'United by Unique’ - World Cancer Day 2025

World Cancer Day is marked annually on 4 February and the global campaign theme is ‘United by Unique’ calling for a fundamental shift in cancer care and health systems worldwide towards a people-centred approach. 

PICTURE: WHO

Cancer is a major and growing public health problem globally. In 2022, there were an estimated 20 million new cancer cases, and 9.7 million lives lost to cancer. About 1 in 5 people develop cancer in their lifetime, and for each person whom it affects, the experience will be different.  Predictions are that in South Africa, the cancer incidence is set to double by 2030. It’s projected that there will be an incidence of 220 000 new cases by then.

“To improve cancer care in South Africa, health care providers can be sensitive to patients’ perceptions and educate people about cancer and treatment. A people-centre approach leads to improved patient well-being, and higher quality care and increased trust in healthcare providers. It boosts satisfaction among patients and families, while improving health equity and the overall effectiveness of healthcare systems. In some cultures, cancer is still a taboo subject and universally, for many of us, it’s tough and uncomfortable. Yet, talking about cancer openly raises awareness, improves outcomes, and can ultimately save lives,’’ said Elize Joubert, Cancer association of South Africa (CANSA) CEO.

“By understanding and integrating the needs and preferences of individuals and communities into healthcare delivery, health systems will provide more equitable access to care, in low- as well as high-income settings. It is important that people living with cancer feel seen, heard, and empowered,’’ said Dr Cary Adams, CEO of Union for International Cancer Control (UICC)

Speaking on Bush Radio’s everyday people on Tuesday, specialist surgeon, Dr Fatima Hoosain, outlines how more people are cognizant of the illness.

‘’I think it is a lifestyle changes that has happened. Obesity has become more prevalent. It is easily accessible and not necessarily healthy, and we do not have time to rest and enjoy life.’’

 

Done by: Mitchum George

Bullying incidents at two Cape Town schools

The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) says it is investigating two incidents of alleged bullying.

In the first case, a Grade 8 learner was ambushed and assaulted by a group of learners in a toilet cubicle at Leiden High School on Friday. The boy was covered in feces. It is understood that the boy requested to use the toilet and on his way back to class, he was confronted by a group of boys who done this vicious deed to him.

The WCED described the incident as ‘’extremely disturbing’’

‘’The Western Cape Education Department is aware of the "extremely disturbing allegations". An investigation is underway and the perpetrators will face disciplinary action. Contact has been made with the victim’s family and support is being provided for the victim,’’ said Bronagh Hammond, WCED spokesperson.

‘’These allegations are serious and concerning and no pupil should be subjected to such abuse. It is also extremely disappointing that so many learners were allegedly involved in the incident. It is a reminder to all parents to continuously engagements with their children on values and positive behaviour. We will continue to monitor the situation as the process moves forward,’’ she added.

Meanwhile, a video of learners fighting at a Mitchells Plain school has gone viral.

The WCED’s Bronagh Hammond said the incident occurred during the interval during class periods.

SCREENSHOT OF VIDEO

Western Cape police confirmed to Bush Radio news that the fight was between two local gang groupings.

‘’There was a fight that broke out at a school premises during school hours. The fight was between two local gang groupings. All those implicated in the fight was suspended immediately by the School Management. Kindly be advised that you can forward your enquiry to the spokesperson of the Department of Education for a response,’’ said Captain F.C Van Wyk, Western Cape police spokesperson.

Hammond says disciplinary action will be taken.

‘’The police were called in and the situation was stabilised. The school will be addressing this in terms of their disciplinary procedures, but this is again a request to parents to have continuous engagements with their children on positive behaviour and values. We cannot have violence on our schools.’’

Done By: Mitchum George

Former SSA Minister granted bail for alleged corruption charges

Former Minister of State Security Agency, Bongani Thomas Bongo appeared in the Cape Town Magistrates Court on Tuesday, following his arrest the same day for alleged corruption charges.

It is reported that during September to October 2017, Bongo approached a member of the then Portfolio Committee on Public Enterprises to allegedly arrange a meeting to prevent the next sitting where the Eskom board was to account. Eventually, the suspect secured the meeting wherein he indicated that the Portfolio Committee sitting with the Eskom board cannot proceed as planned and indicated that was possible of gratification

The 47-year-old was granted R5000 and his case was postponed to 4 March 2025

 

Done by: Esobusi Mkangelwa

Two security guards shot and killed in Langa

Two security guards were shot and killed in Langa, on Monday evening.

Police spokesperson, Captain F.C van Wyk said the men were escorting a delivery vehicle and the last delivery was in Langa, whereby they came under attack at Harry Gwala Street opposite the Langa taxi rank.

‘’Langa police registered two counts of murder following a shooting incident last night (Monday, 2025-02-03) at about 18:26 at Harry Gwalla Street opposite the Langa taxi rank, Langa, where two males (security guards) aged 24 and 31 were shot and fatally wounded,’’ said Captain F.C Van Wyk, Western Cape police spokesperson.

