By Odette Ismail
31 December 2006
An off-duty Metro Police officer was caught trying to take alcohol onto Clifton’s fourth beach, by a colleague.
After he was told that the alcohol would be confiscated, he took out proof that he was an officer. He threatened his colleague who then fined him.
The Metro police officer threatened the officer who approached him, because he refused to accept the fine.
The internal affairs unit will be investigating the incident. He will now face a disciplinary action.
JP Smith, chairman of the city’s safety portfolio committee told the Weekend Argus that Metro police should be setting an example.
Smith also says an investigation into a captain based at Camps Bay is taking place. It is believed that the captain returned confiscated alcohol to people drinking in public.
Sunday, December 31, 2006
Hostage drama takes place in Strand supermarket
By Odette Ismail
31 December 2006
Police arrested three males yesterday and seized three firearms with ammunition in them at a Broad save Cash and Carry supermarket in Strand.
They had been informed about the situation and arrived on the scene immediately, says Captain Elliot Sinyangana.
When police arrived the suspects saw them and held Employees hostage.
Hostage negotiators, an Intervention unit and other Crime scene experts were contacted.
Sinyangana says that after several tries to get the suspects to communicate with the negotiators, they were left with no other option but to penetrate, as a result of the arrest and confiscations.
Jewellery and cellphones were also confiscated after a further investigation.
The suspects are facing charges of armed robbery, possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition. They will appear in court in January next year at the Strand Magistrate court.
The investigation still continues. Any one with information is requested to phone Supt Nyanisile Vase at Strand SAPS, at (021) 8459104/25 alternatively call crime stop on 0860010111.
31 December 2006
Police arrested three males yesterday and seized three firearms with ammunition in them at a Broad save Cash and Carry supermarket in Strand.
They had been informed about the situation and arrived on the scene immediately, says Captain Elliot Sinyangana.
When police arrived the suspects saw them and held Employees hostage.
Hostage negotiators, an Intervention unit and other Crime scene experts were contacted.
Sinyangana says that after several tries to get the suspects to communicate with the negotiators, they were left with no other option but to penetrate, as a result of the arrest and confiscations.
Jewellery and cellphones were also confiscated after a further investigation.
The suspects are facing charges of armed robbery, possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition. They will appear in court in January next year at the Strand Magistrate court.
The investigation still continues. Any one with information is requested to phone Supt Nyanisile Vase at Strand SAPS, at (021) 8459104/25 alternatively call crime stop on 0860010111.
Saturday, December 30, 2006
Taxi drivers lash out at car rental service over free rides
By Odette Ismail
30 December 2006
Taxi drivers are angered by drivers of a car rental company that has been offering free rides from holidaymaker’s parked cars, to Clifton and Camps Bay beaches.
They are threatening to shoot the Imperial Car Rental drivers. They are banging on the windscreens and lashing out with verbal abuse.
The taxi drivers are also using their taxis to block areas between Kloof Road and Victoria Road, in Camps Bay. This however, is causing huge traffic pile ups.
Wilma Swarts, executive director of sales and marketing told the Weekend Argus that they did not expect the taxi drivers to react this way.
Swarts says they are not in competition with taxi drivers. She says passengers who take the lift to the beaches do own cars. They have expressed their disappointment in the response of taxi drivers.
Igshaan Lucas of the Peninsula Taxi Association says he is not aware of the abuse by the taxi drivers. However, says that the Car rental service does not have an operating license.
30 December 2006
Taxi drivers are angered by drivers of a car rental company that has been offering free rides from holidaymaker’s parked cars, to Clifton and Camps Bay beaches.
They are threatening to shoot the Imperial Car Rental drivers. They are banging on the windscreens and lashing out with verbal abuse.
The taxi drivers are also using their taxis to block areas between Kloof Road and Victoria Road, in Camps Bay. This however, is causing huge traffic pile ups.
Wilma Swarts, executive director of sales and marketing told the Weekend Argus that they did not expect the taxi drivers to react this way.
Swarts says they are not in competition with taxi drivers. She says passengers who take the lift to the beaches do own cars. They have expressed their disappointment in the response of taxi drivers.
Igshaan Lucas of the Peninsula Taxi Association says he is not aware of the abuse by the taxi drivers. However, says that the Car rental service does not have an operating license.
Friday, December 29, 2006
Police continue to find 8 pipe bombs
By Odette Ismail
29 December 2006
The search continues to find eight pipe bombs in the Western Cape. This comes after a man was denied bail, yesterday in the Malmesbury Magistrates Court.
The man, who was arrested, last month apparently has ties with People Against Gangsterism and Drugs, an organisation in the late 90’s.
The court, according to the Cape Times, denied the Athlone man bail due to the safety of the public.
He allegedly was in possession of three pipe bombs when police arrested him.
The court also heard claims that urban terrorists were planning an attack on Cape Town’s main tourist attraction.
Police confirmed that they had received threats of the V&A Waterfront being a target for pipe bomb attacks.
According to a SABC report, police received a call where they were told that 11 pipe bombs were still out there.
The 46-year-old man has a prison record and has been linked to similar cases before.
29 December 2006
The search continues to find eight pipe bombs in the Western Cape. This comes after a man was denied bail, yesterday in the Malmesbury Magistrates Court.
The man, who was arrested, last month apparently has ties with People Against Gangsterism and Drugs, an organisation in the late 90’s.
The court, according to the Cape Times, denied the Athlone man bail due to the safety of the public.
He allegedly was in possession of three pipe bombs when police arrested him.
The court also heard claims that urban terrorists were planning an attack on Cape Town’s main tourist attraction.
Police confirmed that they had received threats of the V&A Waterfront being a target for pipe bomb attacks.
According to a SABC report, police received a call where they were told that 11 pipe bombs were still out there.
The 46-year-old man has a prison record and has been linked to similar cases before.
Thursday, December 28, 2006
Western Cape top perfomers announced
By Tando Mfengwana
28 December 2006
Today the Premier of the Western Cape Ebrahim Rasool and Education MEC Cameron Dugmore were acknowledging the top 20 performing learners in the province.
The ceremony held at the Premiers Leeuwenhof residents, honoured schools who which have excelled academically some often in difficult circumstances.
Stellenberg high School this year was the biggest winner when it scooped four awards in the top 20 candidates.
The top candidate in the Western Cape for the 2006 academic year is Johannes du Plessis from Stellenberg High.
MEC Dugmore said that 62 251 learners wrote this years matric exams, this shows an increase of 2 419 compared with last year.
Eighty three point seven percent of those learners passed compared to 84 percent last year.
This year’s matrics have again done the best in the country, despite the decline.
There was a significant increase in learners who wrote mathematics and Science subjects.
Out of the 4 700 matriculants who wrote these subjects 4 053 passed.
Premier Rasool says that they are looking forward to a great future for this years matriculants.
28 December 2006
Today the Premier of the Western Cape Ebrahim Rasool and Education MEC Cameron Dugmore were acknowledging the top 20 performing learners in the province.
The ceremony held at the Premiers Leeuwenhof residents, honoured schools who which have excelled academically some often in difficult circumstances.
Stellenberg high School this year was the biggest winner when it scooped four awards in the top 20 candidates.
The top candidate in the Western Cape for the 2006 academic year is Johannes du Plessis from Stellenberg High.
MEC Dugmore said that 62 251 learners wrote this years matric exams, this shows an increase of 2 419 compared with last year.
Eighty three point seven percent of those learners passed compared to 84 percent last year.
This year’s matrics have again done the best in the country, despite the decline.
There was a significant increase in learners who wrote mathematics and Science subjects.
Out of the 4 700 matriculants who wrote these subjects 4 053 passed.
Premier Rasool says that they are looking forward to a great future for this years matriculants.
Police arrest suspects in fraudulent credit card bust
By Tarryn Le Chat
28 December 2006
The police arrested six people and seized electronic equipment that was used to manufacture and reproduce fraudulent credit cards at a house in North Street, Table view.
The arrest followed after police received information from the public. After investigation into the matter, a search-and-seizure operation was conducted this morning.
Detectives assigned to the case arrested three males (aged 22, 38 and 64 years old) and three females (aged 22, 28 and 60 years old) that were found on the premises. They also seize two unlicensed firearms and electronic equipment to a value that could exceed R200 000.
The suspects are scheduled to appear at the Cape Town Magistrate’s Court tomorrow.
28 December 2006
The police arrested six people and seized electronic equipment that was used to manufacture and reproduce fraudulent credit cards at a house in North Street, Table view.
The arrest followed after police received information from the public. After investigation into the matter, a search-and-seizure operation was conducted this morning.
Detectives assigned to the case arrested three males (aged 22, 38 and 64 years old) and three females (aged 22, 28 and 60 years old) that were found on the premises. They also seize two unlicensed firearms and electronic equipment to a value that could exceed R200 000.
The suspects are scheduled to appear at the Cape Town Magistrate’s Court tomorrow.
Kalk Bay and St James left without power
By Odette Ismail
28 December 2006
Kalk Bay and parts of St James had no power yesterday and Tuesday evening due to cable damage.
The power, according to the Cape Times, experienced problems at 8.40pm on Tuesday evening.
Callers phoned in to the city council electricity department about the tripped power. They were told that a cable had been damaged.
Last night residents of the two suburbs were still left without electricity.
The power is expected to be switched on by 2am today. A City of Cape Town control room operator confirmed that the main reason for power failure was due to cable theft.
28 December 2006
Kalk Bay and parts of St James had no power yesterday and Tuesday evening due to cable damage.
The power, according to the Cape Times, experienced problems at 8.40pm on Tuesday evening.
Callers phoned in to the city council electricity department about the tripped power. They were told that a cable had been damaged.
Last night residents of the two suburbs were still left without electricity.
The power is expected to be switched on by 2am today. A City of Cape Town control room operator confirmed that the main reason for power failure was due to cable theft.
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
Man shot dead at his home
By Odette Ismail
27 December 2006
A man had been shot and murdered in the driveway of his home last night in Alberton.
Marius Pretorius, 45, arrived at his house at 20:00, when a car parked behind his vehicle.
Police spokesperson Andy Pieke says it is believed that he saw the men when he got out of his car. Pieke says he probably thought it was a robbery and he reversed into their vehicle.
One of the suspects fired a shot which hit Pretorius in the upper body. His wife rushed him to hospital where he was declared dead on arrival.
27 December 2006
A man had been shot and murdered in the driveway of his home last night in Alberton.
Marius Pretorius, 45, arrived at his house at 20:00, when a car parked behind his vehicle.
Police spokesperson Andy Pieke says it is believed that he saw the men when he got out of his car. Pieke says he probably thought it was a robbery and he reversed into their vehicle.
One of the suspects fired a shot which hit Pretorius in the upper body. His wife rushed him to hospital where he was declared dead on arrival.
Saddam’s death sentence to go ahead
By Nadia Samie
27 December 2006
Former Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein could be hanged on anytime over the next 30 days, after an appeal against his execution failed. Saddam was sentenced by an Iraqi court for killings in the town of Dujail in 1982.
The BBC reports that under Iraqi law the execution must go ahead regardless of the fact that he is currently on trial in a second case in connection with a military campaign against Kurdish communities in the 1980s.
The time and location of Saddam’s execution has not been made public. It is thought that this will only be revealed after the former president is dead, in an attempt to avoid unrest.
There has been mixed reaction to the sentence. The US government has hailed the ruling a landmark in Iraq's efforts "to replace the rule of a tyrant with the rule of law". A number of groups have complained about the legality of the proceedings, including US-based Human Rights Watch. Meanwhile, India has called for clemency and the European Union (EU) has urged Iraq not to carry out the death sentence.
According to the BBC, Saddam Hussein's lawyer, Khalil al-Dulaimi, said that the court's verdict "was expected".
"We were not at all surprised, as we are convinced that this has been — 100% — a political trial," he said.
27 December 2006
Former Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein could be hanged on anytime over the next 30 days, after an appeal against his execution failed. Saddam was sentenced by an Iraqi court for killings in the town of Dujail in 1982.
The BBC reports that under Iraqi law the execution must go ahead regardless of the fact that he is currently on trial in a second case in connection with a military campaign against Kurdish communities in the 1980s.
The time and location of Saddam’s execution has not been made public. It is thought that this will only be revealed after the former president is dead, in an attempt to avoid unrest.
There has been mixed reaction to the sentence. The US government has hailed the ruling a landmark in Iraq's efforts "to replace the rule of a tyrant with the rule of law". A number of groups have complained about the legality of the proceedings, including US-based Human Rights Watch. Meanwhile, India has called for clemency and the European Union (EU) has urged Iraq not to carry out the death sentence.
According to the BBC, Saddam Hussein's lawyer, Khalil al-Dulaimi, said that the court's verdict "was expected".
"We were not at all surprised, as we are convinced that this has been — 100% — a political trial," he said.
Lotto millionaire denied bail
By Tarryn Le Chat
27 December 2006
The Cape High Court has dismissed an appeal by Lotto millionaire Jason Canterbury against the decision by the Blue Downs Magistrates to refuse him bail.
This comes about as Canterbury was arrested in connection with the murder of an associate.
The state alleges Canterbury, of Kuils River, had hired four hitmen to kill Henry Stevens on September 28 after suspecting Stevens of stealing money and drugs from him.
Canterbury applied for bail in the Blue downs Magistrate’s Court early this month.
The appeal in the Cape High Court was turned down late last week.
27 December 2006
The Cape High Court has dismissed an appeal by Lotto millionaire Jason Canterbury against the decision by the Blue Downs Magistrates to refuse him bail.
This comes about as Canterbury was arrested in connection with the murder of an associate.
The state alleges Canterbury, of Kuils River, had hired four hitmen to kill Henry Stevens on September 28 after suspecting Stevens of stealing money and drugs from him.
Canterbury applied for bail in the Blue downs Magistrate’s Court early this month.
The appeal in the Cape High Court was turned down late last week.
Thousands of fish wash up at Rietvlei
By Odette Ismail
27 December 2006
A clean-up operation will be taking place in the next two days around the banks of the Rietvlei Wetland Reserve near Table view. This is due to tons of fish washing up on the river bank.
Dalton Gibbs of the City of Council says the water body used for recreational purposes, has been closed to the public. The water poses a threat to drinking water in the areas closer to the residential areas.
He says the fish in the wetland area died from various factors. The high nutrient levels with calm conditions and high temperatures contributed to the fish deaths. This caused high bacterial activity which suppressed oxygen in the water.
He says the operation will take place with two days of cleaning together with the City’s Disaster management team.
27 December 2006
A clean-up operation will be taking place in the next two days around the banks of the Rietvlei Wetland Reserve near Table view. This is due to tons of fish washing up on the river bank.
Dalton Gibbs of the City of Council says the water body used for recreational purposes, has been closed to the public. The water poses a threat to drinking water in the areas closer to the residential areas.
He says the fish in the wetland area died from various factors. The high nutrient levels with calm conditions and high temperatures contributed to the fish deaths. This caused high bacterial activity which suppressed oxygen in the water.
He says the operation will take place with two days of cleaning together with the City’s Disaster management team.
Tuesday, December 26, 2006
Young girl raped after a party
By Odette Ismail
26 December 2006
A young girl has been raped after coming from a party in the Mafefe village west of Polokwane.
