By Tando Mfengwana
30 November 2006
The Minister of Safety and Security Charles Nqakula said police must use maximum force when dealing with violent criminals.
Independent Online quotes the minister as saying that they cannot continue to bury police officials.
“If they kill us we are going to go after them,” he said
The minister was speaking at the graduation ceremony of senior management officers who have completed the Executive Development Programme in Pretoria. The report says the 165 graduates comprise of managers from all nine provinces.
Nqakula warned the graduates that they would be held accountable for anything that went wrong in their provinces. He has encouraged the managers to improve sector policing.
He said a lot of attention was needed at border control to stop illegal entry into the country.
Thursday, November 30, 2006
Increase on prices put a damper on festive season spending
By Tarryn Le Chat
30 November 2006
South Africans are faced with the highest increase in food prices in four years. Consumers will need to fork out more this festive season and beyond.
Data by Statistics South Africa revealed that food prices had risen by 8.5% by September - an incease through the year of more that 5% on last year over the same period.
South africans spend, on average, 23% of their disposable income on food, with poorer households spending up to 50% of their money on food.
Professor Andre Roux, director of the Institute for Futures Research based at the University of Stellenbosch Business School, said food price inflation at both the consumer and production levels up until earlier this year.
Christelle Swanepoel, an economist at Bereau for Economic Research (BER), said high grain prices and heavy fuel prices increase earlier this year were contributing to the price hikes.
30 November 2006
South Africans are faced with the highest increase in food prices in four years. Consumers will need to fork out more this festive season and beyond.
Data by Statistics South Africa revealed that food prices had risen by 8.5% by September - an incease through the year of more that 5% on last year over the same period.
South africans spend, on average, 23% of their disposable income on food, with poorer households spending up to 50% of their money on food.
Professor Andre Roux, director of the Institute for Futures Research based at the University of Stellenbosch Business School, said food price inflation at both the consumer and production levels up until earlier this year.
Christelle Swanepoel, an economist at Bereau for Economic Research (BER), said high grain prices and heavy fuel prices increase earlier this year were contributing to the price hikes.
Initiate dies in hospital after circumcision
By Odette Ismail
30 November 2006
An 18-year-old initiate has died in Mthatha’s Nelson Mandela Academy Hospital.
He was taken to hospital after showing signs of gangrene of the genitals, dehydration and hallucinations.
This is the first report in the Eastern Cape of a circumcision death this season, according to the Cape Times.
Sizwe Kupelo, provincial health department spokesperson said the case was being investigated. He says the traditional nurse responsible for his care might be questioned.
Kupelo confirms that two fake doctors were arrested yesterday in connection with four unlawful circumcisions. They are to appear in court soon.
The man by the name “Mr Chicken” still at large, is believed to have circumcised 70 young boys in 10 days.
So far nine deaths have been reported in the Libode area during winter due to circumcision-related deaths.
30 November 2006
An 18-year-old initiate has died in Mthatha’s Nelson Mandela Academy Hospital.
He was taken to hospital after showing signs of gangrene of the genitals, dehydration and hallucinations.
This is the first report in the Eastern Cape of a circumcision death this season, according to the Cape Times.
Sizwe Kupelo, provincial health department spokesperson said the case was being investigated. He says the traditional nurse responsible for his care might be questioned.
Kupelo confirms that two fake doctors were arrested yesterday in connection with four unlawful circumcisions. They are to appear in court soon.
The man by the name “Mr Chicken” still at large, is believed to have circumcised 70 young boys in 10 days.
So far nine deaths have been reported in the Libode area during winter due to circumcision-related deaths.
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
Cosatu call on consumers to boycott chinese imports
By Chanel September
29 November 2006
As part of the proudly South African campaign Cosatu is calling on communities to boycott certain Chinese products being sold at major retail stores.
Provincial secretary for Cosatu, Tony Ehreneich says that if South Africans buy more local products this will contribute to the development of more jobs and address poverty and social problems.
The products are often dangerous as they have not been endorsed by the South African Bureau of Standards.
Ehreneich also added that the goods imported from Chinese factories are often a rand or two cheaper but at the end of the day it’s the working class communities that suffer.
29 November 2006
As part of the proudly South African campaign Cosatu is calling on communities to boycott certain Chinese products being sold at major retail stores.
Provincial secretary for Cosatu, Tony Ehreneich says that if South Africans buy more local products this will contribute to the development of more jobs and address poverty and social problems.
The products are often dangerous as they have not been endorsed by the South African Bureau of Standards.
Ehreneich also added that the goods imported from Chinese factories are often a rand or two cheaper but at the end of the day it’s the working class communities that suffer.
Gugulethu mourns three people's death
By Tando Mfengwana
29 November 2006
Gugulethu residents will be gathering to mourn the death of three people who died violently last week.
Vuyolwethu Xhoma, 15, who was a pupil at Vuyani Primary School, was shot and killed by his father the follow day.
Xhoma was involved in a fight with another 15 year-old boy, when his father tried to intervene using a gun, but accidentally shot his son on Tuesday the 21st of this month.
In another incident, Thembakazi Ngqolo was shot and killed by her husband in Lotus Canal next to Nyanga railway station on Friday the 24th of this month.
The last incident happened when Mrs Mabele committed suicide, she took her husbands gun and shot herself.
Ward councillor Mandisa Matshoba said she’s planning the memorial service to address the issue of violence against women and children.
The memorial service was held at the Civic Hall in Gugulethu at Ny 2 on Wednesday the 29th.
29 November 2006
Gugulethu residents will be gathering to mourn the death of three people who died violently last week.
Vuyolwethu Xhoma, 15, who was a pupil at Vuyani Primary School, was shot and killed by his father the follow day.
Xhoma was involved in a fight with another 15 year-old boy, when his father tried to intervene using a gun, but accidentally shot his son on Tuesday the 21st of this month.
In another incident, Thembakazi Ngqolo was shot and killed by her husband in Lotus Canal next to Nyanga railway station on Friday the 24th of this month.
The last incident happened when Mrs Mabele committed suicide, she took her husbands gun and shot herself.
Ward councillor Mandisa Matshoba said she’s planning the memorial service to address the issue of violence against women and children.
The memorial service was held at the Civic Hall in Gugulethu at Ny 2 on Wednesday the 29th.
Man in court after alledged sexual assault on granddaughter
By Odette Ismail
29 November 2006
A man has appeared in court on charges of allegedly molesting his five-year-old granddaughter.
The man and the child shared a bed in their home in Delft, Cape Town.
The child complained of her genitals being sore, which made the mother concerned. She took her daughter to the doctor. The doctor confirmed that child had injures.
Police spokesperson Siphokazi Mawisa confirmed that the man was arrested over the weekend on charges of indecent assault.
The 51-year-old man's name may not be mentioned, as this would reveal the child’s identity.
29 November 2006
A man has appeared in court on charges of allegedly molesting his five-year-old granddaughter.
The man and the child shared a bed in their home in Delft, Cape Town.
The child complained of her genitals being sore, which made the mother concerned. She took her daughter to the doctor. The doctor confirmed that child had injures.
Police spokesperson Siphokazi Mawisa confirmed that the man was arrested over the weekend on charges of indecent assault.
The 51-year-old man's name may not be mentioned, as this would reveal the child’s identity.
Is Selebi driving a stolen vehicle?
By Nadia Samie
29 November 2006
Safety and Security Minister Charles Nqakula has been asked if the National Police Commissioner, Jackie Selebi, is driving around in an impounded stolen vehicle.
Reports allege that Selebi has been driving a Toyota Landcruiser, one of a batch of stolen vehicles recovered and impounded by the police. This comes fresh after allegations that police are making use of impounded vehicles.
The questions were submitted to Nqakula by the DA’s safety and security spokesperson Dianne Kohler-Barnard.
“The matter must consequently be cleared up as soon as possible so that the Commissioner can continue with his job of fighting crime in South Africa,” said Kohler-Barnard.
These allegations come at a time when Selebi has the cloud of his friendship with Glen Agliotti — the man arrested in the Brett Kebble murder investigation — hanging over his head.
29 November 2006
Safety and Security Minister Charles Nqakula has been asked if the National Police Commissioner, Jackie Selebi, is driving around in an impounded stolen vehicle.
Reports allege that Selebi has been driving a Toyota Landcruiser, one of a batch of stolen vehicles recovered and impounded by the police. This comes fresh after allegations that police are making use of impounded vehicles.
The questions were submitted to Nqakula by the DA’s safety and security spokesperson Dianne Kohler-Barnard.
“The matter must consequently be cleared up as soon as possible so that the Commissioner can continue with his job of fighting crime in South Africa,” said Kohler-Barnard.
These allegations come at a time when Selebi has the cloud of his friendship with Glen Agliotti — the man arrested in the Brett Kebble murder investigation — hanging over his head.
Local NGO wins top IT award
By Nadia Samie
29 November 2006
A South African NGO has won the African ICT Award 2006 by breaking the on-line language barrier. The award re-affirms South Africa's position as an Information and Communications Technology leader in Africa.
Translate.org.za's work includes the translation of computer software into South Africa’s 11 official languages, using locally based translators, and more recently, the creation of the first all-South African language keyboard. Translate has also made spell checkers from Afrikaans all the way to Zulu.
Dwayne Bailey, the founder of www.translate.org.za, says that he has always dreamed of South African’s using computers in their mother tongue.
The NGO intervenes whenever technology becomes a barrier to language. For example, Venda cannot be accurately typed on a computer, resulting in Venda-speakers being unable to type their own names correctly.
Translate.org.za ’s keyboard means that Venda can for the first time be typed accurately along with all the other official languages, including Afrikaans and to a lesser extent Northern Sotho and Tswana.
29 November 2006
A South African NGO has won the African ICT Award 2006 by breaking the on-line language barrier. The award re-affirms South Africa's position as an Information and Communications Technology leader in Africa.
Translate.org.za's work includes the translation of computer software into South Africa’s 11 official languages, using locally based translators, and more recently, the creation of the first all-South African language keyboard. Translate has also made spell checkers from Afrikaans all the way to Zulu.
Dwayne Bailey, the founder of www.translate.org.za, says that he has always dreamed of South African’s using computers in their mother tongue.
The NGO intervenes whenever technology becomes a barrier to language. For example, Venda cannot be accurately typed on a computer, resulting in Venda-speakers being unable to type their own names correctly.
Translate.org.za ’s keyboard means that Venda can for the first time be typed accurately along with all the other official languages, including Afrikaans and to a lesser extent Northern Sotho and Tswana.
Corruption charges dropped against police officials
By Tando Mfengwana
29 November 2006
Charges of corruption and theft brought against nine police officials have been dropped.
The Cape Town Regional Court magistrate, Wilma van der Merwe, released the officials on grounds of insufficient evidence.
The officials, including a superintendent and several inspectors, are reservists and two crime intelligence investigators.
They are all attached to the West Metropole Crime Reaction Unit.
This unit is a reservist unit that rose from the remains of an allegedly renegade reservist unit, Undertakers, which was split up in 2002.
The officer’s attorney, Riaz Khan, has welcomed the magistrates’ decision.
29 November 2006
Charges of corruption and theft brought against nine police officials have been dropped.
The Cape Town Regional Court magistrate, Wilma van der Merwe, released the officials on grounds of insufficient evidence.
The officials, including a superintendent and several inspectors, are reservists and two crime intelligence investigators.
They are all attached to the West Metropole Crime Reaction Unit.
This unit is a reservist unit that rose from the remains of an allegedly renegade reservist unit, Undertakers, which was split up in 2002.
The officer’s attorney, Riaz Khan, has welcomed the magistrates’ decision.
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Man accused of murdering Aakifah abandons bail application
By Chanel September
28 November 2008
The man accused of murdering 5-year-old Aakifah Salie has abandoned his bail application. George Mugalula appeared briefly in the Cape Town Magistrate’s Court on Monday.
State prosecutor Juantia Swart told the court that Mugalula’s legal aid attorney Arhtur Ohlsen told her that he no longer wished to apply for bail.
Ohlsen had requested a formal bail application on November 7, but Swart had been instructed that the State was finalising a plea bargain.
According to a daily newspaper Swart said at the time that the accused would be sent for psychological assessment.
Mugalula’s wife Faiza Jordan found her daughters body at their communal home in Observatory on September 7. The case was postponed until December the 28.
28 November 2008
The man accused of murdering 5-year-old Aakifah Salie has abandoned his bail application. George Mugalula appeared briefly in the Cape Town Magistrate’s Court on Monday.
State prosecutor Juantia Swart told the court that Mugalula’s legal aid attorney Arhtur Ohlsen told her that he no longer wished to apply for bail.
Ohlsen had requested a formal bail application on November 7, but Swart had been instructed that the State was finalising a plea bargain.
According to a daily newspaper Swart said at the time that the accused would be sent for psychological assessment.
Mugalula’s wife Faiza Jordan found her daughters body at their communal home in Observatory on September 7. The case was postponed until December the 28.
Police hot on C-Max escapee's trail
By Odette Ismail
28 November 2006
Police are closing in on C-Max escapee Annanias Mathe using cellphone records, but he has not been arrested yet.
