Tuesday, July 31, 2007

Final building plan approval for Green Point Stadium

By Anele Siwa
31 July 2007

The revised building plans for the Green Point multi-purpose stadium for the 2010 Soccer World Cup, has been approved by the City of Cape Town at a special meeting held on Monday.

“Until now, the foundations of the stadium have been under construction on the basis of two provisional building plans authorisations,” says Executive Mayor, Helen Zille.

The High Court case set down for 13 August 2007, to hear the challenge against the stadium by Cape Town Environmental Protection Association (CEPA) was postponed due to the extent and difficulty of the case.

“Because of pressing time constraints the construction of the stadium will proceed to programme," says Executive Director for Service Integration Mike Marsden, who is also responsible for 2010 in the City.

ID calls on Premier to declare affected flood areas as disaster areas

By Rhodé Marshall
31 July 2007


The Independent Democrats (ID) has called for Western Cape Premier Ebrahim Rasool to declare the areas affected by the floods as disaster areas.

The floods has left up to 40 000 in the metropolitan areas homeless and many without basic necessities.

“It is clear from my visits to the affected areas around the metro this weekend that the City does not have the resources to properly assist those whom have had their homes flooded,” says ID Caucus Leader Simon Grindrod.

He added that the blankets and soup which is being provided to residents in the areas by the City’s Disaster Management is not enough.

“The danger is very real that the flood waters will carry disease into homes where children and the elderly are trying to survive in cold and wet conditions,” says Grindrod.

However, spokesperson for the Premier, Shadow Twala says that the Premier has gone to asses the areas to see what can be done to help the situation.

“The Premier does not have the authority to declare any area as a disaster area, he can only make recommendations,” says Twala.

She added that the decision regarding to call the area as a disaster area or not is up to national government.

South African teacher to lead global union

By Celeste Ganga
31 July 2007





General Secretary of the South African Democratic Teachers Union, Thulas Nxesi, was re-elected for a three-year term as President of Education International, at its 5th World Congress that was held in Berlin last week.


The theme of the congress was: “Teachers joining together for quality education and social justice.”

“The mandate from this congress is to return to member countries and to forge unity amongst teachers on the ground,” says Nxesi.

He adds that they will actively support the establishment and strengthening of independent free and representative teacher unions where they don’t exist.

“We committed ourselves to fight major social ills such as child labour, HIV and Aids, and discrimination in all its guises,” adds Nxesi

Education International has member organisations in 169 countries, representing 30 million teachers worldwide. It is the largest global union.

COSATU meets with Community Forum in Mitchell's Plain

By Rhodé Marshall
31 July 2007

The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) has met with the Community Forum in Mitchell’s Plain and has pledged to support the structure.

“We have observed the growing incidence of criminality in our communities,” says COSATU spokesperson Monroe Mkalipi.

He added that the union has been encouraged by the courage shown by residents in the community to stand together in solidarity and confront the problem.

“COSATU is calling on all our shop stewards to join the Community Policing Forums and to help strengthen the Community Forums in their noble efforts,” says Mkalipi.

Mkalipi says projects like these are stepping stones for them as an organisation to get involved with things outside of what they are use to.

“We commend the director Jeremy Veary who has shown himself to be a champion of our people and ask that he assist other areas to set up street committees like in Mitchell’s Plain ,” says Mkalipi.

Monday, July 30, 2007

Areas affected by floods grow

By Anele Siwa and Rhodé Marshall
30 July 2007

Floods have affected more than 38 000 people from 49 areas in Cape Town from 49 areas in Cape Town with floods on the West Coast and the Overberg as well.

“We have approximately 17 areas in informal settlements and 17 from formal areas that have been affected by the floods,” says Disaster Management spokesperson Johan Minnie.

“We are providing meals to about 24 000 people from these areas”, says Minnie.

Meanwhile, a mass meeting on complaints about disaster services’ response to flooding will be held in Gugulethu tonight with residents of the Lotus informal settlements in Gugulethu.

The meeting, organised by the South African Communist Party (SACP) came after the SACP received several complaints from residents affected by the recent floods that hit the city of Cape Town.

Minnie says that the City of Cape Town visited the area on Sunday and that they have been supportive to the families who have been affected by the floods.

“With advanced weather warning systems that the City has, how could emergency services fail the poor like it has in Gugulethu,” says SACP Cape Town District Organiser, Luthando Nogcinisa.

He added that they want to appeal to the mayor to ensure that all communities affected by the floods receive adequate temporary shelter, food, sanitation, water and health services.

The Gugulethu meeting will be followed by another mass meeting in Site C, Khayelitsha later in the week.

Sectional Property owners to provide postal addresses

By Celeste Ganga
30 July 2007

On 1st July 2007, the City of Cape Town implemented the new Municipal Property Rates Act, which requires all sectional title properties to be valued separately.

“To enable the City to send the property rates to the owners, it needs to have their postal addresses on its data base,” says Debt Management Manager, Trevor Blake.

Blake says that the City has thus embarked on a campaign to collect the postal addresses and other information from various Bodies Corporate and Management Agencies.

“The City will now for the second time attempt to obtain the outstanding postal addresses. Questionnaires will be sent out once again,” Blake added.

Blake says that instructions on how to fill in the questionnaire and envelopes for returning them will be included.

If you are the owner of a sectional title property and have yet to receive your July 2007 rates account from your body corporate or managing agent, contact the City’s Call Centre on 086 010 3089.

SAMWU strike against one-sided transfer of services

By Tina George
30 July 2007

All members of the South African Municipal Workers Union in Mpumalanga Province will take action should the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) fail to meet their demands at the South African Local Government Bargaining Council (SALGBC) conciliation to stop the transfer of Primary Health Care services to the Provincial Government.

This decision follows the one-sided decision of SALGA to transfer this service to the Provincial Government without consultation.

“You cannot change the condition of services of members without consultation with the union they should have considered the provincial of health act and the constitution but SALGA is not willing to engage with SAMWU on this particular issue,” says Provincial Secretary, John Nhlapo.

“Should we fail to resolve this issue or SALGA refuse to stop the process, consult properly and until we have reached an agreement then we are going to go ahead with the strike,” says Nhlapo

The union appeals to all members of SAMWU, COSATU affiliates, SACP, ANC, SANCO and all progressive forces including communities to participate in this action as the transfer will have a negative impact on the conditions of service of SAMWU members and service delivery to the communities.

Community Information Network

By Celeste Ganga
30 July 2007


NOTICE BOARD

#Cape Town Child welfare is urgently seeking donations of good quality childrens clothing for children from birth to 14 years.Boys’ clothes are particularly urgently required. Cape Town Child Welfare’s donations store in Gatesville may be able to arrange for collection of donations.
For more information or for collections contact Melody Volmink at 021 638 3127


#The Athlone Academy of Music moved from Blossom Street Primary to Silverlea Primary School, corners of Lower Klipfontein and Zinnia roads, Silvertown this week. Contact Sam Jonker at 021 697 2120 or 083 419 4044

#Volunteer Centre Mitchell’s Plain is having an opportunity for Community Based Organisations to send their office Volunteers on free Training in:

  • Ms Word and Excel
  • Power Point
  • E-mail and internet
  • Office and telephone Etiquette and
  • Basic Administration

It will be hosted at the Beacon Valley Community Frail Care Centre well known as the Old age Home from the 20th until the 24th of August from half-past-eight till four-o-clock. Limited seats are available so contact Shahida Dudley on 021 376 3741 before the 8th of August to avoid disappointment.


# A Memorial Tribute will be held for the late Comrade Farouk Verlin Swartz on the 29th of August at St Dominics Hall, Lonedowne Road, Hanover Park from 2pm-5pm. It will take the form of Cultural Afternoon with guest speakers, drama, music and poetry. For further details please contact Fatima Swartz on 082 524 8443 OR 021 692 0453

# Traders are invited to apply for a stall at the Adderley street night market which will take place from December the 17th until December the 30th. Only locally made crafts, gifts, food, jewellery, clothing, homeware and garden accessories will be considered. Contact Zolani Zenzile on 021 419 1881 for details and application forms.