Limpopo police has confirmed that a man dragged the 12-year-old girl into the bush. It is believed that the girl had been raped at 12h30 yesterday afternoon.
The police have not yet arrested anyone in connection with the rape.
26 December 2006
A young girl has been raped after coming from a party in the Mafefe village west of Polokwane.
Limpopo police has confirmed that a man dragged the 12-year-old girl into the bush. It is believed that the girl had been raped at 12h30 yesterday afternoon.
The police have not yet arrested anyone in connection with the rape.
Police infuriated by pranksters
By Nadia Samie
26 December 2006
Emergency services, including the police, have complained that the number of prank calls they are receiving has drastically increased over the festive season, resulting in people with genuine emergencies being unable to get through to the call centres.
Capt Jabulani Mdletshe, spokesperson for the Umfolozi area, says that the upsurge in prank calls occurred at the beginning of the school holidays. He says that this is a crucial time of the year when emergency services need to be on full alert, but call centres are being plagued by pranksters.
Most of the prank calls are made from public phone booths in shopping malls, making them difficult to trace. Mdletshe says that the polices 10111 number has particularly been abused by children, who sometimes call in and verbally abuse police officers or switchboard operators.
Parents have been urged to talk to their children about the importance of the emergency numbers to prevent further increases in prank calls – which result in lost productivity from the emergency services staff who have to deal with these calls.
26 December 2006
Emergency services, including the police, have complained that the number of prank calls they are receiving has drastically increased over the festive season, resulting in people with genuine emergencies being unable to get through to the call centres.
Capt Jabulani Mdletshe, spokesperson for the Umfolozi area, says that the upsurge in prank calls occurred at the beginning of the school holidays. He says that this is a crucial time of the year when emergency services need to be on full alert, but call centres are being plagued by pranksters.
Most of the prank calls are made from public phone booths in shopping malls, making them difficult to trace. Mdletshe says that the polices 10111 number has particularly been abused by children, who sometimes call in and verbally abuse police officers or switchboard operators.
Parents have been urged to talk to their children about the importance of the emergency numbers to prevent further increases in prank calls – which result in lost productivity from the emergency services staff who have to deal with these calls.
Matric results out on Thursday
By Nadia Samie
26 December 2006
The Minister of Education Naledi Pandor will officially release the 2006 Senior Certificate (matric) Results on Thursday, the 28th December 2006 in Parliament.
The Education Department said last week that it was confident that the class of 2006 would outperform their last year’s matrics. Last year’s matrics achieved a 68,3 percent matric pass rate. This year, 742 289 pupils sat for the exam.
Pychologists have warned that this is a stressful time for learners, as they depend on these marks to get into tertiary education institutions. An increase in teen suicides is often reported at this time of the year.
The class of 2006 has been nicknamed "Madiba's Children", because they started school in a newly democratic South Africa in 1995 with Nelson Mandela as state president.
26 December 2006
The Minister of Education Naledi Pandor will officially release the 2006 Senior Certificate (matric) Results on Thursday, the 28th December 2006 in Parliament.
The Education Department said last week that it was confident that the class of 2006 would outperform their last year’s matrics. Last year’s matrics achieved a 68,3 percent matric pass rate. This year, 742 289 pupils sat for the exam.
Pychologists have warned that this is a stressful time for learners, as they depend on these marks to get into tertiary education institutions. An increase in teen suicides is often reported at this time of the year.
The class of 2006 has been nicknamed "Madiba's Children", because they started school in a newly democratic South Africa in 1995 with Nelson Mandela as state president.
Monday, December 25, 2006
Don't drink and walk
By Nadia Samie
25 December 2006
Emergency workers say that it is not just the consequences of drinking and driving that they have to contend with, but with drinking and walking as well. More than half of all road casualties are pedestrians. Wilfred Solomons from the city’s disaster risk management services has urged Cape Town’s residents and visitors to celebrate responsibly this festive season.
“A few drinks to celebrate can sometimes lead to a situation where people may not be as careful as they should be when crossing roads or even walking near busy roads,” Solomons said.
“Fire and ambulance crews were well placed to warn the public of the dangers of drink-driving and drink-walking. These men and women see the direct results of serious accidents people have when they have a few drinks and then use the roads, sometimes because people have let their guard down during festivities.
“Christmas and New Year are usually very busy times for fire and ambulance crews – please don’t make it any busier for these hard-working, dedicated people by being careless,” he said.
25 December 2006
Emergency workers say that it is not just the consequences of drinking and driving that they have to contend with, but with drinking and walking as well. More than half of all road casualties are pedestrians. Wilfred Solomons from the city’s disaster risk management services has urged Cape Town’s residents and visitors to celebrate responsibly this festive season.
“A few drinks to celebrate can sometimes lead to a situation where people may not be as careful as they should be when crossing roads or even walking near busy roads,” Solomons said.
“Fire and ambulance crews were well placed to warn the public of the dangers of drink-driving and drink-walking. These men and women see the direct results of serious accidents people have when they have a few drinks and then use the roads, sometimes because people have let their guard down during festivities.
“Christmas and New Year are usually very busy times for fire and ambulance crews – please don’t make it any busier for these hard-working, dedicated people by being careless,” he said.
Pope remembers the poor on Christmas Day
By Nadia Samie
25 December 2006
In his midnight mass address in the Vatican City, Pope Benedict urged congregants to remember those less fortunate on Christmas day. The pope said the image of the baby Jesus in a manger should remind everyone of the plight of poor, abused and neglected children all over the world.
This is the 79-year-old Pope’s second Christmas since his pontification, and 10 000 faithful celebrated the mass in St Peter's Basilica in Rome with him. Thousands more watched the proceedings on big screens erected outside.
Pope Benedict said that the real spirit of Christmas was a commitment to "overcome prejudices, break down barriers and eliminate situations that pitted individuals and people against each other in order to build a world of justice and peace together".
25 December 2006
In his midnight mass address in the Vatican City, Pope Benedict urged congregants to remember those less fortunate on Christmas day. The pope said the image of the baby Jesus in a manger should remind everyone of the plight of poor, abused and neglected children all over the world.
This is the 79-year-old Pope’s second Christmas since his pontification, and 10 000 faithful celebrated the mass in St Peter's Basilica in Rome with him. Thousands more watched the proceedings on big screens erected outside.
Pope Benedict said that the real spirit of Christmas was a commitment to "overcome prejudices, break down barriers and eliminate situations that pitted individuals and people against each other in order to build a world of justice and peace together".
50% South Africans don't back Zuma
By Tarryn Le Chat
25 December 2006
Half of South Africans believe a Jacob Zuma presidency would bring disaster and nearly 60 percent think he has disgraced the country.
A nationwide poll by Research Surveys shows the country virtually split down the middle over the ANC deputy president’s political future.
The results show that there is deep divisions inside the ruling tripartite divisions inside the ruling succession bid for a nation-wide phenomenon.
It confirms that Zuma’s main support base remains among Zulu speakers in KwaZulu- Natal and is lowest among Xhosa speakers.
Nationally, 43 percent of respondent’s want Zuma reinstated. His staunchest supporters outside KZN were likely to be black, male, unemployed and under the age of 34.
Among whites, coloureds and Indians, Jacob Zuma’s reputation and standing are in tatters according to Research Surveys director Neil Higgs.
25 December 2006
Half of South Africans believe a Jacob Zuma presidency would bring disaster and nearly 60 percent think he has disgraced the country.
A nationwide poll by Research Surveys shows the country virtually split down the middle over the ANC deputy president’s political future.
The results show that there is deep divisions inside the ruling tripartite divisions inside the ruling succession bid for a nation-wide phenomenon.
It confirms that Zuma’s main support base remains among Zulu speakers in KwaZulu- Natal and is lowest among Xhosa speakers.
Nationally, 43 percent of respondent’s want Zuma reinstated. His staunchest supporters outside KZN were likely to be black, male, unemployed and under the age of 34.
Among whites, coloureds and Indians, Jacob Zuma’s reputation and standing are in tatters according to Research Surveys director Neil Higgs.
Sunday, December 24, 2006
Police sergeant arrested for corruption
By Chanel September
24 September 2006
This past week a Delft police sergeant was arrested on charges of corruption, fraud and defeating the ends of justice.
Sergeant Zhonnie Lucas was arrested on Wednesday night. The arrest followed after the recently appointed Station Commissioner, Director Mbulelo Manci, instituted an investigation into irregularities pertaining to the bail conditions register at the police station.
Police spokesperson Superintendant Billy Jones says that it is alleged that the sergeant assisted a suspect in a Fraud case to violate his bail conditions.
Lucas also allegedly fraudulently produced another bail conditions file stating that the suspect never violated his bail conditions imposed by the court. He reportedly went to the court to testify in defence of the suspect that he complied with his bail conditions.
Lucas was granted R1000 bail in the Bellville Magistrates Court.
The process of a possible suspension of the sergeant has been instituted by the Police station management.
24 September 2006
This past week a Delft police sergeant was arrested on charges of corruption, fraud and defeating the ends of justice.
Sergeant Zhonnie Lucas was arrested on Wednesday night. The arrest followed after the recently appointed Station Commissioner, Director Mbulelo Manci, instituted an investigation into irregularities pertaining to the bail conditions register at the police station.
Police spokesperson Superintendant Billy Jones says that it is alleged that the sergeant assisted a suspect in a Fraud case to violate his bail conditions.
Lucas also allegedly fraudulently produced another bail conditions file stating that the suspect never violated his bail conditions imposed by the court. He reportedly went to the court to testify in defence of the suspect that he complied with his bail conditions.
Lucas was granted R1000 bail in the Bellville Magistrates Court.
The process of a possible suspension of the sergeant has been instituted by the Police station management.
Saturday, December 23, 2006
New developments in top musician's murder
By Tarryn Le Chat
23 December 2006
As the first news of the murder of theatre and music personality Taliep Petersen broke last weekend, both friends and family blamed the high crime rate in South Africa. However, it now appears that this was no random attack.
As the week unfolded and more details of the attack emerged, it became clear that the killing of Petersen, 56, was a well-planned and organised hit and the initial appearance of robbery was intended to throw police off the killers trail.
As relatives poured out their hearts to the press and police hunted for clues it became apparent that hired hit men were behind Petersen’s murder.
In May he received death threats against himself and his family that he took so seriously that he resigned as a judge in the Afrikaans Idols series.
Then in June, there was a domestic dispute at his home during which Petersen was stabbed in the neck.
A relative, who has gone into hiding, has given police a sworn statement implicating several people known to the family.
23 December 2006
As the first news of the murder of theatre and music personality Taliep Petersen broke last weekend, both friends and family blamed the high crime rate in South Africa. However, it now appears that this was no random attack.
As the week unfolded and more details of the attack emerged, it became clear that the killing of Petersen, 56, was a well-planned and organised hit and the initial appearance of robbery was intended to throw police off the killers trail.
As relatives poured out their hearts to the press and police hunted for clues it became apparent that hired hit men were behind Petersen’s murder.
In May he received death threats against himself and his family that he took so seriously that he resigned as a judge in the Afrikaans Idols series.
Then in June, there was a domestic dispute at his home during which Petersen was stabbed in the neck.
A relative, who has gone into hiding, has given police a sworn statement implicating several people known to the family.
Man arrested for conveying dagga
By Tarryn Le Chat
23 December 2006
A 49-year-old man was arrested yesterday at the Maser Bridge border post after he was found with dagga with an estimated street value of R2.4 million in the Free State.
Free State police superintendent Motarafi Ntepe said three policemen on patrol at the border approached the driver of a truck and requested to search it. They found 182 bags of dagga which they confiscated.
The driver was arrested, and is to appear in court on December 27.
23 December 2006
A 49-year-old man was arrested yesterday at the Maser Bridge border post after he was found with dagga with an estimated street value of R2.4 million in the Free State.
Free State police superintendent Motarafi Ntepe said three policemen on patrol at the border approached the driver of a truck and requested to search it. They found 182 bags of dagga which they confiscated.
The driver was arrested, and is to appear in court on December 27.
'Drunken' police chief involved in car crash
By Tarryn Le Chat
23 December 2006
Ekurhuleni Mayor Duma Nkosi has offered his full support for his chief of police, Robert McBride, following allegations that McBride had been drinking when he was involved in a car crash on Thursday.
At a long awaited press conference yesterday – 20 hours after McBride’s car rolled near Pretoria – Nkosi said it “disturbed” him that witnesses at the scene had claimed McBride had been drinking.
When the accident happened, said Nkosi, McBride was coming from a year-end function for the Ekurhuleni Metro Police. He left the party to respond to an emergency call from a ward councillor concerning reactions by the Eden Park community over harassment and eviction issues.
Angry witnesses claim McBride was so incoherent he could not even tell them whether he was driving alone.
Fellow police officers arrived on the scene. The officers helped McBride to the Golf. At that point McBride was allegedly asking about his gun, which apparently was in the car.
It was alleged by the witnesses that the officers on the scene “assaulted” them for wanting to take pictures.
23 December 2006
Ekurhuleni Mayor Duma Nkosi has offered his full support for his chief of police, Robert McBride, following allegations that McBride had been drinking when he was involved in a car crash on Thursday.
At a long awaited press conference yesterday – 20 hours after McBride’s car rolled near Pretoria – Nkosi said it “disturbed” him that witnesses at the scene had claimed McBride had been drinking.
When the accident happened, said Nkosi, McBride was coming from a year-end function for the Ekurhuleni Metro Police. He left the party to respond to an emergency call from a ward councillor concerning reactions by the Eden Park community over harassment and eviction issues.
Angry witnesses claim McBride was so incoherent he could not even tell them whether he was driving alone.
Fellow police officers arrived on the scene. The officers helped McBride to the Golf. At that point McBride was allegedly asking about his gun, which apparently was in the car.
It was alleged by the witnesses that the officers on the scene “assaulted” them for wanting to take pictures.
Delft policeman defeats ends of justice
By Chanel September
23 September 2006
This past week a Delft police sergeant was arrested on charges of corruption, fraud and defeating the ends of justice.
Sergeant Zhonnie Lucas was arrested on Wednesday night. The arrest followed after the recently appointed Station Commissioner, Director Mbulelo Manci, instituted an investigation into irregularities pertaining to the bail conditions register at the police station.
Police Spokesperson Billy Jones says that it is alleged that the sergeant assisted a suspect in a Fraud case to violate his bail conditions.
Lucas also allegedly fraudulently produced another bail conditions file stating that the suspect never violated his bail conditions imposed by the court. He reportedly went to the court to testify in defence of the suspect that he complied with his bail conditions.
Lucas was granted R1000 bail in the Bellville Magistrates Court.
The process of a possible suspension of the sergeant has been instituted by the Police station management.
23 September 2006
This past week a Delft police sergeant was arrested on charges of corruption, fraud and defeating the ends of justice.
Sergeant Zhonnie Lucas was arrested on Wednesday night. The arrest followed after the recently appointed Station Commissioner, Director Mbulelo Manci, instituted an investigation into irregularities pertaining to the bail conditions register at the police station.
Police Spokesperson Billy Jones says that it is alleged that the sergeant assisted a suspect in a Fraud case to violate his bail conditions.
