long electric cable, 51 drill bits, 200 metre air hose, one industrial air compressor for air drilling and 12 big pendukas were confiscated,” he said.
Tselanyane further said the trio appeared before the Klerksdorp Magistrate’s Court on 28 August 2023 and are facing charges of illegal mining, illegal possession of explosives, possession of suspected gold-bearing material, and contravention of Section 49(1)(a) of the Immigration Act, 2002 (Act No. 13 of 2002).
He added that they were remanded in custody until 5 September 2023 for further investigation.
Tselanyane said in the second and separate arrest in the early hours of Tuesday, the police in Mooinooi were called to Newman Shaft of Sibanye – Marikana Operations Mine after 88 illegal miners aged between 15 and 40 voluntarily handed themselves over to the authorities.
“Furthermore, of the 88 suspects, 86 are illegal immigrants and two are South Africans. The mine was allegedly rehabilitating the unused shaft when the illegal miners emerged from underground. All the illegal miners were taken to one of the mine halls and later handed over to the police.
“All 88 suspects are expected to appear before the Brits Magistrate’s Court today on charges of illegal mining, trespassing, tampering with essential infrastructure, and contravention of section 49(1)(a) of the Immigration Act, 2002 (Act No. 13 of 2002). Investigations are underway,” he said.
Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, lauded the police and all external role players for their collaboration in ensuring that the suspects are brought to book. Kwena indicated that operations of this nature will continue to re-assert the authority of the state and to increase the levels of safety and well-being of the citizens.
A man sentenced to life imprisonment by the Atamelang Regional Court sentenced for rape. Wandile Bome (26) accosted a couple from behind and assaulted the boyfriend with a stick.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in North West, Henry Mamothame said the boyfriend fled the scene and the accused went on to assault the woman with a stick before grabbing her. Mamothame said Bome then dragged the to his place of residence, where he repeatedly raped her.
“He subsequently chased her away. The complainant went home and reported her ordeal to her brother and boyfriend, who immediately accompanied her to the clinic and subsequently to the police station to report the incident. The complaint described him in court to be her relative.
“The incident took place in Ganaalagte, near Delareyville on 29 February 2020. Bome was subsequently arrested on 3 March 2023 after evading the police. He was granted bail but it was later reversed after he failed to appear in court. He pleaded not guilty to all the charges and he was also sentenced to 3 years for assault with Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH and an additional 2 years for another assault with GBH,” he said.
In aggravation of sentence, the state prosecutor, Edward Manicus, urged the court not to deviate from the prescribed minimum sentence of life imprisonment, as there were no compelling circumstances provided.
Magistrate Stephan Du Toit agreed with the state and he remarked on the seriousness of the offence and the responsibility the courts have to protect society against perpetrators of such heinous crimes.
The Director of Public Prosecutions in the North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, lauded the prosecutor, investigating officer, and other role players who ensured that the perpetrator was brought to book.
Picture: The Pilanesberg Airport gutted by fire/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in North West, calls on the North West Provincial Government (NWPG) and the South African Police Services (SAPS) to investigate the possibility of economic sabotage in the province. This comes after the growing sporadic fires targeting critical infrastructure within the province, such as yesterday’s fire at Pilanesberg Airport.
The DA Caucus leader in the North West Provincial Legislature (NWPL), Freddy Sonakile said the fire caused serious damage to the facility’s infrastructure.
Sonakile further said they appreciate the North West Department of Community Safety and Transport Management’s undertaking to investigate the cause of the fire, however, they believe closer scrutiny must be given as there appears to be much more behind these fires.
“Critical infrastructure has been engulfed by fire leaving a trail of destruction in North West over the last few years. Specifically, yesterday’s Pilanesberg Airport, then Christiana Hospital, the Mmabatho Palms Resort, and a section of the Department of Social Development’s offices.
“This includes a section of the Department of Agriculture’s offices, the Lichtenburg Waste Tyre Depot, and the Potchefstroom Train Station, not to mention the massive veld fires destroying tens of hectares of vegetation, livestock, and property,” he added.
Sonakile said they conducted an unannounced oversight inspection at the Pilanesberg Airport on 11 August 2023 and were escorted to the Tower by the Air Traffic Controller and came across an open, unmanned server room, which in itself posed a severe fire risk.
He said while the intention of their oversight inspection was mainly to monitor the renovation project piloted by the Department of Community Safety and Transport Management, there was no sign of any repairs or maintenance.
“There was no contractor or maintenance company on site. We have already submitted a written question to the North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Sello Lehari through the Legislature to account for the absence of any work at the airport. These fires are causing the destruction of critical infrastructure required to deliver services to residents.
“The destruction brought by fire not only threatens the safety of residents but also impacts negatively on economic development, economic growth, job creation, and security, attracting investment,” said Sonakile.
He said that renovating or rebuilding critical infrastructure damaged or destroyed by fire puts an additional burden on the fiscus during a time when the government hardly has enough money to deliver even the most basic of services. Sonakile said these fires must be thoroughly investigated.