The 29-year-old Mozambican national is still in the Gauteng province, according to a SABC report.
Police are tracking Mathe through SMS contact between him and a female friend.
However national police spokesperson Director Sally de Beer has not confirmed the report. She says the police will not reveal further details around their tactic in trying to capture Mathe.
Mathe escaped from the A6 section of the prison in Pretoria two weeks ago.
He faces 51 charges, including murder, attempted murder, rape, hijacking and armed robbery.
Anyone with useful information could call Captain Fires Jansen van Vuuren on 082-822-8174 or Inspector Selepe on 082-225-2230.
28 November 2006
Police are closing in on C-Max escapee Annanias Mathe using cellphone records, but he has not been arrested yet.
The 29-year-old Mozambican national is still in the Gauteng province, according to a SABC report.
Police are tracking Mathe through SMS contact between him and a female friend.
However national police spokesperson Director Sally de Beer has not confirmed the report. She says the police will not reveal further details around their tactic in trying to capture Mathe.
Mathe escaped from the A6 section of the prison in Pretoria two weeks ago.
He faces 51 charges, including murder, attempted murder, rape, hijacking and armed robbery.
Anyone with useful information could call Captain Fires Jansen van Vuuren on 082-822-8174 or Inspector Selepe on 082-225-2230.
Traffic authorities clamp down on offenders
By Nadia Samie
28 November 2006
The National Department of Transport’s Arrive Alive campaign will be rolled out, throughout the country, by the end of this week.
With schools in the Western Cape closing for the December holidays’ on Friday, an influx of traffic is expected on the province’s roads as holiday-makers converge on the Mother City.
Traffic authorities are taking a particularly hard stance on drunk-drivers and traffic offenders this year. A recent judgment by the Cape High Court has opened the door for the Asset Forfeiture Unit to confiscate the cars of drunken drivers and speedsters.
According to Arrive Alive, the Demerit System, which was signed into law in September 1998, has been delayed for several years pending, amongst other reasons, a feasibility study and an analysis of human resources needed to ensure the successful implementation of the system.
In 2004, 12 200 deaths occurred on South African roads, at a cost of R38-billion to the economy.
28 November 2006
The National Department of Transport’s Arrive Alive campaign will be rolled out, throughout the country, by the end of this week.
With schools in the Western Cape closing for the December holidays’ on Friday, an influx of traffic is expected on the province’s roads as holiday-makers converge on the Mother City.
Traffic authorities are taking a particularly hard stance on drunk-drivers and traffic offenders this year. A recent judgment by the Cape High Court has opened the door for the Asset Forfeiture Unit to confiscate the cars of drunken drivers and speedsters.
According to Arrive Alive, the Demerit System, which was signed into law in September 1998, has been delayed for several years pending, amongst other reasons, a feasibility study and an analysis of human resources needed to ensure the successful implementation of the system.
In 2004, 12 200 deaths occurred on South African roads, at a cost of R38-billion to the economy.
Four suspected bank robbers killed
By Tando Mfengwana
28 November 2006
Four suspected bank robbers were shot dead and six injured by police following a bank robbery at Teba Bank.
The incident took place at City Deep, west of Johannesburg, on Monday.
An onlooker was also seriously wounded during the cross fire on the border of Dobsonville, raising the number of the injured to seven.
Independent Online quotes the Provincial police spokesperson Director Govindsamy Mariemuthoo as saying police followed up on information on the robbery and chased a white bakkie and a maroon Caravelle (minibus).
When the suspects realised the police were on their trail they opened fire and the police retaliated.
Polices confiscated an AK-47, an Uzzi sub machine gun and seven small pistols.
Johannesburg emergency services medics took the seven injured to hospital.
28 November 2006
Four suspected bank robbers were shot dead and six injured by police following a bank robbery at Teba Bank.
The incident took place at City Deep, west of Johannesburg, on Monday.
An onlooker was also seriously wounded during the cross fire on the border of Dobsonville, raising the number of the injured to seven.
Independent Online quotes the Provincial police spokesperson Director Govindsamy Mariemuthoo as saying police followed up on information on the robbery and chased a white bakkie and a maroon Caravelle (minibus).
When the suspects realised the police were on their trail they opened fire and the police retaliated.
Polices confiscated an AK-47, an Uzzi sub machine gun and seven small pistols.
Johannesburg emergency services medics took the seven injured to hospital.
Springboks angry over display of old SA flags
By Tarryn Le Chat
28 November 2006
Springbok management and players lashed out over the display of the old South African flag by supporters during the two Tests against England at Twickenham.
The flags were on sale outside Twickenham on Saturday for 5 pounds (about R68), and their appearance in the crowd drew criticism from many at the game, including golfer Ernie Els.
Team manager Zola Yeye said: “It is disgusting that these people are displaying such unpatriotic behaviour in the name of the Springboks.
Captain John Smit said the episode was embarrassing to the players. Smit said the players are representing South Africa – the new South Africa – and those people came to the stadium to insult all 44 million South Africans in the Springbok’s name.
The springboks have distanced themselves totally from such mischief. Smit says they are proud of the new flag, the anthem and the country.
Yeye reminded fans that the Boks were now free to tour anywhere precisely because of the new order in South Africa.
28 November 2006
Springbok management and players lashed out over the display of the old South African flag by supporters during the two Tests against England at Twickenham.
The flags were on sale outside Twickenham on Saturday for 5 pounds (about R68), and their appearance in the crowd drew criticism from many at the game, including golfer Ernie Els.
Team manager Zola Yeye said: “It is disgusting that these people are displaying such unpatriotic behaviour in the name of the Springboks.
Captain John Smit said the episode was embarrassing to the players. Smit said the players are representing South Africa – the new South Africa – and those people came to the stadium to insult all 44 million South Africans in the Springbok’s name.
The springboks have distanced themselves totally from such mischief. Smit says they are proud of the new flag, the anthem and the country.
Yeye reminded fans that the Boks were now free to tour anywhere precisely because of the new order in South Africa.
Monday, November 27, 2006
Man killed in fight on bus
By Tando Mfengwana
27 November 2006
A man has been short three times when an argument came about with another passenger.
The man was taken to hospital where he later died of the injuries.
According to an Independent Online report the two men were on a bus travelling from White River to Mzikazi in Mpumalanga on Sunday morning.
It’s not known whether the deceased and his attacker knew each other or what they were arguing about.
A man was arrested and a firearm was confiscated.
27 November 2006
A man has been short three times when an argument came about with another passenger.
The man was taken to hospital where he later died of the injuries.
According to an Independent Online report the two men were on a bus travelling from White River to Mzikazi in Mpumalanga on Sunday morning.
It’s not known whether the deceased and his attacker knew each other or what they were arguing about.
A man was arrested and a firearm was confiscated.
Man stabbed to death with a screwdriver
By Odette Ismail
27 November 2006
A man has been stabbed to death with a screwdriver in the Ga-Moraba village in Limpopo at the weekend.
The 26-year-old Joseph Makhubedu has allegedly been stabbed by a 30-year-old man after an argument over beer.
Superintendent Patty Khumalo says that he was stabbed once in the chest. Makhubedu died on the scene.
Police have arrested the man and he will appear in court soon.
A case of murder has been opened for investigation.
27 November 2006
A man has been stabbed to death with a screwdriver in the Ga-Moraba village in Limpopo at the weekend.
The 26-year-old Joseph Makhubedu has allegedly been stabbed by a 30-year-old man after an argument over beer.
Superintendent Patty Khumalo says that he was stabbed once in the chest. Makhubedu died on the scene.
Police have arrested the man and he will appear in court soon.
A case of murder has been opened for investigation.
Cosatu supports Sixteen Days of Activism Campaign
By Chanel September
27 November 2006
COSATU has come out fully supporting the Sixteen Days of Activism Against Gender Violence.
The campaign from November 25 to December 10 is backed by the international United Nations. The goal is the elimination of all forms of violence against women by:
· Raising awareness about gender-based violence as a human rights issue,
· Strengthening local work around violence against women,
· Providing a forum in which organisations can develop and share new and effective strategies,
· Demonstrating the solidarity of women around the world and
· Creating tools to pressure governments’ to implement promises made to eliminate violence
Patrick Craven spokesperson for COSATU, says that violence against women and children is a total disgrace on a society that claims to be civilised.
27 November 2006
COSATU has come out fully supporting the Sixteen Days of Activism Against Gender Violence.
The campaign from November 25 to December 10 is backed by the international United Nations. The goal is the elimination of all forms of violence against women by:
· Raising awareness about gender-based violence as a human rights issue,
· Strengthening local work around violence against women,
· Providing a forum in which organisations can develop and share new and effective strategies,
· Demonstrating the solidarity of women around the world and
· Creating tools to pressure governments’ to implement promises made to eliminate violence
Patrick Craven spokesperson for COSATU, says that violence against women and children is a total disgrace on a society that claims to be civilised.
Fire at Cape Town Airport causes chaos
By Chanel September
27 November 2006
Hundreds of passengers had to leave the Cape Town International Airport yesterday morning after a fire broke out in a kitchen restaurant.
The fire started at News Café at 8:15am and was put out at 9am. This however, caused confusion as many passengers had waited outside for more than two hours.
No one was harmed in the blaze, but many people complained about airport’s poor communication and communication plan.
The Airport Company of South Africa slammed reports around the allegations of inadequate security procedures.
Acsa spokesperson Deidre Hendricks told a daily newspaper that all emergency exits were open and that a terminal manager had been sent to test the exits after complaints from passengers.
27 November 2006
Hundreds of passengers had to leave the Cape Town International Airport yesterday morning after a fire broke out in a kitchen restaurant.
The fire started at News Café at 8:15am and was put out at 9am. This however, caused confusion as many passengers had waited outside for more than two hours.
No one was harmed in the blaze, but many people complained about airport’s poor communication and communication plan.
The Airport Company of South Africa slammed reports around the allegations of inadequate security procedures.
Acsa spokesperson Deidre Hendricks told a daily newspaper that all emergency exits were open and that a terminal manager had been sent to test the exits after complaints from passengers.
Bikers give toys to underpriviledged children
By Tando Mfengwana
27 November 2006
Bikers handed thousands of toys to Cape Town’s underprivileged children at this year’s annual Toy Run Charity event.
More than 6 500 bikers converged on the 24th annual Toy Run yesterday.
Starting points for the run were at Ratanga Junction, at Century City, and the Hypermarket centre in Ottery.
It ended with the handing over of toys at the Maynardville.
Mike Clark, the spokesperson for the Toy Run Charity Trust told the Cape Times that they are hoping to bring in about 14 000 toys.
Last year the event brought in a record of 13 600 toys and were distributed to 122 beneficiaries around Cape.
The event had been organised by the Italian Motorcycle Owners Club (IMOC) for 24 years.
Toy Runs are now organised by local motorcycle clubs and other organisations.
More than 50 000 bikers participate in the event every year.
27 November 2006
Bikers handed thousands of toys to Cape Town’s underprivileged children at this year’s annual Toy Run Charity event.
More than 6 500 bikers converged on the 24th annual Toy Run yesterday.
Starting points for the run were at Ratanga Junction, at Century City, and the Hypermarket centre in Ottery.
It ended with the handing over of toys at the Maynardville.
Mike Clark, the spokesperson for the Toy Run Charity Trust told the Cape Times that they are hoping to bring in about 14 000 toys.
Last year the event brought in a record of 13 600 toys and were distributed to 122 beneficiaries around Cape.
The event had been organised by the Italian Motorcycle Owners Club (IMOC) for 24 years.
Toy Runs are now organised by local motorcycle clubs and other organisations.
More than 50 000 bikers participate in the event every year.
Petros meets with engineering firm on attacks
By Odette Ismail
27 November 2006
Provincial Police Commissioner Mzwandile Petros met with head of an engineering firm concerning attacks on workers on the N2 highway.
Business Against Crime facilitated the meeting, where concerns were raised about attacks on contractors based near the airport. It is believed that company employee's are being harassed by young armed robbers. The company has been targeted more than fifty times.
Mzwandile says the police cannot be criticised if cases are not reported. So far only 16 cases have been reported.
He says the company should have their own security but that police will remain supportive in assisting the company.
Company owner John Martin told the Cape Times that they are aware of the risks, but they are not capable of controlling the situation efficiently.
Martin says four men from the Nyanga community were appointed to help scare of robbers. No attacks have taken place since.
27 November 2006
Provincial Police Commissioner Mzwandile Petros met with head of an engineering firm concerning attacks on workers on the N2 highway.
Business Against Crime facilitated the meeting, where concerns were raised about attacks on contractors based near the airport. It is believed that company employee's are being harassed by young armed robbers. The company has been targeted more than fifty times.
Mzwandile says the police cannot be criticised if cases are not reported. So far only 16 cases have been reported.
He says the company should have their own security but that police will remain supportive in assisting the company.
Company owner John Martin told the Cape Times that they are aware of the risks, but they are not capable of controlling the situation efficiently.
Martin says four men from the Nyanga community were appointed to help scare of robbers. No attacks have taken place since.
Lesotho's parliament dissolved
By Jean Carter
27 November 2006
LESOTHO: There's a surprising political development in Lesotho. The prime minister has asked the King to dissolve parliament.
