Arson case against seven accused persons from Manthe village, near Taung, is expected to resume today at the Taung Regional Court. This comes after the case was postponed on 27 May 2024, due to unavailability of the defence lawyer.
The former soccer star, Odiseng “Teenage” Komane (42), Obakeng “Prosto” Mogabale (47) Mothusi Motimeng, Pretty “Zero” Masibelele (37), Ali Sakiele (51), Ontiretse Patrick Gosenyegang (39) and the former Mega Stars FC goalie, Katlego “Makgasa” Tikane (33), were arrested and charged for arson.
The seven accused were arrested by the police in July 2022 during an intelligence-driven operation. In May 2022, the community members embarked on a violent protest, torched three houses and looted the Disoufeng tavern belonging to Katong’s family.
They accused the alleged drug lord and rapist, Bakang Katong (33) of killing the late Thabiso Mothibedi (35).
The North West police spokesperson, Brig Sabata Mokgwabone said: “We can confirm that the police have arrested seven suspects for arson and they were granted R500 bail each.”
Meanwhile, Bakang, and his brother, Phenyo “The Great” Katong (35), Thabang Lenyai (24) and Katlego “Makita” Mosimege (32), were arrested for Mothibedi’s murder.
The police preliminary investigation revealed that, on 29 April 2022, Mothibedi was at Lenganeng village near Taung. Katong and his cronies allegedly fetched and transported him back to Manthe village after accusing him of stealing R20 000 and cigarettes worth R600.
Millions of South Africans across the country successfully went out in their numbers to make their voices heard in the 7th democratic national and provincial elections by casting their votes. However, this was not the case in Shaleng village, near Taung, as only a handful individuals’ went to cast their votes.
This comes after aggrieved residents boycotted elections and embarked on poor service delivery protests. Residents alleged that the sitting government has done nothing for them since 1994.
One of the residents, Rogers Mongale said their 15km gravel road is inaccessible, especially during the rainy season. Mongale said the North West Department of Education also promised to build a state-of-art school in their area from 2019, but there is nothing to show for.
“We are sick and tired of all the lies the government officials fed us. We need a tarred 15km road, a new school that the department promised to construct in 2019, including high mast lights.
“There are other issues regarding the money being paid by Vodacom for installing their tower in our area. We understand that more than R250 000 was paid into the community’s bank account, but our tribal authority does not want to account,” he said.
Mongale further said the Electoral Independent Commission (IEC) continues to pay for the usage of their local community hall, since 1994, however, they do not know where that money goes to. He added that, also, the contractor who was appointed to construct their gravel road, was paying R900 for each truck that was loading the soil from their area, but even today, they do not know what happened to that money.
However, the Member of Mayoral Committee (MMC) responsible for Infrastructure in the Greater Taung Local Municipality and ward councilor, Itumeleng Maribe said: “You will remember that, there are challenges in that area as some of the community members embarked on protest over poor service delivery. Some of the challenges they raised were inaccessible roads, which is genuine and a prerogative of the North West Public Works and Roads.
“In quest to find a lasting solution on this matter, the District Director of North West Public Works and Roads, went to the area to address the community regarding this challenge. Unfortunately, he welcomed him. So, I was requested by the ANC as a trouble shooter to come and speak to the residents and address their issues.”
Maribe said they understand that the community was irked and decided not to vote, however, they need to understand that it was their democratic right to go and vote for the political party of their choice.
“Unfortunately, on my arrival, the situation was volatile. The municipality has taken a resolution to attend to the residents’ grievances. We have also allocated a budget for internal roads in Shaleng for the 2025/2026 financial year.
“We have also instilled high mast lights as part of addressing service delivery. Other issues will be addressed by relevant departments and we will ensure that all challenges are dealt with going forward,” he said.
Meanwhile, GCIS acting Director General, Nomonde Mnukwa said: “The government thanks the millions of South Africans who successfully went out in their numbers to make their voices heard in the seventh democratic national and provincial elections by casting their votes. This is a clear sign that South Africa has successfully concluded another milestone in its democratic journey with an election characterised by a high voter turnout which affirms that citizens were exercising their fundamental constitutional responsibility of voting.
“This elections, characterised by a visibly high level of participation, coinciding as it does with the celebrations of 30 years of freedom and democracy, affirmed the fundamental constitutional responsibility of voting as a true symbol representing the voice of our nation.”
