1241 suspects nabbed during Operation Shanela 2

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: Two suspects nabbed during Operation Shanela/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

2 September 2025 – The police in the North West have during the weekly High Density Operation Shanela 2 operations, arrested 1241 suspects for a variety of crimes ranging from burglaries at residential and non-residential premises, aggravated robberies, murders, rapes, dealing in and possession of drugs, driving under the influence of liquor, illegal possession of firearms and ammunition. The police said this includes illicit mining among others.

The North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said operations were conducted between 25 and 31 August 2025, in all five districts. Mokgwabone said out of the 1241 arrested suspects, it is worth noting that 460 were arrested by the Detectives as those on the circulated wanted suspects’ lists and 20 illegal immigrants were arrested for being in the country in contravention of the Immigration Act.

“As part of the operations, the police addressed identified crime generators through Joint law enforcement compliance inspections to enforce the provisions of the Liquor and Second-Hand Goods Acts.

“As a result, 13 unlicensed liquor outlets (shebeens) were closed, and large quantities of liquor were confiscated,” he said.

Mokgwabone further said in addition, the operations led to the confiscation of 25 cell phones, copper cables, seven firearms, 303 rounds of ammunition, precious metals and tobacco products. He added that in the Bojanala Platinum District, a disruptive illegal mining operation by Vala Umgodi team, Rustenburg based Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) and Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, at Bapong Illegal Mining Site, near R556, Mooinooi on 28 August 2025, led to the confiscation an abandoned excavator, two generators, four jack hammers, drill bits and electric cords, which are used for illegal mining.

Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General Patrick Asaneng, said that as the country and the province prepare for the start of the normally hectic festive season, the intensified South African Police Service led high density integrated Operation Shanela is relentlessly tracking, apprehending, and locking no less than 1000 wanted suspects every week.  Asaneng aid among the arrested suspects are the province’s circulated wanted, dangerous repeat offenders whose reign of terror has been nipped in the bud.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Police need your assistance in unravelling murder case

NEWS Leave a comment

By OBAKENG MAJE

2 September 2025 – The police in Potchefstroom request community assistance in identifying eyewitnesses of a murder case reported in the early hours of the morning of Friday, 28 June 2019. This comes after the police were called to the scene on Nelson Mandela Drive, close to the bridge that leads to Klerksdorp, where the lifeless body of Julian Richard (24), was found with a stab wound on the left side of his neck.

The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Adéle Myburgh said Richard was declared dead on the scene by Emergency and Medical Rescue Services (EMRS). Myburgh said it is alleged that Richard and his friend visited a nearby club and were standing outside when approached by unknown suspects, who allegedly robbed the friend of a cellular phone.

“Richard tried to intervene, but was stabbed with a knife. The police request anyone who may have information that can assist in the investigation to contact the Investigating Officer, Warrant Officer Lungile Plaaitjie of the Potchefstroom Detectives on 082 779 7200 or the South African Police Service (SAPS) Crime Stop Number on 08600 10111.

“Anonymous tip-offs can be communicated via the MySAPS App from your smartphone,” she said.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Atamelang Bus Service appeal North West High Court decision  

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: Atamelang Bus Service

By AGISANANG SCUFF

2 September 2025- The Department of Community Safety and Transport Management said it regrets to inform communities in Ngaka Modiri Molema District that the start of the subsidized commuter transport service will be delayed. The North West High Court recently set aside an interdict by Atamelang Bus Service, which had previously prevented the department from appointing a new service provider.

The North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng said this ruling had paved the way for the resumption of services in the district. Morweng said Atamelang Bus Service, which had stopped providing services since December 2024, went to court in an attempt to block the department from appointing a replacement operator.

“This failure to render services constituted a breach of its service level agreement with the department. Following the favourable court ruling, the department initiated processes to resume services, including the procurement of a new operator and engaging employees of the former service provider to ensure their absorption by the incoming company.

“However, Atamelang Bus Service has since lodged an appeal against last week’s ruling. This legal process unfortunately delays the resumption of the commuter service,” he said.