Lucas also allegedly fraudulently produced another bail conditions file stating that the suspect never violated his bail conditions imposed by the court. He reportedly went to the court to testify in defence of the suspect that he complied with his bail conditions.
Lucas was granted R1000 bail in the Bellville Magistrates Court.
The process of a possible suspension of the sergeant has been instituted by the Police station management.
Friday, December 22, 2006
Two kill initiate over cigarette
By Tando Mfengwana
22 December 2006
Two boys both aged 16 are said to have assaulted and stabbed a 23-year old initiate when he refused to give them a cigarette.
The incident took place at a passing ceremony outside Dutywa, Eastern Cape, on Wednesday night.
The Cape Times reports that the man died on the scene.
The two boys who were not initiates were arrested and they face charges of murder in court.
22 December 2006
Two boys both aged 16 are said to have assaulted and stabbed a 23-year old initiate when he refused to give them a cigarette.
The incident took place at a passing ceremony outside Dutywa, Eastern Cape, on Wednesday night.
The Cape Times reports that the man died on the scene.
The two boys who were not initiates were arrested and they face charges of murder in court.
Agreement reached on city's placement and grading process
By Chanel September
22 December 2006
The South African Municipal Workers Union and the City of Cape have finally reached an agreement after members threatened to cause chaos in the city before the festive period.
The on going battle for the last week between the SA Municipal Workers’ Union (SAMWU) and the City of Cape Town has for now drawn to a close.
With both parties reaching an agreement when they met for the second time this week; at the Bargaining Council.
The city’s director for corporate service David Berreti says that in principal an agreement has been reached and that both parties addressed the issue seriously and constructively.
The workers were unhappy about the city’s refusal to stop its controversial placement and grading process.
Samwu’s Lance Veotte says that it’s only a drafted agreement and that they will try to back it positively.
22 December 2006
The South African Municipal Workers Union and the City of Cape have finally reached an agreement after members threatened to cause chaos in the city before the festive period.
The on going battle for the last week between the SA Municipal Workers’ Union (SAMWU) and the City of Cape Town has for now drawn to a close.
With both parties reaching an agreement when they met for the second time this week; at the Bargaining Council.
The city’s director for corporate service David Berreti says that in principal an agreement has been reached and that both parties addressed the issue seriously and constructively.
The workers were unhappy about the city’s refusal to stop its controversial placement and grading process.
Samwu’s Lance Veotte says that it’s only a drafted agreement and that they will try to back it positively.
Thursday, December 21, 2006
Police in search of run away crashed driver
By Tando Mfengwana
21 December 2006
Police are still searching for the 19-year old man who left four people injured and his father’s luxury car ruined after a joy ride in Durban.
The teenager driving of a Mercedes Benz hit a VW Golf in the eThekwini city centre.
eThekwini metro police spokesperson Inspector Alec Wright says, the Golf turned over with a father and his two sons inside, they suffered minor injuries.
The 19-year old then tried to get away from police by driving up a road that had been closed due to construction, where the car smashed into a brick wall.
He got out of the car and fled the scene, leaving his injured passenger in the vehicle.
The passenger was subsequently arrested.
According to reports security guard at the construction site was also injured.
He is in a stable condition in hospital and police are still searching for the driver, he is in a stable condition in hospital and police are still searching for the driver.
21 December 2006
Police are still searching for the 19-year old man who left four people injured and his father’s luxury car ruined after a joy ride in Durban.
The teenager driving of a Mercedes Benz hit a VW Golf in the eThekwini city centre.
eThekwini metro police spokesperson Inspector Alec Wright says, the Golf turned over with a father and his two sons inside, they suffered minor injuries.
The 19-year old then tried to get away from police by driving up a road that had been closed due to construction, where the car smashed into a brick wall.
He got out of the car and fled the scene, leaving his injured passenger in the vehicle.
The passenger was subsequently arrested.
According to reports security guard at the construction site was also injured.
He is in a stable condition in hospital and police are still searching for the driver, he is in a stable condition in hospital and police are still searching for the driver.
Be water-wise this festive season
By Nadia Samie
21 December 2006
Cape Town’s dam levels are currently 84% full, but with summer temperatures hitting the 30 degrees mark, water demand from the city’s approximately 3,2 million residents is also at its highest. With the influx of visiters over the festive season, an added strain will be felt on the already limited water resources.
Earlier this year the city promulgated two new by-laws which are aimed at promoting water management habits and practices. The Water By-law and the Wastewater and Industrial Effluent By-law incorporate most of the restrictive measures introduced during the previous dry spells in the metropole.
Water wastage, pollution and any other cases of non-compliance with the new water bylaws can be reported by calling the water services technical operations centre on 0860 10 30 54.
The two new by-laws provide in short for:
No watering of gardens between 10:00 and 16:00
Hosepipes must be fitted with automatic self-closing devices
Potable water may not be used to damp building sand and other building material to prevent it from being blown away
No automatic top up systems using a float valve fed from a potable water source are allowed to supply swimming pools and garden pools
No person may hose down a hard-surface or paved area using potable water, without prior written notice
No automatic cistern or tipping tank may be used for flushing a urinal
Major water users (using more than 3650 Kl per annum), excluding multiple dwellers’ units, must undertake an annual water audit
Commercial car wash industries must re-cycle a minimum of 50% of the water used in their operations
Water closet cisterns may not exceed 9.5 litres in capacity
The maximum flow rate from a tap installed in a wash hand basin may not exceed 6 litres per minute
No person supplied with water in terms of this by-law may sell such water without prior written permission or special agreement
21 December 2006
Cape Town’s dam levels are currently 84% full, but with summer temperatures hitting the 30 degrees mark, water demand from the city’s approximately 3,2 million residents is also at its highest. With the influx of visiters over the festive season, an added strain will be felt on the already limited water resources.
Earlier this year the city promulgated two new by-laws which are aimed at promoting water management habits and practices. The Water By-law and the Wastewater and Industrial Effluent By-law incorporate most of the restrictive measures introduced during the previous dry spells in the metropole.
Water wastage, pollution and any other cases of non-compliance with the new water bylaws can be reported by calling the water services technical operations centre on 0860 10 30 54.
The two new by-laws provide in short for:
Fuel shortage in Cape Town service stations
By Chanel September
21 December 2006
Due to a shortage of fuel, Cape Town service stations are now left scrambling for supplies so that there will be enough fuel available, during the festive period.
Several service stations in the metropolitan area have run short of fuel while waiting for deliveries that arrive late and in insufficient quantities.
The petroleum industry was experiencing a huge demand and was focusing on long-distance filling stations as their priority.
Phumi Nhlapo the spokesperson for the Chevron refinery in Milnerton told the Cape Argus that production is normal and the refinery is experiencing no problems.
Nhlapo says it could be possibly be a distribution problem but that they did not know about it.
But filling station owners were clear that if they did not get sufficient fuel, they considered it a shortage.
21 December 2006
Due to a shortage of fuel, Cape Town service stations are now left scrambling for supplies so that there will be enough fuel available, during the festive period.
Several service stations in the metropolitan area have run short of fuel while waiting for deliveries that arrive late and in insufficient quantities.
The petroleum industry was experiencing a huge demand and was focusing on long-distance filling stations as their priority.
Phumi Nhlapo the spokesperson for the Chevron refinery in Milnerton told the Cape Argus that production is normal and the refinery is experiencing no problems.
Nhlapo says it could be possibly be a distribution problem but that they did not know about it.
But filling station owners were clear that if they did not get sufficient fuel, they considered it a shortage.
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
Circumcision deaths decrease
By Tando Mfengwana
20 December 2006
Circumcision death toll in the Eastern Cape has declined during this summer-season, compared to last years.
Four would-be initiates has died this year compared to 24 last year.
The department of Provincial health spokesperson Sizwe Kupelo says of the four that had died, two were as a result of complications of the circumcision operation itself.
The Cape Argus reports that the third boy died when his hut caught fire.
The fourth boy was involved in an alcohol related stabbing at an initiation school in Motherwell at the weekend.
The decrease comes as a result of the department’s awareness campaign and their drive to close down illegal initiation schools.
20 December 2006
Circumcision death toll in the Eastern Cape has declined during this summer-season, compared to last years.
Four would-be initiates has died this year compared to 24 last year.
The department of Provincial health spokesperson Sizwe Kupelo says of the four that had died, two were as a result of complications of the circumcision operation itself.
The Cape Argus reports that the third boy died when his hut caught fire.
The fourth boy was involved in an alcohol related stabbing at an initiation school in Motherwell at the weekend.
The decrease comes as a result of the department’s awareness campaign and their drive to close down illegal initiation schools.
Aviation workers to hear outcome of pay dispute
By Nadia Samie
20 December 2006
Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) employees will hear today if their demands over bonuses will be met.
The dispute, between the Civil Aviation Authority and the South African Transport and Allied Workers Union (Satawu), comes after workers embarked on strike action, following a decision by the aviation authority to only pay bonuses in March 2007. The two parties met with a private arbitrator to discuss the matter on Monday.
The workers want at least 15 percent of their bonuses in lieu of full payment. Strike action has been discontinued pending the outcome of the private arbitrator’s decision today.
20 December 2006
Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) employees will hear today if their demands over bonuses will be met.
The dispute, between the Civil Aviation Authority and the South African Transport and Allied Workers Union (Satawu), comes after workers embarked on strike action, following a decision by the aviation authority to only pay bonuses in March 2007. The two parties met with a private arbitrator to discuss the matter on Monday.
The workers want at least 15 percent of their bonuses in lieu of full payment. Strike action has been discontinued pending the outcome of the private arbitrator’s decision today.
Domestic Workers receive 7% wage increase
By Chanel September
20 December 2006
The labour department has increased the minimum wage of domestic workers by 7%.
This means that domestic workers living in urban areas will earn R1066, 90 and those in rural areas will earn R865.54.
Despite the increase unions are still unhappy with the 7% increase and demanding a minimum increase of R1500 for those who work 27 hours a week.
The SA Domestic Services and Allied Workers’ Union says that the increase is still too low.
According to a daily newspaper the increase comes into effect from December the 1 to November 30 2007.
20 December 2006
The labour department has increased the minimum wage of domestic workers by 7%.
This means that domestic workers living in urban areas will earn R1066, 90 and those in rural areas will earn R865.54.
Despite the increase unions are still unhappy with the 7% increase and demanding a minimum increase of R1500 for those who work 27 hours a week.
The SA Domestic Services and Allied Workers’ Union says that the increase is still too low.
According to a daily newspaper the increase comes into effect from December the 1 to November 30 2007.
By Tando Mfengwana
15 January 2007
Police have arrested a man who allegedly targeted women drivers, robbing them before forcing them to perform oral sex.
The 30-year-old man has been linked to at least 10 incidents over the past three months.
He allegedly followed the women home, robbed them at gunpoint and then forced them to give him oral sex.
Police spokesperson Elliot Sinyangana said they have found several handbags, cellphones and a toy gun at this home in Blackheath.
The man is linked to six incidents of armed robbery in Table View, Parow and Goodwood.
Captain Sinyangana said he is also a suspect in three other incidents of armed robberies and sexual assault in Table View and Rondebosch and a burglary in Kuils River that took place in 2005.
He will appear in the Cape High Court today.
15 January 2007
Police have arrested a man who allegedly targeted women drivers, robbing them before forcing them to perform oral sex.
The 30-year-old man has been linked to at least 10 incidents over the past three months.
He allegedly followed the women home, robbed them at gunpoint and then forced them to give him oral sex.
Police spokesperson Elliot Sinyangana said they have found several handbags, cellphones and a toy gun at this home in Blackheath.
The man is linked to six incidents of armed robbery in Table View, Parow and Goodwood.
Captain Sinyangana said he is also a suspect in three other incidents of armed robberies and sexual assault in Table View and Rondebosch and a burglary in Kuils River that took place in 2005.
He will appear in the Cape High Court today.
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
Samwu and city in talks over pay parity today
By Chanel September
19 December 2006
The South African Municipal Workers’ Union and the City of Cape Town are to go to the Bargaining Council on Tuesday.
This comes in bid to stop a strike by metro police and other unhappy members.
Last week unhappy metro police, traffic officials and municipal workers threatened to cause chaos in the city during the festive period.
A daily newspaper reports workers were not satisfied with the city’s new staff structure as this would result in changes to their ranking, demotions and salary cuts.
However both parties have met twice in the last week and failed to reach any agreement, Samwu’s provincial secretary Lance Veotte says that they hope to resolve the issue with the city.
19 December 2006
The South African Municipal Workers’ Union and the City of Cape Town are to go to the Bargaining Council on Tuesday.
This comes in bid to stop a strike by metro police and other unhappy members.
Last week unhappy metro police, traffic officials and municipal workers threatened to cause chaos in the city during the festive period.
A daily newspaper reports workers were not satisfied with the city’s new staff structure as this would result in changes to their ranking, demotions and salary cuts.
However both parties have met twice in the last week and failed to reach any agreement, Samwu’s provincial secretary Lance Veotte says that they hope to resolve the issue with the city.
Burglars break into police station
By Tando Mfengwana
19 November 2006
Burglars have broken into the Johannesburg Central Police Station after close of business on Friday.
The thieves managed to slip through the charge office; they made their way past a private security guard unnoticed.
Electronic security doors at the entrance to the seventh floor, where the office of Commissioner Simon Mpende could not deter the robbers.
According to Independent Online, the thieves partied on liquor from the officer’s canteen and raided the commissioner’s office, stealing cellphones.
Police liaison officer sergeant Sanku Tsunke confirmed the incident to Beeld newspaper, but he would not provide more details.
19 November 2006
Burglars have broken into the Johannesburg Central Police Station after close of business on Friday.
The thieves managed to slip through the charge office; they made their way past a private security guard unnoticed.
Electronic security doors at the entrance to the seventh floor, where the office of Commissioner Simon Mpende could not deter the robbers.
According to Independent Online, the thieves partied on liquor from the officer’s canteen and raided the commissioner’s office, stealing cellphones.
Police liaison officer sergeant Sanku Tsunke confirmed the incident to Beeld newspaper, but he would not provide more details.
Man killed for hitting dog
By Tando Mfengwana
19 December 2006
A dog owner stabbed to death a man who tried to fend off his dog with a Knobkerrie in Ikageng near Potchefstroom.
According to the Cape Times the man was walking down the street in Sonderwater when the dog attacked him.
Sampie Mareo (30-years old) had a Knobkerrie with him at the time.
North West police spokesperson Inspector Sam Tselanyane said he fought the dog off him using the Knobkerrie. It is alleged that the dog then ran back into the yard.
The 54-year old dog-owner came out with a knife and allegedly stabbed the man.
He will appear in the Potchefstroom Magistrate Court today.
The police say they believe the motive for the stabbing that the dog owner became angry after the deceased hit his dog.
19 December 2006
A dog owner stabbed to death a man who tried to fend off his dog with a Knobkerrie in Ikageng near Potchefstroom.
According to the Cape Times the man was walking down the street in Sonderwater when the dog attacked him.
Sampie Mareo (30-years old) had a Knobkerrie with him at the time.
North West police spokesperson Inspector Sam Tselanyane said he fought the dog off him using the Knobkerrie. It is alleged that the dog then ran back into the yard.