“If due to some sort of economic sabotage, those found to be responsible must be prosecuted, and if due to negligence, those responsible must be held accountable,” he said.
Meanwhile, the North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Sello Lehari said: “We have ordered an immediate investigation. We would like to leave no stone unturned to ensure we get to the bottom of the cause of the fire.”
Many South Africans were left mesmerised by how Professor Boitumelo Mmusinyane showed a fundamental understanding of the law during interviews for the Public Protector position. Mmusinyane responded to questions with confidence and created a strong, lasting impression.
Even though he was not recommended by the panel, he took time to write on his Facebook page, where he thanked all those who supported him and congratulated Advocate Kholeka Gcaleka, who was recommended by the panel to become the new Public Protector.
Gcaleka has been acting in that position for more than a year now since South African president, Cyril Ramaphosa suspended the outgoing Public Protector, Busisiwe Mkhwebane.
“Fellow South Africans, I wish to take this opportunity to say that South Africa as a constitutional state, is established on principles of openness, transparency, and fairness. The committee established to nominate the next Public Protector has done its work, and did so publicly for everyone to see.
“It has chosen its candidate to be considered by the National Assembly (NA) through a voting system. This is despite disagreement among them, but there is absolutely nothing where the public has a say at the moment. I have my utmost respect for Adv Gcaleka. In the end, only one candidate has to be chosen,” he said.
Mmusinyane further said it is normal in every competition that there has to be a winner. He added that, in general, interviews often give mixed emotions and he fully understands the masses’ concerns and positions.
“Let’s give politicians space and time to do what is right for the country. Forward, we are going and I wish to take this opportunity to thank you all for your support, and encouragement during this process. Like I said, I did what I was called for and did so to the best of my abilities. In the end, only one individual has to be picked,” said Mmusinyane.
However, the Democratic Alliance (DA) Member of Parliament and Shadow Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Adv Glynnis Breytenbach said they call for the re-opening of applications for Public Protector.
Breytenbach said they hold the view that none of the candidates interviewed are suitable for appointment, given the enormous responsibility this position holds. She said the candidates all showed an alarming lack of basic knowledge of the legal framework in which they would be required to operate.
“We further hold the view that an appointment should not be made simply due to a lack of any better alternatives. The Public Protector is a critical Chapter 9 institution tasked with strengthening constitutional democracy in South Africa.
“The importance of a strong, independent Public Protector cannot be overstated, and was excellently outlined within the Constitutional Court’s Nkandla judgement. Mkhwebane has done immense damage to the institution of the Public Protector,” said Breytenbach.
She said they did not nominate any of the applicants and nominees for the shortlist, simply because they were all unknown players, none of whom stood out as a suitable candidate. According to Breytenbach, it is unfortunate that the pool of applicants and nominees was disappointing when compared with the pool available during the last interviews.
Meanwhile, the Chairperson of Ad Hoc Committee, Cyril Xaba said: “The committee has recommended Gcaleka as the next Public Protector. Gcaleka has been acting as the PP for over a year since the suspension of Adv Busisiwe Mkhwebane and she is also the Deputy PP.
“The committee’s report on her recommendation will be sent to the National Assembly (NA) for its consideration. The NA will vote on the matter and 60% support is required for the recommendation to be approved by the House.”
A policeman from Schweizer Reneke Police Station was arrested by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, the Hawks today. It is alleged that the Detective (name withheld) was known for conniving with livestock thieves.
According to our highly-placed source, the Hawks allegedly put the arrested Detective under surveillance for months before they pounced on him. The Hawks allegedly approached one of the farmers in the area and entrapped the unsuspecting policeman.
“The policeman was allegedly working with this farmer. So, the Hawks, in agreement with the farmer, set a trap for the policeman. They allegedly gave the farmer R1000 notes that were marked. They then requested the farmer to hand it over to the policeman as bribery.
“The Hawks allegedly waited for him since 4am this morning. The policeman allegedly went to collect the bribery money from the farmer, then he was followed. When the policeman allegedly realised that he was being followed, he tried to speed off,” our source said.
It is alleged that the policeman’s commander, who was amongst the Hawks personnel, was ordered to stop the policeman. A search was allegedly conducted and the marked notes were found in his possession.
The policeman was allegedly charged with corruption and he is currently detained at Bloemhof Police Station.
Meanwhile, the North West police spokesperson, Capt Sam Tselanyane nor Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati police spokesperson, Tryphosa van Rooyen have not responded to our media inquiry before publishing the article.
Picture: The fire gutted Pilanesberg Airport in Rustenburg/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Sello Lehari said the Pilanesberg International Airport, near Sun City, has been gutted by fire. Lehari, who rushed to the scene said it seems the fire started near the Air Traffic Control Tower.
“At around 12:00pm, the security officers at the airport reported smoke but could not detect what was burning. Upon investigation, they realised the smoke was coming from the top of the building close to the Air Traffic Control Tower.
