Saturday, July 31, 2010

Two suspects arrested and 1000 Mandrax tablets confiscated

By Lelethu Mquqo
31 July 2010

Two suspects were arrested on Friday evening for possession of illegal substances, a stolen firearm and ammunition in Makhaza in Khayelitsha and police confiscated one thousand Mandrax tablets.

The Metro Police Officers were executing search warrants at suspected drug dens in the Makhaza and Somerset West areas when they discovered the Mandrax Tablets at a house in Ring Avenue, Makhaza.

Two suspects, one male and one female were arrested for possession of narcotics with a monetary street value of approximately R40 000.

One stolen .38 Special Revolver with 13 rounds of ammunition were also recovered and additional charges of possession of a stolen firearm and ammunition were added to their charge sheets.

President Jacob Zuma reportedly delegated Public Service Minister

By Lelethu Mquqo
31 July 2010

President Jacob Zuma has reportedly delegated Public Service Minister Richard Baloyi to intervene in the dispute between Communications Minister Siphiwe Nyanda and his fired director general Mamodupi Mohlala.

Mohlala was fired last week in what the department said was a process of trying to find solutions to the challenges as it became apparent that trust between her and Nyanda had broken down permanently.

She challenged her dismissal in the Labour Court in Johannesburg and demanded to be reinstated.

Mohlala says she is happy with Zuma's intervention.

The matter was postponed to the 26th of August 2010 as Nyanda is in China at the moment.

27 Gauteng Health Department employees under investigation

By Lelethu Mquqo
31 July 2010

The Gauteng Health Department has launched an investigation into 27 employees suspected of having a conflict of interest with the department.

The aim of the investigation is to try and recover over a million-Rands from these employees.

Gauteng Health MEC Qedani Mahlangu says the investigation forms part of an effort to tighten financial controls and restrain corruption.

The department has also suspended a senior emergency services official pending an investigation into allegations of fraud and misconduct relating to irregular procurement practices.

PSA strike said to have small impact on Home Affairs

By Lelethu Mquqo
31 July 2010

The impact of the strike action initiated by the Public Service Association on service delivery levels in the Department of Home Affairs has been very minimal with only 5.9% of the total staff complement as at Friday 30 July supporting the strike in all provinces and ports of entry throughout the country, Home Affairs' Ronnie Mamoepa said today.

Even though the strike action continues, service delivery levels in terms of issuance of ID’s, passports, permits and various forms certificates are said to continue without any major disruptions.

The Department of Home Affairs says it will continue to monitor and receive reports from all provincial offices and ports of entry through the Department’s Operational Centre based in Pretoria, a mechanism established to monitor traveller and tourist movement during the World Cup.

The department added that it will continue to monitor trends in terms of human resource deployment and to put mechanism in place to avoid major disruptions to service delivery levels for the duration of the strike action.

Friday, July 30, 2010

Mother jumps off a building with baby

Lusanda Bill
30 July 2010

Today a second year University of Johannesburg female student committed suicide.

The student leapt from a 10-storey building in the Johannesburg CBD, on the corner of Fox and End street.

The student lived in the building with her child and husband.

The University of Johannesburg student jumped with her seven-month old baby strapped to her back.

It has been reported that the women was married and was having marital problems at the time.

Emergency Services Percy Morokana was reported as saying that the woman’s husband was receiving counseling on the scene.

Police are investigating the incident.

The Reitz sentenced

Lusanda Bill
30 July 2010

Today the four former University of Free State students known as the Reitz appeared in the Bloemfontein Magistrate court, for their sentencing.

The judge made his decision today and sentenced the four students to a fine of R20 000 each or 12 months imprisonment.

The four students who are RC Malherbe, Johnny Roberts, Schalk van der Merwe and Danie Grobler pleaded guilty on Tuesday when they appeared in court.

The charges of the students are humiliating five black workers in an initiation ceremony, which they filmed the whole incident at the Free State University men’s residence.

The Reitz men’s residence has since being closed by the state.

Counsel Christo Dippenaar has asked the court for the students to pay off their fine over a certain period. A decision has not been made yet because the court has been adjourned so that the State and defence could consult.

Female driver dies in accident

By Jurina Nkwazi
30 July 2010

A female driver died and a passenger seriously injured when her car smashed into the rear of a heavy goods vehicle along Power drive near the Rand Airport late last night.

The truck is believed to have entered an industrial premise when the car hurtled into the back of the truck.

Netcare 911 found the remains of the car pinned under the truck with the occupants still trapped in the twisted metal.

It took fireman over an hour to free the injured from the wreckage. The female driver was tragically killed on impart.

The injured passenger was transported by ambulance to the Natal Spruit hospital.

Man burns to death in accident

By Jurina Nkwazi
30 July 2010

On Thursday evening a man burnt to death in an accident on the N1 north near the Atterbury road off ramp.

The fire department found the twisted remains of both vehicles littering the highway.

Paramedics and firemen were unable to free the man in the burning vehicle. He was trapped in the vehicle sustained extensive burns.

The other driver sustained serious injuries and was transported to a local hospital for the treatment.

Police are investigating the cause of the accident.

SAPS members arrested

By Lusanda Bill
30 July 2010

Fifteen police members have been arrested across the country in the past 24hours.

Police General Bheki Cele was speaking yesterday at the memorial service for the seven officers who died in a helicopter crash while responding to a robbery in Emalahleni last week.

Lieutenant General Arno Lamoer stated that six officers were arrested in the Northern Cape, two in Pretoria and one in Mpumalanga.

He also stated that what is more shocking is that the six more arrested in KwaZulu-Natal were members of the elite tactical response team.

Arno Lamoer was reported as saying People that we trained highly for the purpose of fighting crime are getting involved in things like this.

That is totally unacceptable and we will not stop until we root out all criminals.”

The fifteen police members who are arrested will appear in court soon but are now in custody.

Thursday, July 29, 2010

Police need assistance from the community

Lusanda Bill
29 July 2010

Muizenberg police are asking the assistance of the public in a housebreak and sexual assault case.

A resident of Muizenberg was returning home after walking her dogs when she was confronted by an armed suspect.

It has been reported that the suspect forced the young women to open the front door and proceeded to tie the complainant in the main bedroom, where he performed explicit sexual act and then fled the scene.

The Muizenberg resident was found by her house-mate where the police were called to the scene.

The victim has been provided with trauma counselling by the Victim Support Co-ordinator at Muizenberg SAPS.

Police are now seeking help from community members to look for the suspect.

The suspect has been described as an average built white male in his early thirties. At the time of the incident he was wearing a blue denim jean, a black top, black shoes and black gloves.

A case of housebreaking and sexual assault has been opened at the Muizenberg police station. Police need assistance, if anyone has any information please contact Detective Warrant Officer Brain Oosthuizen on (021) 787 9024 or 079 894 1300

Missing 25 year old girl found

Lusanda Bill
29 July 2010

A 25 year old girl who went missing on Friday night has been found.

It has been reported that she attended a Church Service on Friday where after the service she took a taxi home and got lost along the way.

She was then spotted by a community member who noticed her mentally ill status and immediately took Lungiswa to GF Jooste Hospital.