27 November 2006
LESOTHO: There's a surprising political development in Lesotho. The prime minister has asked the King to dissolve parliament.
Dissolution of Lesotho's parliament takes effect today. Elections in the kingdom were not expected to take place until April. The government, however, lost its majority when 18 members recently broke away to form a new party.
A decision on when to hold a general election will be made on Wednesday.
A decision on when to hold a general election will be made on Wednesday.
Sewage works on the brink of collapse
By Tarryn Le Chat
27 November 2006
The sewerage works at several Western Cape municipalities are on the brink of collapse as failing equipment and increasing demand threaten to swamp buckling infrastructures.
Some of the towns are classified as ‘high risk’ in a shock survey by the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research include Swellendam, Oudtshoorn, Cederberg and Theewaterskloof.
The report assessed 122 wastewater treatment works and found that many municipalities urgently needed to upgrade their sewerage treatment works to avoid collapse.
The report, however, omitted the City of Cape Town from the report due to time constraints.
The department of Water Affairs and Forestry told the weekend Argus that close to R1 billion was urgently needed to support the failing infrastructure of many municipalities.
The biggest factor contributing to pollution was the failing infrastructure used to transport the sewage to the treatment works.
27 November 2006
The sewerage works at several Western Cape municipalities are on the brink of collapse as failing equipment and increasing demand threaten to swamp buckling infrastructures.
Some of the towns are classified as ‘high risk’ in a shock survey by the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research include Swellendam, Oudtshoorn, Cederberg and Theewaterskloof.
The report assessed 122 wastewater treatment works and found that many municipalities urgently needed to upgrade their sewerage treatment works to avoid collapse.
The report, however, omitted the City of Cape Town from the report due to time constraints.
The department of Water Affairs and Forestry told the weekend Argus that close to R1 billion was urgently needed to support the failing infrastructure of many municipalities.
The biggest factor contributing to pollution was the failing infrastructure used to transport the sewage to the treatment works.
Sunday, November 26, 2006
March for 16 days of activism
By Tarryn Le Chat
26 November 2006
Thousands of people yesterday took part in a march in the city to mark the start of 16 days of activism for no violence against women and children.
A large police contingent with a ban d and horses accompanied the March which was led by Anglican archbishop Njongonkulu Ndungane and included Cape Town mayor Helen Zille and Western Cape education minister Cameron Dugmore.
The event use to be known as the Men’s March, but Ndungane decided it should be a march against violence for everybody.
Zille said the next struggle was to see violence against women and children stopped.
26 November 2006
Thousands of people yesterday took part in a march in the city to mark the start of 16 days of activism for no violence against women and children.
A large police contingent with a ban d and horses accompanied the March which was led by Anglican archbishop Njongonkulu Ndungane and included Cape Town mayor Helen Zille and Western Cape education minister Cameron Dugmore.
The event use to be known as the Men’s March, but Ndungane decided it should be a march against violence for everybody.
Zille said the next struggle was to see violence against women and children stopped.
Kebble 'born again' before his death
By Tarryn Le Chat
26 November 2006
Brett Kebble was baptised in the swimming pool of a friend and business associate not long before he was gunned down in Melrose, Johannesburg, in September last year.
Kebble was ‘born again’ in the swimming pool as his business empire crumbled.
According to the Sunday Weekend Argus, Kebble experienced great joy during the baptism at Peter George’s home in George.
Kebble was a member of a prayer group and, just before his death, received an SMS advising him to love God and God would pull him through.
Two of the calls made to Kebble’s phone after he was gunned down came from Glenn Agliotti, the businessman who was arrested last week in connection with Kebble’s murder.
Agliotti also allegedly phoned his friend, Jackie Selebi, the SAPS commissioner, from the murder scene. Another call came from Australian John Stratton, Kebble’s close business associate and security chief.
26 November 2006
Brett Kebble was baptised in the swimming pool of a friend and business associate not long before he was gunned down in Melrose, Johannesburg, in September last year.
Kebble was ‘born again’ in the swimming pool as his business empire crumbled.
According to the Sunday Weekend Argus, Kebble experienced great joy during the baptism at Peter George’s home in George.
Kebble was a member of a prayer group and, just before his death, received an SMS advising him to love God and God would pull him through.
Two of the calls made to Kebble’s phone after he was gunned down came from Glenn Agliotti, the businessman who was arrested last week in connection with Kebble’s murder.
Agliotti also allegedly phoned his friend, Jackie Selebi, the SAPS commissioner, from the murder scene. Another call came from Australian John Stratton, Kebble’s close business associate and security chief.
Housing proposal set for Cape Town
By Tarryn Le Chat
26 November 2006
An unprecedented development that will see the construction of a staggering 10 000 new houses is proposed for the West Coast north of Table View.
A 1 000 hectare piece of land has been set aside for the massive development that could lead to thousands of new construction jobs as well as the revitalisation of the economy in the area.
If the proposal goes ahead, the 10 000 new houses will be built on some 1 000ha of land to the north of Parklands.
Developer Tony Clarke said 753ha would be made available for 10 000 homes, with the remaining area mostly for market driven housing. "Of the 753 hectares zoned for residential purposes and guided by the "Breaking New Ground" document, 20% will be set aside for more affordable housing. It is on this land that the 10,000 homes will be built. The balance of the land in this area (753 X 80%) will be used to accommodate normal market driven housing development. This is a further 20,000 homes - give or take a few."
The City Council said, while the plan was still in its tentative stages, a proposal has already been put forward to form a partnership between land owners and developers that include Milnerton Estates, Aska Property Cities (Sunningdale), the city and the province to develop the remaining land north of Parkland and Sunningdale.
The City estimates that about 165 000 families fall into the affordable housing markets.
26 November 2006
An unprecedented development that will see the construction of a staggering 10 000 new houses is proposed for the West Coast north of Table View.
A 1 000 hectare piece of land has been set aside for the massive development that could lead to thousands of new construction jobs as well as the revitalisation of the economy in the area.
If the proposal goes ahead, the 10 000 new houses will be built on some 1 000ha of land to the north of Parklands.
Developer Tony Clarke said 753ha would be made available for 10 000 homes, with the remaining area mostly for market driven housing. "Of the 753 hectares zoned for residential purposes and guided by the "Breaking New Ground" document, 20% will be set aside for more affordable housing. It is on this land that the 10,000 homes will be built. The balance of the land in this area (753 X 80%) will be used to accommodate normal market driven housing development. This is a further 20,000 homes - give or take a few."
The City Council said, while the plan was still in its tentative stages, a proposal has already been put forward to form a partnership between land owners and developers that include Milnerton Estates, Aska Property Cities (Sunningdale), the city and the province to develop the remaining land north of Parkland and Sunningdale.
The City estimates that about 165 000 families fall into the affordable housing markets.
An accident occurs on the N1 highway
By Tarryn Le Chat
26 November 2006
An accident occurred on the N1 highway in Goodwood yesterday, involving a silver BMW, which killed two pedestrians on their way to Cape Town.
Four females were walking were walking along the N1 highway in the direction of Cape Town. A silver BMW was travelling in the same direction when two of the females (one 19-years-old from Nyanga and the other 21-years-old from Gugulethu), allegedly ran in front of the BMW. The vehicle collided with the two victims and both died on the scene due to the injuries they sustained.
The driver of the vehicle, a 32-year-old man from Kraaifontein, was taken to a nearby hospital and released after medical treatment.
A case of culpable homicide was opened by police.
26 November 2006
An accident occurred on the N1 highway in Goodwood yesterday, involving a silver BMW, which killed two pedestrians on their way to Cape Town.
Four females were walking were walking along the N1 highway in the direction of Cape Town. A silver BMW was travelling in the same direction when two of the females (one 19-years-old from Nyanga and the other 21-years-old from Gugulethu), allegedly ran in front of the BMW. The vehicle collided with the two victims and both died on the scene due to the injuries they sustained.
The driver of the vehicle, a 32-year-old man from Kraaifontein, was taken to a nearby hospital and released after medical treatment.
A case of culpable homicide was opened by police.
Saturday, November 25, 2006
N2 Gateway project houses deteriorating inside
By Tarryn Le Chat
25 November 2006
The N2 Gateway project has put a solid roof over the heads of former informal settlement dewellers - but residents say that the newly built accomodation is beautiful on the outside, but falling apart inside.
About 500 people have moved into the new complex near Joe Slovo in Langa since September. In this short period since they have taken occupation they say paint has already begun peeling, there are damp problems and water leaks.
The residents main gripe is that they are struggling to pay for their rentals and want to put their money into buying the properties instead of renting for life.
Hopes that they could do so were raised this week when the provincial government announced a R372 million funds injection into for the second phase of the N2 Gateway project which will be used to build houses for purchase.
Monwabisi MacLean, spokesperson for the national housing department, said details around the construction of the new houses were still being finalised.
25 November 2006
The N2 Gateway project has put a solid roof over the heads of former informal settlement dewellers - but residents say that the newly built accomodation is beautiful on the outside, but falling apart inside.
About 500 people have moved into the new complex near Joe Slovo in Langa since September. In this short period since they have taken occupation they say paint has already begun peeling, there are damp problems and water leaks.
The residents main gripe is that they are struggling to pay for their rentals and want to put their money into buying the properties instead of renting for life.
Hopes that they could do so were raised this week when the provincial government announced a R372 million funds injection into for the second phase of the N2 Gateway project which will be used to build houses for purchase.
Monwabisi MacLean, spokesperson for the national housing department, said details around the construction of the new houses were still being finalised.
'Angel of Soweto' in the spotlight
By Tarryn Le Chat
25 November 2006
In a twist of events, Jackey Marohaanye, better known to her pupils as mama Jackey and as the ‘Angel of Soweto’ has been put under the spotlight.
Former President Nelson Mandela is so disturbed by these allegations levelled on television against the 'Angel of Soweto' that he asked for a copy of the programme.
It is alleged that mama Jackey schooled children at the trust to lie about their past to ensure continued sponsorship from the likes of NBA and Oprah. Ithuteng school in Klipspruit, Soweto, refused to speak about the allegations, saying they were terrified of the woman they call mama.
Another shocked reaction this week came from one of Itheteng’s donors - Nedbank.
Lot Ndlovu, chairperson of the Nedbank Foundation, said they were shocked by the Carte Blanche programme, but would wait for full facts on the matter.
The follow-up of the programme will be screened tomorrow night on M-Net at 7pm on Carte Blanche.
25 November 2006
In a twist of events, Jackey Marohaanye, better known to her pupils as mama Jackey and as the ‘Angel of Soweto’ has been put under the spotlight.
Former President Nelson Mandela is so disturbed by these allegations levelled on television against the 'Angel of Soweto' that he asked for a copy of the programme.
It is alleged that mama Jackey schooled children at the trust to lie about their past to ensure continued sponsorship from the likes of NBA and Oprah. Ithuteng school in Klipspruit, Soweto, refused to speak about the allegations, saying they were terrified of the woman they call mama.
Another shocked reaction this week came from one of Itheteng’s donors - Nedbank.
Lot Ndlovu, chairperson of the Nedbank Foundation, said they were shocked by the Carte Blanche programme, but would wait for full facts on the matter.
The follow-up of the programme will be screened tomorrow night on M-Net at 7pm on Carte Blanche.
The Mother City's fake traffic cops
By Tarryn Le Chat
25 November 2006
The City has launched an urgent probe into the issuesing of hundreds of invalid traffic fines by former beach constanbles who now work for the Metro Police.
Scores of these municipal law enforcement officers apparently do not have the authority to issue fines for moving violations yet they have done so since last year.
Thousands of invalid fines had to be written off by the city. In the latest fiasco a group of former municipal law enforcements officers who had been transferred from municipalities to metro police.
Asked why the officers who had done conversion courses had not been appointed under the Road and Traffic act and sworn in as traffic officers as a matter of course, Metro Police spokesperson Kevin Maxwell, explained that there was still uncertainty about the future structure of the Metro Police.
25 November 2006
The City has launched an urgent probe into the issuesing of hundreds of invalid traffic fines by former beach constanbles who now work for the Metro Police.
Scores of these municipal law enforcement officers apparently do not have the authority to issue fines for moving violations yet they have done so since last year.
Thousands of invalid fines had to be written off by the city. In the latest fiasco a group of former municipal law enforcements officers who had been transferred from municipalities to metro police.
Asked why the officers who had done conversion courses had not been appointed under the Road and Traffic act and sworn in as traffic officers as a matter of course, Metro Police spokesperson Kevin Maxwell, explained that there was still uncertainty about the future structure of the Metro Police.
Metro rail burns shacks
By Chanel September
25 November 2006
More than 30 squatters have been left homeless this past week after they claim Metrorail officials have burnt down their homes.
The squatters who were living along the Bellville railway line say that the burning down of their homes was an attempt to remove them from the land.
The squatters told the Cape Argus that Metrorail officials only told them on Tuesday that they should move away but were not provided with alternative accommodation.
Metrorail’s Steve Ngobeni responded saying that it instituted a removal action with Spoornet because it is not safe for the squatters to live along the railway line.
25 November 2006
More than 30 squatters have been left homeless this past week after they claim Metrorail officials have burnt down their homes.
