By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
Four suspects were nabbed for dealing with drugs in the Wrenchville, Kuruman on Thursday. Northern Cape police spokesperson, Capt Sergio Kock said: “Police pounced on credulous suspects and found them with 93 whole, 2 halves and 3 quarter of mandrax tablets. The estimated street value of the drugs is R5215.
“The suspects are aged 21, 24, 25 and 27 and they are expected to appear in the Kuruman Magistrate’s Court soon. Police investigation continues.”
Picture: One of suspects arrested
By REGINALD KANYANE
ANGRY residents burned a section of a magistrate’s court and cars on Tuesday.
It happened in Ganyesa village, outside Vryburg in North West. They were demanding that two murder and rape accused be handed over to them.
At about 9pm, the residents went to the court and set it and several cars parked outside alight. Court proceedings only resumed late afternoon after cops had restored order.
The two accused, Ofentse Maseko (24) and Keabetswe Maseng (29) had been arrested on Monday morning on suspicion of murdering two people, attempted murder, hijacking and robbery, kidnapping, posession of an illegal firearm and ammunition.
They allegedly shot and killed Edwin Chihuahua (47) and Bongani Letlhogile (42) and raped a 22 year-old woman.
North West cops spokeswoman, Lieutenant-Colonel Amanda Funani said they had tried to rob a group of women walking from a tavern.
“The women screamed for help and Letlhogile and Chichindua allegedly saw what was happening and drove back to assist them,” she said.
“They were shot at by the suspects and crashed into a fence. Letlhogile and Chichindua were later found dead inside their vehicle, while one of the women was seriously injured.”
Funani said the suspects then kidnapped one of the women and fled.
“She was allegedly raped by one of the suspects. Suspects were found to be in possession of a firearm and ammunition,” Funani said.
Investigations revealed that the two are linked to several other cases. They are being kept in custody until 11 April 2018 when they are expected to apply for bail.
Source: http://www.dailysun.co.za
Picture: Molelema community leader, Mothibi Makoro
By BAKANG MOKOTO
Seven accused from Molelema village, near Taung were granted bail by Taung Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday. Gaorongwe Mooki, Kenny Letebele, Ompolokile Leeuw, Malefane Motswakae, Olebogeng Monchusi and Tebogo Makoloi were arrested during protest at Molelema two week ago.
Community embarked on a protest demanding tar road on D208 and D209 after the North West Public Works and Roads department failed to honour their promises to construct those roads on 1 April 2018. According to one of community leaders, Mothibi Makoro, the department agreed to construct those roads in 2018 financial year.
“We are grateful that our fellow soldiers are out on bail. They have received R500 bail each and we want to welcome them back. We met with the department last week Thursday as they requested us to give them seven working days before they could respond to our grievances.
“The department said they still have to engage with national treasury for R290m that could be used to construct some of these roads. So, they said this might take two months and we are content about it. All the roads in Baga-Maidi are inaccessible and we need them constructed,” Makoro said.
He further said they will continue to proscribe children from going to school until they see the contractor on site.
Those who were released on bail were instructed to report at Kokomeng Police Station every Friday between 6am and 6pm.
Molelema Primary School, Community Hall and shops were torched and ransacked during the protests. North West MEC of Education and Sport Development department, Sello Lehari condemned the arson after Molelema Primary School’s administration block and the National School Nutrition Programme kitchen were reduced to ashes.
“The destruction of schools was never a solution to challenges residents face in communities. On behalf of the department, I condemn in the strongest terms the burning of the two schools in the province. Last year pupils of GS Phoi Secondary School lost about three months of teaching and learning due to strikes.
“At the end of the year in the matric results, they were at the bottom of the district with results of 46%. I am pleading with our communities to desist from burning schools as this act creates a huge backlog in the infrastructure for schools,” he said.
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
North West Premier Supra Mahumapelo has joined millions of South Africans and the world at large in sending the heartfelt condolences to the Madikizela and Mandela families. This follows the passing of Winnie Madikizela-Mandela (81) at Netcare Milpark Hospital in Johannesburg on Monday.
Mahumapelo has described Mama Winnie as a warrior of social justice.
“Mama Winnie is one of the greatest women to walk this part of the world. This struggle icon was not just a freedom fighter to most of us, but the Mother of the Nation. A true revolutionary that sacrificed her life in dismantling the apartheid regime to ensure that there is liberation in this country.