The family was immediately informed and she was then taken to hospital for a medical check-up where the doctors found no visible injuries/harm.

Philippi East Station Commander Vukile Ntandane has thanked all the people who were involved in the search for Lungiswa and he also stated that it shows in reality that many eyes and hands can do work smooth and easily.

Three suspects arrested for motor vehicle theft

By Jurina Nkwazi
29 July 2010


Police arrested three male suspects for possession of a stolen motor vehicle on Tuesday morning in Monopoly street, Mitchell’s plain.

The arrest follows during scheduled crime prevention patrols in Monopoly street Mitchell’s Plain.

The three suspects was busy towing the white VW Golf when police noticed the driver hiding behind the steering wheel and started investigating the registration number and appeared as stolen.

The males aged 20 and 22 will all appear in the Cape Town magistrates’ court on Thursday f9 July on a charge of theft of motor vehicle.

Bail of the suspects will be opposed in order to link them to previous reported theft of motor vehicle cases, where VW Golf’s were reported stolen within the Woodstock area.

Suspects arrested for high jacked vehicle

By Jurina Nkwazi
29 July 2010


On Tuesday police arrested four people in possession of a stolen vehicle in Symphony Way in Delft.

Four occupants who acted suspiciously in a white Opel Corsa were spotted by Delft police who was on crime prevention patrol duties.

Police investigated the registration number of the vehicle and confirmed that the vehicle was high jacked in Nyanga on July 20, 2010.

Members of the police immediately pulled the vehicle off the road and arrested the two females aged 21 and two males aged 25 for possession of stolen vehicle and their possible link to the high jacking.

Delft Station Commissioner Brigadier Hendrik Jansen praised his members for their excellent arrests and stated that their conduct is an indication of the member’s commitment to eradicate crime.

The four suspects will appear in the Bellville Magistrate’s Court on Thursday the 29th of July 2010.

Reitz Four case postponed

By Lusanda Bill
29 July 2010

The students who humiliated the five cleaners in a mock video, who work at the University of Free State hostel in 2008, have appeared in court on Tuesday.

The state and defence attorneys in the Reitz Four trail have agreed that a fine is an appropriate punishment for the students.

The students defence lawyer J Kemp has stated that the four students should pay only up to R5000 each for the crime. He was also reported as saying that the students have suffered enough for making the video two years ago and it was never intentionally wanted to harm or demean the workers dignity.

The state prosecutor Johan Kruger has been quoted as saying “it does not matter that they only pretended to urinate in a mixture that was fed to them. The cleaners were still humiliated and embarrassed because the video was circulated to the public”.

Kruger wants the students to pay R15 000 each; the case has been postponed for Friday.

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

An argument results in three deaths

Lusanda Bill
28 July 2010

A Johannesburg man shot and killed his wife aged 40 years, his friend and shot and wounded his 20year old stepson, and then shot himself.

Captain Johannes Ramphora has been reported as saying “He drove up to her driveway and blew the hooter; she came out carrying her baby. An argument apparently ensued and the man pulled out a gun”. Captain Ramphora stated that the “man first shot his friend in the car and the wife ran into the house. He followed her and shot her and her stepson before shooting himself”.

The stepson is in a critical condition in the Charlotte Maxeke Academic Hospital in Johannesburg.

Police say the 9mm Baretta pistol that was used in the shooting was stolen and the white Toyota Corolla car that the man was driving was hijacked in KwaThema outside of Springs.

A murder and possession of an unlicensed firearm docket has been opened, and police will investigate whether the deceased was involved in any crime.

More pictures of the suspect wanted for murder







Suspect Wanted for Murder

By Jurina Nkwazi
28 July 2010

A traditional healer was stabbed to death at the Cape Consumer Building Lower Burg Street, Cape Town. The man occupied premises in building.

Surveillance cameras captured the suspect shortly before the murder took place.

The police are seeking the assistance of the public to trace a man wanted on a charge of murder.

Anyone with information regarding the person are kindly requested to contact Detective Warrant Officer Nico Rose at Cape Town Central Police on 021 467 6376 or 0823232433.

LOC member shot in Johannesburg

By Jurina Nkwazi
28 July 2010


The Chief Financial Officer of the World Cup Local Organising Committee, Farouk Seedat has been shot.

Seedat was shot outside his home in Woodmeade in northern Johannesburg and rushed to hospital. He is in a stable condition.

Captain Kym Cloete said: "I can't really tell you what happened, but we were called to attend to a shooting at Gallo Manor at about 10 on Tuesday morning."

“The motive for the shooting is not yet known,” said LOC spokesperson Rich Mkhondo.

Police are investigating cases of attempted robbery and attempted murder.

Man hit by train

By Jurina Nkwazi
28 July 2010

A man died after being hit by a train on Tuesday near the Tygerberg Station, in Parow.

ER24’s Tristan Wadeley said: “When paramedics arrived on the scene the fire department had already declared the man dead.

“The man estimated to be in his late thirties had suffered severe pain and probably died on impact,” he said.

The commuter train is believed to have been travelling towards Cape Town.

The police are investigating the incident.

Picture: Warren Cupido

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

Reflection of the Protection of Information Bill

Lusanda Bill
27 July 2010

The reflection and discussion of a way forward for the Protection of Information Bill took place today in Parliament.

Chief State law adviser Enver Daniels appeared before the ad hoc committee today to make his presentation.

Daniels stated in his presentation that he was very concerned about the level of criticism and objection the bill had from the media, especially those who made submissions before the committee on Wednesday and Thursday last week.

Enver Daniels stated that he was satisfied with the bill, and it is constitutional which makes it easier for people to get access to information easily.

He added in his presentation that the submissions made before the committee last week, that some of them were “hysterical and emotional”. Daniel said because the objection to the bill is so strong he believes that the bill will land up in the constitutional court sometime.

He also made it very clear, in the issue of classification, that information can only be classified if the reason for justification is justifiable, legitimate and it is done on the ground of national interest.

He then named a few of the media organisations who made submissions last week like the Mail and Guardian, Dr Dario Milo from Print Media South Africa, South African Editors National Forum where he stated that these submissions were good and had valid points but he did not agree with them.

He ended off by stating that he had a strong team and that his office was among the most skilled in constitutional law, and that very few bills that have been approved by him have been overturned on constitutional appeal.

Then it was chairperson of the ad hoc committee Mr C V Burgess to make a presentation about the way forward.

He stated that he wanted the committee members to be very clear on the policy and constitutionality of the bill before they can move ahead, and wanted everybody to be on the same page before they can go through the bill clause by clause.

All submissions and objections made before the committee will be taken into consideration.

The outcome is that the ad hoc committee members will meet on the 10 August 2010, to assess all the submission hearings and determine where to go from there.

Kuilsriver Police seek assistance from the public

By Jurina Nkwazi
27 July 2010

Kuilsriver SAPS are seeking the assistance of the public in recognizing two unidentified people who was killed in two separate incidents.

On Monday a woman in her late twenties was killed at 07:00 by a train on the Kuilsriver - Stellenbosch railway line.