The 54-year old dog-owner came out with a knife and allegedly stabbed the man.
He will appear in the Potchefstroom Magistrate Court today.
The police say they believe the motive for the stabbing that the dog owner became angry after the deceased hit his dog.
Traffic officers deployed over the festive season
By Tarryn Le Chat
19 December 2006
Despite heavy traffic following the closing last week of factories, building companiesand other large employers, officials report an encouragingly uneventful wekend on Western Cape roads.
"The death toll on the roads in the province since December 1 had risen to 51 by the 17th of December", said Makhaya Mani, spokesperson for the MEC of community safety.
A focus will be on the N1 and N2 highways leading into and out fo the province.
"We've been holding ocmpulsory stop-and-search point to determine whether drivers are complying with regulations. We're checking things such as brakes, tyres, lights and steering mechanisms", said Ntau Letebele, spokesperson for the department of transport.
Although figures were unavailable, officials at the N1 Huguenot Tunnel tollgate outside Paarl reported a huge increase in traffic.
The department of transport has advised drivers to stop regurlarly to rest and exercise which relieves fatigue, and improves blood circulation and the ability to concentrate.
Letebele said that 7 500 traffic officers, with help from the police, have been deplyed nationally to cope with the increase in traffic.
19 December 2006
Despite heavy traffic following the closing last week of factories, building companiesand other large employers, officials report an encouragingly uneventful wekend on Western Cape roads.
"The death toll on the roads in the province since December 1 had risen to 51 by the 17th of December", said Makhaya Mani, spokesperson for the MEC of community safety.
A focus will be on the N1 and N2 highways leading into and out fo the province.
"We've been holding ocmpulsory stop-and-search point to determine whether drivers are complying with regulations. We're checking things such as brakes, tyres, lights and steering mechanisms", said Ntau Letebele, spokesperson for the department of transport.
Although figures were unavailable, officials at the N1 Huguenot Tunnel tollgate outside Paarl reported a huge increase in traffic.
The department of transport has advised drivers to stop regurlarly to rest and exercise which relieves fatigue, and improves blood circulation and the ability to concentrate.
Letebele said that 7 500 traffic officers, with help from the police, have been deplyed nationally to cope with the increase in traffic.
Monday, December 18, 2006
Teacher killed in robbery
By Tando Mfengwana
18 December 2006
A Limpopo teacher was shot dead when he tried to rob a filing station in Thulamahashe, outside Bushbuckridge.
A robber entered a filing station and held staff at gunpoint; he stole and undisclosed amount of money and ran away.
According to an Independent Online report a security guard chased the robber and shot at him, an exchange of fire followed and the robber was hit at the back, but continued to run.
Police spokesperson Superintendent Moatshe Ngoepe said the robber’s body was later found, with the money and a firearm in the bushes.
It was later discovered that the 35-year old man was a teacher at a local high school.
18 December 2006
A Limpopo teacher was shot dead when he tried to rob a filing station in Thulamahashe, outside Bushbuckridge.
A robber entered a filing station and held staff at gunpoint; he stole and undisclosed amount of money and ran away.
According to an Independent Online report a security guard chased the robber and shot at him, an exchange of fire followed and the robber was hit at the back, but continued to run.
Police spokesperson Superintendent Moatshe Ngoepe said the robber’s body was later found, with the money and a firearm in the bushes.
It was later discovered that the 35-year old man was a teacher at a local high school.
Man left with no kidneys after botched operation
By Odette Ismail
18 December 2006
A Pretoria man is in a critical condition after a botched kidney operation left him with no kidneys.
Adriaan Lamprecht had an operation to remove a cancerous kidney at the Pretoria Urology Hospital.
It is reported that Dr Francois Boezaart removed the wrong kidney. Since the operation Lamprecht has had his cancerous kidney removed.
Boezaart has offered to donate one of his own kidneys to Lamprecht.
His attorney confirmed to the Cape Times that one healthy kidney had been removed, but declined to comment further.
18 December 2006
A Pretoria man is in a critical condition after a botched kidney operation left him with no kidneys.
Adriaan Lamprecht had an operation to remove a cancerous kidney at the Pretoria Urology Hospital.
It is reported that Dr Francois Boezaart removed the wrong kidney. Since the operation Lamprecht has had his cancerous kidney removed.
Boezaart has offered to donate one of his own kidneys to Lamprecht.
His attorney confirmed to the Cape Times that one healthy kidney had been removed, but declined to comment further.
Three die in KZN storm
By Tando Mfengwana
18 December 2006
A lightning storm in KwaZulu Natal has left three people dead in their home.
A woman and her two children were killed in Umzimkulu on the KwaZulu Natal South Coast.
Independent Online reports that Captain Vincent Pandarum said four other people who were in the house with the deceased were injured and taken to hospital for treatment.
18 December 2006
A lightning storm in KwaZulu Natal has left three people dead in their home.
A woman and her two children were killed in Umzimkulu on the KwaZulu Natal South Coast.
Independent Online reports that Captain Vincent Pandarum said four other people who were in the house with the deceased were injured and taken to hospital for treatment.
ANC applauded for decision, but it should be consistant
By Chanel September
18 December 2006
The ANC’s decision to expel a top member for sexual harassment has sent a clear message that such behaviour will not be tolerated.
However gender activists feel that this should be applied consistently to have any real meaning.
Despite praises from activists and political parties for the decision, many questions have been raised about the ANC’s inconsistency in whom to discipline.
Mohau Pheko a political and gender activist says that the lack of a policy on sexual harassment is a national disgrace.
He also told the Weekend Argus that it was an excellent move to expel Goniwe.
18 December 2006
The ANC’s decision to expel a top member for sexual harassment has sent a clear message that such behaviour will not be tolerated.
However gender activists feel that this should be applied consistently to have any real meaning.
Despite praises from activists and political parties for the decision, many questions have been raised about the ANC’s inconsistency in whom to discipline.
Mohau Pheko a political and gender activist says that the lack of a policy on sexual harassment is a national disgrace.
He also told the Weekend Argus that it was an excellent move to expel Goniwe.
Sunday, December 17, 2006
Police in search of missing Kuilsriver man
By Chanel September
17 December 2006
A mentally handicapped man on holiday in Kuilsriver is still missing and police are requesting the assistance of the public, to help find the 40-year-old man.
Police spokesperson Inspector Bernadine Steyn says that Heinie Winterbach went missing on Saturday about 08:30.
He was visiting friends for the holidays in Kuilsriver. He left the friend's house to go to a nearby shop to buy milk but never returned.
Winterbach is about 1.6m tall, weighs about 85kg, has short black hair, and brown eyes. He was dressed in a dark blue T-shirt, greenish grey shorts and was bare foot.
Anyone with information can contact Captian Andries Coetzee 021 900 2800 or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.
17 December 2006
A mentally handicapped man on holiday in Kuilsriver is still missing and police are requesting the assistance of the public, to help find the 40-year-old man.
Police spokesperson Inspector Bernadine Steyn says that Heinie Winterbach went missing on Saturday about 08:30.
He was visiting friends for the holidays in Kuilsriver. He left the friend's house to go to a nearby shop to buy milk but never returned.
Winterbach is about 1.6m tall, weighs about 85kg, has short black hair, and brown eyes. He was dressed in a dark blue T-shirt, greenish grey shorts and was bare foot.
Anyone with information can contact Captian Andries Coetzee 021 900 2800 or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.
Pool accident at day mother's house claims toddler's life
By Chanel September
17 December 2006
A toddler has died and another little boy is in a critical condition after the two boys fell into a swimming pool on Friday afternoon.
The incident occurred at their day mother’s home in Grassy Park in Cape Town.
The two boys both aged one-years-old were playing together when the incident happened.
Red Cross Children’s Hospital spokesperson Diana Ross confirmed to the Weekend Argus that one boy died soon after being admitted and the other is in a serious condition and is currently on life support.
Police have opened an inquest dossier.
17 December 2006
A toddler has died and another little boy is in a critical condition after the two boys fell into a swimming pool on Friday afternoon.
The incident occurred at their day mother’s home in Grassy Park in Cape Town.
The two boys both aged one-years-old were playing together when the incident happened.
Red Cross Children’s Hospital spokesperson Diana Ross confirmed to the Weekend Argus that one boy died soon after being admitted and the other is in a serious condition and is currently on life support.
Police have opened an inquest dossier.
Taliep Petersen gunned down
By Nadia Samie
17 December 2006
Local entertainer Taliep Petersen was murdered at his home in Grassmear Road, Athlone at around midnight last night. He was killed execution style with a single gun shot wound to the side of his neck.
Petersen’s other family members in the house including his wife, son and daughter-in -law were unharmed.
Sources close to the investigation say that at first glance the motive appears to be robbery R87 000 in cash was stolen in the safe as well as smaller items such as cellphones and watches.
Sources say due to the modus operandi of the killing, a professional hit cannot be ruled out.
In line with Muslim custom Petersen will be buried later today.
Petersen will be fondly remembered for his productions such as District Six: The Musical.
Police are investigating a case of murder, no arrests have yet been made. Anyone with in formation can contact Athlone police at 697 924 0 or Crime Stop at 08600 10111.
17 December 2006
Local entertainer Taliep Petersen was murdered at his home in Grassmear Road, Athlone at around midnight last night. He was killed execution style with a single gun shot wound to the side of his neck.
Petersen’s other family members in the house including his wife, son and daughter-in -law were unharmed.
Sources close to the investigation say that at first glance the motive appears to be robbery R87 000 in cash was stolen in the safe as well as smaller items such as cellphones and watches.
Sources say due to the modus operandi of the killing, a professional hit cannot be ruled out.
In line with Muslim custom Petersen will be buried later today.
Petersen will be fondly remembered for his productions such as District Six: The Musical.
Police are investigating a case of murder, no arrests have yet been made. Anyone with in formation can contact Athlone police at 697 924 0 or Crime Stop at 08600 10111.
Saturday, December 16, 2006
More than 70 arreated in KZN roadblocks
By Chanel September
16 December 2006
Today more than 70 people, including 66 drunk drivers, were arrested on different roadblocks on KwaZulu-Natal roads.
Spokesperson Rajen Chinaboo says that the roadblocks were conducted on the N3 at Mooi River, on the Higginson highway in Durban and on the M5 at Stapleton Road in Pinetown.
Six foreign vehicles were arrested and six warrants of arrests were issued for unpaid traffic fines.
News 24 reports that roadblocks are multi-disciplinary operations, conducted in conjunction with the police, local and metro traffic departments.
16 December 2006
Today more than 70 people, including 66 drunk drivers, were arrested on different roadblocks on KwaZulu-Natal roads.
Spokesperson Rajen Chinaboo says that the roadblocks were conducted on the N3 at Mooi River, on the Higginson highway in Durban and on the M5 at Stapleton Road in Pinetown.
Six foreign vehicles were arrested and six warrants of arrests were issued for unpaid traffic fines.
News 24 reports that roadblocks are multi-disciplinary operations, conducted in conjunction with the police, local and metro traffic departments.
Samwu still threatens to strike if demands not met
By Chanel September
16 September 2006
A call for strike action has been made by members South African Municipal Workers’ Union (Samvu).
This the after the city council refused to stop its controversial placement and grading process.
Samvu spokesperson Lance Veotte says that if the meeting scheduled for early next week does not resolve; the union could call a strike with in the next few days.
The Weekend Argus reports that metro police have threatened to block the N1 and N2 with patrol vehicles if the city does not stop the process. They have demanded the council not to decrease their salaries if they accept new positions in terms of the alignment and amalgamation process.
Members have now given the union a mandate to call a strike because the city has failed to resolve their grieviences.
16 September 2006
A call for strike action has been made by members South African Municipal Workers’ Union (Samvu).
This the after the city council refused to stop its controversial placement and grading process.
Samvu spokesperson Lance Veotte says that if the meeting scheduled for early next week does not resolve; the union could call a strike with in the next few days.
The Weekend Argus reports that metro police have threatened to block the N1 and N2 with patrol vehicles if the city does not stop the process. They have demanded the council not to decrease their salaries if they accept new positions in terms of the alignment and amalgamation process.
Members have now given the union a mandate to call a strike because the city has failed to resolve their grieviences.
Man applies for bail after threatening to blow his girlfriend up
By Odette Ismail
16 December 2006
A man applied for a bail application after allegedly threatening to blow up his girlfriend with a gas cylinder.
He says that he was told all prisoners would be let out of jail for Christmas.
Randall Erasmus, 26 of Lotus River appeared in the Wynberg
Magistrate’s court yesterday.
He demanded to be given bail, because he had been in custody for six months.
He is facing charges of intimidation and assault, according to the Cape Argus.
It is believed that Erasmus locked his girlfriend up in her shop. He tied up Ayesha Sonday-Liberty and an unidentified assistant and threatened to detonate a 19kg gas cylinder.
The case has been postponed until January for a formal bail application.
16 December 2006
A man applied for a bail application after allegedly threatening to blow up his girlfriend with a gas cylinder.
He says that he was told all prisoners would be let out of jail for Christmas.
Randall Erasmus, 26 of Lotus River appeared in the Wynberg
Magistrate’s court yesterday.
He demanded to be given bail, because he had been in custody for six months.
He is facing charges of intimidation and assault, according to the Cape Argus.
It is believed that Erasmus locked his girlfriend up in her shop. He tied up Ayesha Sonday-Liberty and an unidentified assistant and threatened to detonate a 19kg gas cylinder.
The case has been postponed until January for a formal bail application.
Friday, December 15, 2006
The year that was… 2006
We take a retrospective look at 2006 in News headlines… what made you stark-raving mad this year, what really upset you, what brought a lump to your throat or a smile to your face? NS: You’re tuned to Bush Radio 89.5fm. On the line now we have Ferial Haffajee, the editor of the Mail and Guardian newspaper, to talk about the news in 2006 in retrospect. Welcome to Bush Radio, Ferial.
FH: Thank you, Nadia.NS: To start off with, a very strong candidate for Newsmaker of the year is Jacob Zuma. We had the rape trial in earlier in the year, and more recently, the corruption trial. In both cases, the media came in for heavy criticism. As the editor of one of the papers that was on the forefront of breaking news in this case, what is your take on that?
FH: I think that it’s always the instinct of people who are under the uncomfortable spotlight of the public to blame the media because we are the way in which the story is told. But I do think that there is no other local contender for that title, it’s got to be Mr Jacob Zuma.
NS: We can’t talk about the Zuma trial, or trials, without talking about Shabier Shaik. Do you think justice has been done?FH: I don’t know if the judgement would have happened without the constant glare of the media for several years into the arms deal and all its various fall-outs because of course it was within that, that the allegations against Mr Shabier Shaik began to happen and that we as a nation began to explore corruption, cronyism, etc. This was the biggest case we’ve yet had to deal with. So yes, I do think that justice has been seen to be done. It is of course very sad that Mr Shaik suffered a stroke shortly after being imprisoned. I don’t think he ever thought that that would happen to him.
NS: To move on Ferial… we also had the death of Die Groot Krokodil. What do you think of the way our president, Thabo Mbeki reacted to his death?