“Despite all the difficulties and dirty tactics employed on her struggle journey, she was never deterred. Her spirit was never broken and she remained fearless. Madikizela-Mandela’s contribution to the struggle is immeasurable. In Mama Winnie, the nation has lost a courageous and a gallant leader who dedicated her life in serving the people,” he said.
Mahumapelo further said his provincial government is deeply saddened by the passing of Madikizela-Mandela. He added that this is not only a loss to the Madikizela and Mandela families, but that of the world.
“She will be sadly missed and we would like to send our heartfelt condolences to the families. May the families have strength during this difficult time. Madikizela-Mandela held several government positions, served on the National Executive Committee of the African National Congress (ANC) and also headed its Women’s League,” he said.
Nelson Mandela Foundation chairman, Prof Njabulo Ndebele said: “The death of Madikizela-Mandela is a hard blow for the foundation. She travelled a very long road together with our Founder, Nelson Mandela. She was a member of a generation of leaders which survived the most brutal period of state terror in apartheid South Africa.
“All South Africans are indebted to Mama Winnie, whether they acknowledge it or not. From the witness of her life, we knew we could stand tall. We knew also we could falter and stumble. Either condition was an affirmation of life. Her cry was our cry, and in 2018 we can say we did triumph.”
Picture: Bongani Letlhogile who was shot dead by suspects
By BAKANG MOKOTO
Two suspects set to appear at Ganyesa Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday. The suspects aged 24 and 30 were arrested in the early hours of Monday for two counts of murder, four of attempted murder, car-hijacking, business robbery, illegal possession of firearm and ammunition, kidnapping and rape.
North West police spokesperson, Lit Colonel Amanda Funani said: “The suspects’ apprehension stems from an incident in which they allegedly shot and killed Bobgani Letlhogile (42) and his friend, Edwin Chichindua (47) in Ganyesa village outside Vryburg on Sunday.”Subsequent to the incident, the police found two men with gun wounds and a seriously injured woman after rapidly responding to information about a shooting incident that occurred along the Ganyesa main road.”
“Subsequent to the incident, the police found two men with gun wounds and a seriously injured woman after rapidly responding to information about a shooting incident that occurred along the Ganyesa main road.”
Funani further said it is alleged that a group of women were from a local tavern when the suspects tried to rob them. She added that the women screamed for help and Letlhogile and Chichindua allegedly saw what was happening and drove back to assist them.
“They were allegedly shot at by the suspects and collided with a fence. The two deceased were later found dead inside their vehicle while one of the women was seriously injured. The suspects allegedly kidnapped one of the women aged 23 and fled the scene.”The woman was allegedly raped by one of the suspects.
Picture: Edwin Chichindua who was killed by suspects
“The woman was allegedly raped by one of the suspects. The police blocked Vryburg-Ganyesa and Swartfontein-Vryburg roads. The suspects were arrested and found to be in possession of a firearm and ammunition,” she said.
Funani said the preliminary investigation revealed that the pair is linked with cases business robbery and attempted murder they allegedly committed in Morokweng. She added that the suspects are linked with a car-hijacking and attempted murder cases that were reported in Mooinooi on Friday.
“They are expected to appear in the Ganyesa Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday,” Funani said.
taungdailynews@gmail.com
Nomzamo Winifred Madikizela-Mandela‚ a stalwart in the fight against apartheid‚ has died at the age of 81.
Her PA‚ Zodwa Zwane‚ confirmed the struggle veteran’s death on Monday afternoon. She said the family would issue a statement later in the day.
Born in Bizana in the Eastern Cape in 1936‚ she moved to Johannesburg to study social work after matriculating.
She met lawyer and anti-apartheid activist Nelson Mandela in 1957 and they were married a year later. They had two children together.
However‚ her marriage life with Mandela was short-lived‚ as he was arrested in 1963 and sentenced to life imprisonment for treason. Mandela was eventually released in 1990.
During Mandela’s time in prison‚ Madikizela-Mandela was not spared the reach of the apartheid forces. She was placed under house arrest and at one time banished to Brandfort‚ a town in the Free State.
In 1969‚ Madikizela-Mandela became one of the first detainees under Section 6 of the notorious Terrorism Act of 1967. She was detained for 18 months in solitary confinement in a condemned cell at Pretoria Central Prison before being charged under the Suppression of Communism Act of 1950.
Controversy
In 1991‚ she was convicted of kidnapping and being an accessory to assault of Stompie Seipei‚ a young activist who was killed by a member of her bodyguards‚ the Mandela United Football Club.