‘’According to reports the security guards were escorting a delivery vehicle and the last delivery was in Langa. On their way back at the circle, it's alleged that two unknown males shot at the white Nissan LDV they were driving in, fatally wounding them. Nothing were taken from them, both firearms were recovered in the vehicle,’’ he added.

Police said the motive is suspected to be robbery.

Anyone with information about this fatal shooting incident is requested to contact the investigating officer Detective Lt Col Adrian Pretorius attached to the Provincial Serious and Violent Crimes Investigations on 082 777 8499 or Crime Stop on 08600 10111

 

Done by: Elona Sibunzi

Alleged gangster fatally shot outside Athlone court

An alleged gangster of the Americans was fatally shot outside the Athlone magistrates Court, which is meters away from the Athlone police station.

PICTURE: Pixabay

Police confirmed that they are investigating a case of murder of the 43-year-old man.

‘’According to reports the deceased was sitting on the pavement at the mentioned address, opposite the Athlone Magistrates court. An unidentified male walked up to him and fired several gunshots at him. He died on the scene due to injuries sustained,’’ said Captain F.C Van Wyk, Western Cape police spokesperson.

He said the motive for the incident is under investigation and that the suspect fled the scene and is yet to be arrested.

Last Thursday, an alleged gang leader of the Junky Funky Kidz (JFK) in Lavender Hill has been shot and killed outside the Brackenfell police station. It is understood that he went to the police station to sign for his bail conditions. Police confirmed to Bush Radio News that a shooting incident took place just before 10a.m on Thursday, fatally injuring Ashley Phillips, also known as Essie.

 

Done By: Elona Sibunzi

Suspected vigilantism attack in Gushendoda, Delft South

Delft police are investigating the cause of a suspected vigilantism attack that occurred in the early hours of Tuesday in Gushendoda in Delft South.

PICTURE: Pixabay

Police spokesperson, Colonel Andrè Traut said three people were set alight after gunshots were heard.

‘’ Detectives attached to the Provincial Serious and Violent Crimes unit are probing the circumstances that led to the death of three people, following the discovery of the crime scene this morning [Tuesday] at about 07:30 in Gushendoda in Delft South. The victims were shot and set alight in what we believe is an act of vigilantism, after shots were heard during the early hours of this morning. Two of the bodies are male and the third one is believed to be a female, as identification is yet to be made. What led to the multiple murder is yet to be determined and the suspects are yet to be arrested,’’ said Colonel Andrè Traut, Western Cape police spokesperson.

‘’Vigilantism is condemned in the strongest possible terms and offenders are regarded as ruthless criminals who can expect to be dealt with in a court of law. Harbouring a criminal is also punishable by law,’’ he added.

Anyone with information regarding the incident are urged to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111

 

Done by: Esobusi Mkangelwa

National commissioner commends SAPS for their success during the 2024 festive season

 The minister of police Senzo Mchunu alongside national commissioner of the SAPS Fannie Masemola briefed the media yesterday about the successes the police made during the 2024 festive season.

 

The seasons successes were all thanks to the men and women in blue that dedicated their time and effort to ensure that citizens are safe. Masemola said the festive season is a busy period for the SAPS as they ensure the safety of citizens during the holiday season and continued to commend them for efforts and hard work.

 244 951 suspects were arrested during the October to January festive period.With the help of operation Shanela the police intensified their prevention and combatting strategies on serious crimes.

 

Roadblocks, track and tracing, stop and search operations were just a few of the successful operations. All departments of SAPS worked together to ensure that crime during the festive period was limited and prevented. 

2 999 newly trained constables joined to the force during the October and December period. This ensured more visible police, combatting crime efforts and even more protection for citizens located at hotspots. 5 500 recruits are expected to join a number of training colleges in the country by this week. New trainees will also join the force this week. 

In the last years 20 000 police officials were deployed as wanted by President Cyril Ramaphosa. During the festive period 2 million patrols were conducted 4 600 road blocks, 620 stop and searches according to Masemola 2 million people were searched.

 

Suspects arrested for murder and attempted murder were 4 501, suspects arrested for rape and attempt to rape 3 983, suspects arrested for assault and gender based violence were 27 640 and 17 311 suspects were arrested for common assault. 4 675 suspects were arrested for dealing in drugs and 27 000 suspects were arrested for possession of drugs. 10 042 suspects were arrested for dealing illegally with liquor. 1 952 were arrested for illegal possession of firearms while 1 380 were arrested for being in illegal possession of ammunition. 9 540 suspects were arrested for driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol. And during this period, 25 950 illegal immigrants were arrested for being in the country illegally. 