Picture: Seven of the accused persons in an arson case
By OBAKENG MAJE
The arson case against seven accused persons from Manthe village, near Taung, is set to resume in court today. The case was postponed by the Taung Regional Court after the state highlighted that it still has to submit the outstanding documents with crucial evidence before it could continue with the case.
The former soccer star, Odiseng “Teenage” Komane (41), Obakeng “Prosto” Mogabale (46), Mothusi Motimeng, Pretty “Zero” Masibelele (36), Ali Sakiele (50), Ontiretse Patrick Gosenyegang (38) and the former Mega Stars FC goalie, Katlego “Makgasa” Tikane (32) were arrested and charged for arson.
The seven accused were arrested by the police in July 2022 during an intelligence-driven operation.
In May 2022, the community members embarked on a violent protest, torched three houses and looted the Disoufeng tavern belonging to Katong’s family. They accused the alleged drug lord, Bakang Katong (32) of killing the late Thabiso Mothibedi (35).
The North West police spokesperson, Brig Sabata Mokgwabone said: “We can confirm that the police have arrested seven suspects for arson and they were granted R500 bail each.”
Meanwhile, Bakang, and his brother, Phenyo “The Great” Katong (34), Thabang Lenyai (23), and Katlego “Makita” Mosimege (31) were arrested for Mothibedi’s murder.
The police preliminary investigation revealed that, on 29 April 2022, Mothibedi was at Lenganeng village near Taung. Katong and his cronies allegedly fetched and transported him back to Manthe village after accusing him of stealing R20 000 and cigarettes worth R600.
The North West Department said they condemn the incident at Sediba Thuto Primary School in Magogong village, near Taung, where a Grade 7 learner was allegedly assaulted by a teacher. It is alleged that, a learner did not do his homework and the teacher resorted to corporal punishment, resulting in leaving a learner with a swollen finger.
The North West Department of Education spokesperson, Mphata Molokwane said it is totally illegal and thus criminal to administer corporal punishment to a learner or any person. Molokwane further said South African Schools Act (SASA), has abolished corporal punishment in 1996.
“The department has received this disturbing information on Friday. Labour Relations officers have visited the school to conduct a preliminary investigation. Following that, the teacher who practised corporal punishment on a Grade 7 learner, will face disciplinary action.
“As department, we denounce these atrocities because we believe that no human being should be tortured in this manner,” he added.
The chairperson of the School Governing Body (SGB) at Sediba Thuto Primary School, Granny Kgachane said they are aware of the incident. Kgachane said they condemn the incident as corporal punishment has long been abolished.
“After the incident, we had a meeting with the school management, where we raised our concerns. We advised that this matter be reported to the North West Department of Education at the District level,” she said.
Meanwhile, the COSAS national coordinator, Sello Matlhadisa said: “There is nothing above the law, including corporal punishment. So, any corporal punishment practice will not be tolerated.
“This is something that is illegal and out of order. We agree that we are living in an era, where learners are becoming ill-disciplined. However, the disciplinary measures in schools should go hand-in-hand with academics.”
Matlhadisa said for example, if a learner makes noise in the class, while the educator is teaching, let that learner come forward and present a topic in front of other learners. He said they know that some of these learners are afraid to come and present in front of other learners, so they will be afraid to make noise instead.
“These are the things that should be implemented and assist learners to grow. We cannot resolve issues through violence. Most teachers leave their homes after quarreling with their husbands or wives, and going to school carrying the burden.
“Now, they sometimes take out that anger on learners. Those teachers who are faced with any challenges, should go and see the nearest social workers to clear their minds,” he said.
The police in Taung said they have opened an arson case and investigations are underway. This comes after a house in Lokgabeng village, near Taung, was gutted by a fire on Sunday.
The North West police spokesperson in Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati cluster, Warrant Officer Tryphosa van Rooyen said: “The police are investigating an arson case after allegations of intentionally setting fire to immovable property belonging to another.
“The cause of the fire has not been determined, but the investigations are underway. Regarding foul play, information was provided that the fire was set intentionally.”
Van Rooyen said no one has been arrested thus far.
Picture: The suspect expected to appear in Taung Magistrate’s Court/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
A man (41) from Matolong village, near Taung, is set to appear in Taung Magistrate’s Court on Monday for allegedly assaulting his mother and contravention of a Protection Order under the Domestic Violence Act, 1998 (Act No. 116 of 1998).