FH: Well, I suppose the president did the thing that is to be expected, because as a country we chose the path of reconciliation rather than of violent revolution or overthrow of government. There were no Nuremberg Trials at which people like the Krokodil were brought to justice of any form. But if there’s are two images that tell the ongoing story of reconciliation it would be the president and his wife as among the very few number of black people at PW Botha’s funeral. But of course the other image for me was very much Adriaan Vlok washing the feet of Rev. Frank Chikane.
NS: That garnered quite a lot of interest as well. What do you think was the real reason behind that gesture? Was it a guilty conscience, after all the man is getting old now, or do you think we had a genuine situation of him feeling remorse?
FH: I do think that it is very much the case of someone preparing to face his maker as he gets on in years, and possibly coloured by the outcome of 13 years of democracy, where there has been, lets face it, very little inter-racial violence. He of course didn’t make a big hoorah or song and dance about it, he didn’t call the media, it was Frank Chikane who first let on, and only afterwards did the media found out that he had done the same for the mothers of the Mamelodi ten who were killed. So I do think that this was a private act of absolution and redemption and there was a certain genuineness about it that we have to… respect.
NS: Lets talk about HIV/Aids now. We’ve just had World Aids day recently. It’s been an interesting year in this regard… we’ve seen the deputy president, Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka and the deputy health minister, Nozizwe Madlala-Routledge, take a very strong stance… something of an alliance was formed with the TAC… a relationship that was almost impossible with the minister of health, Manto Tshabalala-Msimang. Do you think we’ve made positive strides in 2006 in the battle against HIV/Aids?
FH: I think that there’s been a political turning point, where, I think for the first time you’re seeing a little bit of sense being spoken in the cabinet, we’re people are showing empathy. We’ve had the deputy health minister of health actually saying that she is very worried, and she’s experienced this as many young people in her family have succumbed and have died… we saw her publicly taking an Aids test as well. So yes, it has ended on a more poitive note than other World Aids Days that have taken place in South Africa. Of course I think the jury is still out. I do thin k that the health minister, with all her tactics of beetroots and lemons has the quiet support of the president, and I don’t think we’ve seen the last kicks from her yet.
NS: Interestingly recently we had the president refusing to take a public HIV test. What do you think about that?
FH: I think that’s quite in keeping with the president’s stance. I think now he’s just withdrawn into a solemn silence on HIV/Aids because he’s never quite managed to convince the country of his argument, a man who believes that he’s not going to provide the type of leadership which you’ve seen from the president’s of Senegal and Botswana in their countries.
NS: And bringing it back to the Western Cape… the Richard Dyantyi/Helen Zille issue also garnered a lot of news coverage, in the battle over the leadership style in the metro. What’s your take on that… do you think the matter has been settled… or might we see it flare up again?
FH: Well I do think that perhaps in the Western Cape, the Mayor Helen Zille competes with Jacob Zuma for the highest number of headlines this year. She won the elections, she became mayor, and then very soon afterwards, she faced the potential stripping of her role by the ANC in the Western Cape. I think that it’s been amicably settled for now. But as a Jozi person watching your province and your city I must say that nothing is ever set in stone for very long.NS: And then more recently… we’ve just had same-sex marriages legalised in the country… South Africa has become the first African country to take this step, and we are one of very few in the world… what has this done for the image of our country?
FH: It was quite a wonderful moment, where once again we will make full use of our constitution and we’ll say that love knows no boundaries, and people must be allowed to love, and indeed to marry whoever they want to. Of course this has raised several eyebrows in the rest of Africa, but it confirms that we are trailblazers and that South Africans will live to their full potential.
NS: Before you go Ferial, what has this year been like for you… if you can wrap up your year in headlines in a nutshell, what kind of year has it been?
FH: (laughs) It’s been mostly I suppose, if anything characterises the M&G’s year, it’s been the year of gags. We were in court about three or four times this year, facing various interdict attempts, most of them were unsuccessful, so we also end the year on quite a happy note. When I look back at our headlines that readers have enjoyed, it clearly was the year in which the analysis of Mr Jacob Zuma dominated. But hopefully we’ve also done other cool things, like profile up and coming people like Lebo Mashile, I really enjoyed the interview with her, and we’ve made it our mission to watch for up and coming young talents. In June we did 100 young South Africans you have to take to lunch, and in our final edition next week, we do the country’s hot 100 list of people you have to watch in 2007.
NS: Great, something to look out for… Ferial Haffajee, the editor of the Mail & Guardian, thank you for your time.
FH: Thank you Nadia.
* This interview was broadcast on Bush Radio 89.5fm on Thursday 15 December 2006.
Pic of Ferial Haffajee: http://www.southafrica.info/women/womenyear04.htm
Mzoli's daughter knew her two kidnap suspects
By Odette Ismail
15 December 2006
The two suspect’s involved in the kidnapping of Gugulethu restaurateur Mzoli Ngcawuzele’s daughter is apparently known to the family.
Police arrested two men and two women yesterday after Sisanda Ngcawuzele was found in a flat in the Table View suburb of Parklands. According to reports, she was found with her hands and feet tied.
It is believed that one of the suspects works at radio station Heart 104.9. A friend of the radio station employee says that the woman is 23-years-old. She was not an on-air personality.
The friend said she started out at the station as an intern, and worked her way up to an account executive position. The woman has since been relieved of her duties at the station, pending the outcome of the investigation. The other one works at a bank.
Ngcawuzele told the Cape Argus that he knows the women arrested, as they visited his restaurant. He says he received two phone calls for the ransom money of R300 000, but they were from men.
Ngcawuzele received trauma counselling and has been treated for dehydration.
15 December 2006
The two suspect’s involved in the kidnapping of Gugulethu restaurateur Mzoli Ngcawuzele’s daughter is apparently known to the family.
Police arrested two men and two women yesterday after Sisanda Ngcawuzele was found in a flat in the Table View suburb of Parklands. According to reports, she was found with her hands and feet tied.
It is believed that one of the suspects works at radio station Heart 104.9. A friend of the radio station employee says that the woman is 23-years-old. She was not an on-air personality.
The friend said she started out at the station as an intern, and worked her way up to an account executive position. The woman has since been relieved of her duties at the station, pending the outcome of the investigation. The other one works at a bank.
Ngcawuzele told the Cape Argus that he knows the women arrested, as they visited his restaurant. He says he received two phone calls for the ransom money of R300 000, but they were from men.
Ngcawuzele received trauma counselling and has been treated for dehydration.
Robber beaten to death
By Tando Mfengwana
15 December 2006
Community members beat to death an armed robber after he had tried to rob a local store in Pomeroy, KwaZulu Natal.
The 24-year old robber was overpowered by a store keeper when he held her up at gunpoint and demanded cash.
Independent Online reports that the robber fired two shots, missing the owner.
It seems that she managed to grab the shotgun and in the struggle that followed, she overpowered and disarmed him.
Members of the community, who heard the gun shots, rushed to the scene and dragged the man outside, where they kicked, punched and hit him with a sjambok.
Police intervened and Musa Mdletshe was rushed to Dundee Provincial Hospital where he later died.
Police spokesperson Captain Riana de Jager said a police officer in Pomeroy had commented that there was not a place in his body where he had not been hit.
Police are investigating a case of murder and attempted murder.
15 December 2006
Community members beat to death an armed robber after he had tried to rob a local store in Pomeroy, KwaZulu Natal.
The 24-year old robber was overpowered by a store keeper when he held her up at gunpoint and demanded cash.
Independent Online reports that the robber fired two shots, missing the owner.
It seems that she managed to grab the shotgun and in the struggle that followed, she overpowered and disarmed him.
Members of the community, who heard the gun shots, rushed to the scene and dragged the man outside, where they kicked, punched and hit him with a sjambok.
Police intervened and Musa Mdletshe was rushed to Dundee Provincial Hospital where he later died.
Police spokesperson Captain Riana de Jager said a police officer in Pomeroy had commented that there was not a place in his body where he had not been hit.
Police are investigating a case of murder and attempted murder.
Community Information Network
11 December 2006-15 December 2006
# The Langa Tennis Club invites everyone to volunteer in the club’s clean- up campaign at the Langa Tennis Court. The aim of this campaign is to revive the state of tennis as an active sport within the Langa Community, and to showcase some of the future tennis stars. The clean up will take place on Saturday 16 December 2006 starting at 9 am and ending in the afternoon around 1 o’ clock. We request anyone to help in donating food and drinks for the volunteers during the clean- up campaign. You can bring your own cleaning equipment. For more details please contact: Siviwe : 084 725 7627 or Siphelo: 073 342 9142.
# Frendz will be presenting a karaoke at the Weltevreden Recreation Centre on Friday, 15 December. The cost is R20. Call 392 5132.
# Showbuzz Promos is offering guarenteed contracts in Spain to the appropriate candidates for various tribute acts. If you can sing and move to the grooves call Giempie Vardien on 762 2772 from 8am to 8pm to book an audition and for more details.
# A Cape Municipal Council nurses reunion will be held on Saturday December 16, from 10am to 6pm, at the Lotus River community hall in 6th Avenue. Call Lilla on 762 0410.
# The oaks of Righteousness Foundation based in Strandfontein, has started an after school programme for youth in the Bayview area. The after care service, which is free, is for young people between 11 and 18 years, and operates from Monday to Thursday from 3pm to 6pm and from 1pm to 4pm on Fridays. For more information or to register for the programme, call Wendy Dennis at 393 5149 or 073 921 8512 or Peter Cornelius on 083 331 2681
# Milnerton Players will be staging Geraldine Aaron’s hilariuos comedy My brilliant divorce in March 2007 and is looking for people interested in being part of the production. If you have a yearning to” tread the boards” and be part of a creative process,contact Sheila McCormick on 557 3206 or the director Jeremy Blackburn on 082 940
# Eric Miles Chesire Home’s clothing shop for the disabled at 18 Corsair Road, Sanddrift is open every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10am to 3pm and on Saturdays from 10am to 1pm. Donations of good second-hand clothing and bric-a-brac are most appreciated. For details, call Melanie on 083 543 6272.
# De Grendel Lions Club are collecting second-hand soft toys for traumatised and abused children. If you can help, call Malcolm Stuppel on 082 348 1891 or Liz Wilkie on email: lizwilkie@lancewood.co.za or call 939 0001 for details.
If you have any information for the CIN team regarding events happening in your community, please contact us at 021 – 448 54 50 or fax us at 021 – 448 54 51. Alternatively, e-mail us at news@bushradio.co.za. You can also call us here at Bush Radio if you have missed any of the numbers mentioned.
# The Langa Tennis Club invites everyone to volunteer in the club’s clean- up campaign at the Langa Tennis Court. The aim of this campaign is to revive the state of tennis as an active sport within the Langa Community, and to showcase some of the future tennis stars. The clean up will take place on Saturday 16 December 2006 starting at 9 am and ending in the afternoon around 1 o’ clock. We request anyone to help in donating food and drinks for the volunteers during the clean- up campaign. You can bring your own cleaning equipment. For more details please contact: Siviwe : 084 725 7627 or Siphelo: 073 342 9142.
# Frendz will be presenting a karaoke at the Weltevreden Recreation Centre on Friday, 15 December. The cost is R20. Call 392 5132.
# Showbuzz Promos is offering guarenteed contracts in Spain to the appropriate candidates for various tribute acts. If you can sing and move to the grooves call Giempie Vardien on 762 2772 from 8am to 8pm to book an audition and for more details.
# A Cape Municipal Council nurses reunion will be held on Saturday December 16, from 10am to 6pm, at the Lotus River community hall in 6th Avenue. Call Lilla on 762 0410.
# The oaks of Righteousness Foundation based in Strandfontein, has started an after school programme for youth in the Bayview area. The after care service, which is free, is for young people between 11 and 18 years, and operates from Monday to Thursday from 3pm to 6pm and from 1pm to 4pm on Fridays. For more information or to register for the programme, call Wendy Dennis at 393 5149 or 073 921 8512 or Peter Cornelius on 083 331 2681
# Milnerton Players will be staging Geraldine Aaron’s hilariuos comedy My brilliant divorce in March 2007 and is looking for people interested in being part of the production. If you have a yearning to” tread the boards” and be part of a creative process,contact Sheila McCormick on 557 3206 or the director Jeremy Blackburn on 082 940
# Eric Miles Chesire Home’s clothing shop for the disabled at 18 Corsair Road, Sanddrift is open every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10am to 3pm and on Saturdays from 10am to 1pm. Donations of good second-hand clothing and bric-a-brac are most appreciated. For details, call Melanie on 083 543 6272.
# De Grendel Lions Club are collecting second-hand soft toys for traumatised and abused children. If you can help, call Malcolm Stuppel on 082 348 1891 or Liz Wilkie on email: lizwilkie@lancewood.co.za or call 939 0001 for details.
If you have any information for the CIN team regarding events happening in your community, please contact us at 021 – 448 54 50 or fax us at 021 – 448 54 51. Alternatively, e-mail us at news@bushradio.co.za. You can also call us here at Bush Radio if you have missed any of the numbers mentioned.
Former ANC chief whip expelled
By Tarryn Le Chat
15 December 2006
African National Congress (ANC) Chief Whip Mbulelo Goniwe has been expelled from the party with immediate effect after a committee found him guilty of sexual harassment.
Professor Kadar Asmal, who chaired the committee, said that it was a ‘painful and difficult’ decision. The board, which consisted of Geraldine Fraser-Moleketi, Susan Shabangu and Luwellyn Landers, came to a decision after six hours of deliberation.
As a result, Goniwe would no longer be a member of parliament, nor would he serve as the ANC’s Chief Whip.
“The ANC has acted correctly in expelling the former Chief Whip Mbulelo Goniwe”, said Douglas Gibson, Democratic Alliance Chief Whip.
“The DA believes that the sexual harassment charges against Goniwe are serious. However, the ANC should explain how convicted Travelgate criminals are sill sitting in Parliament”, said Gibson.
Patrick Craven, National spokesperson for Cosatu says they welcome the decision by the ANC. “We have full confidence that the committee would not have come to this conclusion unless there was very clear evidence that Goniwe was guilty of serious misconduct”, he said.
Asmal said the case had been treated as a priority because it involved “a young woman of 21 years and a very senior member f the ANC”.
The National Disciplinary Committee (NDC) had accepted Njongo’s evidence as “credible and acceptable”, said Asmal.
It was on these grounds that Goniwe had been found guilty of the first charge, abuse of office to obtain sexual and other undue advantage, under the ANC constitution.
15 December 2006
African National Congress (ANC) Chief Whip Mbulelo Goniwe has been expelled from the party with immediate effect after a committee found him guilty of sexual harassment.
Professor Kadar Asmal, who chaired the committee, said that it was a ‘painful and difficult’ decision. The board, which consisted of Geraldine Fraser-Moleketi, Susan Shabangu and Luwellyn Landers, came to a decision after six hours of deliberation.
As a result, Goniwe would no longer be a member of parliament, nor would he serve as the ANC’s Chief Whip.
“The ANC has acted correctly in expelling the former Chief Whip Mbulelo Goniwe”, said Douglas Gibson, Democratic Alliance Chief Whip.
“The DA believes that the sexual harassment charges against Goniwe are serious. However, the ANC should explain how convicted Travelgate criminals are sill sitting in Parliament”, said Gibson.