Seizures and recoveries a total of 2 198 illegal and unlicensed firearms were seized and confiscated during police operations. These include 1 731 handguns, 154 homemade guns, 211 rifles and 102 shotguns.The majority of firearms seized where confiscated in Kwazulu-Natal, Gauteng, Eastern Cape and the Western Cape province. Firearms remain a big problem in South Africa as most serious and violent crimes including murders were committed with the use of a firearm. 37 658 rounds of ammunition were also seized.

1 767 explosives that are mainly used in illegal mining activities and cash in transit armed robberies were also seized. A total of R4 million in cash was recovered.116 293 cell phones which were stolen or used in the commission of crimes were also seized for further analysis. And lastly, a total of 960 stolen and hijacked vehicles were recovered.

 

The minister says the men and women in blue are working extremely hard to ensure the perpetrators of gbv are apprehended. From the period 01 October 2024 to 31 December 2024 – a total of 9 908 accused were found guilty and convicted for various crimes including murder, rape, armed robberies, house breaking and car hijacking.

603 accused were handed down life sentences during this period. 149 of them were convicted to life for murder while 433 were sentenced to life for rape.

71 accused were convicted to 40 years and above imprisonment sentence. 46 of them were convicted for murder while 12 were convicted for rape.

105 accused were convicted to between 30 and 39 years imprisonment sentence. 54 of them were convicted for murder and 16 for rape.

750 accused were convicted to between 20 and 29 years imprisonment sentence. 300 of them for murder and 307 for rape.

3431 accused were convicted to between 10 and 19 years imprisonment sentence. 963 of them for murder and 706 for rape.

4948 accused were convicted to between 4 to 9 years imprisonment sentence. 574 of them for murder and 371 for rape.

332 accused were convicted to time in prison for housebreaking. Five of them were handed down life sentences and another five were convicted to 40 years and more time in prison.

310 robbers were convicted to time in prison for committing a robbery with a firearm. Four of them were convicted to life in prison.

240 robbers were convicted to time in prison for business robbery. Three of them were convicted to life in prison.

166 car hijackers convicted to time in prison. Four of them were handed down life sentences.

The ongoing attacks and killing of the men and women in blue cannot continue the minister says. From October 2024 to date, 9 on-duty police officers and 12 off-duty police officers have been killed. During the festive period, thirty police killers were arrested with seven convicted to 22 life and additional 725 years imprisonment sentences.

 Masemola ended off by thanking and encouraging police officials and reminded them what their role is as public protectors. 

 Done by: Shaneca Cupido

 

West London All Stars crowned overall champions for 2025 Klopse competition

The 2025 Minstrel Competition came to an exciting close on Saturday, as the West London All Stars were crowned overall champions.

The four-week event, ended on a high note with teams battling it out in the final categories: Juvenile Combined Chorus, Coon Song, Best Band, and Group Song.

The West London All Stars took home the overall winner prize. In second place were Baruch Entertainers and Playaz Inc took third place.

The winners for Section 2 who competed on Saturday 1 February, were Juvie Boy Entertainers, and Philadelphians Sporting Club and Youth Development, Ashley Willemse Orient in second and third place, respectively.

 

Done by: Mitchum George

Suspects arrested for pedestrian and cyclist attacks in Woodstock

The Western Cape Mobility MEC, Isaac Sileku, has welcomed the arrests of suspects allegedly responsible for pedestrian and cyclist attacks in Woodstock.

PICTURE: SAPS

The police confirmed on Friday that they have arrested 18 suspects linked to a recent spate of robberies in the area. More than 20 cyclists were robbed in December.

‘’Following numerous complaints of robberies involving cyclists and pedestrians who are robbed and injured at Lower Church Street and the N1 Highway, Woodstock police compiled an operational plan to deal with the situation at hand. A integrated operation between SAPS and other law enforcement agencies were conducted on Friday morning, 31 January 2025 which resulted in the arrest of several suspects. During this operation, 18 undocumented persons were arrested. The members conducted searches and arrested three suspects for the possession on drugs and one for the possession of a dangerous weapon,’’ said Sergeant Wesley Twigg, Western Cape police spokesperson.

The suspects are expected to appear in the Cape Town Magistrate’s Court on Monday.

Sileku urges the public to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities, and collaborate with authorities to prevent future incidents.

“These alleged criminals posed a serious threat to the safety of cyclists, pedestrians and commuters. Their arrests are a crucial step in ensuring that our non-motorised routes remain safe for everyone to use.”

“I commend the efforts by the SAPS and all enforcement agencies who heeded our call to bring these offenders to justice. No one should have to fear for their safety while cycling, walking and commuting in our province,’’ added Sileku.

 

🚨 Minister Sileku Commends SAPS for Swift Action in Protecting Cyclists & Pedestrians pic.twitter.com/0WL1v2Fm0A

— Minister Isaac Sileku (@IsaacSileku) February 1, 2025

Done By: Esobusi Mkangelwa

Public hearings on Tobacco Bill in Western Cape concludes

The Portfolio Committee on Health recently concluded hearings on the Tobacco Bill and Electronic Delivery Systems Control in the Western Cape. The committee says the majority of the residents in the George Municipality supported the intentions and benefits of the bill.