The squatters who were living along the Bellville railway line say that the burning down of their homes was an attempt to remove them from the land.
The squatters told the Cape Argus that Metrorail officials only told them on Tuesday that they should move away but were not provided with alternative accommodation.
Metrorail’s Steve Ngobeni responded saying that it instituted a removal action with Spoornet because it is not safe for the squatters to live along the railway line.
Friday, November 24, 2006
Kids talk conflict and peace on Robben Island
Staff Reporter
24 November 2006
Bush Radio's annual media conference takes place next month, from the 6th to 10th December. This year the conference will be held, in partnership with the Robben Island Museum, on the island.
The 2006 Media Kidocracy Konference aims to encourage children between the ages of 12 and 18 to become involved in the media and talk about the issues that affect their lives, under the theme: 'Conflict and Peace Building'.
To coincide with the Kidocracy Konference, Bush Radio's Children's Radio Education Workshop (CREW) project turns ten this year. The CREW (made up of three groups: tots, kids and teens) have their own radio programmes every Saturday morning. At the conference, they will act as hosts and mini-facilitators to their young colleagues from within the region, and as far afield as Canada and Cambodia.
"Robben Island Museum the ideal setting in which the young participants can network and seek solutions to challenges facing today's children and the youth," said co-ordinator Nashira Abrahams, who also happens to be a member of Bush Radio's very first CREW group.
This is the 7th Kidocracy Konference. A highlight of previous conferences was the International Children and Youth Radio Manifesto (which was drawn up by the young participants), was accepted at a UN sitting in 2004.
Bush Radio's breakfast presenter Victor J will host his show, It's All Good, live from the island for the duration of the conference.
24 November 2006
Bush Radio's annual media conference takes place next month, from the 6th to 10th December. This year the conference will be held, in partnership with the Robben Island Museum, on the island.
The 2006 Media Kidocracy Konference aims to encourage children between the ages of 12 and 18 to become involved in the media and talk about the issues that affect their lives, under the theme: 'Conflict and Peace Building'.
To coincide with the Kidocracy Konference, Bush Radio's Children's Radio Education Workshop (CREW) project turns ten this year. The CREW (made up of three groups: tots, kids and teens) have their own radio programmes every Saturday morning. At the conference, they will act as hosts and mini-facilitators to their young colleagues from within the region, and as far afield as Canada and Cambodia."Robben Island Museum the ideal setting in which the young participants can network and seek solutions to challenges facing today's children and the youth," said co-ordinator Nashira Abrahams, who also happens to be a member of Bush Radio's very first CREW group.
This is the 7th Kidocracy Konference. A highlight of previous conferences was the International Children and Youth Radio Manifesto (which was drawn up by the young participants), was accepted at a UN sitting in 2004.
Bush Radio's breakfast presenter Victor J will host his show, It's All Good, live from the island for the duration of the conference.
Police request public's assistance
By Odette Ismail
24 November 2006
Police are looking for a man who alleged to have raped a woman at the weekend after promising her a job opportunity.
The man was knocked on the woman’s door in the Mfuleni area. He told her that the previous owner was interested in a job offer.
Police spokesperson Elliot Sinyangana says that the woman accepted the offer and went with the suspect to the home of the employer.
It is believed that the man suggested a short cut in through a bush. The woman says the man grabbed her and indecently assaulted her.
When the woman tried to summon help, the man is alleged to have runoff.
Anyone with information should contact Detective Inspector Christopher Weavers on 021 918 3065 or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.
24 November 2006
Police are looking for a man who alleged to have raped a woman at the weekend after promising her a job opportunity.
The man was knocked on the woman’s door in the Mfuleni area. He told her that the previous owner was interested in a job offer.
Police spokesperson Elliot Sinyangana says that the woman accepted the offer and went with the suspect to the home of the employer.
It is believed that the man suggested a short cut in through a bush. The woman says the man grabbed her and indecently assaulted her.
When the woman tried to summon help, the man is alleged to have runoff.
Anyone with information should contact Detective Inspector Christopher Weavers on 021 918 3065 or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.
Festive season hits the Mother City
By Tarryn Le Chat
24 November 2006
The City of Cape Town is fully geared to handle the influx of people on the 26th of November. The executive mayor, Helen Zille, will officially launch the Mother City holiday season with the switch on of the Festive Lights in Adderley Street.
During this period, numerous roads will be closed and parking bays will be allocated at designated areas. No access will be granted in Adderley Street – for parking – from 7am till midnight.
All side streets leading into Adderley Street will also be closed. Special parking will be made available on the Grand Parade and in Queen Victoria and Wale streets.
Two main events on this day will be the family carnival and the main concert followed, by a community parade at Heerengracht Fountain in Adderley Street.
The closure points are: Adderley & Bureau Street; Adderley & Hout Street; Adderley & Strand street, Adderley & Riebeek street; Hans Strijdom & Long Street; Heerengreacht & Hertzog Boulevard; DF Malan & Hertzog Boulevard; Civic Road & Hertzog Boulevard; Plein & Strand street; Plein & Darling Street; Longmarket & Parliament Street; St George’s & Longmarket Street; Burg and Longmarket street; Burg & Hout Street; St George’s & Strand Street; Long & Strand Street; St George’s & Riebeek Street; St George’s & Hout Street; Waterkant & Riebeek Street; Long & Riebeek Street.
Provision has been made for medical services as well as information / lost and found facilities at both entertainment areas. Temporary toilet facilities, including facilities for the disabled, will be available at designated locations.
24 November 2006
The City of Cape Town is fully geared to handle the influx of people on the 26th of November. The executive mayor, Helen Zille, will officially launch the Mother City holiday season with the switch on of the Festive Lights in Adderley Street.
During this period, numerous roads will be closed and parking bays will be allocated at designated areas. No access will be granted in Adderley Street – for parking – from 7am till midnight.
All side streets leading into Adderley Street will also be closed. Special parking will be made available on the Grand Parade and in Queen Victoria and Wale streets.
Two main events on this day will be the family carnival and the main concert followed, by a community parade at Heerengracht Fountain in Adderley Street.
The closure points are: Adderley & Bureau Street; Adderley & Hout Street; Adderley & Strand street, Adderley & Riebeek street; Hans Strijdom & Long Street; Heerengreacht & Hertzog Boulevard; DF Malan & Hertzog Boulevard; Civic Road & Hertzog Boulevard; Plein & Strand street; Plein & Darling Street; Longmarket & Parliament Street; St George’s & Longmarket Street; Burg and Longmarket street; Burg & Hout Street; St George’s & Strand Street; Long & Strand Street; St George’s & Riebeek Street; St George’s & Hout Street; Waterkant & Riebeek Street; Long & Riebeek Street.
Provision has been made for medical services as well as information / lost and found facilities at both entertainment areas. Temporary toilet facilities, including facilities for the disabled, will be available at designated locations.
Langa residents against moving out for renovations
By Chanel September
24 November 2006
The city is building 200 double-storey units to accommodate the hostel dwellers in Langa but residents of old Langa refused to move out for renovations.
This has cost the city more than R370 000 since June in payments to a building contracter.
Dan Plato head of the city housing portfolio told a daily news paper that this is a wasteful expenditure costing the city R70 000 a month.
According to an evection order the city obtained against the hostel dwellers last week, all hostel dwellers in Block C were to have been evicted.
The city has however provided Wendy houses for the residents.
24 November 2006
The city is building 200 double-storey units to accommodate the hostel dwellers in Langa but residents of old Langa refused to move out for renovations.
This has cost the city more than R370 000 since June in payments to a building contracter.
Dan Plato head of the city housing portfolio told a daily news paper that this is a wasteful expenditure costing the city R70 000 a month.
According to an evection order the city obtained against the hostel dwellers last week, all hostel dwellers in Block C were to have been evicted.
The city has however provided Wendy houses for the residents.
Thursday, November 23, 2006
CURRENT AFFAIRS TONIGHT
This week on Newsline we look at:
- Gympie Street residents without water
- Cable-theft phenomenon
- SMS language taking over in schools; and
- South Africa's Chapter 9 institutions under review
Don't miss NEWSLINE, Bush Radio's current affairs show
Tonight at 7
Only on 89.5fm
Tonight at 7
Only on 89.5fm
You can also catch the re-run on Friday at 8PM, or listen on-line at www.bushradio.co.za
Police wound suspect in taxi hijacking
By Odette Ismail
23 November 2006
Police arrested two men yesterday afternoon after they tried to hi-jack a taxi driver in Delft-South. A third suspect is in hospital receiving medical attention.
The taxi driver and his guard stopped to pick up three males in Boys street, Delft South.
While driving one of the males allegedly pointed a gun at the driver and the guard. They were threatened to continue driving.
The guard tried to escape and jumped out of the taxi. He then made police patrolling the area aware of the incident.
The police followed the vehicle and pulled the taxi off Hindle road.
When police approached the vehicle one of the suspects fired shots at them says Captain Elliot Sinyangana.
Police shot back at the suspect and wounded him in the back. The other two were arrested and the wounded suspect was taken to hospital.
They are facing charges of Vehicle hi-jacking, attempted murder and possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.
23 November 2006
Police arrested two men yesterday afternoon after they tried to hi-jack a taxi driver in Delft-South. A third suspect is in hospital receiving medical attention.
The taxi driver and his guard stopped to pick up three males in Boys street, Delft South.
While driving one of the males allegedly pointed a gun at the driver and the guard. They were threatened to continue driving.
The guard tried to escape and jumped out of the taxi. He then made police patrolling the area aware of the incident.
The police followed the vehicle and pulled the taxi off Hindle road.
When police approached the vehicle one of the suspects fired shots at them says Captain Elliot Sinyangana.
Police shot back at the suspect and wounded him in the back. The other two were arrested and the wounded suspect was taken to hospital.
They are facing charges of Vehicle hi-jacking, attempted murder and possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.
Escapee's look-alike arrested
By Nadia Samie
23 November 2006
A man, who apparently bears a strong resemblance to the Mozambican national who escaped from Pretoria's C-Max prison last weekend has been arrested in Mpumalanga, police said today.
Reports quote police spokesperson Superintendent Mtsholi Bhembe as saying that he looks exactly like Annanias Mathe. The man was cornered at Komatipoort, near the border between South Africa and Mozambique.
The search continues for the 29-year-old awaiting-trial prisoner, who is considered extremely dangerous. It is believed that Mathe stripped and covered his entire body with petroleum jelly to climb out of a window measuring 20cm x 60cm. The C-Max prison is supposed to be the country’s most secure. The possibility of an inside job has not been ruled out.
An agent from the National Intelligence Agency will head an investigating team into the escape.
The public is warned not to try to apprehend Mathe, as he is considered dangerous. Mathe is facing 51 charges, including murder, attempted murder, rape, hijacking and armed robbery.
Anyone who has information regarding Mathe's whereabouts is asked to contact Captain Fires Jansen van Vuuren on 082-822-8174 or Inspector Selepe on 082-225-2230 or crime-stop on 08600-10111.
23 November 2006
A man, who apparently bears a strong resemblance to the Mozambican national who escaped from Pretoria's C-Max prison last weekend has been arrested in Mpumalanga, police said today.
Reports quote police spokesperson Superintendent Mtsholi Bhembe as saying that he looks exactly like Annanias Mathe. The man was cornered at Komatipoort, near the border between South Africa and Mozambique.
The search continues for the 29-year-old awaiting-trial prisoner, who is considered extremely dangerous. It is believed that Mathe stripped and covered his entire body with petroleum jelly to climb out of a window measuring 20cm x 60cm. The C-Max prison is supposed to be the country’s most secure. The possibility of an inside job has not been ruled out.
An agent from the National Intelligence Agency will head an investigating team into the escape.
The public is warned not to try to apprehend Mathe, as he is considered dangerous. Mathe is facing 51 charges, including murder, attempted murder, rape, hijacking and armed robbery.
Anyone who has information regarding Mathe's whereabouts is asked to contact Captain Fires Jansen van Vuuren on 082-822-8174 or Inspector Selepe on 082-225-2230 or crime-stop on 08600-10111.
Arson suspected after classrooms burn
By Tando Mfengwana
23 November 2006
Durban’s Star College staff arrived at the school on Wednesday to find that two prefabricated classrooms, which were used to write exams, had been burnt.
Police spokesperson superintendent Danelia Veldhuizen said there is a belief that the fire may have been an attempt at postponing the exams, and a case of arson is being investigated.
Faruk Türkmen, the school’s principal, said matric exams were written in one of the classrooms, Independent Online reports.
No one was in the building at the time the incident occurred. Türkmen said he thinks the cause of the fire was an electrical fault. The building was more than 10 years old, and no other damage to the school was caused by the fire.
23 November 2006
Durban’s Star College staff arrived at the school on Wednesday to find that two prefabricated classrooms, which were used to write exams, had been burnt.
Police spokesperson superintendent Danelia Veldhuizen said there is a belief that the fire may have been an attempt at postponing the exams, and a case of arson is being investigated.
Faruk Türkmen, the school’s principal, said matric exams were written in one of the classrooms, Independent Online reports.