If you have any information for the CIN team regarding events happening in you community, please feel free to contact us on 021 4485450 or fax us on 021 448 5451. Alternatively you can email us on news@bushradio.co.za. If you have missed any of the numbers mentioned you can give us a call.

Sunday, July 29, 2007

MEC strongly warns against vigilantism

By Celeste Ganga
29 July 2007


Western Cape Community Safety MEC, Leonard Ramatlakane has issued a stern warning against vigilantism. He urges communities to work with police and government in the fight against, crime, drugs and gangs.

“We call on the community to resist the temptation of supporting vigilantism for short term gains,” says Ramatlakane.

Ramatlakane added that they have been cracking down on drugs such as Tik, gangs and crime.

“We will also deal with anyone suspected of taking the law into their own hands. Police will not hesitate to use the Prevention of Organised Crime Act (POA), against such suspects,” says Ramatlakane.

He added that the Police and Government will work with those law-abiding citizens who want to fight crime, drugs and gansterism.

Zille to attend night vigil against violence and drug abuse

By Celeste Ganga
29 July 2007

The Democratic Alliance leader, Helen Zille will join a night vigil in the suburb of Lentegeur, Mitchells Plain in Cape Town on Sunday.

She will be joining this community in protesting against violence and drug abuse in the area.

“She will meet community members at the spot where long-serving neighbourhood watch member, Abduraghman Sydow was shot and killed last month,” says member of the DA, Martin Slabbert.

He adds that Zille will join the residents in their vigil in honour of Sydow.

“We are going there to show solidarity to the people of Lentegeur”, added Slabbert.

Saturday, July 28, 2007

Halls refuge for those left homeless after heavy rains

Celeste Ganga
28 July 2007

About 14 halls across the Western Province have been opened to refuge thousands of residents who were left stranded after heavy down pours hit the Cape this week.

“Approximately 15 000 people are currently affected in terms of flooding,” says Johan Minnie from Disaster Management.

Minnie says that the amount of people that have been placed in the halls is difficult to determine.

Many people, who were affected by the heavy rainfall on Friday night, were placed in one of nine emergency shelters that were made available on the night.

Minnie adds, “Approximately seventy people are using these emergency shelters.”

Public transport interchange opens

By Celeste Ganga
28 July 2007

As from Monday, 30 July 2007, mini-bus taxis will start to operate from the newly constructed Public Transport Interchange,opposite Claremont Railway station.

“All minibus-taxi commuters in the vicinity are advised that they must board and alight at this taxi rank,” says Director of Roads and Storm Water, Henry Du Plessis.

Golden Arrow bus commuters will be able to board buses to Mitchells Plain in Roscommon Road and commuters to Khayeitsha will be able to board in Hawthorne Road. All other destinations are clearly marked.


Du Plessis adds, “Clearly identified signage will be placed around the construction sites to facilitate movements.”

The City of Cape Town apologises for the inconvenience.

Taxi and bus lanes to be monitored

By Anele Siwa
28 July 2007

The Western Cape Department of Transport and Public Works, together with the City of Cape Town have initiated the pilot project on the N2, this project will be launched next week Wednesday.

“A dedicated bus and minibus taxis lane on the N2 will be launched by the City of Cape and the Western Cape Department of Transport”, says the City spokesperson Robert Macdonald.

Macdonald added,“We started it up because we want to speed up our public transport so that people can get to work in time and we want to encourage more people to use public transport.”

According to Macdonald the lane will be monitored through a number of electric systems using cameras which will identify any vehicle other than buses and taxes.

Friday, July 27, 2007

Suspects arrested for taxi related shooting

By Tina George
27 July 2007

Four suspects have been arrested by police on Friday, in connection with a taxi related shooting.

The arrests were carried out after follow up investigations led by detectives from the Organised Crime Unit.

“During the arrests we have confiscated two vehicles that were allegedly used during the taxi related shooting,” says police spokesperson Randall Stoffels.

“The men all in their thirties face charges of attempted murder and murder.

The men are due to appear in the Blue downs Magistrate’s Court on Monday July, 30.

picture:www.saps.co.za

Community Information Network

By Tina George
27 July 2007
*NOTICE BOARD*

# Woodside Special Care Centre in Rondebosch East will be hosting their annual fundraising book sale in July and is asking the community for donations of used books in good condition. If you are able to assist contact Wendy Hammeron at 021 696 28811.

# Cape Town Child welfare is urgently seeking donations of good quality children’s clothing for children from birth to 14 years. Boys’ clothes are particularly urgently required. Cape Town Child Welfare’s donations store in Gatesville may be able to arrange for collection of donations. For more information or for collections contact Melody Volmink at 021 638 3127.

# The Athlone Academy of Music moved from Blossom Street Primary to Silverlea Primary School, corners of Lower Klipfontein and Zinnia roads. Contact Sam Jonker for details at 021 697 2120 or 083 419 4044.

# Volunteer Centre Mitchell’s Plain is having an opportunity for Community Based Organisations to send their office volunteers for free training in:

· Ms Word and Excel
· Power Point,
· E-mail and Internet,
· Office and telephone Etiquette and Basic Administration

It will be hosted at the Beacon Valley Community Frail Care from the 20th until the 24th of August. Classes start from 08:30pm until 4pm. Limited seats are available. Contact Shahida Dudley on 021 376 3741 before the 8th of August to avoid disappointment.

# A Memorial Tribute will be held for the late Comrade Farouk Verlin Swartz on the 29th of August at St Dominics Hall, Lonedowne Road, Hanover Park from 2pm-5pm. It will take the form of a cultural afternoon with guest speakers, drama, music and poetry. For further details please contact Fatima Swartz on 082 524 8443 OR 021 692 0453.

If you have any information for the CIN team regarding events happening in you community, please feel free to contact us on 021 4485450 or fax us on 021 448 5451. Alternatively you can email us on news@bushradio.co.za.

Minister of Education to visit Cape Town

By Anele Siwa
27 July 2007

The City of Cape Town will be visited by Education Minister Naledi Pando. The Department of Education and Iziko Museum will be engaging in commemorative events through the year building up the bicentenary of the first Cape Slave Rebellion.

Naledi Pando is also expected to visits schools in the Gauteng Province, after numerous complains that the ministry received from both parents and learners.

“The minister will on Monday visit two Further Education and Training Colleges in Cape Town to find out for herself what some of the 1.9 billion, earnmarked for the FET recapitalisation is being used for”, says education spokesperson Lunga Ngqengelele.

According to Ngqenelele the Minister will address the launch of Exhibition in commemoration of the Bicentenary of the abolishing of Slave Trade at the Salve Lodge in Cape Town.

Bush Radio donates gas stove to children's home

By Staff Reporter
27 July 2007

The Baphumelele Children’s Home situated in Site B, Khayelitsha received a gas stove from Bush Radio on Thursday, to help feed more than 100 children currently based at the home.

The home which supplies three basic meals and snacks a day, often face the problem of not offering the meals to the children on time.

“Most of the children come home from school and then the food will not be ready because we don’t have enough stoves,” says administrator for the home, Simpihwe Mabuya.

“We are really happy and grateful for the kind donation that Bush Radio has given us. The same day we got the stove, we used it because we don’t have a lot of other stoves to use,” says Mabuya.

Mabuya added that it is important to provide the children with a warm meal especially because of the cold weather.
Picture: Brenda Leonard

Informal settlements residents pleas for help

By Rhodé Marshall
27 July 2007

Three shack settlements in the Cape Peninsula who have been hit the hardest by the recent storms, say the City of Cape Town is failing to respond to their continuous pleas for help.