PICTURE: Pixabay

Supporters stated that the prevalence of products, such as hookah pipes and vapes, is increasingly enticing young people and exposing them to harm.

Meanwhile, some residents argued that the bill would prove detrimental to the economy, ending the tobacco industry and resulting in unemployment.

Small-scale traders also had concerns that the prohibition on the sale of single-stick cigarettes will have a devastating impact on their livelihoods.

The National Informal Traders Alliance of South Africa (NITASA) has strongly reaffirmed its opposition to the proposed Bill. President of NITASA, Rosheda Muller, said that the Bill is being rushed back into Parliament despite not having undergone thorough scrutiny by the new government and parliamentary committees

 “This is a new government and a new Parliament. Many of the current committee members have not been part of previous discussions and are unaware of the concerns we raised in the last parliamentary cycle. This Bill should not simply be revived without proper consideration of the impact that it will have on a vast section of the economy.’’

 

Done by: Shaneca Cupido

Khayelitsha pastor arrested for alleged rape

A 51-year-old Khayelitsha pastor has been arrested for the alleged rape and assault of his congregants.

The 51-year-old was arrested after the police received a tip-off from the community members and survivors.

Picture: Pixabay 

It is alleged that the man had been sexually assaulting his congregants since 2022.

He allegedly forced his victims to stay after services before raping them.

The pastor remains in custody and will appear in the Khayelitsha Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday. 

”The victims 15, 22 and 23 are safe and is receiving treatment and counselling”  police spokesperson Sergeant, Wesley Twigg. 

Done By: Elona Sibunzi 

  

Case against Joshlin Smith accused postponed to February

The case against the accused in the Joshlin Smith kidnapping has been postponed to February.

Joshlin’s mother - Kelly Smith, her boyfriend, Jacquen Appollis, and Steveno van Rhyn face charges of kidnapping and trafficking in persons for exploitation. This after Joslin mysteriously disappeared on 19 February 2024, in Saldanha Bay while in the care of Appollis.

The Western Cape High Court heard on Friday that Appollis and van Rhyn were not in court due to an administration error. The case has been postponed to 28 February for a pre-trial hearing.

"My registrar will ensure that the remaining accused are requisitioned to be brought here on the 28th of February. Of course, if they need to have an open pre-trial hearing, then I will make the arrangements through my registrar for them to appear earlier.

"I cannot at this stage speak about a trial date, although I understand the state is keen and that the members of the community are keen for this matter to be finalised; however, we need to ensure that the integrity of the pre-trial processes be adhered to and protected so that ultimately the resources spent on preparing for trial, all the necessary arrangements, resources of funds and time and workforce are not unduly wasted, and that any arrangements regarding a trial date be made after the finalisation of it being declared trial ready.

"There is a proviso that interlocutory issues will be brought to my attention, and I will give directives regarding that where necessary and only in regard to logistical aspects, not issues on merits. I will engage with Justice Erasmus, and similarly, our officers will all engage with each other to ensure that you are also satisfied with that arrangement.

"If by the 28th our pre-trial will proceed and if all arrangements are adequately prepared, then I will declare trial ready, and the trial will proceed on the 3rd (of February). Nothing stops us at this point from establishing over the next week or so whether that is a feasible date or a doable date."

The High Court Judge says there are decisions to have the Joslin Smith trial as a circuit matter. This as the community of Saldanha Bay and surrounding areas have shown interest in the court matter.

"That community has got a substantial interest in the matter and would like to attend and the access to justice being a fundamental principle, we would obviously need to accommodate that factor and for that reason the matter will be heard in an appropriate forum in what I understand to be the Saldanha area.

"We are dealing with human trafficking and kidnapping charge of a young child, a young little girl, in the absence of any further charges or amendments by the state, we must presume that little Joslin is still alive."

 

Done by: Mitchum George

Load shedding returns

Eskom will implement stage 3 load shedding from 5pm on Friday. The sudden return of planned power cuts comes after 10 months of no load shedding. The power utility said this was due to breakdowns at Lethabo and Matimba power station.

PICTURE: Pixabay

Eskom management and Electricity Minister briefed the media in Johannesburg. Eskom CEO, Dan Marokane, said the rolling power cuts will be continue throughout the weekend.

"We will start load shedding at 5pm today and we'll run it throughout the weekend. Primarily, the objective is to build the reserves that we relied on quite extensively since the beginning of this week.

"The reliance on the reserves was occasioned by the unfortunate and combination of multiple unit trips of the big two stations Lethabo and Matimba, we are well progressed in getting these units back on track. They'll be coming through over the weekend and early in the new week," he added.

The City of Cape Town announced that its customers will alternate between Stage 1 and Stage 3 load shedding.