Morweng further said his department assures that communities will be kept informed of developments and will be notified as soon as a firm resumption date is confirmed.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Two men sentenced to lengthy sentences for rape

NEWS Leave a comment

By BAKANG MOKOTO

2 September 2025- A lengthy sentence was recently handed down to two men in the Keimoes Regional Court for kidnapping and rape of a woman (24). The incident happened on 24 January 2020, when the victim was sleeping at her boyfriend’s place, and the two accused, Tozamile Verster (24) and Reggie April (18), arrived at their place.

The ZF Mgcawu District police spokesperson, Sergeant Omphile Masegela said they attacked the boyfriend with stones, and he subsequently escaped and fled to seek help. Masegela said the two accused remained behind with the victim and kept her captive.

“They forcefully dragged her along the river’s side stream, assaulted, and repeatedly raped her until the following morning and made demands to be paid for her release.

“Soon after noticing the police searching for the victim in the area, they released her. The duo was later arrested and charged for kidnapping and rape,” she said.

Masegela further said on 29 August 2025, Tozamiele Verster was sentenced to 22 years imprisonment for rape and 5 years for kidnapping, and his accomplice, Reggie April was sentenced to 15 years imprisonment for rape and 5 years for kidnapping, which will run concurrently. She added that they were also declared unfit to possess a firearm in terms of the Firearm Act 60/ 2000 Section 103

Meanwhile, the ZFM District Management  acknowledged the meticulous investigation by Sergeant Derick Dippenaar for securing the hefty sentences and ensuring that GBVF perpetrators are brought to justice.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

ANC to visit families of six community members who died in car accident

NEWS Leave a comment

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI  

2 September 2025- The African National Congress (ANC) Caucus’ Exco in the City of Ekurhuleni, led by Chief Whip Sizakele Masuku, together with ANC Regional Secretary, Jongizizwe Dlabathi and Zone 10 Executive Committee deployees, will on 3 September 2025, visit the families of six community members who sadly lost their lives in a motor vehicle accident.

The ANC Caucus Chief Whip in Ekurhuleni, Ald. Sizakele Masuku said the tragic incident occurred on 31 August 2025, when a Mazda sedan veered into the Zonkizizwe River along the R550. Masuku said despite the swift response of the City of Ekurhuleni Disaster and Emergency Management Services (DEMS), six lives were lost, including four members of the same family, a tenant, and a friend from a nearby community.

“The ANC Caucus is deeply pained by this tragic loss that has robbed our community of six precious lives. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and the entire Katlehong community.

“Their pain is our pain, and together we will draw strength as we mourn and honour the departed,” he said.

Masuku further said the ANC in Ekurhuleni also acknowledges and appreciates the ward councillor for maintaining close and direct contact with the affected families and community, which ensured this tragedy was promptly brought to the attention of leadership for support and response.

He added that the visit will take place at

Location: 2375 Mponeng Street, Likole Ext 1 on 3 September 2025, at 10am.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

SAPS in Northern Cape in need of dogs

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: A K9 police officer with police dog/Generic

By REGINALD KANYANE

2 September 2025- The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Northern Cape is requesting the public to donate dogs to the K9 unit to boost the capacity and enhance service delivery. The police said dogs such as border collies, German shepherds, dutch shepherds, Labradors, bloodhounds, rottweilers and malinois(Belgian Shepherds) can be donated.

 The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Sergio Kock said they are looking for dogs that are between 18 months to 5 years old. Kock said the dog must be healthy and suitable to be trained in any of the eight disciplines in the SAPS K9 environment.

“Dog must be confident, energetic and not scared of people or loud voices. Members of the public can contact the SAPS Provincial K9 unit for evaluation of the dog prior to the donation.

“For more information please contact Lieutenant Colonel Nehemiah Malete on 082 776 9061 or Warrant Officer Brakkies Breedt on 082 554 5597 or email BreedtG@saps.gov.za,” he said.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

A call for urgent action to address dysfunction at Ramotshere-Moiloa Local Municipality

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: Ramotshere-Moiloa Local Municipality

By AGISANANG SCUFF

2 September 2025 – The joint parliamentary oversight delegation expressed concern and shock on Monday at the levels of dysfunction in the Ramotshere Moiloa Local Municipality in Zeerust, describing the state of affairs as deeply troubling.

The delegation comprises the Portfolio Committee on Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, the Standing Committee on Public Accounts, and the Standing Committee on the Auditor-General. The committee is conducting the oversight together with the North West Provincial Legislature (NWPL).