“Some of the Airport personnel rushed to the tower and tried to extinguish the fire. However, the flames engulfed the area and in seconds, the thatched roof of the airport caved in. The personnel tried in vain to put it out as the structure was completely gutted,” he said.
Lehari further said the Sun City Fire Services and the Rustenburg Fire Services arrived shortly thereafter and did everything they could. He added that they have ordered an immediate investigation.
“We would like to leave no stone unturned to ensure we get to the bottom of the cause of the fire,” said Lehari.
Forum 4 Service Delivery (F4SD) has suspended its councillor, Merriam Mosiako with immediate effect. This comes after Mosiako and her son, Tshegofatso Mosiako were arrested by the Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation team for allegedly soliciting R100 000 from a service provider.
Mosiako is the chairperson of the Municipal Public Accounts Committee (MPAC) at the City of Matlosana. According to the F4SD chairperson in North West, Sechaba Sekhoto, the decision to suspend Mosiako was taken at a meeting held on 28 August 2023.
“The decision is in line with the F4SD Constitution. Mosiako’s suspension will remain in effect until the final outcome of a disciplinary investigation to be conducted by the provincial leadership. She has been suspended from her roles as a PFEC member and the councillor.
“During this period of suspension, Mosiako is not permitted to carry out the duties and responsibilities of her office as PFEC member and F4SD councillor. Not allowed to represent the organisation publicly or in any other forum,” said Sekhoto.
He further said Mosiako is also not allowed to make public pronouncements on matters related to the organisation, or engage in the mobilisation of F4SD structures or any other organisations or individuals. Sekhoto added that, Mosiako is not allowed to contact members or leadership of F4SD at any level of structures.
“As F4SD, we take allegations of corruption extremely seriously. We remain committed to our core principles of transparency, integrity, and accountability. We urge all concerned parties to cooperate fully with the ongoing investigations, and we commend the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) for their vigilance in tackling corruption,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Democratic Alliance (DA) Caucus leader in the City of Matlosana, Johannes Le Grange said they welcome Mosiako’s arrest.
“The DA welcomes the arrest of Mosiako after a sting operation by the police, where she was caught extorting money from a service provider, Molahlwa Investment Holdings.
“This arrest occurred two weeks after the DA opened a case with the Hawks to investigate the irregular appointment of Molahlwa Investment Holdings for the rental of 10 refuse removal trucks for three months under emergency Regulation 36 of the Municipal Supply Chain Management Regulations,” he said.
Le Grange said the arrest of Mosiako also comes at a time when opposition parties were preparing to table several reports on contracts that were irregularly awarded, which will definitely trigger a new wave of investigations.
He said as DA, they will closely monitor the court proceedings of Mosiako, including the possible involvement of municipal officials and other councillors to ensure that, justice is served for the people of Matlosana.
Meanwhile, The Hawks spokesperson in North West, Lieutenant Col Tinyiko Mathebula said the corruption case against Mosiako and her son was postponed to 9 November 2023. Mathebula said the duo was granted R15 000 and R1000 bail respectively.
Picture: One of the torched vehicles belonging to a sangoma/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
More than 30 people have been arrested for public violence during a protest in Mmatshepe village, near Mahikeng. This comes after the assassination of the local chief, Kgosi Gopane Phillip Motuba.
North West police spokesperson, Brig Sabata Mokgwabone said Motuba was allegedly robbed and killed by two unknown men, who buttonholed him at his house. Mokgwabone further said, the men allegedly entered Motuba’s house through an unlocked front door at around 4:30am.
“A case of robbery and murder is under investigation. Subsequent to the incident, houses belonging to a villager suspected to be responsible for Motuba’s death were set alight on Monday. The houses include those used for training and consultation by traditional healers (sangoma).
“In addition, two vehicles were torched while the third one was damaged. Furthermore, a local road between Mahikeng and Itsoseng was barricaded. Upon intervening, and as part of maintaining public order, Mahikeng Public Order Police (POP) arrested 39 individuals for public violence,” he added.
Mokgwabone said the arrests led to the convergence of Matshepe community members into Lomanyaneng Police Station to demand the release of the suspects. He said, however, they later dispersed and the suspects aged between 22 and 55 are expected to appear before the Molopo Magistrate’s Court soon.
“The police would like to request anyone who may have information that can assist in the investigations to contact the Investigating Officer, Detective Warrant Officer Samuel Matiti on 082 374 0498 or call the South African Police Service (SAPS) Crime Stop number 08600 10111.
“Anonymous tip-offs can also be communicated via MySAPS App. The police in the Ngaka Molema District are on high alert,” said Mokgwabone.
Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, condemned the incidents, which he said are a clear sign of disrespect for the rule of law and cannot be tolerated. Kwena urged the community to work together with the police to ensure justice rather than taking the law into their own hands, which is unlawful and unacceptable.