Patrick Craven, National spokesperson for Cosatu says they welcome the decision by the ANC. “We have full confidence that the committee would not have come to this conclusion unless there was very clear evidence that Goniwe was guilty of serious misconduct”, he said.
Asmal said the case had been treated as a priority because it involved “a young woman of 21 years and a very senior member f the ANC”.
The National Disciplinary Committee (NDC) had accepted Njongo’s evidence as “credible and acceptable”, said Asmal.
It was on these grounds that Goniwe had been found guilty of the first charge, abuse of office to obtain sexual and other undue advantage, under the ANC constitution.
Pedestrian knocked over in Goodwood
EYE WITNESS ACCOUNT
By Tarryn Le Chat
15 December 2006
Early this morning a pedestrian was knocked over in Voortrekker main road, in Goodwood.
The woman was standing in the middle of the road waiting to cross. The vehicle that knocked over the pedestrian was traveling at high speed. It all happened in a split second.
As the pedestrian was crossing the road, the vehicle hit the woman. She flew back on impact, to the left side of the road.
The injured woman was lying in the road during morning rush-hour traffic, with her clothes torn. The woman wasn’t moving. The truck drove off and could not stop, as it was traveling at such high speed.
The ambulance and police were contacted to assist the woman. She started moving a bit.
When the taxi and passengers began to drive off, facing Cape Town, the truck that knocked over the pedestrian returned to the scene.
By Tarryn Le Chat
15 December 2006
Early this morning a pedestrian was knocked over in Voortrekker main road, in Goodwood.
The woman was standing in the middle of the road waiting to cross. The vehicle that knocked over the pedestrian was traveling at high speed. It all happened in a split second.
As the pedestrian was crossing the road, the vehicle hit the woman. She flew back on impact, to the left side of the road.
The injured woman was lying in the road during morning rush-hour traffic, with her clothes torn. The woman wasn’t moving. The truck drove off and could not stop, as it was traveling at such high speed.
The ambulance and police were contacted to assist the woman. She started moving a bit.
When the taxi and passengers began to drive off, facing Cape Town, the truck that knocked over the pedestrian returned to the scene.
Murder suspect of jazz musician's daughter in court
By Odette Ismail
15 December 2006
The man accused of murdering the daughter of jazz musician McCoy Mrubata has appeared briefly in court.
Thembisile Nondzaba requested legal representation after the State prosecutor told him he could also be facing a rape charge.
A post-mortem, according to a daily paper, will determine whether Nonceba Mzondo, was sexually assaulted before she was murdered.
Her body was found in a field near her house in Gugulethu on December 3.
The case has been postponed to January for a formal bail application.
15 December 2006
The man accused of murdering the daughter of jazz musician McCoy Mrubata has appeared briefly in court.
Thembisile Nondzaba requested legal representation after the State prosecutor told him he could also be facing a rape charge.
A post-mortem, according to a daily paper, will determine whether Nonceba Mzondo, was sexually assaulted before she was murdered.
Her body was found in a field near her house in Gugulethu on December 3.
The case has been postponed to January for a formal bail application.
ANC MK commemoration event in Atlantis
15 December 2006
The ANC Dullah Omar Region will be commemorating fallen Umkhonto we Sizwe and other heroes and heroines of the struggle by cleaning some of their graves at Atlantis Cemetery in Old Darling Road, Atlantis, on Saturday, 16th December 2006 at 9AM.
At 11:30AM a Commemoration Service and mini-Rally will take place at the Rebecca van Amsterdam Hall, Keria Avenue, Protea Park, and Atlantis. It will be addressed by Whitey Jacobs, a member of the Provincial Executive Committee of the ANC and the MEC for Sports and Culture.
ANC Regional Secretary Mbulelo Ncedana says the key theme of the event is, “honouring the sacrifices of our people in the struggle against apartheid, by fighting for a better life for all.”
The ANC Dullah Omar Region will be commemorating fallen Umkhonto we Sizwe and other heroes and heroines of the struggle by cleaning some of their graves at Atlantis Cemetery in Old Darling Road, Atlantis, on Saturday, 16th December 2006 at 9AM.
At 11:30AM a Commemoration Service and mini-Rally will take place at the Rebecca van Amsterdam Hall, Keria Avenue, Protea Park, and Atlantis. It will be addressed by Whitey Jacobs, a member of the Provincial Executive Committee of the ANC and the MEC for Sports and Culture.
ANC Regional Secretary Mbulelo Ncedana says the key theme of the event is, “honouring the sacrifices of our people in the struggle against apartheid, by fighting for a better life for all.”
Thursday, December 14, 2006
Job creation too slow - Cosatu
Nadia Samie
14 December 2006
The Congress of South African Trade Unions has lashed out at the slow rate of job creation in South Africa. Seventy-three thousand new jobs were created in the formal sector in the third quarter of 2006, and Cosatu says that this figure is nowhere near realising government’s intended target to half unemployment by 2014.
COSATU said in a statement that it is alarmed that too few of the new jobs are in the key manufacturing sectors, and that far too many of them are of a low quality: low-paid, insecure, casual, and even survivalist forms of employment.
The trade union federation says the pattern in the past year means that the working poor is a growing proportion of the workforce, while the proportion with quality jobs is declining.
The economy must be developed in a way that does not just enrich the already wealthy business people, but accelerates growth, shares the benefits of that growth, creates jobs, eradicates poverty and improves the lives of all South Africans.
14 December 2006
The Congress of South African Trade Unions has lashed out at the slow rate of job creation in South Africa. Seventy-three thousand new jobs were created in the formal sector in the third quarter of 2006, and Cosatu says that this figure is nowhere near realising government’s intended target to half unemployment by 2014.
COSATU said in a statement that it is alarmed that too few of the new jobs are in the key manufacturing sectors, and that far too many of them are of a low quality: low-paid, insecure, casual, and even survivalist forms of employment.The trade union federation says the pattern in the past year means that the working poor is a growing proportion of the workforce, while the proportion with quality jobs is declining.
The economy must be developed in a way that does not just enrich the already wealthy business people, but accelerates growth, shares the benefits of that growth, creates jobs, eradicates poverty and improves the lives of all South Africans.
A child in sports is a child out of court - MEC
By Tarryn Le Chat
14 December 2006
Whitey Jacobs, MEC for sports and culture honoured legendary sporting heroes of all races and religions at the legendary sports award. The ceremony took place at the Cathkin Caterers Hall in Rylands today.
The proceedings started off with the national anthem being sung and festivities of marimba vibrations, Latin dancing and the presentation of these various sporting legends with their awards.
The sports were table tennis, hockey, soccer, rugby and darts.
Jacobs said that, “Sports is what unites people. It brings together all races, religions and sexes. A sport in two forms is non-racialism and non-sexism. A child in sports is a child out of the courts.”
“A march will be taking place this Sunday at 12 noon. It will begin (in Greenpoint) and continue to Sea Point where a peaceful demonstration will take place. The demonstration is against the 19 residents who do not want Green Point Stadium to be built on for the 2010 Soccer World Cup”, said Jacobs.
The likes of Cassiem Jabaar, Lionel Edgar Dietrich and Toby Titus were present for rugby. Iris Bailey, Hasodien Ismail, Petros Meyer and Alfie Herris were present for table tennis.
The event symbolised all sports men and women, who because of their skin colour were not recognised, but through those apartheid years came through on top of their game.
14 December 2006
Whitey Jacobs, MEC for sports and culture honoured legendary sporting heroes of all races and religions at the legendary sports award. The ceremony took place at the Cathkin Caterers Hall in Rylands today.
The proceedings started off with the national anthem being sung and festivities of marimba vibrations, Latin dancing and the presentation of these various sporting legends with their awards.
The sports were table tennis, hockey, soccer, rugby and darts.
Jacobs said that, “Sports is what unites people. It brings together all races, religions and sexes. A sport in two forms is non-racialism and non-sexism. A child in sports is a child out of the courts.”
“A march will be taking place this Sunday at 12 noon. It will begin (in Greenpoint) and continue to Sea Point where a peaceful demonstration will take place. The demonstration is against the 19 residents who do not want Green Point Stadium to be built on for the 2010 Soccer World Cup”, said Jacobs.
The likes of Cassiem Jabaar, Lionel Edgar Dietrich and Toby Titus were present for rugby. Iris Bailey, Hasodien Ismail, Petros Meyer and Alfie Herris were present for table tennis.
The event symbolised all sports men and women, who because of their skin colour were not recognised, but through those apartheid years came through on top of their game.
Cash van guards threaten to strike
By Chanel September
14 December 2006
Cash-in-transit guards are threatening to strike if the demands they have put forward are not met.
Officials from the Motor Transport Allied Workers Union (MTUW), the Federation of Unions of SA (FEDUSA), National Economic Development and Labour Council (NEDLAC) are to meet their demands for safer working conditions.
The guards want Safety and Security Minister Charles Nquakula to set up minimum standards for the industry and better equipped cash vans fitted with a proper vault, locking system and air-conditioning.
Emlie Fourie spokesperson for MTWU says that an urgent meeting of union employers, Nedlac and officials from the departments of Labour, Transport, Finance, Safety and Security are scheduled to meet next week.
A daily newspaper reports that the unions fear that the robberies will increase during the festive season.
14 December 2006
Cash-in-transit guards are threatening to strike if the demands they have put forward are not met.
Officials from the Motor Transport Allied Workers Union (MTUW), the Federation of Unions of SA (FEDUSA), National Economic Development and Labour Council (NEDLAC) are to meet their demands for safer working conditions.
The guards want Safety and Security Minister Charles Nquakula to set up minimum standards for the industry and better equipped cash vans fitted with a proper vault, locking system and air-conditioning.
Emlie Fourie spokesperson for MTWU says that an urgent meeting of union employers, Nedlac and officials from the departments of Labour, Transport, Finance, Safety and Security are scheduled to meet next week.
A daily newspaper reports that the unions fear that the robberies will increase during the festive season.
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Suspected pension fund fraudster assets seized
By Tando Mfengwana
13 December 2006
Assets worth R5-million were seized from a man who allegedly defrauded his employers of R6-million.
National prosecuting Authority spokesperson Lucinda Moonieya said the Asset Forfeiture Unit seized luxury BMWs, a Citi Golf, a Mini Cooper, property valued at R2-million.
Mahendran Pillay is believed to have committed the crime while he was employed at FundsAtWork – a division of Momentum Group Limited in December last year.
An Independent Online report says Pillay was responsible for administrating retirement funds and was authorised to conduct transactions amounting to R50-million.
An investigation revealed that Pillay had transferred funds to a bank belonging to his fiancé, Sharlene Harisanker.
He was later dismissed after disciplinary action was taken against him in January.
13 December 2006
Assets worth R5-million were seized from a man who allegedly defrauded his employers of R6-million.
National prosecuting Authority spokesperson Lucinda Moonieya said the Asset Forfeiture Unit seized luxury BMWs, a Citi Golf, a Mini Cooper, property valued at R2-million.
Mahendran Pillay is believed to have committed the crime while he was employed at FundsAtWork – a division of Momentum Group Limited in December last year.
An Independent Online report says Pillay was responsible for administrating retirement funds and was authorised to conduct transactions amounting to R50-million.
An investigation revealed that Pillay had transferred funds to a bank belonging to his fiancé, Sharlene Harisanker.
He was later dismissed after disciplinary action was taken against him in January.
Aerial water bombing campaign extended
By Odette Ismail
13 December 2006
The aerial water bombing campaign has been extended to the Western Cape to address the huge problem of shack fires.
Disaster Risk Manager, Johan Minnie says this is a joint operation between Working on Fire, the City of Cape Town, the Department of Water Affairs and forestry and SANTAM.
The project has been expanded so that more informal settlements can be under surveillance during the fire season.
Two additional cameras have been added at the top of Sir Lowry’s Pass and the other one on Constantia Peak. Other areas such as Athlone Towers, Tygerberg Hills and Paapegaaiberge in Stellenbosch will receive extended cameras.
The ability to activate aerial fire and ground fighting operations for shack fires across the Cape Peninsula, to Stellenbosch, a section of the False Bay coast, Noordhoek gap and the West Coast will now take effect.
14 000 people were left homeless due to shack fires between December 2004 and January 2005 in the Western Cape.
13 December 2006
The aerial water bombing campaign has been extended to the Western Cape to address the huge problem of shack fires.
Disaster Risk Manager, Johan Minnie says this is a joint operation between Working on Fire, the City of Cape Town, the Department of Water Affairs and forestry and SANTAM.
The project has been expanded so that more informal settlements can be under surveillance during the fire season.
Two additional cameras have been added at the top of Sir Lowry’s Pass and the other one on Constantia Peak. Other areas such as Athlone Towers, Tygerberg Hills and Paapegaaiberge in Stellenbosch will receive extended cameras.
The ability to activate aerial fire and ground fighting operations for shack fires across the Cape Peninsula, to Stellenbosch, a section of the False Bay coast, Noordhoek gap and the West Coast will now take effect.
14 000 people were left homeless due to shack fires between December 2004 and January 2005 in the Western Cape.
Metro police vehicles marked to boost numbers and fool public - Officer
By Tarryn Le Chat
13 December 2006
Irate metro police and traffic officers warned that Cape Town could be in chaos over the festive season on Tuesday. This statement comes about if the city ignores their demands to revise the pay parity structures and conditions of employment currently being put in place.
They have given the city until Thursday afternoon to respond to a memorandum, handed over on Tuesday by a delegation of the South African Municipal workers’ Union (Samwu), calling for the freezing of the city’s restructuring until a new decision is reached at the bargaining council.
If the city refuses, frustrated metro police and traffic officers have vowed to take action “that could destabilise the city”.
Metro police officers later threatened to blockade first the N2, then the N1, if their demands were not met.
City manager, Achmat Ebrahim said that as with any organisational change, there would be errors. Time should be allowed for the process to be finalised and the city is taking serious note of the officer’s frustrations.
Andre Adams of Samwu said the treatment of city employees by management ‘was not in good faith’.
13 December 2006
Irate metro police and traffic officers warned that Cape Town could be in chaos over the festive season on Tuesday. This statement comes about if the city ignores their demands to revise the pay parity structures and conditions of employment currently being put in place.
They have given the city until Thursday afternoon to respond to a memorandum, handed over on Tuesday by a delegation of the South African Municipal workers’ Union (Samwu), calling for the freezing of the city’s restructuring until a new decision is reached at the bargaining council.
If the city refuses, frustrated metro police and traffic officers have vowed to take action “that could destabilise the city”.
Metro police officers later threatened to blockade first the N2, then the N1, if their demands were not met.
City manager, Achmat Ebrahim said that as with any organisational change, there would be errors. Time should be allowed for the process to be finalised and the city is taking serious note of the officer’s frustrations.
Andre Adams of Samwu said the treatment of city employees by management ‘was not in good faith’.
Man charges with raping sisters
By Chanel September
13 December 2006
A man who has been charged with rape and indecent assault appeared in the Bellville magistrate’s court yesterday.
It is believed that the man allegedly abducted and raped two sisters aged seven and 12 from Delft. Police arrested the accused in Lotus River early last month.
He is also accused of raping two 16-year-old girls in separate incidents in Philippi and Kuilsriver and faces charges of hijacking and armed robbery.