The residents of Civic Road, Kakaskraal and Zille Raine Heights have had their shacks completely flooded this week, following the sweeps of rain.

“The residents are all walking in water up to their knees,” says coordinator for the Zille Raine Heights Residents Association, Lorraine Heunis.

She says they have phoned several disaster management numbers belonging to the City of Cape Town.

“We have spoken to officials who promised to come around to our area and assist us to ease the plight, but this has only been empty promises,” says Heunis.

More than 100 families have been forced to put their electricity off in fear of being electrocuted.

“People must be brought disaster relief, most of us are not working, we want blankets, soup and plastic for the roofs,” says Heunis.

Happy Valley, Joe Slovo settlement and Langa has also been completely flooded.

picuture:www.jrcompton.com

Thursday, July 26, 2007

Strike certificate issued to the glass sector

By Rhodé Marshall
26 July 2007

Trade unions in the glass sector of the chemical industry were issued with a strike certificate on Wednesday afternoon.

This came after continued negotiations on Monday and Tuesday were deadlocked.

In an attempt to turn from a strike in the sector, more discussions were scheduled to take place on Monday the 30th of July.

However if the negotiations on Monday shows no positive results, then the unions have said that there is a big possibility that they will follow through with a strike.

“The employers are offering the workers a two-year agreement, which includes a 7% increase with an additional 0, 25% in January 2008,” says Solidarity spokesperson, Jaco Kleynhans.

Kleynhans says that the trade unions are not happy with the two-year agreement they have been offered and they will only be happy with the 10% they have been demanding from the employers.

The unions are also demanding that temporary and contract employees who form an important of the company’s core operations be made permanent.

“Negotiations are proceeding slowly, but we have made it clear to the employers that we are serious about our demands,” says Kleynhans.

Consol Glass and the PG Group are the largest companies taking part in the negotiations.

Suspect arrested for 5-year-old-boy's murder

Celeste Ganga
26 July 2007

A third man has been arrested by police, in connection with the murder of five-year-old Dillon Meiring who was shot dead during a robbery in Kraaifontein.

“A 19-year-old man was arrested at 2am at his home in Kraaifontein. The investigation continues,” says police spokesperson, Siphokazi Mawisa.

Dillon was shot after a 67-year-old man was robbed at gun point, in front of an Engen-garage on the N1 near Kraaifontein on Friday.

The suspect will appear in the Blue Downs Magistrate Court on Thursday July, 26.

Meanwhile on further investigations police arrested a 23-year-old man for possession of unlicensed firearms.

“They appeared in court on Tuesday,” says Mawisa.

Mawisa added that, it was not known at this stage if he was involved in the robbery.

IT'S WINTER! BLANKETS, CANNED FOOD NEEDED

BUSH RADIO WINTER DRIVE
By Staff reporter
26 July 2007

It’s that time of the year again! After the recent onslaught of stormy, cold and wet weather in Cape Town, more than 6000 people in some of our poorest communities and townships have been left vulnerable to the elements.

Bush Radio 89.5fm has embarked on a campaign to collect as much winter necessities as possible for our brothers and sisters who have to brace the cold and wet conditions without a roof over their heads. Please assist us! Show you care by dropping off your donations at:

Bush Radio 89.5fm
330 Victoria Road, Salt River
Tel: 021-448-5450
Contact: Belinda Sepkit

Meanwhile, Johan Minnie, from the Cape Town Disaster Risk Management Centre has released a list of NGOs where warm clothing, blankets and canned food can be dropped off.

“These organizations have well-established, transparent processes in place to distribute relief effectively and efficiently in affected communities, and their relief efforts are monitored by both the City and the Province,” he said.

You can drop off your donations at any of the following community organisations:

HDI Support
7 Transvaal Street, Paarden Island
Tel: 021-511-4153
Contact: Mr Andre Olivier 082-935-3353

Mustadafin Foundation
No 18 Belgravia Road, Athlone
Tel: 021-633-0010 / Fax 021-633-0057
Contact: Ebrahim Smith 083-953-3231

The Salvation Army (Western Cape Division)
No 85 Maynard Road, Wynberg
Tel: 021-761-8530
Contact: Carolyn Correia / Neville Hitchcock

South African Red Cross Society (Western Cape)
21 Broad Road, Wynberg
Tel: 021-797-5360
Contact: Michael Jacobs / Brain Davis

South African National Zakah Fund (SANZAF)
22 Cornflower Street, Bridgetown
Tel: 021-638-5108
Contact: Abduragmaan George

Important numbers/websites:

  • To report flooding to the city's technical operations centre: 086-0103-054.
  • Emergencies can be reported to the Cape Town public emergency centre: 107 (from landline) or 021-480-7700 (from cellphone).


  • To check the weather forecast: http://www.weathersa.co.za/
  • Wednesday, July 25, 2007

    Fidelity security robbed in Tableview


    By Rhodé Marshall
    25 July 2007


    Fidelity Security Officials were approached by three armed men on Tuesday morning, while collecting money at a business in Flamingo Square in Tableview.

    The men demanded cash at gunpoint and robbed the security guard who was on his way back to the van of an undisclosed amount of money.Two firearms which were in the possession of the guards were also stolen.

    “The suspects then fled the scene in a VW Jetta with the cash and firearms and are still at large,” says police spokesperson, Constable Siphokazi Mawisa.

    “No shots were fired and no one sustained any physical injury,” says Mawisa.

    Anyone with information can contact Crime Stop on 08600 10 111.

    picture:www.saps.co.za

    Thousands of refugees are struggling to get work

    By Anele Siwa
    25 July 2007

    According to a daily newspaper, thousands of refugees are at risk of being arrested after being refused for asylum-seeker permits.

    The Legal Resources Centre (LRC), a non-profit law clinic, is struggling to keep up with requests for help from refugees who have been turned away by the department.

    Daily newspare quoted LRC paralegal Ncumisa Hans as saying the office has been filled to capacity since January, when the department began turning the asylum-seekers away.

    “They come in their hundreds in the morning and this is what we are dealing with daily," says Hans.

    Asylum-seekers have 14 days in which to get a Section 22 temporary permit that allows them to apply for jobs, get residence and medical treatment.

    Wage agreement reached between Solidarity and Eskom

    Celeste Ganga
    25 July 2007

    The trade union Solidarity has signed a wage agreement on Tuesday with electricity supplier Eskom.

    “After having perused Eskom’s offer last week and consulting our members, the members have decided to accept the offer,” says Solidarity spokesperson, Jaco Kleinhans.

    The agreement entails that Solidarity members in Eskom will receive an average wage increase of 8% this year, with a guaranteed minimum of 7%.

    Next year the employees will receive an 8% guaranteed minimum wage increase.

    "We regard the agreement that was signed between Solidarity and Eskom as the first step in a joint endeavour to ensure that South Africans will not have to worry about electricity supplies in the future," says Kleinhans.

    SA cricket signs historic agreement

    By Tina George
    25 July 2007

    Cricket South Africa, the South African Cricketers Association and the six professional franchises have signed a leading edge agreement which will make professional players genuine stakeholders in the game.

    President of CSA, Norman Arendse and the CEO of SACA, Tony Irish announced this statement at the media conference in Johannesburg on Tuesday.

    “It’s the first comprehensive agreement of its kind in a professional sport in SA which regulates every aspect of the players’ participation in that sport. It also means players are made stakeholders of cricket which will mean in turn that whatever they earn from the game will depend on how healthy the game is,” says SACA CEO,Tony Irish.

    Arendse added that the agreement was the product of co-operation over many months between the players and administrators in the game and its three primary objectives are to:

    · Assist cricket in dealing with the annual revenue fluctuations which are part of the international game
    · Make players genuine stakeholders in professional cricket
    · Clearly state how fundamental player related issues will be dealt with

    www.epcricket.co.za

    Tuesday, July 24, 2007

    Second public sector strike planned

    By Tina George
    24 July 2007

    Plans for a second public sector strike have been announced on Tuesday at a press conference; by some 17 independent and the Congress of South African Trade Union (Cosatu), affiliated unions.