The Chairperson of the Committee on Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), Dr Zweli Mkhize said the oversight visit is part of a broader engagement with underperforming municipalities across provinces. Mkhize said during the engagement on Ramotshere Moiloa Local Municipality, the delegation heard from the mayor, speaker, municipal manager, and Chief Financial Officer on the challenges facing the municipality.

“The leadership acknowledged longstanding issues with governance and administrative instability, as well as challenges in financial management and service delivery.

“Ramotshere Moiloa Municipality has operated with successive unfunded budgets and struggles with significant debt, including more than R94 million owed to Eskom,” he said.

Mkhize further said the municipality has also been experiencing service delivery protests over water shortages. He added that the delegation was further informed about the current impasse in municipal operations, caused by political infighting, reports of alleged unlawful council processes, intimidation by outsiders, and a shooting incident at the municipal offices.

“We describe the state of affairs as unacceptable. The people of the North West are being denied basic services because of criminality and political dysfunction.

“We cannot accept a situation where a municipal manager is unable to access his office while outsiders occupy municipal property,” said Mkhize.

He said members noted allegations that criminal elements have compromised the municipality. Mkhize said they also highlighted the gravity of allegations relating to illegal appointments, financial mismanagement and reports of unauthorised meetings presided over by the Speaker of the municipality.

“MPs and Members of the Provincial Legislature (MPLs) also called for clarity on who authorised these actions and demanded consequences for those involved.

“The delegation noted that there are individuals in leadership positions within the municipality who should be held accountable for the failures observed. The paralysis cannot be tolerated any longer,” he said.

Mkhize said members also noted the municipality’s progress in stabilising its finances, but said the collapse of governance and political interference is undermining this. He said they criticised the North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi, for failing to act timeously and said his office should have taken more decisive action, as the continued delay has compounded the crisis and left residents without water, electricity and other essential services.

“This was not the first time during the engagement that the provincial government was reminded of its constitutional responsibilities.

“Members reiterated that the provincial executive has a constitutional responsibility to act decisively in addressing transgressions and governance failures that continue to undermine service delivery,” said Mkhize.

He said they emphasised that interventions in municipalities must not be limited to general commitments, but must focus on measurable targets, concrete actions and clear timelines.

Mkhize said the delegation called on the Mokgosi and his provincial cabinet to return today (Tuesday) with a comprehensive plan of action to restore governance and service delivery in Ramotshere Moiloa Local Municipality.

“The joint delegation cannot return to Parliament without a proper report that provides an undertaking that the crisis will be addressed with the necessary urgency.

“We owe it to the people of Ramotshere, to the people of the North West and to South Africa as a whole,” he said.

Mkhize said they cannot condone this paralysis and those responsible must be held accountable. He said the joint delegation will continue its engagement with North West municipalities today.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Kubayi to deliver a keynote address at 2025 Book Roundtable Conversation

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi

By BAKANG MOKOTO

2 September 2025- The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi will deliver the keynote address at the 2025 Book Roundtable Conversation under the theme: “Justice, Gender and the Unfinished Work of Freedom.” The round table will be hosted by Prof Mandla Radebe, author of the Book “Apartheid Didn’t Die”.

Kubayi spokesperson, Terrence Manase said this roundtable brings together thought leaders, authors, and stakeholders to engage on critical issues at the intersection of justice, gender, and freedom. Manase said the event will take place at EmpowaWorx House, 364 Pine Avenue, Ferndale, Randburg on Wednesday at 3pm.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Two learners accused of murder granted bail

NEWS Leave a comment

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

2 September 2025- Two learners from Lesedi Secondary School who are facing a charge of premeditated murder, were granted bail by the Bronkhorstspruit Magistrate’s Court. The accused, Mlehalinye Montasi (20), a Grade 12 learner, was granted bail of R6 000, while Kgotlhello Mathabathe (19), a Grade 10 learner, was granted bail of R3 000.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Gauteng, Lumka Mahanjana said the duo is accused of stabbing and killing fellow learner, Grade 10 pupil Lethabo Mokonyane on 17 June 2025.

Mahanjana said it is alleged that after writing exams, Mokonyane was on his way to the school gate when the accused confronted him. She further said a fight allegedly ensued, during which one of the accused restrained him while the other stabbed him multiple times with a sharp object.