 

City to help customers, reduce Eskom load-shedding impact

City customers load-shedding schedule
31 January 2025
Stage 1: 17:00 – 22:00
Stage 3: 22:00 – 06:00

Updates to follow.
Eskom’s load-shedding resumes at 17:00 this evening and is expected to carry on through the weekend. pic.twitter.com/rl17YxAG9e

— City of Cape Town (@CityofCT) January 31, 2025

Done by: Shaneca Cupido

Public participation on old Woodstock Hospital site/Cissie Gool House closes on Friday

Capetonians and interested parties have until 17:00 on Friday to share their views on plans to renovate an old Woodstock Hospital site into a housing development.

A public participation period on the Woodstock Hospital site or Cissie Gool House opened in September 2024 and was extended to 31 January 2025.

Housing advocacy Reclaim the City hand-delivered submissions on the future of the Old Woodstock hospital at the Civic Centre on Friday morning.

PHOTO: X - @ReclaimTheCity

‘’The City of Cape Town (City) has announced plans to dispose of our home, Cissie Gool House (CGH), a place we have lived in and built our lives around for nearly a decade. Many people living in CGH were born and raised in Woodstock, this is our ancestral place, our living heritage is here. Despite our long-standing presence, the City has failed to meaningfully engage with us, the residents. Instead, this process has become yet another threat of evictions and displacement. Apartheid may have ended in law, but it persists in the exclusionary economic policies that continue to push poor and working-class people out of well-located areas,’’ said Karen Hendricks, Reclaim the City Woodstock Chapter leader.

‘’ Without well-located transitional housing, many families have been forcibly removed. The housing market’s exclusionary nature further deepens spatial inequality, forcing poor and working-class people to the outskirts of the city. We too could have been displaced. But in 2017, when we occupied Cissie Gool House, we found refuge. Today, more than 900 people, including women, children, and the elderly, call this place home. Now, the City’s plans threaten to evict and displace us once again,’’ she added.

Speaking on Bush Radio's Sakhsizwe programme, earlier this week, Kopano Mashike, a filmmaker and storyteller, documented life inside the Cissie Gool House and shared her experience.

‘’I think people try and hold space for each other the best way they are able to. Everyone is worried about what will happen. A community meeting was held in Woodstock and what the chairperson said there will not be a mass eviction, but an incremental eviction… I feel like occupiers of the Cissie Gool house does  not know what is happening as they are being spoken to in a language they do not understand.’’

Comments can be submitted to leanetteanathi.dywili@capetown.gov.za & affordable.housing@capetown.gov.za or online submissions can be made.

 

Done by: Mitchum George

Housing Crisis Ignored: Good Party Slams Provincial Government's Plan for Tafelberg Site

The Good Party in the Western Cape criticised the provincial government’s decision to use part of the Tafelberg School site for social services.

The government wants to use the school building for social services for disabled or elderly people. This is according to Infrastructure MEC Tertuis Simmers.

Premier Alan Winde, however, said that his administration would make the site available for affordable housing six years ago.

Good’s Secretary General, Brett Herron, says Winde has since gone back on this promise.

“Studies have shown that the site is viable for affordable housing when the school building is included. If the school building is excluded, the remainder of the site may still be viable for affordable housing” said Herron.

Herron says the government has turned a blind eye to the housing crisis that the site could have helped resolve.

 

Done By: Elona Sibunzi

Load shedding returns

 

Power utility Eskom has issued a load shedding alert, warning of a high risk of outages this weekend possibly up to stage 4.

 

This follows more than 10 months of uninterrupted electricity supply.

 

Eskom has issued an alert indicating a high risk of load shedding at short notice. However, over the past seven days, the power utility have experienced several breakdowns that require extended repair times.

 

This has necessitated the use of all our emergency reserves, which now needs to be replenished. Eskom are closely monitoring the status of current emergency reserves, and load shedding up to Stage 4 may be implemented over the weekend.

Done by: Shaneca Cupido

NERSA announces tariff hikes

Consumers will have to dig deeper into their pockets come 1 April as the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) announced its decision on the Eskom tariff hike application.

The energy regulator announced during an online media briefing on Thursday its decision on Eskom’s Sixth Multi-Year Price Determination (MYPD6) revenue application for the 2025/26, 2026/27 and 2027/28 financial years.

PICTURE: Pixabay

Eskom had applied for a tariff increase of 36% in 2025, 12% the following year, and 9% in 2027/28.

 “For the financial year 2025/26, the energy regulator approved an allowable revenue of R384 billion, which will amount to a 12.74% increase. For the year 2026/27, the energy regulator approved the allowable revenue of R409 billion, which amounts to a 5.36% increase. For the final year of the application, the energy regulator approved the allowable revenue of R435 billion, which amounts to 6.19%,’’ said Nersa chairperson Thembani Bukula.

He said the decision was taken while considering the concerns raised by members of the public during the extensive consultation process at the end of 2024.