    The unions are planning for their members to down tools on Monday July, 30.

    “After two and a half weeks of engagement and discussion with the department we could not agree in terms of payments of the salary,” says South African Democratic Teachers Union Chairperson, Sabelo Mali.

    “There was an understanding that for every hour that a teacher works extra we are going to be paid R135,” says Mali.

    SATDU was issued with a national document which stated, that there is no guarantee that teachers are going to be paid.

    Mali added that it is only teachers who go teaching grade 12 who go to the winter and spring schools that get paid, but if you go to a school on a weekend then it’s on a voluntary basis.

    The unions added that they are open for response from government.

    NUM gives gold mine employers the last opportunity

    By Rhodé Marshall
    24 July 2007

    The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) has given gold mine employers at the Chamber of Mines the last opportunity to make a wage offer.

    This follows their meeting which was held on Monday where workers were offered an increase of 7, 25%, which the union has rejected.

    “We have given the Chamber the 1st of August as the last round of negotiations since we indicated earlier that we are not interested in any prolonged negotiations this year,” says general-secretary of NUM, Frans Baleni.

    The Chamber of Mines has offered the increase of 7, 25%, a merit based increase, which the union says will give the employers the perfect opportunity to use their colour-bar discretion.

    “The NUM extends an olive branch to the Chamber to come to the realisation that workers need that increment,” says Baleni.

    He added that the Chambers accusation that workers have “many demands” is completely rejected as they have only been fair in their demands.

    “With certain things we have dropped our demands to be fair, yet they have not been fair on the workers,” says Baleni.

    Thieves stopped in their tracks after botched robbery

    Celeste Ganga
    24 July 2007

    Three men have been arrested by police on Monday, after they robbed a man of undisclosed amount of money, at gunpoint outside a bank at Vangate Mall near Athlone.

    The incident occurred at 10:15am when three armed men robbed the man while he was on his way to make a large cash deposit.

    “The suspects fled in a blue VW Jetta. The police spotted the vehicle and pulled off in the Gugulethu area,” says police spokesperson Elliot Sinyangana.

    A shoot out occurred between the suspects and police and a high speed car chase ensued.

    “As the suspects sped into Gugulethu, they fired several shots at the police,” says Sinyangana. He added that, no one was injured during the incident.

    A fourth suspect is still at large.

    The suspects will appear in the Athlone Magistrates Court on Wednesday July, 25.

    Anyone with information about the fourth suspect should call Crime Stop on 08600 10111.

    Premier confirms Customs House announcement

    Celeste Ganga
    24 July 2007


    There has been some interest in the remarks made by the Premier of the Western Cape, Ebrahim Rasool at the opening of the Southern African Association held in Cape Town on Monday.

    “The interest emerges from my references to negotiations with the Minister of Public Works, Thoko Didiza around the future of Customs House,” says Rasool

    Rasool added that the matter of Customs House is because the Cape Town International Convention Centre has been a huge success, and the need to expand it has been recognised.

    "The possibility of Cape Town hosting the International Broadcasting Centre for the 2010 Soccer World Cup, has made these negotiations critical," says Rasool.

    This adds to the many enduring legacies brought about by World Cup 2010. This will enhance Cape Town’s reputation as a premier business tourist destination even further.

    picture:www.crusaid.org.uk

    Hostage drama suspects appear in court

    By Anele Siwa
    24 July 2007

    Two suspects who were arrested for allegedly kidnapping and holding a 19-year old Rondebosch East man for ransom last week, appeared briefly in the Athlone Magistrate Court on Monday.

    Nasir Iqbal, 30 and Nazier Sooban Abrahams, 34 both face charges of extortion, kidnapping and robbery with aggravated circumstances.

    According to police, the two suspects stopped the victim and a friend at the intersection of Burnley and Crawford Road, Crawford.“The victim was then threatened at gunpoint and forced into the assailant’s vehicle,” says police spokesperson Randall Stoffels.

    “Follow up investigations led detectives to a house in Grassmere Street, Athlone where they found the victim in a bedroom inside the house with his hands tied. The suspects were arrested on the scene,” says Stoffels.

    The case was adjourned for bail application and for Abrahams to appoint an attorney.

    The case was postponed until Wednesday August, 1.

    picture: www.saps.co.za

    Monday, July 23, 2007

    New Director General of Western Cape announced

    Celeste Ganga
    23 July 2007

    Today the Premier of the Western Cape, Ebrahim Rasool announced that Virginia Petersen will be the Acting Director General of the Western Cape.

    This comes after the deployment of Dr Gilbert Lawrence to the Department of Community Safety for a contract period of 4 years.

    Rasool says, “She is a woman who has shown great appetite for dirtying her hands and implementing and delivering.”

    Rasool added, “She has done so before in transforming the delivery of social security efficiently and honestly, and she will now continue the delivery role for the Province as a whole.”

    “She will act until a Director General is appointed, which we anticipate to be before the end of 2007,” added Rasool.

    Petersen’s first task is to accompany the Premier to the National Cabinet Lekgotla from 24 -26 July 2007 in Pretoria.

    Two held for robbery and little boy's murder


    By Anele Siwa
    23 July 2007
    Two suspects were arrested in Kraainfontein, in the early hours of Monday morning, in connection with the murder of a five-year-old boy and the robbery of an undisclosed amount of money.

    “The two suspects aged between 20 and 24 are to face charges of murder and robbery and will appear in court,” says police spokesperson Siphokazi Mawisa.

    The arrest follows two days after the incident occurred when a 67-year-old man was robbed at gun point, of an unknown amount of money, in front of N1 garage near Kraaifontein.

    A family from Oudtshoorn who was in the parking area at the time witnessed the robbery and tried to drive off. While they were driving off the suspects stopped them and fired several shots.

    “A 5-year-old boy, Dillion Meiring, who was inside the vehicle sustained a gunshot wound to the face. He died at hospital due to the injuries he sustained,” says Mawisa.

    The investigation into the murder and robbery continues. The suspects are to appear in Kuils River Magistrate Court on Wednesday July, 25.

    www.saps.co.za

    Community Infomation Network

    By Rhode Marshall
    23 July 2007

    *NOTICE BOARD*


    # The Vuka-Via Culture Club presents a fundraiser in aid of community upliftment through art and sport sponsored by Zula Bar where it will also be hosted. It will be held on Saturday, July 28th at 20:30. The admission is R20. For details contact Amina on 072 468 7269.

    # Breaking the silence hosted by the People Opposing Women Abuse, Women’s writing Anthology is now available. The deadline for this years competition is Wednesday, September the 12th. Call Carrie Shelter on 011 642 4345 to enter.


    # Traders are invited to apply for a stall at the Adderley street night market which will take place from December the 17th until December the 30th. Only locally made crafts, gifts, food, jewellery, clothing, homeware and garden accessories will be considered. Contact Zolani Zenzile on 021 419 1881 for details and application forms.

    # The 7de Laan Community Singkoor will be having a minstrial themed karaoke on Friday July the 27th at 7:30 at the Lobelia Hall in Woodlands. The cost is R20, you can call 082 574 8463 or 084 402 2365

    # The Volunteer Wildfire Services is recruiting members for its unit in preparation for the fire season. Anyone interested must be 18 years or older, live in Cape Town and be available to assist. Call Rob Erasmus on 021 715 3915 or call 083 411 3378.


    If you have any information for the CIN team regarding events happening in you community, please feel free to contact us on 021 4485450 or fax us on 021 448 5451. Alternatively you can email us on news@bushradio.co.za.

    Handicapped man found

    By Rhodé Marshall
    23 July 2007

    A 19-year-old mentally handicapped man who went missing from his home in Gugulethu has been found.