Magistrate Fezile Fani remanded the man into custody and postponed the case until January 26 for further investigation
13 December 2006
A man who has been charged with rape and indecent assault appeared in the Bellville magistrate’s court yesterday.
It is believed that the man allegedly abducted and raped two sisters aged seven and 12 from Delft. Police arrested the accused in Lotus River early last month.
He is also accused of raping two 16-year-old girls in separate incidents in Philippi and Kuilsriver and faces charges of hijacking and armed robbery.
Magistrate Fezile Fani remanded the man into custody and postponed the case until January 26 for further investigation
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Two men plea after Goldin theft
By Odette Ismail
12 December 2006
Two men may receive plea bargain agreements after they were charged with stealing items of murdered actor Brett Goldin and fashion designer Richard Bloom.
Reshaad Sheik and Faizel Gafoor’s legal representatives proposed the agreement.
The two appeared in the Wynberg Regional Court yesterday.
Magistrate Jackie Redelinghuys postponed the case till Thursday when the decision for the plea bargain will be determined.
Goldin and Bloom were murdered in April this year, in what resulted in a very high-profile investigation. Their bodies were found along the M5.
12 December 2006
Two men may receive plea bargain agreements after they were charged with stealing items of murdered actor Brett Goldin and fashion designer Richard Bloom.
Reshaad Sheik and Faizel Gafoor’s legal representatives proposed the agreement.
The two appeared in the Wynberg Regional Court yesterday.
Magistrate Jackie Redelinghuys postponed the case till Thursday when the decision for the plea bargain will be determined.
Goldin and Bloom were murdered in April this year, in what resulted in a very high-profile investigation. Their bodies were found along the M5.
Sixty arrested in crime prevention britz
By Tando Mfengwana
12 December 2006
Police arrested 60 people in an early morning crime prevention operation in Galeshewe in the Northern Cape.
Suspects were between the ages of 17 and 50.
They were wanted for robbery, theft, assault, fraud, attempted murder and malicious damage to property
Captain Tony Modise is quoted as saying some of the suspects were on the run and in hiding since cases were made against them.
Some of them who appeared in court never returned for their next appearance, warrants have been issued for their arrest.
The suspects will have their fingerprints taken to determine whether they were wanted in connection with any other crimes.
The operation “Uxolo” will continue throughout the festive season.
Uxolo will include the tracing of wanted suspects, the raiding of illegal shebeens, and stop and search operations at roadblocks.
12 December 2006
Police arrested 60 people in an early morning crime prevention operation in Galeshewe in the Northern Cape.
Suspects were between the ages of 17 and 50.
They were wanted for robbery, theft, assault, fraud, attempted murder and malicious damage to propertyCaptain Tony Modise is quoted as saying some of the suspects were on the run and in hiding since cases were made against them.
Some of them who appeared in court never returned for their next appearance, warrants have been issued for their arrest.
The suspects will have their fingerprints taken to determine whether they were wanted in connection with any other crimes.
The operation “Uxolo” will continue throughout the festive season.
Uxolo will include the tracing of wanted suspects, the raiding of illegal shebeens, and stop and search operations at roadblocks.
Charges dropped against TAC
By Tarryn Le Chat
12 December 2006
Treatment Action Campaign (TAC) activists, including chairperson Zackie Achmat, rejoiced outside the Cape Town Magistrates Court on Monday when charges against them were dropped.
Chanting and singing, the activists said they were happy with the outcome after Magistrate S Norman withdrew trespass charges.
They were arrested in August after they occupied the offices of the Western Cape provincial government. The activists were calling for the head of Health Minister Manto Tshabalala-Msimang and for a national crisis meeting to develop a new HIV and Aids programme.
As the protest was deliberately illegal, police used pepper spray on some of the activists who tried to force their way to Health MEC Pierre Uys’s office. TAC claimed it was tired of government’s failure to act on HIV and Aids.
However, the struggle is not over as the TAC and the Aids Law Project (ALP) meet with the department of correctional services on Wednesday over the thorny issue of providing anti-retroviral (ARV) treatment to inmates who need them.
Earlier this week, Deputy Health Minister Nozizwe Madlala-Routledge’s had critised both the Health Minister Manto Tshabalala-Msimang and President Thabo Mbeki on the confusing statements over aids and treatment.
Madlala-Routledge criticised those who encouraged traditional medicines as opposed to conventional treatment.
Chanting and singing, the activists said they were happy with the outcome after Magistrate S Norman withdrew trespass charges.They were arrested in August after they occupied the offices of the Western Cape provincial government. The activists were calling for the head of Health Minister Manto Tshabalala-Msimang and for a national crisis meeting to develop a new HIV and Aids programme.
As the protest was deliberately illegal, police used pepper spray on some of the activists who tried to force their way to Health MEC Pierre Uys’s office. TAC claimed it was tired of government’s failure to act on HIV and Aids.
However, the struggle is not over as the TAC and the Aids Law Project (ALP) meet with the department of correctional services on Wednesday over the thorny issue of providing anti-retroviral (ARV) treatment to inmates who need them.
Earlier this week, Deputy Health Minister Nozizwe Madlala-Routledge’s had critised both the Health Minister Manto Tshabalala-Msimang and President Thabo Mbeki on the confusing statements over aids and treatment.
Madlala-Routledge criticised those who encouraged traditional medicines as opposed to conventional treatment.
Picture: www.dailytimes.com.pk
Report shows causes of conflict in the Cape
By Chanel September
12 December 2006
According to the Provincial African Peer Review Mechanism the lack of access to basic services, the influx of refugees and the internal migration of people from the Eastern Cape are some of the causes of most conflicts in the Western Cape.
The final report states that tension, violence and conflict in the province derive from a number of sources.
A daily newspaper reports conflict caused by organised crime involved gangsterism, taxi violence, marine poaching and xenophobic conflicts between provinces in South Africa were at the top.
Class and racial division were however found to be one of the biggest
problems.
12 December 2006
According to the Provincial African Peer Review Mechanism the lack of access to basic services, the influx of refugees and the internal migration of people from the Eastern Cape are some of the causes of most conflicts in the Western Cape.
The final report states that tension, violence and conflict in the province derive from a number of sources.
A daily newspaper reports conflict caused by organised crime involved gangsterism, taxi violence, marine poaching and xenophobic conflicts between provinces in South Africa were at the top.
Class and racial division were however found to be one of the biggest
problems.
Monday, December 11, 2006
Woman drives into old couple wall
By Tando Mfengwana
11 December 2006
A woman drove her bakkie into the bedroom wall of an elderly couple in Witpoortjie, west of Johannesburg on Monday.
ER24 spokesperson Werner Vermaak said some parts of the wall fell on top of the couple’s bed, fortunately, the couple had already woken up.
Paramedics treated the diabetic couple for shock according to an Independent Online report.
The woman sustained minor injuries and she was taken to a nearby hospital in a stable condition.
Traffic flow was affected as passing motorists slowed down to take a look.
11 December 2006
A woman drove her bakkie into the bedroom wall of an elderly couple in Witpoortjie, west of Johannesburg on Monday.
ER24 spokesperson Werner Vermaak said some parts of the wall fell on top of the couple’s bed, fortunately, the couple had already woken up.
Paramedics treated the diabetic couple for shock according to an Independent Online report.
The woman sustained minor injuries and she was taken to a nearby hospital in a stable condition.
Traffic flow was affected as passing motorists slowed down to take a look.
Manenberg celebrates homecoming festival
By Tarryn Le Chat
11 December 2006
A campaign to rid Manenberg of its ghetto image is getting results. Residents say crime is down, their streets are much safer, and more people are starting to take pride in their neighbourhood.
At the weekend thousands of men, women and children celebrated at a Manenberg homecoming festival that included walking and cycling, live music and sports.
Families camped out on pavements as youth bands paraded through the streets. The event — which ended last night — including the switching on of the area’s Christmas lights. It was all part of the Proudly Manenberg Campaign (PMC), launched last year by residents and community groups.
Since the launch in September last year, PMC has given six students’ bursaries and a cleaning project has been launched.
A business summit would be held in February to discuss job creation.
11 December 2006
A campaign to rid Manenberg of its ghetto image is getting results. Residents say crime is down, their streets are much safer, and more people are starting to take pride in their neighbourhood.
At the weekend thousands of men, women and children celebrated at a Manenberg homecoming festival that included walking and cycling, live music and sports.
Families camped out on pavements as youth bands paraded through the streets. The event — which ended last night — including the switching on of the area’s Christmas lights. It was all part of the Proudly Manenberg Campaign (PMC), launched last year by residents and community groups.
Since the launch in September last year, PMC has given six students’ bursaries and a cleaning project has been launched.
A business summit would be held in February to discuss job creation.
Men stab woman to death in her home
By Odette Ismail
11 December 2006
A 60-year-old woman was stabbed to death in her home in Dutywa last week.
Nowongile Thafeni was sleeping next to her husband when two men attacked the two in their home.
The men allegedly stabbed Thafeni several times without any explanation, according to Independent Online.
The man managed to escape and call for help. He managed to return with neighbours, but Thafeni had already been murdered.
Police confirmed that nothing was taken out of the house. The motive for the incident is unknown. Police are still searching for the two suspects.
11 December 2006
A 60-year-old woman was stabbed to death in her home in Dutywa last week.
Nowongile Thafeni was sleeping next to her husband when two men attacked the two in their home.
The men allegedly stabbed Thafeni several times without any explanation, according to Independent Online.
The man managed to escape and call for help. He managed to return with neighbours, but Thafeni had already been murdered.
Police confirmed that nothing was taken out of the house. The motive for the incident is unknown. Police are still searching for the two suspects.
Sunday, December 10, 2006
Man attacks security guard
By Odette Ismail
10 December 2006
A motorist allegedly beat a car guard up yesterday, in a parking area above Clifton Fourth Beach.
The motorist claims he saw the car guard arguing with his girlfriend. He is currently being treated at Somerset Hospital.
Metro Rescue volunteer Ebrahim Benjamin told the Weekend Argus that he found Jabu Jinani lying on the ground with a cut above his left eye yesterday evening.
Jinani told rescuers that he was still arguing with his girlfriend when the man climbed out of his car and started hitting him.
Metro Rescue workers confirmed that Jinani had a few small bruises and a cut above his left eye.
10 December 2006
A motorist allegedly beat a car guard up yesterday, in a parking area above Clifton Fourth Beach.
The motorist claims he saw the car guard arguing with his girlfriend. He is currently being treated at Somerset Hospital.
Metro Rescue volunteer Ebrahim Benjamin told the Weekend Argus that he found Jabu Jinani lying on the ground with a cut above his left eye yesterday evening.
Jinani told rescuers that he was still arguing with his girlfriend when the man climbed out of his car and started hitting him.
Metro Rescue workers confirmed that Jinani had a few small bruises and a cut above his left eye.
Saturday, December 09, 2006
Policeman retaliates and wounds man
By Odette Ismail
09 December 2006
A man was shot and wounded after he shot at a police officer in Alberton, Johannesburg.
Inspector Kobeli Mokheseng confirmed that the incident occurred on Friday evening.
The officer caught the men trying to jump over a wall of a house in Jackson Street. The officer, according to News24, was approached with fire when he drove towards the men, he then returned fire.
One of the suspects was wounded, but he fled the scene. Police tracked the man down in a house in Van Bergen Street afterwards.
‘He was found in possession of an M75 9mm pistol with the serial number filed off and 12 rounds of live ammunition,’ said Mokheseng.
The patrolling officer claims the men were trying to break into the house. The wounded suspect was admitted to hospital. The officer had no injuries.
Police were investigating a case of attempted murder, and possession of a suspected stolen firearm and ammunition. Police are still searching for the other three.
09 December 2006
A man was shot and wounded after he shot at a police officer in Alberton, Johannesburg.
Inspector Kobeli Mokheseng confirmed that the incident occurred on Friday evening.
The officer caught the men trying to jump over a wall of a house in Jackson Street. The officer, according to News24, was approached with fire when he drove towards the men, he then returned fire.
One of the suspects was wounded, but he fled the scene. Police tracked the man down in a house in Van Bergen Street afterwards.
‘He was found in possession of an M75 9mm pistol with the serial number filed off and 12 rounds of live ammunition,’ said Mokheseng.
The patrolling officer claims the men were trying to break into the house. The wounded suspect was admitted to hospital. The officer had no injuries.
Police were investigating a case of attempted murder, and possession of a suspected stolen firearm and ammunition. Police are still searching for the other three.
Man dies in blaze
By Odette Ismail
09 December 2006
A man has burnt to death in a fire that destroyed 100 shacks in the Lusaka informal settlement of Cape Town today.
The fire is believed to have started in the early hours of the morning. The cause of the fire is still unknown.
Cape Town disaster management spokesperson Johan Minnie says 500 people were left homeless by the blaze. They will receive meals, blankets and building materials
Meanwhile another 50 people lost their homes today when their shacks caught fire in the RR Section of Khayelithsa
Minnie said the 15 shacks had caught fire at 03:00 am, but no one was injured.
09 December 2006
A man has burnt to death in a fire that destroyed 100 shacks in the Lusaka informal settlement of Cape Town today.
The fire is believed to have started in the early hours of the morning. The cause of the fire is still unknown.
Cape Town disaster management spokesperson Johan Minnie says 500 people were left homeless by the blaze. They will receive meals, blankets and building materials
Meanwhile another 50 people lost their homes today when their shacks caught fire in the RR Section of Khayelithsa
Minnie said the 15 shacks had caught fire at 03:00 am, but no one was injured.
SANBS appeals to the public to donate blood
By Odette Ismail
09 December 2006
The South African National Blood Service has put out a warning that blood shortages is at a critical stage.
A SANBS official says that people's lives were at risk if the situation did not change in the next few days.
In Kwazulu-Natal the blood shortage is at its worst, with less than one day supply of the O blood group in stock.
The organization is appealing to the public to donate blood in order to save lives.
According to News24, the organization concedes, that the school holidays has had an impact on the blood shortage due to the majority of the donors being school children above the age of 16.
09 December 2006
The South African National Blood Service has put out a warning that blood shortages is at a critical stage.
A SANBS official says that people's lives were at risk if the situation did not change in the next few days.
In Kwazulu-Natal the blood shortage is at its worst, with less than one day supply of the O blood group in stock.
The organization is appealing to the public to donate blood in order to save lives.
According to News24, the organization concedes, that the school holidays has had an impact on the blood shortage due to the majority of the donors being school children above the age of 16.
Friday, December 08, 2006
Mother beats child and throws her out
By Tando Mfengwana
08 December 2006
A five-year old girl was allegedly assaulted and burnt by her mother and stepfather and then thrown out of the house.
The girl’s mother allegedly put her hands on a hotplate while the stepfather whipped her with a belt.
According to an Independent Online report, the incident took place on Tuesday when they accused her of stealing 30 cents.
She was found by police wandering in the streets after calls about a child walking around with burn wounds on her hands on Wednesday.
She was taken to Dora Ngiza Hospital.
The couple is expected to appear in the Port Elizabeth Magistrate court on Friday.
08 December 2006
A five-year old girl was allegedly assaulted and burnt by her mother and stepfather and then thrown out of the house.