Source: http://www.timeslive.co.za
By BAKANG MOKOTO
A 16 year-old model from Buxton village, in Taung was over the moon after she was crowned Miss Face of Taung. Lapologang Kole said she felt in love with modeling since her tender age.
“I am grateful after being crowned as inaugural Miss Face of Taung. This shows that indeed hard work pays dividends. This is my first crown since I embarked in modelling. I want to see myself as one of the best models ever came out of North West province.
“I am doing Grade 12 at Gabobodiwe Secondary School in Buxton and aim to continue with my career after my matric. It is not easy to become a model, but through discipline, dedication and determination I believe I can breakthrough into the mainstream and make a name for myself,” Kole said.
She also encouraged those who desire to become models not to give up in their career. Kole added that she has participated in charitable duties to assist those who are less fortunate.
“I love to assist those who are in need. I always thrive to see the lives of many people changing for the better. I also believe that, if we can all work together, the world will be a better place. “I would like to urge my fellow Grade 12 learners to take their studies very serious too. Education is the key to success and without knowledge, we are doomed,” Kole said.
“I would like to urge my fellow Grade 12 learners to take their studies very serious too. Education is the key to success and without knowledge, we are doomed,” Kole said.
The Face of Taung organiser, Nametso Lobakeng (20) said she was happy with the attendance. Lobakeng further said she organised this initiative to assist emerging models.
“I organised this event to create a platform for aspiring models. We all know that Taung is predominantly rural and the opportunities are not enough for those who want to become models. This will be an annual event and I want to see it grow.
“So, we encourage young aspiring models to enter the competition. People can make a career out of modeling. Most people believe that modeling is all about being photogenic and enjoy posing for photos,” she said.
Lobakeng said she is a model herself and studies Communication Science at Unisa. She further said modeling is a common industry, but not an easy field to break into.
“If you want to become a model, you need to be focused, persistent, and hardworking to make it through,” Lobakeng said.
By BAKANG MOKOTO
A body of a 38 year-old man was discovered in the river in Khibitswane village in Taung. It is alleged that Paseka Selading who worked at Taung Hospital as a pharmacist, went missing last week on Sunday at Cokonyane.
A passerby saw Selading’s vehicle in the river and alerted his family. Selading was allegedly swept away by flood and his body was found 20km away from the scene.
Selading’s uncle, Ezekiel Sejo said: “I was with my nephew on Sunday night after he dropped us at my place. He drove back to Cokonyane, but he did not reach his destination. It is alleged that his vehicle was swept away by flood, while trying to cross a makeshift bridge in the area.
“He tried to get out of the car, but he allegedly fell into the river. We are hurt about the outcome of the event as he was the only breadwinner.”
Greater Taung local municipality ward councillor, Frans Leshoe sent his heartfelt condolences to the family.
“We want to send our heartfelt condolences to the deceased’s family and friends. We urge our people to be more careful during these torrential rains. Taung is predominantly rural and the roads are inaccessible especially during rainy season.
“We kindly urge our people to stay away from flooding areas to avoid casualties,” he said.
Meanwhile, a one year-old baby also drowned in a pond in Magogong village. Mamello Maine was allegedly following her father when she fell into the pond.
Orapeleng Ditsebe said he did not notice that his daughter was following him. Ditsebe said he went outside to feed chicken and did not look back.
“I was not aware that my daughter was following me. I was surprised when I could not find her in the house.
“My wife asked where the daughter was and we went to look for her outside. It was so heartbreaking seeing her lifeless body in the pond. Mamello was so bubbly and we enjoyed having her around,” Ditsebe said.
Pudimoe Police Station cluster spokesperson, Sgt Tebogo Thebe confirmed that two cases of inquest were opened.
“Police in Taung opened two separate cases of inquest. We urge our people to be more vigilant and avoid rivers and other flooding areas. People must be cautious when accessing those areas as they can be more dangerous especially during rainy season,” Thebe said.
Picture: Gaoganediwe Tlhareseng, who is Otlotleng’s brother
By BAKANG MOKOTO
The African National Congress (ANC) in Taung Sub-region and its alliances mourn the death of struggle icon, Otlotleng Johannes Tlhareseng. Mokgareng-born political activist was found dead at his home in Mokgareng village, near Taung on Sunday morning.
Gaoganediwe Tlhareseng who is Otlotleng’s brother, said they are deeply hurt. He further said the whole community of Taung lost a combatant.