    Lionel Gqosha, was last seen Tuesday, July 10, wearing black shorts, a white t-shirt, he is light of complexion.

    “A man phoned to say he saw Lionel on a train to Cape Town station, where he got off and walked an unfamiliar direction,” says the man's brother Matthew Gqosha.

    "Lionel can't speak and we were extremely concerned as he is on medication," says Gqosha.

    However this was not the first time he has gone missing. The last two incidences he was found in Malmesbury and the other in Somerset West. Both times he took the train there.

    Sunday, July 22, 2007

    The Democratic Alliance raises the Affirmative Action debate


    By Rhodé Marshall
    22 July 2007

    The Democratic Alliance has raised its concern about the way affirmative action is being implemented by the South African government.

    The party says President Thabo Mbeki denies many of the basic but undeniable truths about the imbalances in the country.

    “Instead of achieving the desired effect, affirmative action has had unattended opposite consequences,” says DA spokesperson on Labour, Anchen Dreyer.

    This comes after an online letter sent by the President. The DA says in the letter the presidents spent much of his time concentrating on polarising society along racial lines, rather than addressing real issues.

    “We believe the best way to achieve the objectives of affirmative action is with quality education and good skills acquisition,” says Dreyer.

    She added that the one way to address the issue is through giving disadvantaged people better access to a range of opportunities.

    Saturday, July 21, 2007

    Troubled Friday night in Kraaifontein


    By Rhodé Marshall
    21 July 2007

    A five-year-old boy has died during the gunpoint robbery of a 67-year-old in Kraaifontein on Friday night.

    The man was threatened by three men who were demanding money. He was then robbed of an undisclosed amount of money at an Engen station near the N1, Cape Town.

    A family of Oudtshoorn, who witnessed the incident, tried to drive off for their own safety, this angered the robbers who then retaliated by stopping the family and shooting at them.

    “The suspects fired several shots into the car and the five-year-old boy was shot in the face and later died in hospital,” says police spokesperson, Constable Siphokazi Mawisa.

    No other people were injured. A case of armed robbery and murder is being investigated.

    In a separate incident, yet another taxi shooting has hit the Kraaifontein area.

    Mawisa says a 31-year-old taxi driver was shot in front of his boss’s house after dropping off money. The taxi driver was accompanied by two other taxi drivers.

    “On their way back to the taxi, the three men were approached by another three men who started firing several shots at them,” says Mawisa.

    Most of the shots appeared to have been targeted at the 31-year-old taxi driver. He was shot in the head and later died in hospital.

    “The other two men both sustained gun shot wounds to the back and are both in a stable condition in hospital," says Mawisa.

    Mawisa added that the suspects of both incidents fled the scenes on foot and is still at large.

    Anyone with information can contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111.

    Security guard robbed of over R18 000

    By Tina George
    21 July 2007

    A security guard was held up by three armed men, early on Friday morning in Mitchells Plain and robbed of more than R18 000.

    The Transcash guard was colleting cash at one of the businesses in the Prominade Mall.

    “The official was approached on his return through the entrance by four armed men, demanding that he hand over the cash box,” says police spokesperson Elliot Sinyangana.

    “They jumped into a white Toyota Corolla and fled the scene, apparently while speeding they opened the box and as a result a smoke steamed and clouded the inside of the vehicle,” Sinyangana.

    Arriving at the scene, police found the cash box but the ink-contaminated and the cash it contained was gone. The cash box was found on the corner of AZ Berman and Highland Drive, Mitchells Plain.

    “At this stage we are investigating a cash in transit case and that of armed robbery,” says Sinyangana

    Anyone with information is requested to contact Detective Reginald Mtshali of Organised Crime unit at 021 950 1345 or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.

    Child murderer receives life sentence

    By Rhodé Marshall
    21 July 2007

    The 36-year-old man, who stood accused for the rape and murder of 10-year-old Usindiso Mlonyeni, has been convicted in the Cape Town Magistrate’s court on Friday.

    Poponono Jonathan Petros, who kidnapped, raped and murdered Usindiso on an open field at Symphony way in the Phillippi East area was sentenced to life imprisonment for murder and rape and an extra four years for kidnapping.

    “Our communities should be proud of the outcome of this case, especially if it is such a gruesome crime,” says police spokesperson, Captain Elliot Sinyangana.


    He added that the family of the late 10-year-old girl is satisfied in the outcome of the case and how it has been handled.

    "We believe that our communities are on the track to claim back their freedom enshrined in the bill of rights," says Sinyangana

    Friday, July 20, 2007

    Community Information Network

    By Tina George
    20 July 2007

    Notice Board

    # Oaks of Righteousness Foundation in partnership with Strandfontein Ward Council is searching for the community worker or the volunteer of the month from the following areas Mitchell’s Plain, Bay view, Khayelitsha and Strandfontein. This competition is open to all ladies at all ages from the above communities. You can send the person that you nominated to the following address P.O. Box 54622, Srandfontein, 7788 or fax it to 021 393 5249.Closing date for entries is the 9th August 2007. For details contact Shereen on 073 433 0124 or Wendy at 073 921 8512.


    # The Board of Institute for Justice and Reconciliation and the Senate of the University of the Western Cape will honour Ashley Kriel with the annual memorial lecture. The event will take place on 20th July 2007 at UWC from 18:30 till 21:00. For more information you can contact Cecil Esau on 021 763 7136 or 084 251 6398.


    #The work of Jill Trappler will be on show at the Gardens Presbyterian Church Hall in Cape Town on 20 July 2007, from 11 am to 3pm. Call 082 5588 115 for details.


    #The 7de Laan Community Singkoor will be having a mistrial themed karaoke on Friday July 27, at 7:30pm, at the Lobelia Hall in Woodlands. The cost is R20. For more information call 082 574 8463 or 084 402 2365.


    # The Youth for Change will host a Fun Day event at Crossroads New Hall on the 28th of July 2007. For more details you can contact Lulanda Khanku on 084 263 1533.

    If you have any information for the CIN team please feel free to send us e-mail to news@bushradio.co.za You can also contact us on 021 448 5450 or fax us on 021 448 5451.

    Suspect arrested after hostage drama in Athlone

    By Anele Siwa
    20 July 2007

    Two suspects were arrested by police detectives early on Thursday morning, after a young man from Rondebosch East was abducted and held ransom.

    The drama unfolded at 5pm on Wednesday, when the 19-year old victim and a friend stopped with their vehicle at the intersection of Burnley and Crawford Road, Crawford.

    “Moments later a white sedan vehicle with three male occupants pulled up alongside their vehicle. One of the suspects jumped out approached the victim,” says police spokesperson Randall Stoffels.

    “The victim was then threatened at gunpoint and forced into the assailant’s vehicle,” says Stoffels.

    Later during the evening a family member received a call from the alleged suspects demanding an undisclosed amount of money.

    Follow up investigations led detectives to a house in Grassmere Street, Athlone where they found the victim in a bedroom inside the house with his hands tied.

    Both suspects face charges of abduction, extortion and robbery. They are to appear in the Athlone Magistrate Court on Monday, July 23.

    Community warned to keep their children away from vlei

    Celeste Ganga
    20 July 2007

    Police have warned the Khayelitsha community to keep their children away from the area where the body of a 12-year-old boy was found in a vlei. He went missing in the area a week ago.

    Phumlani Tshotsho’s body was found by police, when they searched the vlei near the intersection of the N2 and Spine Road.

    After continuous failed search attempts by sniffer dogs and police divers, Phumlani’s body only surfaced in the dam early on Thursday morning.

    “We haven’t established whether he accidentally drowned. Many children often play beside the river,” says police spokesperson Elliot Sinyangana.

    “This is dangerous because the motorists may swerve to avoid them and cause an accident. The children can be knocked over,” says Sinyangana.