“Top of the list in this was the affordability, if the prices applied for by Eskom were approved. This was voiced by domestic customers, as well as the business customers who came to our public hearings. The domestic customers stressed the fact that if these prices are approved, they then have to choose between buying food or buying electricity. Businesses, on the other hand, made it clear that if these increases were approved a lot of them would be forced to close their businesses.

“Stakeholders expressed their concerns about their negotiated price agreements that were part of the application. The rising municipal debt, the cost of coal, the cost and the usage of the open-cycle gas turbines, lack of employment and job opportunities. They were quite vocal about the inclusion of the carbon tax on top of the carbon environmental levy.”

At the same time, the minister of electricity and energy Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, welcomed the regulator's announcement.

"We welcome the fact that these tariff adjustments take into account the need to mitigate inflationary pressures on communities and businesses, helping to stabilise the broader economic environment.’’

The ministry says that while the approved tariff adjustments would pressure Eskom to maintain its investment strategy to strengthen and modernise its generation, transmission, and distribution infrastructure, it remained committed to working closely with Eskom to drive greater efficiency gains.

 

Done by: Mitchum George

Probe by WCGov into George building collapse handed over to police

Western Cape Premier Alan Winde on Thursday officially handed over the report containing the structural engineering findings from the independent investigation commissioned by the Western Cape Government, into the 6 May 2024 George building collapse.

COURTESY: WCGov

The report was handed over to Western Cape Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Thembisile Patekile and Captain Johan de Lange, the lead investigator on the matter from the South African Police Service (SAPS).

The building, which was still under construction when it collapsed, resulted in the death of 34 people, and serious injury to many others. Twenty-eight people were rescued alive in a multi-stakeholder disaster operation.

‘’The report is now in the domain of the SAPS which must consider both the findings of this independent report and all other evidence in their possession as part of the overall criminal investigation to determine if charges are to be brought. The technical findings in the report are of such a nature that the Western Cape Government believes they will significantly assist the SAPS investigation,’’ said Alan Winde, Western Cape Premier.

‘’Given the nature of the incident and the fact that 34 people tragically lost their lives, it is entirely possible that criminal proceedings may ensue. It is for this reason that the findings of the independent probe cannot be made public, so that we do not in any way compromise the SAPS investigation and further possible proceedings,’’ he added.

 

Done by: Mitchum George

WCGov proposal to redevelop a portion of Tafelberg site

The Western Cape Government’s (WCG) has announced a proposal for the redevelopment of a portion of the Tafelberg site in Sea Point.

COURTESY: Ndifuna Ukwazi

Infrastructure MEC Tertuis Simmers and Social Development MEC Jaco Londt revealed that the Department of Social Development (DSD) has formally requested that the site, previously used as a school, not be considered for disposal while its potential use for social services is assessed.

“The demands on us in 2025 are very different to what they were 10 years ago and the impact of COVID-19 and the economic recession have made continued service delivery in some of the social and public health environments a severe challenge. In line with the Government Immovable Asset Management Act, the provincial Department of Social Development (DSD) has formally requested that the Tafelberg site, specifically the portion formerly used as a school, not be considered for disposal until such time as its possible use for the delivery of a range of social services that are required in that area can be fully assessed. This now makes the property no longer surplus to government requirements.”

Social Development MEC, Jaco Londt, highlighted the increasing demand for social welfare services, including residential services for persons with disabilities and older persons.

“As the economic downturn continues to impact residents and organisations throughout the country, we have seen an increase in demand for social welfare services across our programmes. The Department of Social Development plans to use this opportunity to broaden our social services footprint, particularly to address the shortage of residential services in the province for persons with disabilities, and older persons. The department will be putting out a call for proposal for partnerships to ensure that we’re able to assist our most vulnerable residents”.

Simmers noted that while the obligation to use the site solely for affordable housing has been contested in court, the government is committed to optimizing the site’s development.

“The presumed obligation on the WCG to utilise this site only for affordable housing has been the subject of much engagement before the courts, and this matter is still ongoing. For much of the time that it has taken for the litigation to be finalised, the ability of the WCG to deliver on its constitutional service delivery imperatives as well as its commitment to spatial transformation via affordable housing projects in well located areas, has been restricted due to illegal occupation, such as the orchestrated invasion of the Helen Bowden site, and funding constraints. Unlocking the development potential at the Tafelberg site for the delivery of much needed social services and affordable housing, will result in the optimum use of this site by the government.”

‘’While the Constitutional Court will shortly provide a ruling on the previous disposal process that applied in this matter and may of course give guidance as to how disposal of immovable property by all organs of state is to be applied in the future under GIAMA in that ruling, we are confident that any such judgment will still enable us to utilise a portion of this site, once subdivided, for affordable housing,’’ he added.

Housing activists have expressed concern over the government’s latest announcement, accusing the province of failing to engage in meaningful public participation and delaying affordable housing development.