On Thursday evening (2 May 2024), the suspect allegedly came home and demanded alcohol money. He allegedly assaulted his mother and dragged her in the streets after she refused to give him money.
The North West police spokesperson, Col Adele Myburgh said: “The incident occurred after a protection order was earlier granted against the suspect, who allegedly assaulted his niece. He was arrested on 3 May 2024, shortly after the incident was reported to the police.
“The suspect will appear before the Taung Magistrate’s Court on Monday,” she said.
Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, said it is sad that an elderly mother was allegedly attacked by her own son, who is supposed to protect her. Kwena condemned the incident in the strongest possible terms and said police will continue to protect the most vulnerable and bring the alleged perpetrators to book.
Picture: The 2024 Men’s Two Oceans Marathon winner, Onalenna Khonkhobe/Twitter
By OBAKENG MAJE
The award-winning athlete, Onalenna Khonkhobe (27) from Sekhing village, near Taung, said he is grateful and excited after winning the 2024 Men’s Two Oceans Marathon in Cape Town over the past weekend. Khonkhobe said it was not easy winning the 2024 Men’s Two Oceans Marathon, but through discipline, dedication and determination.
“Honestly, I did not think I would win considering the elite athletes that I was up against. They exhibit unique traits and strong, admirable characteristics that help them succeed in their careers.
“However, I was up to the test and I also developed these traits from my various experiences and opportunities. My preparation was well-orchestrated and I also embarked on intensive training,” he said.
Khonkhobe further said his training program was marred with challenges prior to the competition due to rain. He added that, as an antithesis opposed to ordinary, he soldiered on and that paid dividends.
“I took a look at myself through the mirror and said, you got this. So, I remembered all the traits that a successful athlete must demonstrate. When I entered the race, I was innately self-confident.
“So, to all aspiring athletes, especially in rural areas, kindly be the best that you can and most importantly, believe in yourself. They should also be upbeat to deal with any unexpected situations that may arise.
“For the past two weeks prior to this competition, I could not train to the fullest due to rain. So, they need to know that, to be a high-performing athlete, one will need to be motivated and have the desire to be better than their opponent. They have to be patient and persevere when working on their skills. Also, focusing on their goals will be the cherry on top,” said Khonkhobe.
He said elite athletes know that success does not happen overnight. Khonkhobe encouraged them to have self-discipline to put in early morning training sessions, to sacrifice social activities in exchange for more practice, and to power through sore muscles and exhaustion.
Meanwhile, the North West MEC for Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation, Kenetswe Mosenogi said: “Following the two North West athletes’ incredible performances at the 2024 Two Oceans Marathon in Cape Town over the past weekend, the department will be hosting a welcome ceremony for Onnalenna Khonkhobe (marathon winner) and Thaba Mosiako (half-marathon winner).
“As the department, we are proud of the sterling performance of the athletes from the province, who continue to put us on the world map – joining the likes of Tete Dijana, Edward Mothibi, the Kelehe brothers and many others.”
She said Khonkhobe crossed the finish line in 3:09:30. Mosenogi said Mosiako, who came fourth in the same race last year, dashed home in 1:04:40.
The welcome event will be held at Batlhaping Baga Mothibi Tribal Authority, Sekhing village, in Taung on April 17.
Picture: One of the beneficiaries, Regina Makgetla/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
An elderly woman, Matlakala Rapodile (67) from Lokaleng village, near Taung, has been staying in a shack for several years. Rapodile was one of the beneficiaries of 120 houses that were built by the North West Human Settlements.
“I am happy to receive a proper house with basic amenities. As a pensioner and also a grandmother of two, the environment that I was staying in was health hazardous as the weather conditions have not been friendly.
“I would like to thank the government for bringing change to my family life. We have been staying in this small shack and my grandchildren were also affected as they would have flu from time to time,” she said.
Meanwhile, the acting North West Premier, Nono Maloyi said, the department has done it again. Maloyi said this time, the department handed over three houses to families led by elderly women that have been staying in shacks for years.
“The department has thus far managed to complete 120 houses and continues to build 880 across villages in Taung. The government will continue to build houses for legible beneficiaries.
“We further appeal to others who are still waiting for the construction of their houses to be patient. However, we assure them that, government has increased speed in delivering services across all municipalities, through the Thuntsha Lerole accelerated Service Delivery Programme,” he said.