It is believed that the deceased stood in the middle of the railway line with her back turned on the oncoming train.

She was dressed in blue jeans, brown T-shirt, a gray top and carried a small black handbag.

And a male also in his late twenties, dark of complexion was found hanging from a tree in the bush behind Bet-el school in Sarepta, Kuilsriver.

The deceased was dressed in blue jeans, kaki jacket, wearing red and white Nike sneakers.

Anybody who recognize the mentioned clothing description or who reported a missing person since Sunday, 25 July 2010 can contact the investigation officer, Detective Constable Zelna Olivier on 072 328 0110 or (021) 900 2800 at Kuilsriver SAPS for both incidents.

Bus with 42 on board overturns in the Free State

By Jurina Nkwazi
27 July 2010


A Greyhound bus carrying 42 people has overturned about 20-kilometers outside of Harrismith in the Free State this morning.

The cause of the incident is still not known. It is, however believed that the bus had stopped on the side of the road as it was broken down.

The bus then rolled down a slope while people were working on it. It then overturned and landed on its roof.

Netcare 911 and provincial paramedics arrived at the crash site to find that 16 people were injured. One had sustained serious injuries while 15 others escaped with only minor injuries.

Paramedics transported the injured to the Harrismith Provincial hospital.

Goodwood police constable arrested on suspicion of murder

By Lelethu Mquqo
27 July 2010


A police constable from Goodwood has been arrested for allegedly that beating a handcuffed suspect to death.

The Independent Complaints Directorate reported that the constable and his two accomplices were charged with murder after Asanda Dondolo, 20, was found dead in police cells.

The three are expected to appear at the Khayelitsha Magistrate's Court on Wednesday 28 July.

A post mortem is expected at Tygerberg Forensic Pathology Services on today.

The recent arrest brings the number of police arrests to three in less than a week in the province.

The deceased was suspected of breaking into the police officer's car.

Public services undecided to go on strike

By Lusanda Bill
27 July 2010


Public service unions leaders will be meeting today to consolidate the gathering of mandates from all affiliates.

Public services unions affiliated with Cosatu are still undecided on whether to go on a nationwide strike.

Cosatu unions represent 56 percent of the unionised State employees.

The unions rejected the offer made by government of a six and a half percent wage increase.

The unions want a 8.6 percent wage increase from government if their demands are not meet then they will take part in a nationwide strike on Thursday.

The Public Servants’ association has already been given the go-ahead for a strike from its 200 thousand 210 000 members.

Monday, July 26, 2010

Agliotti appears in court on murder charges

By Lelethu Mquqo
26 July 2010

Almost five years after mining magnate Brett Kebble’s killing, convicted drug dealer Glenn Agliotti appeared in the South Gauteng High Court in connection with the crime today.

The case was postponed as Agliotti was the State's main witness against former police commissioner Jackie Selebi, who has since been convicted of corruption.

Reports said Agliotti will also face charges of conspiracy to murder some of Kebble's business rivals and another charge of attempted murder related to the shooting of Allan Gray executive Stephen Mildenhall.

Self-confessed hit man Mikey Schultz told the court that Agliotti never conspired to kill Kebble or any of the other men he was accused of plotting to kill.

Agliotti has pleaded not guilty to all charges against him.

Wanted person in Philippi East

Lusanda Bill
26 July 2010

The Nyanga Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit are requesting the assistance of the public in tracing a rape suspect.

On Saturday a 23 year old female and a friend were walking home in Lower Crossroads, Philippi East when they were approached by unidentified armed male.

The suspects threatened the female and her friend with a knife and raped the 23 year old.

He is described as a 30 year old black, 1.7m tall, medium built and fair in complexion with a scar on his left cheek.

Anybody with any information are requested to contact the investigating officer, Warrant Officer Le Roux on 082 522 10 67 or (021) 376 9850

19 year old arrested

Lusanda Bill
26 July 2010

A 19 year old prostitute in Bellville has been arrested for being in possession of dagga, half mandrax tablet and two tik lollies.

She was immediately arrested and taken to Bellville police station, where she is being charged with being in possession of illegal substance.

Her friend who is also a prostitute aged 16 from Paarl has been handed over to the Cape Town Child Care Services for assistance and further investigation.

Cape Town’s Vice Squad is appealing to members of the community to report possible prostitution or brothel activity in their area to 0800 225 669.

Robbers killed by teen

By Jurina Nkwazi
26 July 2010


A teen has killed a robber and injured another after catching them in his home.

It is alleged the teenager's mother and sister were the house when held by the suspects in their Rondebosch East home on Friday morning.

"The son of the owner came home and stumbled upon the two suspects, aged 28 and 30, “said Police spokesperson Colonel Andre Traut.

"There was a confrontation and the son stabbed both alleged robbers and one died on the scene."
The other man was arrested at the Hanover Park Day Hospital on charges of house robbery and an inquest docket has been opened.

The family says they are lost for words over the incident.

The teenager’s mother said "We are still coming to grips with what happened and we're all still in shock."

Africa News making Headlines

By Lusanda Bill
26 July 2010

#Two Rwandans have been arrested in Rwanda Kigali. The two opposition activists are said to belong to the party of Victoire Ingabire, who wanted to challenge President Paul Kagame in the August 9th presidential poll. Police spokesperson Eric Kayiranga has stated that the police cannot provide any details on their identity but stated that the police can confirm that the pair were members of the United Democratic Forces party.

# In Somali Mogadishu eight people have been killed over the weekend. Mogadishu ambulance service chief Ali Muse said five people died and seven were wounded late on Saturday. A witness saw three more wounded people. Muse says three died and seven were wounded on Sunday when mortars hit a market. Most of the dead were civilians, he said. The news came as African leaders discussed Somalia's conflict at an AU summit. Somalia became a focus of the summit after 76 people were killed two weeks ago in twin bombings in Uganda. Somali militant group al-Shabab claimed responsibility for the attacks.

# Zimbabwe Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai has given up on moving into Zimbabwe House. Reports say Tsvangirai has accepted a lesser house in Highlands, as President Robert Mugabe continues to hold onto both the property reserved for the head of government and State House, his official residence. Zimbabwe House is ceremonially reserved for the prime minister. Since the formation of the inclusive government almost two years ago, Tsvangirai has been resident at his family home in Strathaven.

# A suicide bomber killed at least one person in Algeria's eastern Kabylie region on Sunday by driving a car rigged with explosives into a building used by security forces, local residents said. The attack occurred in the early hours of Sunday morning and targeted a brigade of gendarmes at a village near the city of Tizi Ouzou about 110km east of the capital. The attack killed the night watchman at the village's town hall, directly adjacent to the gendarmes building, local residents said. Eight gendarmes were also injured in the attack.

Collision leaves one dead on Vissershok Road

By Jurina Nkwazi
26 July 2010


One person died and another was injured in a collision between an Uno and a Toyota Fortuna, on Vissershok Road, near the N7 this morning.

The male driver of the Uno who was trapped in the vehicle was dead on arrival of emergency services. Metro Rescue had to cut the man’s body from the wreckage.