No one was in the building at the time the incident occurred. Türkmen said he thinks the cause of the fire was an electrical fault. The building was more than 10 years old, and no other damage to the school was caused by the fire.
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
Zille angers Grassy Park community
By Nadia Samie
22 November 2006
22 November 2006
A Grassy Park community of about 300 forcibly-removed people plan to protest outside the Cape High Court next month, after they were summoned there to answer to eviction orders.
“Zille promised us she would never move us beyond the boundaries of
According to the community, just before receiving the eviction orders, a
Robert MacDonald, spokesperson for Mayor Hellen Zille, could not be reached for comment at the time of publication.
Rugby murder case ongoing
By Odette Ismail
22 November 2006
The case of two rugby players charged with murder was postponed yesterday.
Benjamin Zimri and Wayne Matthee are members of the Delicious Rugby Club. They are facing charges of murdering a Raswonville Rugby Club player, Riaan Loodts.
The two appeared in the Worcester Regional Court yesterday.
They were told that the tapes on the union’s investigation first have to be written up before it can be used as evidence in court.
The next court date will be on January 16.
22 November 2006
The case of two rugby players charged with murder was postponed yesterday.
Benjamin Zimri and Wayne Matthee are members of the Delicious Rugby Club. They are facing charges of murdering a Raswonville Rugby Club player, Riaan Loodts.
The two appeared in the Worcester Regional Court yesterday.
They were told that the tapes on the union’s investigation first have to be written up before it can be used as evidence in court.
The next court date will be on January 16.
Push to shut down illegal use of council houses
By Tando Mfengwana
22 November 2006
Eviction notices will be served to people operating shebeens or drug dealing in council-owned houses in the coming month.
JP Smith, the Council’s Safety and Security Committee chairman said the city and provincial administration had agreed on a strategy to tackle the problem.
He told the Cape Argus that shebeens operating in privately owned houses that are not zoned will not be spared.
This is because the city can call upon land-use planning regulations.
Letters will be sent to residents informing them of the action planned.
Smith said the Department of Community Safety will be monitoring for compliance and it will alert the council, if there is an ongoing non-compliance.
In people refuse to comply with the council, they will be left with no other choice but to go over the next step which is eviction.
22 November 2006
Eviction notices will be served to people operating shebeens or drug dealing in council-owned houses in the coming month.
JP Smith, the Council’s Safety and Security Committee chairman said the city and provincial administration had agreed on a strategy to tackle the problem.
He told the Cape Argus that shebeens operating in privately owned houses that are not zoned will not be spared.
This is because the city can call upon land-use planning regulations.
Letters will be sent to residents informing them of the action planned.
Smith said the Department of Community Safety will be monitoring for compliance and it will alert the council, if there is an ongoing non-compliance.
In people refuse to comply with the council, they will be left with no other choice but to go over the next step which is eviction.
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
Suspects arrested after two bodies found
By Chanel September
21 November 2006
The bodies of two men were found in a room on the premises of a factory in Central Drum, Phillipi.
Anthony Wylbach (26) and George Smith (27) were both workers on the premises. They were found by a co-worker. Both men sustained single bullet wounds to the head.
It is believed that the suspects and the deceased were involved in an argument on Monday.
The police's Superintendent Billy Jones says that after a tip-off by community members, two men from a nearby area were arrested.
The suspects are in custody and are due to appear in court soon on charges of murder.
Anyone with information can contact Crime Stop at 08600 10111.
21 November 2006
The bodies of two men were found in a room on the premises of a factory in Central Drum, Phillipi.
Anthony Wylbach (26) and George Smith (27) were both workers on the premises. They were found by a co-worker. Both men sustained single bullet wounds to the head.
It is believed that the suspects and the deceased were involved in an argument on Monday.
The police's Superintendent Billy Jones says that after a tip-off by community members, two men from a nearby area were arrested.
The suspects are in custody and are due to appear in court soon on charges of murder.
Anyone with information can contact Crime Stop at 08600 10111.
More schools not charging fees
By Odette Ismail
21 November 2006
The National Education Department has put in place measures to ensure that 40% of schools will not charge fees next year.
Education Minister Naledi Pandor announced yesterday that funding is available to relieve low-income parents.
She added that government is committed to providing children with an education.
Pandor revealed resolutions made by the Council of Education Ministers yesterday in Pretoria. She spoke about safety in schools and the allocations of teaching bursaries.
The government is planning to issue R700 million over the next three years for these bursaries.
Young people from rural areas will be the first to benefit from the bursaries. Pandor hopes once qualified, they will return to their areas and give back to their communities.
21 November 2006
The National Education Department has put in place measures to ensure that 40% of schools will not charge fees next year.
Education Minister Naledi Pandor announced yesterday that funding is available to relieve low-income parents.
She added that government is committed to providing children with an education.
Pandor revealed resolutions made by the Council of Education Ministers yesterday in Pretoria. She spoke about safety in schools and the allocations of teaching bursaries.
The government is planning to issue R700 million over the next three years for these bursaries.
Young people from rural areas will be the first to benefit from the bursaries. Pandor hopes once qualified, they will return to their areas and give back to their communities.
Guard admits to sodomising young boys
By Tando Mfengwana
21 November 2006
A private security guard pleaded guilty to nine counts of indecent assault in the Durban High Court on Friday.
Michael Mafika Bhengu sodomised nine young schoolboys aged between nine and 15 years since 2004 in the Overport area. In a statement Bhengu told just how he lured the boys by accusing them of stealing bicycles. In other cases he would threaten to kill them if they were to breathe a word to anyone about the attack.
According to a Daily News report Bhengu would target boys on their way home from school and then take the boys either to Kenilworth Road, the cemetery or an abandoned building. He would then order the boys to strip and indecently assault them. He would give the boys money or in some cases promise them toys.
Bhengu was arrested on November 13 when one of his victims saw him in Essenwood road and called the police.
Judge Kate Pillay said she wanted to know the effect of the incidents on the children before handing down a sentence. She said that in order to be fair to society and to Bhengu, she did not want to rush the matter.
Bhengu is to remain custody until December 20.
21 November 2006
A private security guard pleaded guilty to nine counts of indecent assault in the Durban High Court on Friday.
Michael Mafika Bhengu sodomised nine young schoolboys aged between nine and 15 years since 2004 in the Overport area. In a statement Bhengu told just how he lured the boys by accusing them of stealing bicycles. In other cases he would threaten to kill them if they were to breathe a word to anyone about the attack.
According to a Daily News report Bhengu would target boys on their way home from school and then take the boys either to Kenilworth Road, the cemetery or an abandoned building. He would then order the boys to strip and indecently assault them. He would give the boys money or in some cases promise them toys.
Bhengu was arrested on November 13 when one of his victims saw him in Essenwood road and called the police.
Judge Kate Pillay said she wanted to know the effect of the incidents on the children before handing down a sentence. She said that in order to be fair to society and to Bhengu, she did not want to rush the matter.
Bhengu is to remain custody until December 20.
Search continues for prison escapee
By Nadia Samie
21 November 2006
The search continues today for an awaiting-trial prisoner, who is considered extremely dangerous, after he escaped fromPretoria
21 November 2006
The search continues today for an awaiting-trial prisoner, who is considered extremely dangerous, after he escaped from
Anyone who has information regarding his whereabouts is asked to contact Captain Fires Jansen van Vuuren on 082-822-8174 or Inspector Selepe on 082-225-2230 or crime-stop on 08600-10111.
Monday, November 20, 2006
Three die in crash blaze
By Tando Mfengwana
20 November 2006
Three people burned to death after a collision with a police vehicle.
The accident happened at the bridge near Wosleley, near the Ceres area.
Their car flew through the bridge railing, fell down the rock face and burst into flames.
Worcester police identified the woman driver , her brother who was on the front seat, and their friend who was sitting at the back, all residents from Kuils River.
Police spokesperson Mzikayise Moloi told the Cape Times that the police are trying to reach the victims’ families.
Two police officers and six reservists were in the vehicle.
One policeman is in critical condition, and three others are in a serious but stable condition in hospital.
The officers were being ex-rayed and examined in the Worcester Medi-Clinic.
20 November 2006
Three people burned to death after a collision with a police vehicle.
The accident happened at the bridge near Wosleley, near the Ceres area.
Their car flew through the bridge railing, fell down the rock face and burst into flames.
Worcester police identified the woman driver , her brother who was on the front seat, and their friend who was sitting at the back, all residents from Kuils River.
Police spokesperson Mzikayise Moloi told the Cape Times that the police are trying to reach the victims’ families.
Two police officers and six reservists were in the vehicle.
One policeman is in critical condition, and three others are in a serious but stable condition in hospital.
The officers were being ex-rayed and examined in the Worcester Medi-Clinic.
Union releases statement on suspended Post Office boss
By Odette Ismail
20 November 2006
The Communication Workers Union (CWU) says they are shocked to hear about the suspended SA Post Office CEO Khutso Mampeule.
Mampeule was suspended last week at a meeting of the Post Office’s board.
In a statement CWU says they will not tolerate attention to be taken away from ongoing investigations which has been helping to root out corruption.
Last week Maanda Manyatshe MTN MD resigned after Mampeule laid charges against him for tender fraud. He is suing the Post Office for R100m. Meanwhile the Business Day reports that Mampeule is also looking for legal advice to sue the company.
According to Fin24 Mampeule says that he is a victim of a smear campaign by members of his board.
The union says that an investigation of contracts signed under the leadership of Manyatshe is correct and should continue.
The CWU has called on the greater intervention of the Ministry of Communications and the suspension of all managers and Board members who are being investigated to step down.
20 November 2006
The Communication Workers Union (CWU) says they are shocked to hear about the suspended SA Post Office CEO Khutso Mampeule.
Mampeule was suspended last week at a meeting of the Post Office’s board.
In a statement CWU says they will not tolerate attention to be taken away from ongoing investigations which has been helping to root out corruption.
Last week Maanda Manyatshe MTN MD resigned after Mampeule laid charges against him for tender fraud. He is suing the Post Office for R100m. Meanwhile the Business Day reports that Mampeule is also looking for legal advice to sue the company.
According to Fin24 Mampeule says that he is a victim of a smear campaign by members of his board.
The union says that an investigation of contracts signed under the leadership of Manyatshe is correct and should continue.
The CWU has called on the greater intervention of the Ministry of Communications and the suspension of all managers and Board members who are being investigated to step down.
Teachers lack in computer literacy
By Chanel September
20 November 2006
More than half of the teachers in some Cape Town schools are not computer literate.
Four township schools report that less than half of their staff were comfortable working with computers. Despite the Western Cape education department having trained over15 000 educators in basic computer literacy and technology.
The lack of computer literacy at some schools also prevents them from benefiting from funding and other programmes.
According to the Weekend Argus, the provincial education department claims that great progress has been made in schools receiving computers and the training of teachers through the Khaya project.
20 November 2006
More than half of the teachers in some Cape Town schools are not computer literate.
Four township schools report that less than half of their staff were comfortable working with computers. Despite the Western Cape education department having trained over15 000 educators in basic computer literacy and technology.
The lack of computer literacy at some schools also prevents them from benefiting from funding and other programmes.
According to the Weekend Argus, the provincial education department claims that great progress has been made in schools receiving computers and the training of teachers through the Khaya project.
Sunday, November 19, 2006
Dramatic twist as two help expose Kebble killers
By Chanel September
19 November 2006
Police has revealed they are on the brink to make their own dramatic arrest of former mining tycoon Brett Kebble. This after new claims that several key figures is allegedly implicated with the murder.
Two men, who are crucial to exposing the hit men in the murder of Kebble, are co-operating with investigators. Former Elite Security Group bouncers Mikey Schultz and Nigel McGirk both worked for Central National Security.
According to the Sunday Times, Schultz and McGirk are said to hold the key to who ordered the killing of Kebble last year.
Glenn Agliotti a former consultant for Kebble was arrested early on Thursday morning and appeared briefly in the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court.
He is scheduled to appear in court again on December 8 when a formal bail application will be brought.
19 November 2006
Police has revealed they are on the brink to make their own dramatic arrest of former mining tycoon Brett Kebble. This after new claims that several key figures is allegedly implicated with the murder.
Two men, who are crucial to exposing the hit men in the murder of Kebble, are co-operating with investigators. Former Elite Security Group bouncers Mikey Schultz and Nigel McGirk both worked for Central National Security.
According to the Sunday Times, Schultz and McGirk are said to hold the key to who ordered the killing of Kebble last year.
Glenn Agliotti a former consultant for Kebble was arrested early on Thursday morning and appeared briefly in the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court.
He is scheduled to appear in court again on December 8 when a formal bail application will be brought.
Cape Flats drive-by shooting claims two lives
By Chanel September
19 November 2006
Two men were killed and six others seriously injured during a driveby shooting in Mitchell's Plain on Sunday morning.
The men were standing outside the Lentegeur civic centre during a party when occupants of a black car stopped and started shooting at them shortly after midnight.
Superintendent Billy Jones says that the two men aged 37 and 49 died instantly and others were rushed to hospitals in the area.
The reason for the shooting is still unknown.Two cases of murder and six of attempted murder were being investigated. No arrests have been made yet.
