By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
24 October 29024- An unlawful disposal of waste and committing an act case against the JB Marks Local Municipality has been postponed until 30 January 2025. It is alleged that the municipality’s action is likely to cause significant pollution.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in North West, Sivenathi Gunya said it is alleged that during September 2019 and April 2020, near Samuel Avenue in Promosa Township, near Potchefstroom, the
The Municipal Manager at JB Marks Local Municipality, William Kgomotso Kumbe, who is the accused, unlawfully and negligently permitted waste to be disposed, of in or any land and waterbody disposal of sewage waste via pipe and trench on the environment and into the Poortjiesdam.
“During the same period, the accused unlawfully and intentionally disposed of waste through a pipe that is likely to cause significant pollution of the environment. The court heard the severe impact the pollution and unlawful disposal of waste has on the community of JB Marks.
“The senior state advocate, Benny Kalakgosi emphasised that the accused violated Section 24 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, Act 108 of 1996, which stipulates that everyone has a right to an environment that is not harmful to their health or well-being,” he said.
Gunya further said Kalakgosi told the court that the accused failed to take reasonable steps to prevent pollution of the environment. He added that the NPA is committed to ensuring that municipalities do not engage in unlawful disposal of waste, including any environmental offences related thereto.
“The NPA is further committed to ensuring that the human rights relating to a clean environment are preserved. The case was postponed until 30 January 2025, for the matter to be transferred to the regional court,” said Gunya.
The Guardian 