ER24’s Tristan Wadeley says “The Toyota was lying on its roof with the female driver still inside the vehicle. “

“Paramedics extricated the lady onto spinal immobilisation equipment and transported her, in a stable condition, to Durbanville Medi-Clinic, “he said.

Wadeley added it is alleged that the driver of the Uno may have lost control of the vehicle resulting in the collision. Police were on scene and are investigating the incident.

Missing Person Alert: Vivian Anthony Alexander


Missing Person Alert: Xolisa Avela Mbiko


Missing Person Alert: Proffesor Lunga alias "Minister"




Missing Person Alert: Lancia van Reenen


ANCYL Chairman charged with fraud

By Lusanda Bill
26 July 2010

African National Youth League (ANCYL) Limpopo Chairman, Frans Moswane will be charged with fraud following reports that he continued to draw R35 000 monthly salary despite allegedly not having reported for duty since June last year.

Frans Moswane will go in front of a disciplinary committee by the Sekhukhuni Municipality, where he worked as a communication officer responsible for research with only a matric certificate.

Spokesperson of the Sekhukhuni municipal Willie Mosoma has confirmed in a statement that due processes will be followed against Mr Moswane.

His former employer the Limpopo Economic Development Department wants Moswane to pay about R146, 000 he allegedly continued to draw as monthly salary even after he resigned in 2007.

42 Drunk drivers arrested

By Lusanda Bill
26 July 2010

The Western Cape Community of Safety have sent out numerous warnings in the past few weeks that provincial traffic officials would be out in full force.

Despite these stern warnings 42 drunk drivers were arrested this weekend. On a more positive note the Department of Community Safety’s Safely Home Campaign has been a step in the right direction, with more road users 928 speedsters down from last weekend’s.

Minister of Community Safety Adv.Lennit Max says “we will continue to patrol our roads, with zero tolerance approach to motorists guilty of drunk driving, unlicensed vehicles and drivers, unroadworthy vehicles and speeding”.

He also stated that he wants to see a bridging gap between road users and law enforcement officers so that road safety is not only a combined effort, but in fact becomes a way of life in the Western Cape.

Sunday, July 25, 2010

Grandfather drives through shop door

Lusanda Bill
25 July 2010

A 68 year old grandfather is spending the weekend behind bars. The man drove through a glass of a shopping centre in Kuils River.

He became very aggressive after buying his beer.

At the time the man was with his five year old granddaughter when he started being aggressive.

His granddaughter was sitting in the front passenger seat of the car but luckily she was not injured.

The manager of the liquor store was unfortunately injured in the incident.

Police officer Isaac van Niekerk stated that the man faces charges of driving under the influence of liquor.

Five DA members escape unharmed

Lusanda Bill
25 July 2010

Five Democratic Alliance members who were going to attend the DA conference escaped serious injuries when a hotel lift they were in plunged three storeys.

The incident occurred early this morning in a hotel building in St George’s Street in Cape Town.

It has been reported that the emergency brake jerked the lift to a halt between the ground and basement floors.

Netcare 911 spokesperson Lauren Copley stated that a woman, estimated to be in her mid thirties, was treated on the scene after complaining of lower back pain, while another woman in her fifties was treated for upper back and neck pain.

They were both stabilised and transported to Netcare Christiaan Bernard hospital.

The good thing is that nobody was seriously injured.

This is the second incident involving a lift in a space of a week that paramedics had to attend to.

No sign of merger between DA and ID

Lusanda Bill
25 July 2010

The Independent Democrats (ID) leader Patricia de Lille addressed delegates at the Democratic Alliance’s Federal Congress this morning in Cape Town.

In her address to the congress de Lille stated that realignment of political parties is important for South Africa.

She added that her party will continue to talks with DA in a bid to form a strong opposition party, she also added that corruption which continues to plague the ANC leadership government must come to an end.

Through Patricia de Lille speech there was no announcement of a merge taking place.

It has been reported that South Africans will know around September if the merge will go ahead.

If the merge does take place then it will be a very strong and powerful party, which could possibly take over the ANC.

DA wants to reach more black voters

Lusanda Bill
25 July 2010

The Democratic Alliance held its Elective General Congress yesterday in Cape Town.

Helen Zille said that more South Africans are choosing to reject politics of race.

Helen said when addressing the congress that if people realised that every election was predictable because of racial census then abuse of power would be inevitable.

Democratic Alliance chairperson Wilmot James added that the part needs to reach out to black voters.

He also stated that he would like to see a culture of DA activists who take their policy to the electorate.

Helen Zille will be re-elected unopposed as DA’s party leader. Nine candidates are varying for the position of deputy federal chairperson, including Wilmot James, Western Cape MEC Banginkosi Madizela and the party’s youth leader Khume Ramulifho.

Today Independent Democrats’ leader Paricia de Lille is expected to address the congress today in Cape Town.

No coalition talks with Cope

Lusanda Bill
25 July 2010

The Congress of the People has suspended all coalition talks with other opposition parties.

Cope fears that because in its state of dysfunctional and divided state it could be swallowed up by another party.

Cope’s deputy president stated that the party’s main goal now is to build branches and profile and to make sure that the party is clear of what it stands for.

Mbhazima Shilowa was reported as saying that it would be untruthful for the party to enter into a political coalition which would be an anti-ANC alliance.

Cope has been going through a rough time in the past few weeks, but yet the party still has strong support especially in the Eastern Cape.

Saturday, July 24, 2010

Public servants sector warning of strike

Lusanda Bill
24 July 2010

The unions in the public servants sector have given the state a stern warning to stop using delay tactics in order to avoid a nation wide strike.

Government made a wage offer increase of 6.5 percent but unions Hospersa, Denosa and Nupsaw did not accept and want an 8.6 percent wage increase.

Nomthandzo Mahlangu from Nupsaw’s has been reported as saying the 20.000 members of Nupsaw’s have been consultated and have agreed to go on a strike.

Meanwhile Denosa’s Asanda Pongqo stated that Denosa is still consulting its 72.000 members. So far members of Nupsaw will be filing their certificate for their seven days notice.

Then the strike will commence in the third week of August.

ANC's youth league in chaos

Lusanda Bill
24 July 2010

Four of the African National Congress’s Youth League provinces are in chaos due to the disqualification of its former chair of Limpopo province.

The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) has stated that the league was damaging the ruling party’s credibility. ANC’s top brass have come under immense pressure to intervene numerous times in the youth leagues issues.

Now the ANC has revealed that it will get involved.

Due to the many commitments the parties has including preparing for its National General Council (NGC) which will be in September and now the issue with the youth league, it is suddenly become a massive task for the party.

Ultimately Julius Malema will have the final say no matter what the ANC’s top brass say, he will be the one who makes the decision of what will be done at the end.

A man arressted for abalone in Khayelitsha

Lusanda Bill
24 July 2010

A man in Khayelitsha has been arrested for being possession of R150.000 worth of abalone.

The suspect who has been reported as a 45 year old man was chased by police flying squad on Friday.

Police officer Anneke van der Vyver has been quoted as saying “near the Khayelitsha taxi rank the suspect jumped out of his vehicle and the police gave chase on foot.