‘’Particularly in the context of this site, where there had been and remains calls for it to be used for well-located affordable housing to address the unabating housing and segregation crisis in this city. The Province's statement is vague and we still need to understand from the Province what the mixed use affordable housing and the Department of Social Development plans envisage. Truly affordable housing for the vulnerable is what we want to see,’’ said Buhle Booi, Head of Political Organising at Ndifuna Ukwazi.

‘’We question how the Province came to its decision in light of the suspended public participation process that it announced and then unilaterally suspended with no consultation with interested and affected parties or any reason provided for the suspension of that process.’’

‘’The Province's statement is vague on what the purported DSD plans actually envisage and will be seeking further clarity regarding the Province's decision. Truly affordable housing for the vulnerable is what we want to see on the site.’’

“We need a firm commitment to affordable housing on Tafelberg, not mere exploration. Nine feasibility studies on Tafelberg have already shown that affordable and social housing are possible on the site. What is being explored when the housing crisis continues to compound? The Western Cape government must prioritise affordable housing for the vulnerable on Tafelberg to address the urgent housing needs and dismantle the enduring structures of spatial apartheid,’’ concluded Buhle Booi, Head of Political Organising at Ndifuna Ukwazi.

 

Done by: Mitchum George

Khayelitsha animal clinic appeals for donations following shack fire

An animal clinic in Khayelitsha are appealing with the public to help with to funding emergency rescue efforts.

This follows a devastiating fire that broke out at the Taiwan Informal settlement, in Khayelitsha on Wednesday afternoon. Authorities are ascertaining the number of people displaced and how many structures were left damaged.

COURTESY: Mdzananda Animal Clinic

According to the Mdzananda Animal Clinic, over 200 homes were destroyed by the fires in Site C, leaving families with nothing but the clothes on their backs.

‘’Amidst the destruction, countless animals have gone missing, are injured, or remain too terrified to return home. The Mdzananda Animal Clinic has been on the ground since the fires broke out, tirelessly searching for animals in distress,’’ said Marcelle du Plessis, Fundraising and Communications Executive at Mdzananda.

“What we have encountered is heartbreaking - families desperate to find their beloved pets, animals suffering from injuries, and a community in shock,’’ she added.

The organisation is calling for urgent public support to fund emergency rescue efforts. Donations will go towards medical treatment for injured animals, fuel and transport costs for rescue vehicles searching the disaster zone and staff and resources needed for ongoing emergency response.

“This is a crisis, and we need all the help we can get. Every minute counts. Every donation saves a life.” says du Plessis.

COURTESY: Mdzananda Animal Clinic

Members of the public can contribute by making an emergency donation at Mdzananda Animal Clinic, Standard Bank, Account number: 075595710, Branch: Rondebosch, Branch Code: 025009, Reference: Your chosen Fire +Your Name or visit https://www.mdzananda.co.za/donate-ctzx

The public is also encouraged to assist with donations in-kind such as building materials, clothing, food and anything that people can use to rebuild their lives. These can be dropped at Mdzananda Animal Clinic, 21297 Govan Mbeki Road, Mandela Park, Khayelitsha.

 

Done By: Mitchum George

NCC leader hits back at Cape Town mayor for accusing him of being a ''rabble rouser''

Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis accused the National Coloured Congress (NCC) leader, Fadiel Adams, of leaking information of a raid that occurred at the City of Cape Town offices, last week. Hill-Lewis made these accusations at a council meeting on Thursday

Police raided the offices of Mayco member (MMC) for Safety & Security, JP Smith and Energy MMC, Xanthea Limberg as part of an investigation into alleged fraud and corruption on the City’s construction sector.

‘’Yesterday I met SAPS and as I always will I pledged our full cooperation in anything they wish to investigate. In our city, there can be absolutely no compromise in defending and upholding the integrity of our government. Every member of the public in Cape Town must ALWAYS be able to feel at ease that their public funds are being spent wisely, honestly and in the best interest of the City. Where there is proven conduct or serious evidence of conduct which undermine that public trust must be dealt with firmly indeed.

‘’At the same time, malicious claims, pity intrigue, and unsubstantiated allegations are sadly a frequent feature of politics in South Africa and around the world, and one cannot possibly allow every untested allegation to end a person’s career. If this was so, no good people would ever enter or stick around in politics and governance would be left to the very worst characters that remain.

‘’At this point, I have not been presented with anything substantive that would justify actions against the mayoral members concerned. In a previous case, in March 2023, I was presented with very substantive evidence that had already been collaborated. The process that I followed then and now is identical. There has been a market difference in the evidence presented to me. Another difference is that the Mayco members concerned have already pledged their full cooperation too and did so repeatedly before the search was conducted.’’

‘’Word that the search is imminent was widely known way before the time,. The main source of the knowledge was for the social media post from a local rabble rouser, called Faidel Adams. Yesterday [Wednesday] when I met SAPS, I handed over hundreds and hundreds of pages of social media posts warning of the imminent raid months before they took place. I have handed it too SAPS who confirmed to me they will investigate it further.’’