    Thursday, July 19, 2007

    Low pass rate a nerve issue

    By Tina George
    19 July 2007


    Nerves, lack of preparation and strict guidelines are said to be the cause for the low pass rate among driver’s licences in the Western Cape.

    The Western Cape’s pass rate is 35.13% while applicants in Gauteng have been the most successful with a pass rate of 45.48%. The poorest pass rate is in the Free state which is 31.23%.

    “Poor training and lack of preparation is the main reasons for the low pass rate in the province,” says spokesman for Traffic Services in the province, Searle Johannes

    “The test has rigid guidelines against which the application is assessed. These guidelines are provided by the National Department of Transport and are applicable nationally,” says Johannes

    Johannes added that applicants were often in the driver’s seat of their test vehicle for the first time when doing the test.

    'N2 Gateway tenants need not march' says Sisulu

    By Anele Siwa
    19 July 2007

    In response to the memorandum handed over by the N2 Gateway residents on Tuesday, Housing Minister Lindiwe Sisulu says, the residents living in rental units must take responsibility for their monthly payments.

    The memorandum was handed to the ministry by a group of 200 residents, who marched to the gates of Parliament in Cape Town, protesting against the high rents for what they call is “the poor service”.

    “Those tenants who were now complaining about the high rent may have deliberately misled the government to jump the housing queue,” says Sisulu.

    The ministry has given residents three options: those earning less than R3000 qualified for free houses, those who could afford rent could opt for subsidized rentals and those wanting get a bond would get subsidized credits.

    Other problems experienced by the tenants are huge cracks in the walls and leaking roofs.

    Sisulu added that a great effort was extended ensuring decent living conditions, security and an environmentally friendly environment.

    Premier tackles the issue of child killings

    Celeste Ganga
    19 June 2007

    To stop the number of child killings in the province the Western Cape government are set to put tough new measures in place.


    As part of the plan government has called on the justice department to close loopholes allowing murder suspects back in society.

    After a provincial executive committee meeting held on Wednesday, the Premier of the Western Cape, Ebrahim Rasool addressed the extension of the director-general’s contract and redeployment.

    Other issues that were addressed were illegal shebeens, poor parenting, the safeguard and neglect of children and the recovery plan for schools affected by the public servants strike.

    “It is important that parents need to be held accountable. We received 77 dockets of murdered children, in most of these cases drug and alcohol abuse was at the heart of the problem,” says Rasool.

    Rasool added that only 12 of the 77 child murder victims were killed by strangers. He said this raises the issue of parenting in our communities and the fabric of our society.

    Statistics reveal that 40 arrests have been made and 52% led to arrests and judicial action against the killers.

    “Parenting is a responsibility. In poor communities there is a lack of parenting,” says MEC for Social Services and Poverty Alleviation, Koleka Mqulwana.

    “Justice Minister Brigitte Mabandla will be approached to discuss the problems of repeat offenders,” says Mqulwana.

    Man arrested for the murder of eight-year-old girl

    By Rhodé Marshall
    19 July 2007

    An arrest has been made for the murder of eight-year-old Asiphe Ketani. Police arrested an 18-year-old man from Nyanga on Wednesday in connedction with the murder of the little girl.

    “It can be confirmed that the young man is known to the family and through leads and a thorough investigation, the police were able to make an arrest,” says police spokesperson Randall Stoffels.

    The girl was shot dead while watching television in her home at Brown’s Farm, near Nyanga on Monday night, when she and a 22-year-old relative were attacked by three armed men.

    Ketani was hit in the head by a bullet. She later later died in hospital, while her 22-year-old relative sustained a gun shot to his side.

    “We are glad that we were able to get a positive breakthrough in the case and we are hopeful for more arrests,” says Stoffels.

    The suspect is to appear appear in the Athlone Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, July 19.

    Wednesday, July 18, 2007

    Taxi owner wounded in taxi-related shooting

    By Tina George
    18 July 2007

    A taxi owner was shot several times while driving home on Wednesday morning; in what is believed to be suspected taxi-related shooting.

    The 45 year-old man was on his way home in Zwelihle near Hermanus, when he noticed a red VW Golf with three to four occupants following him.

    “It is alleged that one of the passengers in the rear seat fired several shots at the victim with an assault rifle. The victim sustained a graze wound to the head and gunshot wounds to his arm and lower part of his body,” says police spokesperson Bernadine Steyn.

    “The victim was airlifted to hospital and is in a stable condition,” says Steyn.

    The motive for the incident might be taxi related, but all possibilities will be investigated. The suspects fled the scene in the red Golf. The suspects are still at large.

    Anyone with information can contact the Investigating Officer, Inspector Werner Bothma on 021 950 1400

    Birthday wishes for Madiba

    By Staff Reporters
    18 July 2007

    South African anti-apartheid icon, Nelson Mandela celebrated his 89th birthday on Wednesday, with tributes and birthday wishes pouring in from across the globe.

    Huge celebrations are planned countrywide to mark the event, but Madiba himself will spend a reasonably quiet day at home with his wife Graca Machel.

    A full house is expected at Newlands in Cape Town tonight when a star studded international soccer team will take part in a match to highlight Madiba’s birthday.

    Meanwhile on the streets of Cape Town residents of the city gave their birthday wishes to the much loved former president.

    Colin Philander, “Mr Mandela you are a special icon, it’s an honour for me to wish you an 89th birthday. I wish there is many more for you sir”.

    Carmen Harenberg,"I hope you have an absolute fantastic day”.

    Kihaam Manuel, “Happy Birthday Nelson ‘Madiba’ Mandela, I hope you have a wonderful birthday 89th birthday and may God spare you for many more years”.

    Vincent Songezo Mcetywa, “I wish you many more years to come”.

    Celeste Magwa, "Happy Birthday Tata Madiba! Long live, long live”.

    Yonela Makhala, “Happy Birthday Nelson Mandela and we wish you many more”.

    Sikhumbule Mathokazi, “Happy Birthday Tata Madiba and thanks for your hard work and for setting us free may God keep you”.

    Hijackers hospitalised after shoot out

    Celeste Ganga
    18 July 2007

    A shoot out that occurred between police and two alleged hijackers on Tuesday evening in Mowbray, resulted in the two suspects being hospitalised.

    The incident occurred when a Claremont resident was allegedly approached by the two men as she got out of her car outside her house in Spencer Road. She was held at gunpoint. The suspects took her keys and sped off with her car.

    “Police in the area spotted the speeding vehicle less than five minutes after the hijacking. The suspects were chased down Liesbeek Road, towards the N2, and along Klipfontein Road,” says police spokesperson Randal Stoffels.

    “At the corner of Klipfontein and Campground Road one of the suspects, the passenger, fired shots at police officers, who returned fire,” says Stoffels.

    The two men sustained gunshot wounds to the leg and chest.

    Police arrested a 27-year-old man on the scene and found a firearm with its serial number filed off. Another suspect was arrested not to far from the scene.

    Both men are to appear in court soon.

    Bookings for driver's licences a major struggle

    By Tina George
    18 July 2007


    Hundreds of people queued for hours to book for their learner’s and drivers licence appointments at Gallows Hill Traffic Department in Green Point on Wednesday.

    “We experiencing it mostly at our testings and the pace at which we move is how the system allows us to work, that being the inative system," says Gallows Hill Traffic Department spokesperson Searle Johannes.

    Others complained about the disorganisation and many closed counters.

    “The increase in demand is primarily the reason for this greater demand and the long queues, we have maximum capacity in terms of our staff and all our areas are manned," says Johannes

    Johannes added that if they put it into perspective then the service delivery that they are providing as a city is presently operating at an optimal pace and maximum strength.

    Unions to discuss extra pay for teachers with WCED

    By Rhodé Marshall
    18 July 2007

    The South African Democratic Teachers Union (SADTU) says, teachers who are putting in extra time to help pupils catch up on lost work should be paid.