19 November 2006
Two men were killed and six others seriously injured during a driveby shooting in Mitchell's Plain on Sunday morning.
The men were standing outside the Lentegeur civic centre during a party when occupants of a black car stopped and started shooting at them shortly after midnight.
Superintendent Billy Jones says that the two men aged 37 and 49 died instantly and others were rushed to hospitals in the area.
The reason for the shooting is still unknown.Two cases of murder and six of attempted murder were being investigated. No arrests have been made yet.
Red Ants could be called in remove illegal sqautters
By Chanel September
19 November 2006
The controversial Red Ants security guards could be on their way to Cape Town. The Red Ants who have received criticism for their tough tactics are to remove all illegal squatters refusing to leave property.
The Weekend Argus reports that, MEC for housing Richard Dyantyi has warned that he was considering legislation to prevent people from squatting. Squatters who stay under bridges, on road edges and cemeteries could be removed by the Red Ants.
The Western Cape is not the first municipality to make use the Red Ants as municipalities such as Johannesburg, Ethekwini and Tshwane have already called in the men in red .
Neither the company nor the Cape Town municipality were at this stage prepared to discuss their future relationship.
19 November 2006
The controversial Red Ants security guards could be on their way to Cape Town. The Red Ants who have received criticism for their tough tactics are to remove all illegal squatters refusing to leave property.
The Weekend Argus reports that, MEC for housing Richard Dyantyi has warned that he was considering legislation to prevent people from squatting. Squatters who stay under bridges, on road edges and cemeteries could be removed by the Red Ants.
The Western Cape is not the first municipality to make use the Red Ants as municipalities such as Johannesburg, Ethekwini and Tshwane have already called in the men in red .
Neither the company nor the Cape Town municipality were at this stage prepared to discuss their future relationship.
Saturday, November 18, 2006
Mother and baby still missing
By Chanel September
18 November 2006
A mother and her baby son are still missing after being abducted at gunpoint in Guguletu earlier this week.
Nomazwe Bethiwe was walking with her brother-in-law and five-month-old son Okuhle on Monday when a grey Mazda stopped next to them.
A male estimated between 45 and 50 years came out of his vehicle and pointed at her with a firearm, forcing her as well as the child inside his car.
Captain Eliot Siyangana says that the alleged kidnapper was believed to be from Qumbu in the Eastern Cape and was known by several names including Vuyani Bhebheza, Papashe Bhebheza and Vikizitha Ngqungquthela, Sinyangana said.
Police are appealing to anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Inspector Martins Solomons of Guguletu CID at 021-637-5946/684-1500 or Crime Stop on 08600-10111.
18 November 2006
A mother and her baby son are still missing after being abducted at gunpoint in Guguletu earlier this week.
Nomazwe Bethiwe was walking with her brother-in-law and five-month-old son Okuhle on Monday when a grey Mazda stopped next to them.
A male estimated between 45 and 50 years came out of his vehicle and pointed at her with a firearm, forcing her as well as the child inside his car.
Captain Eliot Siyangana says that the alleged kidnapper was believed to be from Qumbu in the Eastern Cape and was known by several names including Vuyani Bhebheza, Papashe Bhebheza and Vikizitha Ngqungquthela, Sinyangana said.
Police are appealing to anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Inspector Martins Solomons of Guguletu CID at 021-637-5946/684-1500 or Crime Stop on 08600-10111.
Five people lose their lives in Western Cape fires
By Chanel September
18 November 2006
Five people lost their lives in three separate fires in the Western Cape.
All three fires occurred yesterday evening with the first incident at Yzerfontein on the Cape West coast.
Two people were recovered from an abandoned farmhouse that caught fire.
In Malmesbury one person was pulled from a house and fire fighters were still looking for another believed to have been trapped in the house.
According to SABC News at Black City informal settlement in Gugulethu two people burnt to death when their shack caught alight, destroying four dwellings.
And in Khayelitsha at Site C, a person died after a fire burnt out two dwellings.
18 November 2006
Five people lost their lives in three separate fires in the Western Cape.
All three fires occurred yesterday evening with the first incident at Yzerfontein on the Cape West coast.
Two people were recovered from an abandoned farmhouse that caught fire.
In Malmesbury one person was pulled from a house and fire fighters were still looking for another believed to have been trapped in the house.
According to SABC News at Black City informal settlement in Gugulethu two people burnt to death when their shack caught alight, destroying four dwellings.
And in Khayelitsha at Site C, a person died after a fire burnt out two dwellings.
'Cape Town is Western Cape's money-spinner' - Brown
By Nadia Samie
18 November 2006
Western Cape Finance MEC Lynne Brown’s medium term budget policy statement and socio-economic profiling of local government reveals that more than 75% of the Western Cape’s economy is contributed by the Cape Town Metropolitan area.
According to Brown, the city’s major strengths lie in its infrastructure and the diversification of its economy. The key sectors in terms of their contribution to the provinces growth were finance and business 84,4 %, transport and communication 81,5% electricity and water 78,1% and manufacturing 75%.
The policy statement identifies spatial planning, traffic congestion, weak debt collection, aageing bulk infrastructure and slow capital expenditure and operational efficiency as constraints to the city’s growth. The huge sum of unspent budgeted expenditures, particularly basic services needs to be addressed, the profiling found.
The utilisation of social infrastructure — schools, healthcare facilities and police stations -- within the city indicate some extent of overburden, with a heavy workload in areas such as health and education.
18 November 2006
Western Cape Finance MEC Lynne Brown’s medium term budget policy statement and socio-economic profiling of local government reveals that more than 75% of the Western Cape’s economy is contributed by the Cape Town Metropolitan area.
According to Brown, the city’s major strengths lie in its infrastructure and the diversification of its economy. The key sectors in terms of their contribution to the provinces growth were finance and business 84,4 %, transport and communication 81,5% electricity and water 78,1% and manufacturing 75%.
The policy statement identifies spatial planning, traffic congestion, weak debt collection, aageing bulk infrastructure and slow capital expenditure and operational efficiency as constraints to the city’s growth. The huge sum of unspent budgeted expenditures, particularly basic services needs to be addressed, the profiling found.
The utilisation of social infrastructure — schools, healthcare facilities and police stations -- within the city indicate some extent of overburden, with a heavy workload in areas such as health and education.
Friday, November 17, 2006
Traffic cop arrested for bribery
By Tando Mfengwana
17 November 2006
A Traffic officer was arrested for allegedly accepting bribes from motorists in Lydenburg, Mpumalanga.
The spokesperson for the Provincial Department of Roads and Transport, Joseph Mabuza told the SABC that the inspector reported to the police by a motorist.
The motorist claimed that the inspector was trying to take a bribe.
Mabuza said the inspector will appear in court on a later date.
17 November 2006
A Traffic officer was arrested for allegedly accepting bribes from motorists in Lydenburg, Mpumalanga.
The spokesperson for the Provincial Department of Roads and Transport, Joseph Mabuza told the SABC that the inspector reported to the police by a motorist.
The motorist claimed that the inspector was trying to take a bribe.
Mabuza said the inspector will appear in court on a later date.
Electrocuted man's body found
By Tando Mfegwana
17 November 2006
A body of a man was found in the Johannesburg CBD this morning.
Police spokesperson Malcolm Midgely said the man’s body was found hanging from a cable at corner Webber and Simmonds street in the early hours.
Midgely said ha man may have been electrocuted when trying to steal electrical wire.
The details of whether the man had been electrocuted on Thursday or Friday morning are still sketchy, according to an Independent Online report.
17 November 2006
A body of a man was found in the Johannesburg CBD this morning.
Police spokesperson Malcolm Midgely said the man’s body was found hanging from a cable at corner Webber and Simmonds street in the early hours.
Midgely said ha man may have been electrocuted when trying to steal electrical wire.
The details of whether the man had been electrocuted on Thursday or Friday morning are still sketchy, according to an Independent Online report.
Gympie Street resident's without water
By Nadia Samie
17 November 2006
More than 120 residents of Gympie Street in Woodstock, have been without water for the past three days, after the City of Cape Town sent workers, accompanied by SAPS and Metro Police Members, to disconnect the water supply and remove water meters.
Willie Heyn, chairperson of the Gympie Street residents committee, says that those living in Gympie Street include several disabled people, babies, and people living with HIV, who have been unable to take their medication properly.
Robert MacDonald, spokesperson for the mayor’s office, could not be reached for comment.
17 November 2006
More than 120 residents of Gympie Street in Woodstock, have been without water for the past three days, after the City of Cape Town sent workers, accompanied by SAPS and Metro Police Members, to disconnect the water supply and remove water meters.
Willie Heyn, chairperson of the Gympie Street residents committee, says that those living in Gympie Street include several disabled people, babies, and people living with HIV, who have been unable to take their medication properly.
Robert MacDonald, spokesperson for the mayor’s office, could not be reached for comment.
Chapter 9 institutions under review
By Nadia Samie
17 November 2006
The public is invited to tell parliament what they think ofSouth Africa
17 November 2006
The public is invited to tell parliament what they think of
The Public Protector,
Human Rights Commission,
Auditor General,
Independent Electoral Commission,
Gender Commission,
Public Service Commission,
Pan South African Language Board,
Financial and Fiscal Commission and
The Commission for the Promotion and
Protection of the Rights of Cultural,
Religious and Linguistic Communities
Speaking to Bush Radio, Asmal said that the work of the committee is democracy in action. He urged members of the public to participate, by letting the committee know if the institutions mentioned above are working for them.
To submit your views, contact:
Marc Philander (Committee Secretary)
Tel: 021-4033746
Fax: 021-4032854
E-mail: mphilander@parliament.gov.za
Sex offender pleads not guilty
By Odette Ismail
17 November 2006
A 21-year-old man has pleaded not guilty in the Cape High Court yesterday on charges of rape, assault and theft.
It is alleged that the man raped two pensioners in November three years ago.
Joudie Windvogel pleaded not guilty to two charges of rape, two housing breaking incidents and two of robbery with aggravating circumstances.
Windvogel according to the Cape Argus broke into the 71-year-old woman’s house. His DNA according to court reports matched to the woman.
It is believed he then broke into a 72-year-old woman’s house five days later in Bredaarsdorp.
Windvogel says he was at home when the second incident took place.
The trial will proceed soon.
17 November 2006
A 21-year-old man has pleaded not guilty in the Cape High Court yesterday on charges of rape, assault and theft.
It is alleged that the man raped two pensioners in November three years ago.
Joudie Windvogel pleaded not guilty to two charges of rape, two housing breaking incidents and two of robbery with aggravating circumstances.
Windvogel according to the Cape Argus broke into the 71-year-old woman’s house. His DNA according to court reports matched to the woman.
It is believed he then broke into a 72-year-old woman’s house five days later in Bredaarsdorp.
Windvogel says he was at home when the second incident took place.
The trial will proceed soon.
Thursday, November 16, 2006
Khayelitsha fast becoming new murder capital
By Chanel September
16 November 2006
Nyanga may have the murder capital of South Africa, but more murders have been reported in Khayelitsha in the past year.
The three police stations had 410 reported murders from April last year to March.
According to crime statistics released by Safety and Security Minister Charles Nqakula in September, the Khayelitsha police station recorded 219 murders and Nyanga 284.
According to the Cape Argus, Nyanga police station Senior Superintendent Duma Ntsezo said last week that shack congestion made effective policing, including vehicle patrols, difficult and was one of the main factors contributing to rampant crime in his area.
16 November 2006
Nyanga may have the murder capital of South Africa, but more murders have been reported in Khayelitsha in the past year.
The three police stations had 410 reported murders from April last year to March.
According to crime statistics released by Safety and Security Minister Charles Nqakula in September, the Khayelitsha police station recorded 219 murders and Nyanga 284.
According to the Cape Argus, Nyanga police station Senior Superintendent Duma Ntsezo said last week that shack congestion made effective policing, including vehicle patrols, difficult and was one of the main factors contributing to rampant crime in his area.
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
Missing vessel remains a mystery
By Nadia Samie
15 November 2006
After intensive sea, air and land searches by 10 rescue units, there is still no sign of the missing supply vessel, Hawk. The vessel is believed to have gone missing betweenRichards Bay and East London .
15 November 2006
After intensive sea, air and land searches by 10 rescue units, there is still no sign of the missing supply vessel, Hawk. The vessel is believed to have gone missing between
Speaking to Bush Radio, National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) spokesperson Craig Lambinon said that the four crew members who were on board the 16 meter vessel are presumed drowned.
They are Bruce Shane Van Wyk of
Lambinon said that all other vessels in sea and air vicinity were asked to keep an eye out for the Hawk.
Life boats and jackets that were on-board have already been found.
PSL chief wants frequent drug tests
By Tando Mfengwana
15 November 2006
Premier Soccer League Chief Executive, Trevor Phillips wants an increase in the frequency of drug tests for PSL players.
This following the latest scandal in the PSL, where two players were found to be using a substance believed to be a recreational drug..
Masixole May of Benoni Premier United and an unidentified Sundowns player were tested positive for a banned substance the Cape Times reports.
They both are facing an automatic six months ban from playing.
Phillips said that if more tests are conducted and players understood the consequences of the action hopefully they could solve the problem.