“He contributed immensely into the fight against struggle during apartheid. Otlotleng’s strong political leadership was imperative. He assisted us a lot in grooming young cadres. Otlotleng also participated in a fight for economic development as well. I did not spend much time with OJ as Otlotleng was affectionately known in the political arena because I fled to Potchefstroom during the tenure of Bophuthatswana government.
“However, I know that he had a strong political leadership. We started to participate in politics with Otlotleng back in 1982. He contributed in recruiting new members for the ruling party and encouraged them to be card-carrying members. Otlotleng loved children and encouraged them to study hard. He also believed that the only tool to assist a black person to get out of poverty is through education,” he said.
A 53 year-old man actively took part in various schools across Taung as School Governing Body (SGB) member. OJ was also a staunch member of South African Communist Party (SACP).
Gaoganediwe further said his brother always urged ANC and SACP members to stop ‘infights’ and work together for the betterment of the communities.
“The funeral arrangements are underway and he will be buried this week. We will always be inspired by OJ’s life that was full of good leadership, inspiration and management. OJ represented the relevance of political leadership,” Gaoganediwe said.
North West Community Safety and Transport Management department, MEC and a member of SACP in Bokone Bophirima, Dr Mpho Motlhabane said Tlhareseng was a rounded activist. Motlhabane further said the deceased was an organiser and they will miss his contribution in building the alliance.
Greater Taung Local Municipality Ward councillor and ANC branch chairperson in Ward 7, Matlhomola Mokgobo said they were politically groomed by Tlhareseng.
“We regard him as our struggle stalwart in our area. He was one of those people who launched ANC branch in Mokgareng back in 1993. Tlhareseng was subjected to abuse during Bophuthatswana government, but he never nudged. He was constant like a northern star in his fight against injustices.
“Tlhareseng was our branch chairperson in back in 1994 after general elections. He was also our current branch treasurer and a secretary for SACP VD Ntokwe branch. He produced many leaders like Kgalalelo Sereko, Motseothata Mabe and Keneilwe Kgosimore including myself,” Mokgobo said.
He added that they will follow on Tlhareseng’s foot-steps to ensure that his objectives are realised. Tlhareseng was the SGB chairperson at Keseng Primary, Tlhareseng Primary Schools and the SGB member at Batlhaping High School respectively.
One of community members, Thansanqa Gulekane said: “Tlhareseng always encouraged us to work hard and ensure we improve our lives. He was a true soldier and social activist. We will celebrate his life and ensure that his objectives and visions are envisaged.”
taungdailynews@gmail.com
By BAKANG MOKOTO
A case of public violence against seven accused from Molelema village, near Taung was postponed by Taung Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday. Gaorongwe Mooki, Kenny Letebele, Ompolokile Leeuw, Malefane Motswakae, Chris Motsewaone, Olebogeng Monchusi and Tebogo Makoloi were arrested during protest at Molelema last week.
The seven accused, briefly appeared at Taung Magistrate’s Court and they were remanded in custody until 3 April 2018 for formal bail application. One of community leaders, Makoro Mothibi said they were disappointed and the community lost confidence in the justice system.
“We are very disappointed after the court denied our fellow brothers bail. We believe that there is a third force behind the decision. There are people who wanted to see our fellow brothers spending Easter holidays in custody. However, we are content and we will never budge.
“We are fighting for our rights and the department promised to construct D208 and D209 roads respectively. As the community, we handed over a memorandum which the department acknowledged. Now, they want to send us from pillar to post without giving us proper answers. We will meet with community on Thursday to discuss way forward,” Mothibi said.
He also dismissed allegations that their march was politically-motivated. Mothibi said their grievances are genuine and they are also aware of those who are against developments in their area.
Molelema Primary School, community hall and shops were torched and ransacked. North West MEC of Education and Sport Development department, Sello Lehari condemned the arson after Molelema Primary School’s administration block and the National School Nutrition Programme kitchen were reduced to ashes.
“The destruction of schools was never a solution to challenges residents face in communities. On behalf of the department, I condemn in the strongest terms the burning of the two schools in the province. Last year pupils of GS Phoi Secondary School lost about three months of teaching and learning due to strikes.
“At the end of the year in the matric results, they were at the bottom of the district with results of 46%. I am pleading with our communities to desist from burning schools as this act creates a huge backlog in the infrastructure for schools,” he said.
North West Public Works and Roads department MEC, Mmule Maluleke said: “We have met with Molelema community and requested them to give us seven working days. We will revert to them after we met with relevant authorities to come up with solution to this matter.”