    Some teachers have spent extra hours at school during the week or on weekends to help pupils.

    “It is only right that educators are paid for the additional work they do,” says the provincial secretary of SADTU, Jonavon Rustin.

    Rustin added that the Employment of Educators Act makes provision for teachers to be paid additionally.

    “Teachers should be paid up to R135 or more for every extra hour they work,” says Rustin.

    The union is also extremely concerned that the Western Cape Education Department’s recovery plan has not paid as much attention to Grade R to Grade 10 learners as they have to Grade 11 and Grade 12 pupils.

    Education MEC Cameron Dugmore is set to meet with union representatives today to discuss the recovery plan and the payment of teachers.

    Tuesday, July 17, 2007

    Rail identified as city's 2010 mode of transport

    Celeste Ganga
    17 July 2007

    The city has identified rail as the main mode of transport that will be used during the 2010 Soccer World Cup. The aim is to encourage people to use rail as the public transport system instead of a commuter facility.

    Around the different railway stations, the city will be developing park-and-ride facilities and public service upgrades.

    At least seven renovated coaches will be added on the Mitchell's Plain and Khayelitsha lines, four on the Cape Town-Bellville line and two on the Simon's Town line.

    “New stations on the Cape Flats that were being planned include the new Khayelitsha station, which is favoured for park and ride facilities,” says City Director of Transport, Maddie Mazaza.

    At the new and renovated stations, land would be made available for development such as small shopping malls.

    “We know that it’s still difficult for other people to use rail because it was designed for the urban poor and there are still safety concerns, but we are using 2010 as a catalyst. We’ve signed an agreement with Fifa that we will have zero probability of failure,” says Mazaza.

    Eight-year-old girl shot dead at her home

    By Anele Siwa
    17 July 2007

    An eight-year-old girl was shot dead while watching TV and 22-year-old man was seriously wounded in a shooting incident on Monday evening.

    The drama unfolded at a house in Gxiya Street, Browns Farm near Nyanga, when three unknown men entered the house while the victims were watching TV in the living room.

    One of the suspects then held them at gunpoint and in the process a fight broke out between the gunmen and the young man.

    “The suspects fired several shots at eight-year old girl who sustained a gunshot wound to the head. The 22-year old sustained a gunshot wound to his right side of his body,” says police spokesperson Randall Stoffels.

    “Both victims were taken to hospital for treatment, but the eight-year old victim passed away due to a head injury sustained,” says Stoffels.

    The suspects fled the scene on foot and are still at large.

    Police are investigating a case of murder and attempted murder. Anyone with information can contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111.

    Car thieves appear in court

    By Rhodé Marshall
    17 July 2007

    A couple will appear in the Cape Town Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday after the two were arrested in Woodstock, Cape Town for car theft and the possession of drugs.

    According to police the arrest follows after the Provincial Organised Crime Unit followed up information on a possible stolen vehicle and car parts at a house in Premier Road.

    “On their arrival they came across vehicle parts belonging to a Nissan in the garage,” says police spokesperson Randall Stoffels.

    “When police searched the house, police found a small quantity of drugs, two unlicensed firearms, two magazines with rounds of ammunition and an undisclosed amount of cash,” says Stoffels.

    The discovered stolen vehicle was later established to have been reported stolen in Kraaifontein. The firearms will be sent for ballistic testing to determine if it has been used in any serious and violent crime.

    The two face charges of theft of a motor vehicle, possession of illegal firearms and ammunition and possession of drugs.

    Monday, July 16, 2007

    The search for fisherman

    By Tina George
    16 July 2007

    A man is missing and presumed drowned at Skuinsbank, between the Kaaiman’s River mouth and Victoria Bay along the Cape south coast after he was swept out to sea while fishing.

    The 34 year-old Conrad Kabb had been fishing from the rocks yesterday with two young boys and a young girl.

    “The search is continuing for the George resident. Today, the police unit as well as an NSRI rescue craft, the fire and rescue services using a quad bike for shore searches as well as metro rescue helicopter have continued to search but nothing has been found up to now and the search is continuing,” says NSRI spokesperson Craig Lambinon.

    The NSRI has appealed to anglers fishing from the shore or wading to wear life jackets.

    Search for missing boy called off

    By Anele siwa
    16 July 2007

    A search for a 12-year old Phumlani Tshotsho who went missing on Thursday in Vlei near N2 at Khayelitsha has been called off.

    “Police divers searched from 10am to 2pm yesterday. We decided to call off the search after being hampered by dense weeds,” says police spokesperson Siphokazi Mawisa

    Phumlani and his older brother Sibelele were playing near the vlei on Thursday when two men who frightened the boys.

    Mawisa added that police had still not found any sign of the boy and had to call off the search yesterday after additional equipment from the fire department failed to arrive.

    Community Infomation Network

    By Tina George
    17 July 2007

    #Simon’s Town Museum will have a “knit a jersey project” from July to November. This is part of the museum’s awareness programme on HIV/Aids. Drop off your jerseys at the museum or contact Suzette Farmer at 021 786 3046 for information. The jerseys will be handed to a HIV/Aids charity on December 1
    (Aids Day) at the museum.

    #The Fish Hoek Library has a film show on Fridays at 2pm, for senior citizens. Tea and cake is served, with a small donation for tea. For preschoolers there is a story hour on Fridays at 11am. For information call 021 784 2030

    #The 17th international congress for analytical psychology will be held in Cape Town Convention Centre from Monday August 1 to Friday August 5. It is hosted by SAAJ, the South African Association of Jungian Analysts. The theme of the Congress is Journeys Encounters and there will be an art exhibition on the theme and the association needs artworks to display. Call Kate Gottgens on 021 761 6725 or 083 375 1265 or Josie Grindrod on 072 207 0401 for details.

    #A cultural club meets on Thursdays, from 4pm at ArtapArt, 21 Church Street, Muizenberg to play chess, backgammon and scrabble. Call 021 788 1121 for details.

    #Stand Up Parent Support Group and Resource Centre meets at Diep River police station every Monday at 7.30 pm to educate parents and children who have drug problems. Call Careena 083 391 3752 or 021 7019442 or Charlene on 082 269 6838 or 021 712 5652

    If you have any information for the CIN team regarding events happening in you community, please feel free to contact us on 021 4485450 or fax us on 021 448 5451. Alternatively you can email us on news@bushradio.co.za.

    Langa N2 Gateway residents to march to Parliament

    Celeste Ganga
    16 July 2007

    Close to 500 residents from the N2 Gateway Tenants Committee, are expected to march to the gates of Parliament on Tuesday.

    The resident of the N2 Gateway flats in Langa are protesting against the high rents for their substandard, new flats.

    Other problems experienced by the tenants are: huge cracks in the walls, leaking roofs.

    “One top of this, the flats are tiny and the rent is extremely high for a rotten potato,” says Chairperson of the Tenants Committee, Luthando Ndabambi.

    “The committee submitted CDs of photos to the Rental Housing Tribunal and the MEC but to no avail,” says Ndabambi.

    The committee has also vowed to support the remaining residents of Joe Slovo informal settlement in Langa, who face forced removal next month.

    Bush Radio tried to get hold of spokesperson for the MEC; Vusi Tshose he was unavailable for comment.

    Sunday, July 15, 2007

    Car thieves held as cops raid chop shop

    By Tina George
    15 July


    Just one week after a vehicle theft kingpin was arrested in Hanover Park, police made two more arrests in a string operation on a Brown’s Farm chop shop this week.

    Two men, aged 34 and 36, were arrested yesterday after police obtained a search warrant for premises in Monwood Road, Philippi.

    “The premises were entered into and police received 10 stolen vehicles, three engines, four Mazda loading bins and other mechanical equipment,” says police spokesperson Bernadine Steyn.

    “The two suspects were arrested for possession of possible stolen property,” says Steyn.

    The two men are expected to appear in the Philippi Magistrates Court tomorrow.