15 November 2006
Premier Soccer League Chief Executive, Trevor Phillips wants an increase in the frequency of drug tests for PSL players.
This following the latest scandal in the PSL, where two players were found to be using a substance believed to be a recreational drug..
Masixole May of Benoni Premier United and an unidentified Sundowns player were tested positive for a banned substance the Cape Times reports.
They both are facing an automatic six months ban from playing.
Phillips said that if more tests are conducted and players understood the consequences of the action hopefully they could solve the problem.
Plans to build new hospitals
By Chanel September
15 November 2006
Provincial government in the Western Cape has recently announced plans build two state hospitals worth R800 000.
The state of the art hospitals are to be built in Khayelitsha and Mitchell’s Plain.
Construction was to start in January of 2007 but will now only start at the beginning of 2008.
However the national department of health last week said that the budget allocated and approved by the national Treasury was significantly lower than requested.
The department requested R3.6 billion but only received R1.9 billion.
MEC for Health in the province Pierre Uys told the Cape Argus that there is only one district hospital on the Cape Flats and that he cannot accept the delay in building the two planned hospitals.
15 November 2006
Provincial government in the Western Cape has recently announced plans build two state hospitals worth R800 000.
The state of the art hospitals are to be built in Khayelitsha and Mitchell’s Plain.
Construction was to start in January of 2007 but will now only start at the beginning of 2008.
However the national department of health last week said that the budget allocated and approved by the national Treasury was significantly lower than requested.
The department requested R3.6 billion but only received R1.9 billion.
MEC for Health in the province Pierre Uys told the Cape Argus that there is only one district hospital on the Cape Flats and that he cannot accept the delay in building the two planned hospitals.
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
Police arrest one of their own
By Odette Ismail
14 November 2006
Police arrested a sergeant yesterday after he went missing with two service weapons in a patrol car.
The officers launched a search for the sergeant yesterday morning when he did not return after his night shift.
The man failed to hand in his service pistol and shotgun after completing his shift.
His colleagues were anxious when he did not pitch for his shift.
Police arrested him yesterday afternoon in Strand.
A metro police spokesperson told the Cape Argus that the man faces charges of illegally being in possession of the firearms and patrol vehicle.
14 November 2006
Police arrested a sergeant yesterday after he went missing with two service weapons in a patrol car.
The officers launched a search for the sergeant yesterday morning when he did not return after his night shift.
The man failed to hand in his service pistol and shotgun after completing his shift.
His colleagues were anxious when he did not pitch for his shift.
Police arrested him yesterday afternoon in Strand.
A metro police spokesperson told the Cape Argus that the man faces charges of illegally being in possession of the firearms and patrol vehicle.
SA Man deported to Zimbabwe
By Tando Mfengwana
14 November 2006
A South African citizen, whom authorities believed to be a foreigner, was arrested, detained and then deported to Zimbabwe.
David Phandlela, 26-years old sued Bosasa Operations Pty Ltd, which is trading as Lindelani Repatriation for R50 600 for unlawful arrest, detention and his subsequent deportation.
According to Pretoria News Phandlela is claiming R76 000 in damages from the ministers of Home Affairs and Safety and Security.
The report says that Fritz Gaerdes, of Lawyer for Human Rights, said this action will be taken later, because the ministers showed that they would defend the matter.
He is to receive over R40 000 in damages awarded to him by the Pretoria High court.
Phandlela, on March 27 2003 was on his way home in Yeoville from work through HIllbrow in Johannesburg.
Police and Home Affairs officials were questioning pedestrians about their nationalities along the route.
He was asked for his identity document, but he did not have one as he’s had been stolen a few days ago.
Phandlela had reported this to the Yeoville police station and showed the home affairs officials an application slip for his ID but this to no avail.
Phandlela was kept in Lindela in Krugersdorp and then deported to Zimbabwe after 11 days.
He had no food, no money and no way to contact he’s family and friends or a passport, he slept outside for two months
He eventually got back into the country after begging a taxi driver for a lift to Johannesburg.
14 November 2006
A South African citizen, whom authorities believed to be a foreigner, was arrested, detained and then deported to Zimbabwe.
David Phandlela, 26-years old sued Bosasa Operations Pty Ltd, which is trading as Lindelani Repatriation for R50 600 for unlawful arrest, detention and his subsequent deportation.
According to Pretoria News Phandlela is claiming R76 000 in damages from the ministers of Home Affairs and Safety and Security.
The report says that Fritz Gaerdes, of Lawyer for Human Rights, said this action will be taken later, because the ministers showed that they would defend the matter.
He is to receive over R40 000 in damages awarded to him by the Pretoria High court.
Phandlela, on March 27 2003 was on his way home in Yeoville from work through HIllbrow in Johannesburg.
Police and Home Affairs officials were questioning pedestrians about their nationalities along the route.
He was asked for his identity document, but he did not have one as he’s had been stolen a few days ago.
Phandlela had reported this to the Yeoville police station and showed the home affairs officials an application slip for his ID but this to no avail.
Phandlela was kept in Lindela in Krugersdorp and then deported to Zimbabwe after 11 days.
He had no food, no money and no way to contact he’s family and friends or a passport, he slept outside for two months
He eventually got back into the country after begging a taxi driver for a lift to Johannesburg.
Community members have their say at Imbizo
By Chanel September
14 November 2006
Residents from various communities came together at an Imbizo last night to show their support, standing up to fight against crime.
A crowded Salt River community hall was the venue for the people of Woodstock, Salt River and Observatory to air their views and problems which they face in their respective communities.
Problems that were raised were gangsterism, the abuse of women and children, the high murder rate, drugs and the evections of the homeless.
A safer for home all is what community members wants but crime in the Western Cape has only dropped by 17%.
Safety and Security MEC in the Western Cape Leonard Ramatlekane says that it is vital that community members stand together in reporting crime to the police.
Ramaltekane emphasised the standing together of communities, as this could bring crime down significantly.
Plans to improve WC education service delivery
By Chanel September
14 November 2006
14 November 2006
The Western Cape Education Department has drafted restructuring plans to improve service delivery, advanced equity and meet key priorities.
Monday, November 13, 2006
Truck derails train-19 killed
By Tando Mfengwana
13 November 2006
A collision occurred between a train and truck this morning killing 19 people and injuring dozens.
A truck carrying farm workers was crossing the Faure level crossing to Ridgemore farm between Faure and Firgrove stations collided with train number 3208 en route from Strand.
Police spokesperson Captain Billy Jones confirmed that 11 of the victims were male and 8 were female.
Twelve other people onboard the truck were injured, Jones said six of the survivors with no serious injuries were onboard the train.
Jones said that the injured ranging from critical to less critical, were immediately sent to the Tygerberg, Somerset Mediclinic, Hottentots-Holland and the Groote Schuur hospitals.
The accident caused extensive delays for trains on the route Strand to Cape Town.
Metrorail confirmed that the lines between the two stations have been reopened to all trains are running on time
According to eyewitnesses the truck stalled at the crossing.
In a statement released by Metrorail, the level crossing confirms to lawful warning signage and is protected by stop boards, road warning signs and train whistle boards.
The names of the victims have not yet been released as the families have not yet been informed of their deaths.
Police have opened an investigation of culpable homicide.
13 November 2006
A collision occurred between a train and truck this morning killing 19 people and injuring dozens.
A truck carrying farm workers was crossing the Faure level crossing to Ridgemore farm between Faure and Firgrove stations collided with train number 3208 en route from Strand.
Police spokesperson Captain Billy Jones confirmed that 11 of the victims were male and 8 were female.
Twelve other people onboard the truck were injured, Jones said six of the survivors with no serious injuries were onboard the train.
Jones said that the injured ranging from critical to less critical, were immediately sent to the Tygerberg, Somerset Mediclinic, Hottentots-Holland and the Groote Schuur hospitals.
The accident caused extensive delays for trains on the route Strand to Cape Town.
Metrorail confirmed that the lines between the two stations have been reopened to all trains are running on time
According to eyewitnesses the truck stalled at the crossing.
In a statement released by Metrorail, the level crossing confirms to lawful warning signage and is protected by stop boards, road warning signs and train whistle boards.
The names of the victims have not yet been released as the families have not yet been informed of their deaths.
Police have opened an investigation of culpable homicide.
‘Yengeni thinks he is above the law’ - DA
By Nadia Samie
13 November 2006
Former ANC chief whip Tony Yengeni’s failure to report back to prison punctually and his consumption of alcohol during his weekend off from jail, has angered opposition parties, who have cried out that he is receiving preferential treatment.
13 November 2006
Former ANC chief whip Tony Yengeni’s failure to report back to prison punctually and his consumption of alcohol during his weekend off from jail, has angered opposition parties, who have cried out that he is receiving preferential treatment.
Three months into his jail term, Yengeni was granted a weekend pass, in line with correctional services legislation. He was to return to the prison at 3PM on Sunday, instead, he arrived at 4PM, citing car trouble. Yengeni was also photographed in the garden of his Milnerton home drinking beer as he chatted to friends — this is reportedly a contravention of his parole conditions.
The DA slammed the decision to grant Yengeni a weekend pass.
In a statement, the DA said: "Tony Yengeni’s violation of at least two of his parole conditions is an outrageous affront on justice in
"Rewards such as weekend passes and early release should only be given to those prisoners who clearly demonstrate that they are remorseful for the crimes they have committed, have made every effort to reform and are demonstrating exemplary behaviour. If what happened this weekend is anything to go by, Tony Yengeni is not demonstrating any of these qualities. Clearly, the ANC government should be condemning Yengeni for this latest outrage, " says DA spokesperson for correctional services, James Selfe.
ID leader Patricia de Lille told a daily paper that, should Yengeni go unpunished for his weekend transgressions, he will leave prison early next year into a society as corrupt as when he went into prison.
Correctional Services Minister Ngconde Balfour has refused to comment until after he receives a report from the parole board.
Meeting postponed to dicuss recapitalisation plans
By Chanel September
13 November 2006
A meeting between Transport Minister Jeff Radebe and the National Taxi Alliance been postponed for two weeks, halting a possible week long strike.
The meeting in Pretoria on Friday focussed on the memorandum of grievances which were delivered to the department last month.
Taxis protested against the recapitalisation plan which could se more than 10 000 old taxis being scrapped by December.
According to the Cape Times, owners will be paid R50 000 for each legally registered old minibus taxi scrapped.
However Radebe says that the recapitalisation programme was irreversible adding that the plan would not be stalled by protest action.
Mother expresses anger in court
By Odette Ismail
13 November 2006
A 43-year-old man appeared in the Bellville Magistrate’s Court on Friday on charges of rape and indecent assault.
This comes after the alleged kidnapping of two girls in Delft last month.
Magistrate Helma Smit had to reprimand an angry mother according to the Cape Argus. She is believed to have called the suspect ‘rubbish’ in court.
The Sate prosecutor opposed bail as the suspects had more warrants for his arrests.
The rape survivors are believed to be aged seven and 10.
The case was postponed until next month for a formal application.
13 November 2006
A 43-year-old man appeared in the Bellville Magistrate’s Court on Friday on charges of rape and indecent assault.
This comes after the alleged kidnapping of two girls in Delft last month.
Magistrate Helma Smit had to reprimand an angry mother according to the Cape Argus. She is believed to have called the suspect ‘rubbish’ in court.
The Sate prosecutor opposed bail as the suspects had more warrants for his arrests.
The rape survivors are believed to be aged seven and 10.
The case was postponed until next month for a formal application.
SA music star Jabu Khanyile dies
By Nadia Samie
13 Novermber 2006
Award winning Afro-Jazz singer and songwriter Jabu Khanyile has died inJohannesburg
13 Novermber 2006
Award winning Afro-Jazz singer and songwriter Jabu Khanyile has died in
Khanyile succumbed to prostate cancer just after 12-o-clock on Sunday morning. He was diagnosed last year. He had been receiving radiation therapy since June, and was also receiving treatment for diabetes.
Khanyile was the 1996 winner of the Kora Best South African Artist award.
Cosatu has paid tribute to the pioneering musician, saying that workers have lost a friend and an ally who spoke for all of
The trade union federation added that he was the best possible ambassador for ubuntu.
Khanyile leaves behind his wives Phindy Dlamini and Khululiwe Sithole and seven children. He will be buried in
'Watch out drunk drivers and speedsters' - MEC
By Tarryn Le Chat
13 November 2006
Transport and Public Works MEC Marius Fransman has issued a stern warning to ‘drunk drivers, speed yobs and road hogs’ as traffic authorities prepare for the festive season.
“The authorities would be up to the challenge and his department, with the Department of Community Safety, were to set up a multi-task team where there would be regular road blocks”, said Fransman.
A recent Supreme Courts of Appeal ruling that drunk drivers’ cars may be forfeited to the state has also given the province’s powers a boost.
Fransman’s department is working towards implementing a demerit points system under which the licenses of drunk drivers, frequent speedsters and traffic offenders are to be suspended.
13 November 2006
Transport and Public Works MEC Marius Fransman has issued a stern warning to ‘drunk drivers, speed yobs and road hogs’ as traffic authorities prepare for the festive season.
“The authorities would be up to the challenge and his department, with the Department of Community Safety, were to set up a multi-task team where there would be regular road blocks”, said Fransman.