Maloyi further said, the government will continue to deliver on its mandate and change the lives of the people. He added that they do this to ensure they deliver as promised.
“This is a government programme, not electioneering as others purport. We have also teamed with municipalities and local traditional authorities to ensure that we reach those families that need urgent services.
“The partnership is continuing to register success on a daily basis. The department will continue to create sustainable human settlements as mandated by the constitution and further ensure that the dignity of all the people of the North West is held high,” said Maloyi.
He said the department prides itself as the houses under construction continue to create jobs and skill among local community members.
Picture: One of the vehicles allegedly used in commission of crime seized by the police/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
Three suspects aged 30, 37 and 47, who were arrested for business robbery, attempted murder, illegal possession of firearms and ammunition amongst others in Veertien village, near Taung, are set to appear at Taung Magistrate’s Court on Monday.
The suspects allegedly robbed a supermarket of an undisclosed amount of money on Thursday. According to the North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone, the police were summoned to the scene.
“Upon arrival, they were briefed about the incident in which five armed men wearing balaclavas robbed the store of an undisclosed amount of cash and cigarettes. The suspects’ vehicles, a white Renault and a silver Volkswagen Polo, which were still in the vicinity, were spotted.
“That led to a car chase and the suspects allegedly shot at the police, who returned fire. One of the vehicles came to a halt after its tyre was deflated, while the other capsized after the driver lost control,” he said.
Mokgwabone further said three suspects were arrested, whilst the vehicles used in the commission of the crime and the stolen items were confiscated. He added that the suspects are expected to appear in the Taung Magistrate’s Court on 25 March 2024.
Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, commended the police in Taung for their swift reactions to the crimes. Kwena also lauded them for ensuring that the alleged perpetrators are apprehended.
“We would also like to thank community members for the role they played to ensure the arrests of the suspects,” he said.
Picture: The construction road project that links Matsheng and Molelema
By OBAKENG MAJE
The residents of Matsheng and Molelema villages, near Taung, said they expected the road construction project number PWR239/14 for the upgrading gravel to surface standard road D209, D208, D206, D997, D220 and Z216 to transform their area, by providing not only improved transportation options, but also new job opportunities for local residents.
They said the Small Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) were also supposed to be among the most significant beneficiaries of this project, by tapping into the fresh employment possibilities.
However, one of the community leaders, Kgosietsile Tshake said, that was not meant to be because the project has now been abandoned. He said they were blissful when the North West MEC for Public Works and Roads, Oageng Molapisi, announced the resumption of construction for the road project on 9 May 2023.
“We were so happy and believed that the resumption of the road construction project from Matsheng to Molelema, will bring new opportunities and economic growth. You will remember that the project has been on hold due to a dispute between the department and the contractor, Botong Nkolele JV Construction, which has since been resolved.
“When Molapisi met with community members, they said, they have taken a decision to resume construction following extensive deliberations for improved service delivery. He also said, government officials should at all times strive to resolve disputes between appointed contractors and the department expeditiously, to avoid unnecessary delays in the completion of projects,” said Tshake.
He further said, they were surprised when they were told that the project has been put on hold due to depletion of funds. Tshake added that they continue to struggle with better service delivery in their area, because the government does not put the needs of residents first.
“At the time, Molapisi re-introduced the contractor and said, noting the delay on this project, he was placing a huge responsibility on all of them to take responsibility to allow works to proceed uninterrupted.
“He said instead of them being obstacles to the timeous completion of projects, they need to become enablers and assist in further protecting the infrastructure,” he said.
Molapisi said: “The road project was supposed to be completed within an eight months’ period at a revised value, and expected to create job opportunities for community members in general, and SMMEs in particular.
“The department is aware of the suspension of work as a result of non-payment. The contractor enacted clauses of GCC and shall resume with the operations as soon as he is paid.”
Molapisi said due to the budget adjustments process, the department experienced budget cuts of over R100 million in the financial year under review. He said this has impacted the department finances negatively.
“The equitable share budget allocated to the department for upgrading of roads has been depleted,” he said.
Meanwhile, in 2021, a road construction project worth over R65 million was brought to a grinding halt after the department terminated the contract of the contractor, Botong Nkolele JV Construction over the obligation dispute.
The Guardian 