Police members then searched the vehicle and found bags of abalone stuffed inside the trunk of the vehicle”.

The suspects have been arrested and will appear in court on Monday.

Two killed, 15 injured in Kraaifontein crash

Lusanda Bill
24 July 2010

Two people have been killed and fifteen have sustained multiple injuries when a taxi and a car collided on Bottelary Road in Kraaifontein.

When the ER24 paramedics arrived on the scene they found bodies scattered on the road.

People were treated for their multiple fatal injuries obtained in the taxi.

Bystanders who were on the scene having been reported as saying, that the car apparently made a u-turn when the taxi collided with it.

Local authorities who were on the scene will do a full investigation on the accident.

Friday, July 23, 2010

Negligence of nurses investigated at Charlotte Mxeke Hospital

By Jurina Nkwazi
23 July 2010


Gauteng Premier Nomvula Mokonyane says there will be further investigation into allegations of negligence on the part of nurses at the Charlotte Maxeke Hospital in Johannesburg.

She made the announcement after meeting with the families of the six babies who died in the hospital earlier this year.

The parents of the deceased raised various complaints about the hospital and its nurses.

The Premier says she has been told by parents about how babies at the hospital are left to lie in wet and soiled incubators and syringes are being used more than once on different babies.

Mokonyane said If it requires that people must be disciplined, we will follow those departmental processes and procedures in disciplining those individuals.

“We believe that we will do everything within out own abilities to make sure that incidents of this nature do not occur unless it is totally outside of our control,” she said.

Seacom cable repaired

By Jurina Nkwazi
23 July 2010


According to Seacom the internet traffic should be back to normal this evening.

This was due to a faulty undersea Seacom cable, north of Mombasa who made it difficult for South Africans connect to overseas websites.

Many service providers was affected, especially those who solely rely on Seacom.

My Broadband’s Jan Vermeulen said Mweb will be switching back to Seacom and hopefully everything will be back to normal.

Police helicopter crashes in Witbank

By Lelethu Mquqo
23 July 2010


A helicopter crash just outside Witbank in Mpumalanga was reported earlier today and police have confirmed reports stating that this was on of their helicopters.

The aircraft was carrying seven people, five of whom were from the police’s National Intervention Unit.

Police Minister Nathi Mthethwa and National Police Commissioner General Bheki Cele went to the scene to determine what caused the crash.

ER24’s Werner Vermaak said all the occupants were already dead when paramedics arrived at the crash site and the aircraft was burnt beyond because recognition.

The group was on its way back from an armed robbery at the Nedbank Centre in Klarinet where they had apprehended seven suspects.

The helicopter is believed to have hit power lines, resulting in the crash.

Two police constables involved in armed robbery

By Lelethu Mquqo
23 July 2010


Two policemen stationed at Milnerton and Langa were arrested for armed robbery on Thursday morning, police said.

The two constables aged 28 and 37 with three accomplices allegedly robbed a man of three boxes of jewellery and a large amount of money.

The victim was opening a gate in his Nyanga home on Wednesday evening when he was approached by five men who introduced themselves as police officers and asked for directions.

A neighbour managed to get one vehicles' plate number, gave it to the police who traced its ownership to a Milnerton police officer.

The police officers will appear in the Athlone Magistrate's Court on Monday.

Thursday, July 22, 2010

Police quiet on attempted hijacking at Mandela home

By Jurina Nkwazi
22 July 2010

Police are reportedly still trying to find out why an attack on members of the Mandela family on Sunday was only reported three days later.

Media reports has revealed details of the shootout at Mandela’s daughter Zindzi’s home in Atholl, where two gunmen held up the former president’s relatives in an attempted hijacking.

Their bodyguard opened fire on the suspects and they fled the scene.

Police still don't understand why it took them so long to report the incident and why no investigation has taken place.

SA Reserve Bank keeps interest rate unchanged

By Jurina Nkwazi
22 July2010


South Africa's Reserve Bank left its repo rate unchanged at 6.5 percent today as the economy is recovering from last year's recession.

Reserve Bank Governor Gill Marcus made the announcement following a monetary policy committee meeting.

Analysts say the central bank, while considering the outlook for economic growth, is also focused on its core role of keeping inflation under check, with electricity tariff increases by power utility Eskom seen applying pressure.

The repo rate will remain at 6.5 percent and the prime interest rate also stays flat at 10 percent.

Two Police Officials Arrested For Armed Robbery

By Jurina Nkwazi
22 July 2010

Two police constables were arrested for armed robbery in Old location, Nyanga today.

On Wednesday a man was busy opening a gate when he was approached by five male suspects who introduced themselves as police officials and enquired for an address. While the victim was busy giving direction, the suspects robbed him of his valuables.

The suspects fled in a black VW Golf and a white Renault Leguna when the man screamed for help.

“It is alleged the suspects sped off with three boxes of jewellery worth R23 000 and R12 000 cash. Community members managed to get a number plate who provided it to police, who traced the ownership to a police constable, based at Milnerton police station, “ said Captain Ntomboxolo Sitshitshi.

Police investigation led to the arrest of two police constables at Milnerton and Langa police stations this morning.

The two suspects aged 28 and 37 will appear in the Athlone Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 26 July 2010 on charges of armed robbery.

17 year old arrested for hijacking

By Jurina Nkwazi
22 July 2010


Nyanga police arrested a 17 year old man after he and his accomplice hijacked a vehicle in Wallet Ham Road in Lansdowne.

The two male suspects approached the complainant while stationary at the robots and demanded vehicle keys. They then sped off with the vehicle in the direction of Lansdowne Road.

Captain Ntomboxolo Sitshitshi said “Nyanga police responded to a call and spotted the vehicle in Sheffield Road, Philippi. When the suspects became aware ot the police they sped off but collided with another vehicle. “

“Police managed to arrested a 17 year old suspect of Lower Crossroads and the other suspect ran away,” she said.

The suspect will appear in court soon as he is facing charges of hijacking and possession of a hijacked vehicle.

Protection of Information Bill hearing commenced today

By Lusanda Bill
22 July 2010

The Protection of Information Bill hearings commenced today in Parliament, and with numerous presentation to take place the hearing began.

The Durban Legal Research Association made their presentation referring numerous times to the constitution and comparing the Constitution to the Bill.

The DLRA stated that the Bill is a step in the right way but it needs further consultation with ordinary citizen and sharpening then the Bill would be fine.

They also said that the access to information in the country needs to improve and whistleblowers need to be protected in our country. Next was the South African Editors’ Forum (SANEF) represented by Raymond Louw and their argument was that the Bill will jeopardise what freedom of expression and access of information stands for.

They also stated that the implementation of the Bill would mean that the state would have a tighter grip on power of information.

SANEF wants the maximum amount of openness from the Government because it would be difficult for the media to operate freely if they have to deal with classification and access of information. He also stated that the problem with the Bill is that there was a lack of consultation from stake holders.

The Print Media South Africa (PMSA) represented by Dario Milo then took to the floor.

His main issue was that the Bill as it stands achieves maximum security rather then maximum openness. PMSA believes that the Bill will infringe on the rights of people and the Bill does not include public interest defence.