A recent Supreme Courts of Appeal ruling that drunk drivers’ cars may be forfeited to the state has also given the province’s powers a boost.
Fransman’s department is working towards implementing a demerit points system under which the licenses of drunk drivers, frequent speedsters and traffic offenders are to be suspended.
SMS language affects writing skills in the classroom
By Odette Ismail
13 November 2006
There is a concern that SMS language has made its way into the classroom.
Tamara Rodrigues a lecturer at Tshwane University of Technology completed a mini-dissertation towards a B Tech degree on the impact of the use SMS language.
She told the Sunday Argus that students were depending on this form of language as it is easy and not costly.
She said that this affected students’writing abilities. She said no punctuation is being used, but sentences are shorter.
Rodrigues says one cannot deny that SMS language has an influence on students and that language is something that develops as the world changes.
13 November 2006
There is a concern that SMS language has made its way into the classroom.
Tamara Rodrigues a lecturer at Tshwane University of Technology completed a mini-dissertation towards a B Tech degree on the impact of the use SMS language.
She told the Sunday Argus that students were depending on this form of language as it is easy and not costly.
She said that this affected students’writing abilities. She said no punctuation is being used, but sentences are shorter.
Rodrigues says one cannot deny that SMS language has an influence on students and that language is something that develops as the world changes.
Sunday, November 12, 2006
Police watch cash-in-transit heist gang 24-hours
By Odette Ismail
12 November 2006
The 25 cash-in-transit gangs in Westville Prison are being guarded 24 hours because of their dangerous nature.
They are being watched by at least ten armed policemen who stand outside their cells every day and night.
According to reports many of the men either was out on bail or escaped prison.
A police task team arrested the men last month. Police allegedly seized six AK-47s, handguns, R700 000 cash, biscuits and condoms.
The men face 12 charges on cash-in-transit heists. They also face charges of murder, armed robbery, kidnapping and having unlicensed firearms.
Police spokesperson Bala Naidoo told the Sunday Argus that measures need to be taken due to the volatile case.
Naidoo refused to give clarity on prison officials who help men escape.
The men appeared in court this week. They were guarded by many heavily-armed men.
12 November 2006
The 25 cash-in-transit gangs in Westville Prison are being guarded 24 hours because of their dangerous nature.
They are being watched by at least ten armed policemen who stand outside their cells every day and night.
According to reports many of the men either was out on bail or escaped prison.
A police task team arrested the men last month. Police allegedly seized six AK-47s, handguns, R700 000 cash, biscuits and condoms.
The men face 12 charges on cash-in-transit heists. They also face charges of murder, armed robbery, kidnapping and having unlicensed firearms.
Police spokesperson Bala Naidoo told the Sunday Argus that measures need to be taken due to the volatile case.
Naidoo refused to give clarity on prison officials who help men escape.
The men appeared in court this week. They were guarded by many heavily-armed men.
Extreme TB cases gets worse
By Odette Ismail
12 November 2006
Over 200 new cases of the extreme drug resistant TB (XDR-TB) have been detected in KwaZulu-Natal.
More alarming information is that the disease has been found in 10 of the province’s health district.
Reports reveal that the disease is not confined to only the Tugela Ferry area.
Doctors told the Sunday Argus that this causes huge repercussions for people at high risk of catching the disease, especially those living with HIV/Aids.
The World Health Organisation has called on government to retest samples for indications of XDR-TB.
A survey done last month revealed that 68 people died from the disease in the province.
The Tugela Ferry’s Church of Scotland Hospital had 181 cases while 10 other health districts had 86 cases.
12 November 2006
Over 200 new cases of the extreme drug resistant TB (XDR-TB) have been detected in KwaZulu-Natal.
More alarming information is that the disease has been found in 10 of the province’s health district.
Reports reveal that the disease is not confined to only the Tugela Ferry area.
Doctors told the Sunday Argus that this causes huge repercussions for people at high risk of catching the disease, especially those living with HIV/Aids.
The World Health Organisation has called on government to retest samples for indications of XDR-TB.
A survey done last month revealed that 68 people died from the disease in the province.
The Tugela Ferry’s Church of Scotland Hospital had 181 cases while 10 other health districts had 86 cases.
Fire destroys 250 shacks
By Odette Ismail
12 November 2006
A fire broke out early yesterday morning at the Du Noon informal settlement near Milnerton, destroying 250 homes and leaving over a thousand people homeless.
The fire was put out at six-thirty yesterday morning. The city’s disaster management team started to clear up and helped people recover possessions.
Speaking to Bush Radio this morning, Disaster management’s Johan Minnie said that they are helping people with providing food and blankets.
He confirmed that 250 shacks were destroyed and said the department of Social Services and Poverty Alleviation also joined to assist the people left homeless.
He also said that the names of those left homeless have been registered and building materials were given to residents.
12 November 2006
A fire broke out early yesterday morning at the Du Noon informal settlement near Milnerton, destroying 250 homes and leaving over a thousand people homeless.
The fire was put out at six-thirty yesterday morning. The city’s disaster management team started to clear up and helped people recover possessions.
Speaking to Bush Radio this morning, Disaster management’s Johan Minnie said that they are helping people with providing food and blankets.
He confirmed that 250 shacks were destroyed and said the department of Social Services and Poverty Alleviation also joined to assist the people left homeless.
He also said that the names of those left homeless have been registered and building materials were given to residents.
Saturday, November 11, 2006
Cash guards might go on strike
By Odette Ismail
11 November 2006
Cash van security guards are threatening to go on a strike. This may take place before the end of this month if employers dismiss safety demands set out by their unions.
This will be bad for all financial institutions and big retailers as Christmas draws closer. This will cause these places to be easy targets for robberies and ATM machines will therefore not be filled regularly.
Dennis George is the general secretary of the Federation of Unions of SA. He told the Weekend Argus that a list of demands hand been handed over.
The strike will take place, according to Dennis if companies refuse to comply with their demands.
11 November 2006
Cash van security guards are threatening to go on a strike. This may take place before the end of this month if employers dismiss safety demands set out by their unions.
This will be bad for all financial institutions and big retailers as Christmas draws closer. This will cause these places to be easy targets for robberies and ATM machines will therefore not be filled regularly.
Dennis George is the general secretary of the Federation of Unions of SA. He told the Weekend Argus that a list of demands hand been handed over.
The strike will take place, according to Dennis if companies refuse to comply with their demands.
Yengeni home for the weekend
By Odette Ismail
11 November 2006
Former ANC chief whip Tony Yengeni has been granted a weekend pass to spend with his family.
This is eleven weeks after the start of his four-year jail sentence for fraud charges.
Independent online reports that Yengeni will be allowed to be on parole every weekend. This includes Christmas and New Year.
Yengeni will be confined in his Cape Town home on Saturday and Sunday. He might be released under correctional supervision on January 15. Yengeni’s lawyer says however that this is just speculation.
Siraj Desai is the head of the Parole review board. He says that if Yengeni is released in January then this shows that he did not receive special treatment at all.
The local parole board will decide whether Yengeni will be released on parole and the conditions thereof.
If he violates any of his weekend parole conditions he will be taken back to prison.
A correctional services spokesperson said that Yengeni appeared before the Malmesbury case management committee, the beginning of November. It was decided that he be released earlier in next year.
picture: www.economist.co.za
11 November 2006
Former ANC chief whip Tony Yengeni has been granted a weekend pass to spend with his family.
This is eleven weeks after the start of his four-year jail sentence for fraud charges.
Independent online reports that Yengeni will be allowed to be on parole every weekend. This includes Christmas and New Year.
Yengeni will be confined in his Cape Town home on Saturday and Sunday. He might be released under correctional supervision on January 15. Yengeni’s lawyer says however that this is just speculation.
Siraj Desai is the head of the Parole review board. He says that if Yengeni is released in January then this shows that he did not receive special treatment at all.
The local parole board will decide whether Yengeni will be released on parole and the conditions thereof.
If he violates any of his weekend parole conditions he will be taken back to prison.
A correctional services spokesperson said that Yengeni appeared before the Malmesbury case management committee, the beginning of November. It was decided that he be released earlier in next year.
picture: www.economist.co.za
Boy still alive after being beaten and strangled
By Tando Mfengwana
11 November 2006
A ten-year-old boy is fighting for his life in hospital after he was allegedly beaten and strangled in Manguzi in Kosi Bay KwaZulu Natal.
Thabiso Vumase, a northern Zululand pupil was allegedly beating by his school principal and senior police officers who accused him of stealing other pupils’ lunch boxes.
His mother Noziziwe Vumase said his school principal, a senior police inspector and a member of a community policing forum had allegedly beaten and strangled him and he fainted after the incident.
She said that the men had warned her not to send the pupil to hospital or to report the matter to the police, according to a Daily News report.
She could see that his injuries were serious; she then ignored the men and took him to hospital.
The report says that the claims that Thabiso had been severely beaten during a three hour detention spread through the small town.
Residents were calling for both the principal and the police officer to be fired with immediate effect.
Doctors at hospital said the child was in a serious condition but promising but would not give any specific details about his condition.
11 November 2006
A ten-year-old boy is fighting for his life in hospital after he was allegedly beaten and strangled in Manguzi in Kosi Bay KwaZulu Natal.
Thabiso Vumase, a northern Zululand pupil was allegedly beating by his school principal and senior police officers who accused him of stealing other pupils’ lunch boxes.
His mother Noziziwe Vumase said his school principal, a senior police inspector and a member of a community policing forum had allegedly beaten and strangled him and he fainted after the incident.
She said that the men had warned her not to send the pupil to hospital or to report the matter to the police, according to a Daily News report.
She could see that his injuries were serious; she then ignored the men and took him to hospital.
The report says that the claims that Thabiso had been severely beaten during a three hour detention spread through the small town.
Residents were calling for both the principal and the police officer to be fired with immediate effect.
Doctors at hospital said the child was in a serious condition but promising but would not give any specific details about his condition.
Friday, November 10, 2006
Habana races to new position
By Tarryn Le Chat
10 November 2006
Bryan Habana, known for his fast pace and the mark he made as one of the most exciting players in world rugby, has been moved from wing to outside centre.
The speedster, who scored 12 tries in 12 tests last year, is a strike runner who can destroy a defence in the blink of an eye.
However, Springbok coach Jake White, has said that Habana has one weakness as a player, “He has a tendency to lose focus and to switch off for a moment which is costly in a game at this level, and in international rugby that is not permitted.”
Habana now has the opportunity to work significantly on that problem.
He is reportedly excited about the chance to grow as an outside centre and has the experience in the role from his earlier rugby days.
Paired with Jean de Villiers – a creative, visionary and innovative player at number 12 -- is perfect to set-up the pace-maker on the field and will be a perfect combination according to White.
Habana is set to play in tomorrow’s match against Ireland in Dublin.
Picture: msn.eurosport.fr
School goes to court over dagga-smoking boys
By Tando Mfengwana10 November 2006
A Port Elizabeth school filed an application to the high court to get the Eastern Cape Education department to decide whether or not to expel two school boys.
The two boys were caught while smoking dagga on the school’s premises.
Alexander Road High School application was heard on Tuesday, and on Wednesday the school received the department’s decision.
The department said that the school should not expel the boys.
Principal Peter Manser said the application from the school was to get the department to make a decision and apply the SA School Act, according to the Cape Times.
Manner was relieved that a decision had been made although the school’s governing body had recommended they’d be expelled.
The report says both boys who are under 18 admitted to their misconduct on August 7 this year.
The boys were suspended for 14 days.
They were later readmitted because of the department’s failure to make a decision on the matter.
The court's ruling was that the department had until Monday to make a decision on the boys’ transgression.
Home Affairs hostage-taker gets 5 years
By Nadia Samie
10 November 2006
10 November 2006
The 23-year-old
Legal counsel for Kabelo Thibedi had asked the court to consider correctional supervision as a sentence, instead of imprisonment. This was rejected by the state.
Thibedi has maintained from the beginning that he held Lanelle Small hostage with a toy gun out of desperation after waiting for two years for his ID book. He says that, because he could not provide his employers with the identification document, he had lost his job. He has also been unable to find alternative employment.
Since the incident, Thibedi, who reportedly has no history of violence, has received overwhelming support from the public, many of whom have expressed their frustration with the Home Affairs department. Legal aid was also offered to him from across the country.
Thibedi was granted leave to appeal against the sentence, and his R3000 bail was extended.
Project to boost current TB cure rate
By Chanel September
10 November 2006
Local government plans to boost the TB cure rate with a new hi-tech service device.
The seven month pilot project is called a SIMpill
This product contains a communication device attached to the bottle to remind patients to take their TB medication daily.
If patients fail to take their medication the company will send a reminder via SMS and if the SMS a caretaker will be notified.
In the Western Cape 48 000 people are infected with TB in the province with more than half in Cape Town.
The system is being tested by three clinics in the province.
Health MEC in the Province Pierre Uys says that if it shows that there is a increase in the cure rate and patients adhere to the project it’s something to consider.
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A man suspected of killing and raping a number of members of the farm worker community in Philippi on the Cape Flats appears in a Cape Town ...
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