SCREENSHOT

Adams did not mince his words and has hit back at the Cape Town mayor.

‘’Look how quick he [Cape Town Mayor, Geordin Hill-Lewis] is to send screenshots to the police, but look how quick he and his administration tried to cover up the theft of R600 million from the coloured community.’’

‘’If this man has any credibility left, he put it on the table because remember, he lied to council when he said that there was no evidence of fraud in the forensic report relating to 243q. He lied in council when he said that there were no politicians involved in the construction mafia. He lied in council when he said the staircase budget was returned to the city.’’

‘’Geordin Hill-Lewis is a habitual liar. Let him send the screenshots to the police. I'm happy to make my representation to the police because I know what he was referring to. The paranoid white government of theirs is looking to blame someone. They are trying to make Fadiel Adams the latest fall guy. They are throwing enough coloureds under the bus to protect white people. Geordin Hill-Lewis is nothing more than Helen Zille with male genitalia. The man is a fraud, he's a liar, he's the worst mayor in the history of the city of Cape Town. He will be remembered as the mayor that lost half of his mayco to fraud and corruption. I call him the mayor of criminal enterprise.’’

‘’Yes, the mayor is smart. Let him go and lay a charge of criminea injuria or even better let him take me to court for slander because it is malicious slander if I'm lying. He's a liar, he's a liar, he can't tell the truth. Now let him go and lay a charge because I'm not protected by council privilege of a stand here. I'm saying it in public. He's a liar, he's the mayor of cover ups, he's the mayor of fraud and he's the mayor of white business and corrupt enterprise,'' concluded Adams.

 

Done By: Mitchum George

Alleged JFK leader fatally shot infront of Brackenfell SAPS

An alleged gang leader of the Junky Funky Kidz in Lavender Hill has been shot and killed outside the Brackenfell police station. It is understood that he went to the police station to sign for his bail conditions.

PHOTO: Facebook - C-max security services

Police confirmed to Bush Radio News that a shooting incident took place just before 10a.m on Thursday, fatally injuring Ashley Phillips, also known as Essie.

‘’Detectives attached to the Anti-Gang unit are hard at work pursuing leads in a bid to apprehend the suspects who are responsible for the death of a 42-year-old male in Brackenfell on Thursday 30 January 2025. Reports suggested that at about 09:45 unknown gunmen opened fire near to a parking area on Brackenfell Boulevard, after the man left his Opel LDV and walked in the direction of Brackenfell SAPS offices. The man did not survive this onslaught on his life and was declared deceased on the scene by the medical personnel,’’ said Warrant Officer Joseph Swartbooi, Western Cape police spokesperson.

The unknown suspects fled the scene and are yet to be arrested. The motive for the attack is unknown at this stage, and Brackenfell police are probing a case of murder.

Ward 71 councillor, Mandy Marr, says police will patrol the area.

‘’Following the news of the death of Essie, Leader of the Junky Funky Gang, in Brackenfell, many have raised safety concerns in our community. I am relieved to share with you that in response, the City's Law Enforcement Advancement Programme, also known as *LEAP -   is deploying multiple resources to assist during this period of instability. They will be coordinating with SAPS in responding to the anticipated challenging time ahead.’’

Any person who can shed light on the circumstances of this incident is kindly requested to call Crime Stop on 08600 10111

 

Done by: Mitchum George

Another suspect arrested for murder of off-duty Cape officer

The Hawks in the Western Cape has arrested another suspect linked to the murder of a police officer.

PICTURE: Pixabay

Sergeant Simphiwe Kwepile, who was stationed at Nyanga police station and was off duty at the time, was brutally murdered in June 2023 at his family home in Mandela Park, Khayelitsha. It was alleged that he took a walk to the shop. While he was away, two suspects entered the house while his brother and two friends were inside the house.

‘’It was alleged that the suspects demanded the keys of the vehicle that was parked in front of the address which belonged to Sgt Kwepile. It was during this time when Sgt Kwepile returned back from the shop. As he entered the house at the back door, he was fatally shot,’’ said Lieutenant Colonel Siyabulela Vukubi, Hawks Western Cape spokesperson.

Vukubi said the Hawks followed up on all leads and on 28 September 2023, one of the suspects, Luxolo Mbhokwe (25) was identified and arrested. He is still in custody.

The second suspect was apprehended on Tuesday after a warrant of arrest was issued.

Pumlani Gugushe (35) appeared before the Khayelitsha Magistrate's Court on Thursday morning and the matter is postponed to 18 February 2025 for bail application. His co- accused, Mbhokwe also appeared at a separate court at the Khayelitsha Regional Court where his matter was postponed to 18 February 2025 for Provisional date.

Hawks Provincial Head, Major General Mathipa Makgato expressed his satisfaction with this breakthrough ‘’as this sends a clear message that the Hawks will leave no stone unturned to apprehend the perpetrators of serious crimes.’’

 

Done by: Elona Sibunzi