He stated that the public justice media should have parallel role in investigating crime.

Nic Dawes from the Mail and Guardian made his presentation starting with the statement that too much secrecy undermines the point of our freedom.

The Bill causes destructiveness both in democracy and security. He stated that state security matters makes it difficult to report at all as a media company and that there are overlapping roles between freedom to access of information and state security.

He ended off by stating that this Bill is just the tip of the iceberg of problems to follow. The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) represented by Chantel Kisoon the main argument is for transparency of the Bill because she stated that the current Bill has a high risk of difficulties.

SAHRC stated that if people are restricted of information then that would be a huge failure on our democracy. The members of parliament had lots of questions to ask the people presenting to better understand where the public is coming from.

Overall the main arguments that came out today is that one the balance between freedom of access of information and state security, secondly the Bill causes and undermines journalism as a whole and lastly that there needs to be openness from government.

Journalists are not in support of the Bill in any form because it will make the job of the journalist much more difficult. The committee will gather in parliament on Tuesday to discuss all the presentations and the way forward.

Archbishop Desmond Tutu announces his retirement

By Lelethu Mquqo
22 July 2010


Archbishop Desmond Tutu says he will step out of the public spotlight after he turns 79 in October this year.

Tutu made the announcement today in Cape Town, saying he spends too much of his time in airports and hotels, and wishes only to age gracefully at home with his family.

Desmond Tutu was born on the 7th of October 1931 in Klerksdorp

Between 1976 and 1978 he was the Bishop of the Anglican Church in Lesotho and the Secretary-General of the South African Council of Churches.

Tutu was awarded the Nobel peace prize in 1984, and chaired the Truth and Reconciliation Commission in 1995 when apartheid was abolished in South Africa.

In his announcement today he said he would be limiting his time at the office to one day a wee until the end of February 2011, when the office begins it’s official winding down process.

He said he will remain with the Elders and the Nobel Laureate Group. He also will continue his support for the development of the Desmond Tutu Peace Center in Cape Town.

Desmond Tutu will step down from positions at the UWC where he has been chancellor for over 30 years and from the UN Advisory Committee on Genocide Prevention among others.

He will also be reviewing the list of organisations where he is involved as patron and he will not be available for media interviews.

He lastly stated that he would like to thank South Africans for affording him the space and support to do his work and for allowing him to represent them at the Nobel Peace ceremony in 1984.

Missing Person Alert

By Lelethu Mquqo
22 July 2010
Bishop Lavis Police is requesting the assistance of the public in tracing Rupert Bailey who disappeared from his home at Jakkalsvlei Avenue in Bontheuwel on the 1st of July 2010 and never returned.
At the time of his disappearance, he was wearing a pair of black pants, white T-shirt, a blue sweater and brown shoes. Missing person is mentally disabled.

If you know the whereabouts of the missing person, kindly contact the investigating officer, Inspector Roy Arries on 021 - 935-9876 or 0798941765 or Crime Stop on 08600 10111

Chanel du Toit’ husband gets bail

By Lelethu Mquqo
22 July 2010

Chanel du Toit’s husband, the woman that was found strangled to death at her home in Dieu Donn wine estate in Franschhoek will be pleading not guilty to her murder.

Johan du Toit, 26, appeared in the Paarl Magistrate’s Court on a murder charge and was released on R6 000 bail.

He has been ordered to report to the Franschhoek police station twice a week as part of his bail conditions and he was also not allowed to leave the Paarl district or have any contact with State witnesses.

Du Toit is accused of strangling his wife whose body was found strangled in their home on the wine estate on 7 July 2010.

His attorney, William Booth said the State had a weak case at the moment.

The case has been postponed for the 22 of September 2010.

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

Fours cars collide on the N2 in Kwazulu-Natal

By Jurina Nkwazi
21 July 2010

Four cars collided on the N2 north bound carriageway near the Spaghetti four-level-interchange this afternoon leaving two people injured.

The vehicle is believed to have swerved to avoid a truck that had broken down on the national freeway. As the man veered to avoid slamming into the truck he struck three other cars.

When Netcare911 Advanced Life Support Paramedic Garrith Jamieson arrived at the scene he found wrecked vehicles blocking most of the four lane carriageway.

The injured occupants of the vehicles were treated and stabilised at the scene before they were transported by ambulance to Durban hospitals for the care that they required.

Traffic was badly affected by the smash.

Du Toit out on bail

By Jurina Nkwazi
21 July 2010


The husband of a woman that was strangled on Dieu Donn wine estate in Franschhoek was given bail today.

Johan du Toit appeared before the Paarl Magistrate’s Court today and was released on six-thousand-Rand bail.

He is to report to the Franschhoek police station twice a week, as part of his bail conditions.

John is accused of strangling his wife who was found dead at their home on the wine estate on July 7.

Media reports say Chanel's step-father had said that police told the family they found hair and skin under Chanel's nails.

The case was postponed to September 22.

Two mineworkers die at Northam Platinum

By Jurina Nkwazi
21 July 2010

The National Union of Mineworkers says it is concerned at the unnecessary deaths of two workers in the Northam platinum mine near Rustenburg. The workers died due to a fall of ground.

The National Union of Mineworkers(NUM) has condemned Northam Platinum ‘s attitude in going the extra mile to hide the accident from the NUM branch.

Num spokesperson Lesiba Seshoka says Northam Platinum made an attempt to cover up the incident. This latest ground fall brings the number of deaths underground this year to 70, despite repeated calls by the union for improvements to be made to safety in South Africa’s mines.

Companies and Executives that attempts to hide mine deaths in order to score safety bonuses will face hefty penalties and measures.

The number of mineworkers who lost their lives in the South African mining industry since January 2010 now stands at 70.

The NUM’s Chairperson for Health and Safety, Peter Bailey says “It is shocking that the 70 that died is what the Chamber of Mines calls safety progress.”

MISSING PERSON- RUPERT BAILEY:BISHOP LAVIS SAPS

Bishop Lavis Police is requesting the assistance of the public in tracing Rupert Bailey who disappeared from his home at Jakkalsvlei Avenue in Bonteheuwel on Thursday, 2010-07-01. Pictured: SAPS Bishop Lavis
At the time of his disappearance, he was wearing a pair of black pants, white T-shirt, blue sweater and brown shoes. He is mentally disabled.

Anyone who knows the whereabouts of the missing person can contact the investigating officer, Inspector Roy Arries on 079 894 1765 or (021) 935 9876 or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.

The Protection of Information Bill debated

Lusanda Bill
21 July 2010

The Protection of Information Bill has been a bill that has been debated numerous times.

What the Bill seeks is to “provide for the protection of certain information from destruction, loss or unlawful disclosure, to regulate the manner in which information may be protected, to repeal the Protection of Information Act, 1982, and to provide for matters connected therewith”.

The Ad Hoc Committee on Protection of Information Legislation (National Assembly) invited interested individuals and organisations to submit written submissions on the Protection of Information Bill.

Today in Parliament public hearings for those selected for oral presentation were being heard.