    Prior to these arrests, investigations led police to Isgaan Adams, described by police as a kingpin who was arrested at his house last week.

    “The 24 year-old was charged on six cases, five charges of theft of motor vehicles that occurred between March 2002 and October 2005 in Kirstenhof, Cape Town central, Camps Bay, Claremont and Grassy Park,” says Steyn

    Adams appeared in the Wynberg Regional Court on Friday and the case was postponed to July 30.

    Saturday, July 14, 2007

    South African rock star to sing Anthem

    By Anele Siwa
    14 July 2007

    Pete Guthrie, vocalist of chart-topping South African rock group Spoonfeeddas will deliver the South African National Anthem before the start of Vodacom Tri-Nations Test between Springboks and All Blacks today.

    “We are extremely proud of musicians we have in this country, so we had an opportunity of having South African musician to sing in Christchurch”, says South African Rugby event Manager Jenny Wentzel.

    Wentzel added that the jumped into that opportunity and tried to find who is available because it’s not something he will be paid for.

    “We found that he from Durban band and basically he paid for himself to get to Christchurch.

    Guthrie says he is excited, not just because he will be performing what he believes to be the most powerful and motivating national anthem in the world, but because he is such a passionate and patriotic South African.

    Illegal buliding of roads lands City officials in hot water

    By Tina George
    14 July 2007

    The City of Cape Officials has been implicated with regards to an investigation into an illegal road construction in Table Mountain National Park.

    “The people are not yet aware that they have been implicated and we cannot release their names as that would be grossly unprofessional,” says director of the city’s water and sanitation Sipho Mosai.

    He said the city’s industrial relations department was examining the report. The city would not say how many officials have been identified.

    The city is to meet about the matter on Monday morning. The report into the illegal ripping up of vegetation at Orangekloof, was completed over two weeks ago.

    Mosai said departments had been issued with deadlines to study the report. He added that due to complications of the incident, the process could drag.

    The investigation was launched after the waterworks department started construction for a 250m road through the restricted Orangekloof area earlier this year.

    Yellowwood, rooiels and boekenhout were among the protected vegetation destroyed, however restoration efforts are in action.

    Friday, July 13, 2007

    Mentally handicapped man goes missing again

    By Rhodé Marshall
    13 July 2007

    A 19-year-old mentally handicapped man has gone missing from his home in Gugulethu.

    Lionel Gqosha, was last seen Tuesday morning wearing black shorts, a white t-shirt, he is light of complexion.

    “A man phoned to say he saw Lionel on a train to Cape Town station, where he got off and walked an unfamiliar direction,” says Matthew Gqosha.

    However this is not the first time he has gone missing. The last two incidences he was found in Malmesbury and the other in Somerset West. Both times he took the train there.

    “Lionel can’t speak, he won’t be able to say where he belongs, but will respond to the nickname ‘Kleintjie’,” says Gqosha.

    His family is extremely concerned as he is on medication and does not have it with him.

    Anyone with information can call his mother on 072 041 9580 or his brother Matthew on 078 188 8946.

    Green Point bids to be evaluated

    Celeste Ganga
    13 July 2007

    Three tenders have been received by the City of Cape Town regarding the operating of the Green Point Stadium and Common after the 2010 Soccer World Cup.

    “The City’s procurement committee will now verify the bids to see if they comply with tender specifications,” says Executive Director of Service Delivery Integration, Mark Marsden.

    “This would be followed by a bid evaluation committee hearing to analyse and evaluate bids,” Marsden added.

    An open sitting has been arranged for the bid adjudication committee for the award. The completion of the anticipated process will be in a month’s time.

    The council has committed R120 million for redeveloping of the common.

    Community Infomation Network

    By Anele Siwa
    13 July 2007

    # The Multipurpose-Talent Group presents judgement day on the 14th July 2007. The group will perform marimba, majaivana, traditional dance, drama and poetry. The venue is at the Sports Complex NY1 and NY2 at 12:00 till 17:00 in the afternoon. Tickets cost R5, 00. For more information contact Lotta Mayana at 072 175 9543 or 072 4458382.

    # Free parent-infant intervention training is offered to women living in Nyanga, Guguleth, Site C and Town 2. Applicants must be parents with a matric certificate, 25 or older, keen to work with parents and infants and be able to attend training sessions on Thursdays. For details you can contact Venecia Barries
    on 021 762 0116.

    # The Simon van der Stel Foundation will be hosting a slide presentation by John Muir the event which makes up part of Cape Town’s Heritage starts on Saturday 14th July at 2:30 pm at the Huis der Nederlanden 4, Central Square in Pinelands. Tickets are available at R45 and for more information call Andrew Johnson at 021 788 7342.

    # An introduction to sign language course, to teach hearing people how to communicate with the deaf, takes place at 16 Summerley Road in Kenilworth. The course starts on Monday 23 July from 7:30pm till 21:00 pm. Contact June on 021 683 3719 for details.


    # The young morning stars singkoor will have a dinner by candle light on Saturday 14th July 2007 at half past seven in the evening at Glendale High School tickets cost R75 and for information contact M. Khan on 072656 4673.

    If you have any information for the CIN team please free to send us an email to news@bushradio.co.za you can also contact us on 021 448 5450 or fax us on 021 448 5451 if you have missed any of the numbers mentioned.

    Talks pave the way for ending strike

    By Anele Siwa
    13 July 2007

    The National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa and Steel Engineering Industry Federation have concluded a historic agreement resolving to end the strike.

    The three-year deal exceeds all other deals concluded in the past.

    The implementation of the new five grade job structure will include: employees share ownership scheme, generate more employment opportunities in the metal engineering industry and offer skills development.

    “What is happening now, we have taken all the latest proposals to our local councils. We have also decided that this is one of the best agreements,” says NUMSA national spokesperson, Mziwakhe Hlangani.

    The agreement is first, which surpasses all other negotiated settlements in most sectors,” says Hlangani.

    The agreement will be signed by on Friday, July 13.

    Thursday, July 12, 2007

    Parents of Candice Kasper arrested

    By Rhodé Marshall
    12 July 2007

    The parents of eight-year-old Candice Kasper from Kraaifontein, who disappeared from her home on Saturday, have been arrested.

    Sophia and Frederick Kasper were charged by the Family Violence, Child and Sexual Offences Unit (FCS), they both face charges of child negligence as well as child abuse.

    According to reports Candice was under the influence of alcohol when she disappeared from her home.

    “We appeal to all parents and legal guardians of children to be extra cautious about the whereabouts of their children,” says police spokesperson Elliot Sinyangana.

    “Candice was found unharmed on Wednesday at the Cravenby Care Centre in Ravenmead,” says Sinyangana.

    Sophia and Frederick Kasper will appear in the Blue Downs Magistrate’s Court on Friday, 13 July.

    Illegal connections the cause for power cuts in Phillipi East

    By Celeste Ganga
    12 July 2007

    The electricity supply in Philippi East and Lower Crossroads has been restored on Monday. This comes after residents were left in the dark since Saturday evening.

    “Illegal connections overloaded the network in the area resulting in an internal fault to a transformer. After attempts to repair the transformer it was decided to install a new one,” Eskom Distributional Regional spokesperson, Mbulelo Mvana.

    According to residents, numerous calls were made to Eskom to send a technician, but their attempts were unsuccessful.

    “Eskom’s technical team worked during the weekend to restore the supply. Unfortunately heavy rain and strong windy conditions were aslo not conducive to ensuring the safety of the employees,” says Mvana.

    Mvana added that the support of residents to not interfer with repairs; by taking off pieces of equipment from the Eskom vehicles is vital.

    Report any illegal connections to the hotline number on 0860 037 566.

    Police officer arrested for wife's murder in Stellenbosch

    A police officer in the Western Cape is set to appear in court shortly after being arrested for the murder of his wife in Stellenbosch. Th...