The girl’s mother allegedly put her hands on a hotplate while the stepfather whipped her with a belt.
According to an Independent Online report, the incident took place on Tuesday when they accused her of stealing 30 cents.
She was found by police wandering in the streets after calls about a child walking around with burn wounds on her hands on Wednesday.
She was taken to Dora Ngiza Hospital.
The couple is expected to appear in the Port Elizabeth Magistrate court on Friday.
Community Information Network
o4 December 2006 - 08 December 2006
# Proudly Manenberg brings you the "Home Coming festival" from Saturday 09th December and Friday December the 15. The venue will be Manenberg's public open space. Events such as street sports at 09h00 till 18h00 a "Arts and Culture" evening at Manenberg’s people centre, Township tour fun run and walk. The programme features artist like D’low, Poseletso, Afri Fiesta and Mamela to mention a few and the switching on of Christmas lights on the last day the "Proudly Manenberg Sports Awards".
# Big Brothers Big Sister of South Africa provides mentoring programme for youth in need or at risk, needs adult volunteers to mentor children for an hour a week. Call (021) 551 7996 or email makeadifference@bbbssa
# The Oaks of Righteous Foundation – based in Strandfontein – has started an after school programme for youth in the Bayview area. Their free aftercare service is for young people between the age of 11 and 18-yeas old, and operates from Mondays to Thursday’s, from 3pm to 6pm, and from 1pm to 4pm on Fridays. For more information contact Wendy Dennis at (021) 393 5149 or 073 921 8512 or Peter Cornelius at 083 331 2681.
# Juvenetics School of Dance will be having a Night of the Stars evening and all Style Dance Competition on Saturday December 9th at 2pm. Junior and senior groups may enter. Supporters pay R20 at the door. For details call (021) 392 5727
# Konek will be hosting a cross-cultural youth life skills camp for 100 disadvantaged youth from Ottery and greater Grassy Park in Zeekoevlei from Wednesday December the 6th to Sunday the 10th. The community is encouraged to sponsor R140 for each child or part of it. Call (021) 703 7942 or 073 167 7220.
# Alcoholics Anonymous meets every Monday at 8pm at the corner of 6th avenue and Kommetjie Road, Fish Hoek. For more information phone Jimmy at (021) 789 2303.
# The Cape Flats YMCA in Pisa Close, Portland, will be running a holiday club at their offices and the Farm recreational centre from December 4th until December the 8th between 10am and 2pm. For details call (021) 391 1096 or (021) 391 0564.
# The Weltevreden recreational centre will be having a holiday programme from Monday December 4th till Friday December 22ndfrom 7am until 4:30 pm, the programme includes outings, costs only R25. for details call (021) 392 5132.
# The Weltervreden Crime Care Unit in Rocklands offers free Taebo and Fitness and Health awareness classes. Call (021) 392 5132 for more information.
If you have any information for the CIN team regarding events happening in your community, please contact us at 021 – 448 54 50 or fax us at 021 – 448 54 51. Alternatively, e-mail us at news@bushradio.co.za. You can also call us here at Bush Radio if you have missed any of the numbers mentioned.
# Proudly Manenberg brings you the "Home Coming festival" from Saturday 09th December and Friday December the 15. The venue will be Manenberg's public open space. Events such as street sports at 09h00 till 18h00 a "Arts and Culture" evening at Manenberg’s people centre, Township tour fun run and walk. The programme features artist like D’low, Poseletso, Afri Fiesta and Mamela to mention a few and the switching on of Christmas lights on the last day the "Proudly Manenberg Sports Awards".
# Big Brothers Big Sister of South Africa provides mentoring programme for youth in need or at risk, needs adult volunteers to mentor children for an hour a week. Call (021) 551 7996 or email makeadifference@bbbssa
# The Oaks of Righteous Foundation – based in Strandfontein – has started an after school programme for youth in the Bayview area. Their free aftercare service is for young people between the age of 11 and 18-yeas old, and operates from Mondays to Thursday’s, from 3pm to 6pm, and from 1pm to 4pm on Fridays. For more information contact Wendy Dennis at (021) 393 5149 or 073 921 8512 or Peter Cornelius at 083 331 2681.
# Juvenetics School of Dance will be having a Night of the Stars evening and all Style Dance Competition on Saturday December 9th at 2pm. Junior and senior groups may enter. Supporters pay R20 at the door. For details call (021) 392 5727
# Konek will be hosting a cross-cultural youth life skills camp for 100 disadvantaged youth from Ottery and greater Grassy Park in Zeekoevlei from Wednesday December the 6th to Sunday the 10th. The community is encouraged to sponsor R140 for each child or part of it. Call (021) 703 7942 or 073 167 7220.
# Alcoholics Anonymous meets every Monday at 8pm at the corner of 6th avenue and Kommetjie Road, Fish Hoek. For more information phone Jimmy at (021) 789 2303.
# The Cape Flats YMCA in Pisa Close, Portland, will be running a holiday club at their offices and the Farm recreational centre from December 4th until December the 8th between 10am and 2pm. For details call (021) 391 1096 or (021) 391 0564.
# The Weltevreden recreational centre will be having a holiday programme from Monday December 4th till Friday December 22ndfrom 7am until 4:30 pm, the programme includes outings, costs only R25. for details call (021) 392 5132.
# The Weltervreden Crime Care Unit in Rocklands offers free Taebo and Fitness and Health awareness classes. Call (021) 392 5132 for more information.
If you have any information for the CIN team regarding events happening in your community, please contact us at 021 – 448 54 50 or fax us at 021 – 448 54 51. Alternatively, e-mail us at news@bushradio.co.za. You can also call us here at Bush Radio if you have missed any of the numbers mentioned.
More than 70 arrested in KZN roadblocks
By Chanel September
16 December 2006
Today more than 70 people, including 66 drunk drivers, were arrested on different roadblocks on KwaZulu-Natal roads.
Spokesperson Rajen Chinaboo says that the roadblocks were conducted on the N3 at Mooi River, on the Higginson highway in Durban and on the M5 at Stapleton Road in Pinetown.
Six foreign vehicles were arrested and six warrants of arrests were issued for unpaid traffic fines.
News 24 reports that roadblocks are multi-disciplinary operations, conducted in conjunction with the police, local and metro traffic departments.
16 December 2006
Today more than 70 people, including 66 drunk drivers, were arrested on different roadblocks on KwaZulu-Natal roads.
Spokesperson Rajen Chinaboo says that the roadblocks were conducted on the N3 at Mooi River, on the Higginson highway in Durban and on the M5 at Stapleton Road in Pinetown.
Six foreign vehicles were arrested and six warrants of arrests were issued for unpaid traffic fines.
News 24 reports that roadblocks are multi-disciplinary operations, conducted in conjunction with the police, local and metro traffic departments.
Festive season road accidents
By Chanel September
8 December 2006
More than 200 people have been killed in road accidents around the country since the start of the festive season. Spokesperson for the department Ntau Letebele says that 215 people were killed in 189 accidents in just six days.
According to a daily newspaper the highest number of accidents was reported in Kwa-Zulu Natal with 41 occurring before December the 1’st. In the Western Cape 21 accidents have been reported.
Letebele says that 90% of the fatalities are due to bad behaviour and attitude.
Motortist have been urged by the department to obey traffic rules and to ensure that everybody in the vehicle are using a safety belt.
8 December 2006
More than 200 people have been killed in road accidents around the country since the start of the festive season. Spokesperson for the department Ntau Letebele says that 215 people were killed in 189 accidents in just six days.
According to a daily newspaper the highest number of accidents was reported in Kwa-Zulu Natal with 41 occurring before December the 1’st. In the Western Cape 21 accidents have been reported.
Letebele says that 90% of the fatalities are due to bad behaviour and attitude.
Motortist have been urged by the department to obey traffic rules and to ensure that everybody in the vehicle are using a safety belt.
Thursday, December 07, 2006
It's too dangerous to be here - Resident
By Tarryn Le Chat
07 December 2006
CAPE TOWN - Instead of enjoying their holidays and the outdoors, Hanover Park residents are too afraid to venture in the wake of a shooting.
Three people were injured on Tuesday night and the residents now believe has ignited a gang war.
Trevor Pedro, of the Hanover Park Development Forum said “We’re cooped up inside and too scared to let our children out to play.”
About 9:30pm on Tuesday, two men, aged 20 and 31, and a 44-year-old woman were shot outside their homes in Soet-Water Court.
The 20-year-old was wounded in the right arm, and the others injured in the stomach, right hand and left-arm.
Police spokesperson Bernadine Steyn said four men walked towards them and fired shots. According to Steyn police are still investigating the issue and believe it might be gang related.
Pedro said the availability of drugs and unemployment added to the problems of violence in the area.
Many residents told the Cape Times of their fears, “If it’s dangerous to visit us here, imagine how bad it is to live here”, said Randall Africa.
07 December 2006
CAPE TOWN - Instead of enjoying their holidays and the outdoors, Hanover Park residents are too afraid to venture in the wake of a shooting.
Three people were injured on Tuesday night and the residents now believe has ignited a gang war.
Trevor Pedro, of the Hanover Park Development Forum said “We’re cooped up inside and too scared to let our children out to play.”
About 9:30pm on Tuesday, two men, aged 20 and 31, and a 44-year-old woman were shot outside their homes in Soet-Water Court.
The 20-year-old was wounded in the right arm, and the others injured in the stomach, right hand and left-arm.
Police spokesperson Bernadine Steyn said four men walked towards them and fired shots. According to Steyn police are still investigating the issue and believe it might be gang related.
Pedro said the availability of drugs and unemployment added to the problems of violence in the area.
Many residents told the Cape Times of their fears, “If it’s dangerous to visit us here, imagine how bad it is to live here”, said Randall Africa.
Police find R4 million worth of mandrax chemicals
By Tando Mfengwana
07 November 2006
Gauteng police found chemicals that were enough to make mandrax with a street value of more than R4 million.
Police found the abandoned mandrax factory at Orange Farm, near Vereeniging.
Among the equipment at the factory were scales, mixers and tablets pressers according to an Independent Online report
Provincial police spokesperson Director Govundsamy Mariemuthoo said they know the suspects and expect to make an arrest soon.
07 November 2006
Gauteng police found chemicals that were enough to make mandrax with a street value of more than R4 million.
Police found the abandoned mandrax factory at Orange Farm, near Vereeniging.
Among the equipment at the factory were scales, mixers and tablets pressers according to an Independent Online report
Provincial police spokesperson Director Govundsamy Mariemuthoo said they know the suspects and expect to make an arrest soon.
Concern over crime patterns at Cape Flats Schools
By Odette Ismail
07 December 2006
Principles on the Cape Flats are concerned about their schools being targets of vandalism over the festive season.
A daily paper showed that various principles and staff on the Cape Flats concedes that computers, doors, window panes, door handles and other equipment had been stolen previous times.
The concern is that students get bored over the festive season, causing them to vandalise classrooms, says the principle at Manenberg High School
Gert Witbooi says that the responsibility should come not only from government, but from the community as well.
He says theft and vandalism is a problem over the December holidays due to boredom and some steal to support drug habits.
07 December 2006
Principles on the Cape Flats are concerned about their schools being targets of vandalism over the festive season.
A daily paper showed that various principles and staff on the Cape Flats concedes that computers, doors, window panes, door handles and other equipment had been stolen previous times.
The concern is that students get bored over the festive season, causing them to vandalise classrooms, says the principle at Manenberg High School
Gert Witbooi says that the responsibility should come not only from government, but from the community as well.
He says theft and vandalism is a problem over the December holidays due to boredom and some steal to support drug habits.
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
Sexual abuse accounts for domestic violence cases
By Tarryn Le Chat
06 December 2006
Sexual abuse or rape makes up a staggering 15 percent of domestic violence cases.
Twenty-five percent of these cases include forced sex in front of children according to UCT researcher Lillian Artz.
At least 40 percent of domestic violence survivors have been threatened with death by their abusive partners or ex-partners in almost half these cases.
A study found that four women a day were murdered by their intimate partners. Verbal and psychological abuse is also a strong feature of the mentioned, with verbal abuse at 85 percent and psychological abuse following closely at 83 percent.
The impact of domestic violence is so severe that 86 percent of survivors reported symptoms of psychological stress, trauma and anxiety.
06 December 2006
Sexual abuse or rape makes up a staggering 15 percent of domestic violence cases.
Twenty-five percent of these cases include forced sex in front of children according to UCT researcher Lillian Artz.
At least 40 percent of domestic violence survivors have been threatened with death by their abusive partners or ex-partners in almost half these cases.
A study found that four women a day were murdered by their intimate partners. Verbal and psychological abuse is also a strong feature of the mentioned, with verbal abuse at 85 percent and psychological abuse following closely at 83 percent.
The impact of domestic violence is so severe that 86 percent of survivors reported symptoms of psychological stress, trauma and anxiety.
Juveniles receive computer skills
By Chanel September
6 December 2006
For a group of juvenile offenders in the Western Cape they will for the first time have the tools, writing and layout skills to be able to print their own newspaper in prison.
The prisoners at the Hawequa Youth Correctional Facility in Wellington received 15 slick flat screen computers yesterday.
Southern African Media and Gender Institute (Samgi) will facilitate the training of select group inmates on how to use basic computer programmes, while simultaneously educating them about gender issues and respect for women.
Finance and Tourism MEC Lynne Brown says that for the juveniles’ computer skills could enable them to play and active role in society.
6 December 2006
For a group of juvenile offenders in the Western Cape they will for the first time have the tools, writing and layout skills to be able to print their own newspaper in prison.
The prisoners at the Hawequa Youth Correctional Facility in Wellington received 15 slick flat screen computers yesterday.
Southern African Media and Gender Institute (Samgi) will facilitate the training of select group inmates on how to use basic computer programmes, while simultaneously educating them about gender issues and respect for women.
Finance and Tourism MEC Lynne Brown says that for the juveniles’ computer skills could enable them to play and active role in society.
City proposes plan to police township tours
By Odette Ismail
06 December 2006
The city of Cape Town has requested that township tour operators create fixed routes to be patrolled by Metro Police.
This comes after recent robberies on tourists which includes 40 Dutch tourists. The group were visiting Langa on a tour of the township, according to the Cape Argus.
Dumisani Ximbi, mayoral committee member for Safety and Security, confirms that a meeting will take place with township tour operators, Cape Town Routes Unlimited and other township hospitality stakeholders.
He says that tour routes need to be policed as the city is seen as a tourist destination. Ximbi says the township tours brings money in and helps disadvantaged areas of the city.
The council does want not visitors to be afraid after the attacks last week and have mainstream destinations restricted.
06 December 2006
The city of Cape Town has requested that township tour operators create fixed routes to be patrolled by Metro Police.
This comes after recent robberies on tourists which includes 40 Dutch tourists. The group were visiting Langa on a tour of the township, according to the Cape Argus.
Dumisani Ximbi, mayoral committee member for Safety and Security, confirms that a meeting will take place with township tour operators, Cape Town Routes Unlimited and other township hospitality stakeholders.
He says that tour routes need to be policed as the city is seen as a tourist destination. Ximbi says the township tours brings money in and helps disadvantaged areas of the city.
The council does want not visitors to be afraid after the attacks last week and have mainstream destinations restricted.
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