The South African Media and Gender Institute (SAMG) represented by Chris Mitchell presented their submission to the house.

In their presentation they put forward the question ‘who will protect me better the media or the state?’ SAMG believes that there should be a balance between access, protection and packaging of information.

Chris mentioned that the media can be a monster that clamps down on ordinary citizens, because if you have a problem you cannot run to the media to protect you, the state is the only protection the ordinary citizens have.

SAMG stated during their presentation that the media’s priority is their bank balance instead of the people. Overall SAMG believed that the Bill protected the ordinary citizen and empowers the state to have control of the type of stories that are published.

On the other hand Melissa Moore from the Freedom of Expression Institute stated in her presentation that they are in full support of freedom of expression, and stated that the Bill would be very harmful to journalists and media as a whole.

Her argument was that journalists role is to be watchdogs and the Bill will make sure that the stories that are published will always be on the spotlight and that journalists will be subjected to complex legal battles.

She also stated that the Bill will undermine what journalism is all about and that is to speak the truth and inform the people.

Overall the Bill will restrict the media from reporting news that the public needs to hear because the stories will need to go through different channels before it can be published.

This Bill will undermine the Freedom of Expression Act and undermine what journalism is all about, meaning that the media will not be able to report freely because the stories will have to go under review before being published.

Public hearings will continue tomorrow in Parliament.

MISSING PERSON ALERT


SANDF protecting foreign nationals in Kya Sands

By Lusanda Bill
21 July 2010

In the past few days Kya Sands in Johannesburg has been the place where police presence has been strongly felt.

With raiding mobs targeting small shops which are owned by foreigners and eleven people being assaulted on Monday and Tuesday.

The South African National Defence Force (SANDF), police and metro police officers patrolled Kya Sands last night, due to the attacks on foreigners which have been happening lately. The police had a quite night with no real incidents taking place.

Brigadier Govindsamy Mariemuthoo was quoted as saying “I can confirm that everything is quiet, peaceful and there were no incidents overnight”.

The police will still be on a high alert to make sure that the peace and calm is maintained at Kya Sands.

DA and ANC compete in by-elections

By Lelethu Mquqo
21 July 2010


The Democratic Alliance will be going head on with the African National Congress on a quest to build on earlier successes in six municipal by-elections in the Western Cape tomorrow.

The DA is to contest four wards in Cape Town and two of the four were held by the ANC and the remaining by independent councilors.

All these post became vacant when councilors failed to attend council meetings, and were then expelled by Minister Anton Bradell.

In May the DA won the by-elections in Grabouw and Gugulethu, black wards that had been held by the ANC since 1994.

The by-elections will be on Wednesday 22 July 2010 and the IEC has revealed that 90 candidates are contesting.

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

A mineworker dies at Goldfields ‘s Driefontein mine

By Jurina Nkwazi
20 July 2010


Another mineworker has lost his life earlier today at Goldfields ‘s Driefontein mine outside Carletonville.

The accident took place at No. 1 shaft when a loco driver was pressed by a box front shutter against the loco. He died on the scene.

The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) have passed its sincere condolences to the families of the deceased and calls on the industry to reprioritize safety at a time when some mines have decided to contest safety measurers in the name of production.

The NUM has noted that the Chamber of Mines has been in the news talking about progress of the last ten years when it is far away from its target of zero mine accidents.

They’ve also noted with shock Aquarius Platinum‘s shameless stance of crying foul over production when five families and hundreds of accompanying breadwinners have lost their loved ones.

The NUM supports the Department of Mineral Resources in ensuring that companies do not get away with murder.

WANTED PERSONS IN THEFT CASES AT ATHLONE SAPS

By Jurina Nkwazi
20 July 2010

The Athlone Police are requesting the assistance of the public in tracing down the following wanted persons on theft charges. Warrants of arrest has been issued for:

Loyiso Lloyd Mtshapi alias Zuko Manzezulyi




Suzeko Sango


Yolanda Zibi


Anybody who knows the whereabouts of the suspects is requested to contact the investigating officer, Warrant Officer Eric Falken on (021) 697 9238 or Crime Stop 08600 10111.

Taxi Bursts Into Flames After Collision


By Jurina Nkwazi
20 July 2010


A minibus taxi burst into flames after it collided into a bakkie, at the intersection of Carl Cronje Drive and Mispel Street, in Tygervalley.

The driver was the only person in the taxi and escaped the fire. He sustained moderate injuries and was transported to Tygerberg Hospital.

The driver was stuck in the vehicle and the bakkie was stuck against a traffic light. A tow-truck used its crane to force open the driver’s side door to free the driver. He sustained minor injuries but declined being transported to hospital.

The Fire Department arrived extinguished the fire within minutes. At this stage, the cause of the incident is unknown.

Picture provided by ER24

New HIV prevention introduced

Lusanda Bill
20 July 2010

The International Aids Convention which is taking place in Vienna has come with new ideas to combat and control HIV/AIDS.

There is an HIV gel that is said to be one of the biggest breakthroughs in HIV prevention.

Tests were conducted to 900 HIV negative women in KwaZulu Natal and the results showed that the gel protected 40 percent of the women from contracting the pandemic.

It has been reported that the microbicide gel could save up to 800 000 lives and prevent about 1.3 million new infections over the next 20 years.

This is an amazing breakthrough because this is the first prevention for women that has worked.

This gel now has created a deeper interest for prevention research.

The difficult step now is for the gel to get funding so that it can be distributed to as many women as possible and maybe create another gel for men.

Getting funding will be extremely difficult now since it has been reported that funding for HIV and Aids could be cut by donors around the world in the years to come.

ANC denies Mbeki’s ban from the SABC

By Lelethu Mquqo
20 July 2010

The African National Congress has again denied instructing the South African Broadcasting Corporation to ban interviews with former president Thabo Mbeki.

The party said it was shocked by a column written in a local newspaper on Monday, stating that it had influenced the editorial policy of the public broadcaster.

The party made it clear that it had no kind of influence on the matter and denied that a discussion to ban the former president ever took place.

ANC added that an apology to the party from the journalist who published the story would be an appropriate thing to do.

Franshoek wine estate manager accused of murdering his wife

By Lelethu Mquqo
20 July 2010


26-year-old Franschhoek wine estate manager, Johan du Toit appeared in the local magistrate’s court yesterday in connection with the murder of his wife, Chanel du Toit.

Du Toit was found strangled to death at her home on the Dieu Donné wine estate few weeks ago.

Her husband was the last person to see her alive before leaving their home in the early hours of that morning on a hunting trip to Springbok.

The lawyer representing the accused said his client is doing well, considering the circumstances
William Booth, the lawyer, says his client is obviously quite upset for being accused of murdering his wife and this has a bad effect on his family.

Booth added that he’s expecting to receive bail on Wednesday and he stays positive.

Monday, July 19, 2010

Body found floating in the harbour of the V & A Waterfront

By Jurina Nkwazi
19 July 2010

A body has been found floating in the harbour at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town.

Security guards found the body and no further details on the identity of the victim or the cause of death have been given.

V&A communications manager Annemie Liebenberg says the matter has been handed over to the police for investigation.