“Mokonyane was rushed to the hospital, where he died a few hours later. In court, the accused applied for bail, citing the need to continue with their schooling. The state prosecutor, Karabo Sebela opposed bail, arguing that Montasi is in the country illegally and therefore poses a flight risk.

“She further submitted that both accused are known to the witnesses and may interfere with them,” said Mahanjana.

She added that the magistrate nevertheless granted bail, with strict conditions that the accused must attend court proceedings until the finalisation of the trial, may not interfere, directly or indirectly, with witnesses and must subject themselves to correctional supervision and comply with all imposed rules.

“The matter was postponed to 10 October 2025 for Regional Court,” said Mahanjana.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

South Africa’s great municipal experiment

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: The Director of the School of Government Studies at North West University (NWU), Professor Kedibone Phago/Supplied 

By REGINALD KANYANE

2 September 2025- The Director of the School of Government Studies at North West University (NWU), Professor Kedibone Phago said South Africa is preparing the most sweeping reconfiguration of local government since 1996. Phago said the Minister of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Velenkosini Hlabisa, has unveiled a plan to reduce dysfunction, shore up finances and restore public trust in the country’s 257 municipalities.

“At least 35 of these are now deemed dysfunctional, crippled by empty coffers and chronic failures in basic service delivery. The reform is bold in scope.

“Dysfunctional municipalities may be disbanded. Leadership requirements will be professionalised, ending politically motivated appointments that have hollowed out administrative competence,” he said.

Phago further said a new framework of minimum skills for senior managers is being developed. He added that a comprehensive review of the 1998 White Paper on Local Government, launched in May, will underpin both legislative reforms and the drafting of a new funding model.

“Several bills are in the pipeline. Amendments to general local-government law, stricter rules for unstable coalitions, and a legal framework for interventions in failing municipalities.

“I believe the scale of the intervention is overdue but warns against cosmetic fixes. We need to ask ourselves how the local government can respond more effectively to residents’ needs,” said Phago.

He said the main problem is that this process focuses on the political process as a means to fix systemic rot. Phago said yet it is the political process that has brought the country to a point where most municipalities are not only dysfunctional, but have become highly toxic places to work and do business.

“This points to the chilling climate professionals face. Most would rather seek employment elsewhere than work in local government.

“Sadly, it is not only municipalities in rural areas that are marred by grand corruption. Even in metropolitan areas we have witnessed killings of professionals investigating corruption,” he said.

Phago said cases in Ekurhuleni and Johannesburg abound, with no end in sight. He said unless individuals with “material interests” are removed, reform will merely resurface old problems under new laws.

“The dysfunction is not monolithic, but bifurcated. Rural municipalities often lack economic activity, making them entirely dependent on transfers from the national fiscus.

“Places lacking basic municipal services can neither create nor attract middle-class families who would pay for services,” said Phago.

He said urban and metropolitan areas, by contrast, have stronger revenue bases but are plagued by procurement capture. Phago said the political elite and their cronies have hijacked Supply Chain Management (SCM) processes.

“Resources are diverted from serving residents to serving providers. This has become chronic and requires institutional capacity and leadership to fix.

“Most striking is a call for technocratic rigour. Why don’t we use a scientific process to inform the shake-up, Minister?” he asked.

Phago proposes that no municipality should exist without substantial economic activity proportional to its population. He said moreover, councils that consistently underperform – as flagged by the Auditor-General or forensic investigations – should be stripped of their financial powers and placed under a centralised CoGTA agency until the end of their term.

“It is such drastic reconfiguration steps,” he argues, “that would help reduce dysfunctionality within the local-government system and restore public trust.

“For now, CoGTA has named a handful of municipalities for immediate intervention: Ditsobotla in the North West, Kopanong and Mafube in the Free State, Emfuleni in Gauteng, Thabazimbi in Limpopo, and even the eThekwini metro,” said Phago.

He said the ambition is commendable. But as Phago cautions, only reforms anchored in professional standards, enforceable oversight and economic viability will succeed.

“Anything less risks replicating the hollow politics of the past three decades. South Africa’s great municipal experiment may finally be under way.

“Its success will depend not on the fanfare of announcements, but on whether the government dares to enforce the very discipline it preaches,” he said.

taungdailynews@gmail.com