Woman dies in a crash on Lichtenberg Road, Durbanville

By Jurina Nkwazi
19 July 2010

One person died and two others, including a child, were injured when a bakkie overturned on the R304, near the Lichtenberg Road crossing, at the back of Durbanville.

A lady believed to be in her late twenties, had been ejected from the bakkie and was in a critical condition.

A six year old child and the daughter of the lady who died on scene sustained minor injuries were transported to Tygerberg Hospital.

The driver of the bakkie also sustained minor injuries but refused to be transported to hospital.

ER24 Spokesperson Werner Vermaak said Pieces of sheep were also scattered around the scene but it was soon discovered that the bakkie had been carrying sheep which had already been slaughtered and packed in pieces.

“The cause of the incident is unknown at this stage. The tow-truckers on scene were referring to the incident location as "the crossing of the dead" due to the high incidence of fatalities at the site” he said.

Suspect wanted for housebreaking in Woodstock

By Jurina Nkwazi
19 July 2010


The Woodstock police is searching for a 42 year, Samsodien Norton, whot is wanted for three housebreaking incidents that took place in the Woodstock area.

Norton was arrested in a housebreaking incident committed during February 2009. He was released on bail, and failed to appear in the Cape Town magistrates’ court on two occasions during 2010.

He was later linked to two other previous housebreaking incidents that were committed in the Woodstock Police area. The court has issued a warrant of arrest for his arrest.

The suspect is also known as “Ice” from Bonteheuwel.

Anyone with information about the suspect can contact the investigation officer Constable Gcinikhaya Plaatjie on (021) 486 2855 at the Woodstock police station.

19-year-old Somalian killed in Nyanga

By Jurina Nkwazi
19 July 2010


A 19-year-old Somalian man died after he was allegedly shot by two suspects in his shop at Vlei Sweet Home Farms Nyanga on Monday morning.

It is believed the attackers demanded that the victim open the burglar gate of the shop.

Nyanga Police Captain Ntomboxolo Sitshitshi said while he was searching for the key the suspects fired a shot at him through the gate, fatally wounding him in the face. The suspects fled the scene on foot.

She added the shooting was a crime incident and not violence against foreign nationals. A murder cdocket has been opened.

Sitshitshi requests anyone that may have witnessed the incident to contact Nyanga police.

DA members allegedly attack ANC volunteers in Mitchells Plain

By Lelethu Mquqo
19 July 2010

African National Congress Minister in Presidency, Trevor Manuel, addressed 65 ANC volunteers in Eastridge in Mitchells Plain yesterday.

After the minister left the gathering, it is alleged that Democratic Alliance members wearing the party’s t-shirts and caps entered the hall, physically intimidating the ANC volunteers.

ANC Member of Parliament for Mitchells Plain, Marius Fransman says they have taken the matter to the local police station and are planning to inform the Independent Electoral Commission.

“This is unacceptable, the DA is trying to make Mitchells Plain a no go area for any political party” said Fransman.

No one was seriously injured but valuables were lost in the encounter.

Community Information Network

By Lusanda Bill
19 July 2010


The Common Ground Church is offering a free business training course for all small business owners on Saturday July 17, from 8:30am to 4pm and Sunday July 18 from 12pm to 6pm at the YMCA in Dr Abdurahman road, Q town.

The Parow and Goodwood museums will hold a women’s Day function on Wednesday August 4th from 10:30am at the Tygerberg Nature Reserve. Professor Kay de Villiers and Dr Nico Walters will talk about women throughout history. Entry is free. For details call Ursula or Louise at 021 938 8020 or cell on 082 771 6915. Call Ria at 021 590 1570 or cell 084 247 2715.

The Music Appreciation Group will meet on Tuesday July 20 from 10am to noon at the library and thereafter every third Tuesday of the month. Phone Sharon on 021 790 0268.

The annual Cancer Survivor’s Day celebration will take place at the Western Province Cricket Club in Newlands on Saturday July 31 at 2pm. Entry is free but seating is limited. Call Clare on 021 761 4942 or email manicom@cancercare.co.za for more information.

If you would like our community information network to announce your community notice. Send those details to news@bushradio.co.za

Investigations underway after a 19 year old dies at sea

By Lelethu Mquqo
19 July 2010

Police are investigating a murder, rape and possible suicide case after the body of a South African woman was found floating at sea, last month.

Akhona Geveza, a 19 year old from Nxarhuni in the Eastern Cape was part of the Transnet National Port Authority’s Maritime Studies programme, which aims to give young women a chance to explore careers at sea.

Media reported on Sunday that one of Geveza’s senior officers allegedly raped her but it is still unknown if she was thrown overboard or committed suicide.

Transnet is calling for an independent autopsy but Geveza has already been buried in the Eastern Cape.

The 19-year-old’s body was found adrift off the Croatian coast last month allegedly hours after she reported being raped by a senior officer.

The officers involved in the incident are now also under investigation after a number of claims of sexual abuse by cadets taking part in the Maritime Studies programme.

Masoga faces sentencing by the ANCYL

By Lelethu Mquqo
19 July 2010

Former Limpopo ANC Youth League chairperson Lehlogonolo Masoga is expecting sentencing by the national league’s Disciplinary Committee today.

Chances are Masoga could be expelled after trying to organise a provincial conference following his claims that league leader Julius Malema used police to throw him out of an earlier gathering.

He is also expected to go to court to fight any kind of sentence he might receive.

Masoga’s spokesperson, Mbasa Metuse said Friday’s disciplinary hearing that found Masoga guilty was illegitimate because they were not even at the hearing when the verdict was reached.

Twelve suspects arrested over the weekend

By Jurina Nkwazi
19 July 2010

Metro Police were out in full force this past weekend in Cape Town, Kraaifontein, Woodstock as well as Mitchell’s plain and arrested twelve suspects and confiscated abandoned drugs.

Metro Police Deputy Chief Yolanda Faro said the diver collided with five stationary vehicles that were parked in Queen Victoria Street on Friday evening. He was charged for driving under the influence of alcohol as well as Reckless and negligent driving.

South African Police Service and executed search warrants in Kraaifontein and Kensington. One suspect was arrested for Possession of dagga in Kraaifonten and in a separate incident, 65 stoppe dagga, 4 packets of dagga and 11 packets of Tik were found abandoned and was confiscated.


Meanwhile, whilst conducting high visibility foot patrols in Muller Street, Eerste River, the Metro Police officers stumbled across 24 packets of TIK buried under the sand.

In Woodstock, two suspects were arrested for Possession of Counterfeit goods and Theft, 142 Counterfeit DVD’s and 2 cell phone pouches were confiscated by the police.

Sunday, July 18, 2010

A 26-year-old man dies after falling four floors

By Jurina Nkwazi
18 July 2010


A 26-year-old man died after falling four floors down a lift shaft of a Cape Town apartment building on Saturday.

Netcare911 spokeswoman Lauren Copley said “the accident took place at an apartment block on the corners of Roeland and Buitenkant streets. The man and a group of friends reportedly got stuck in a lift between the third and fourth floors of the building.”

She added when they tried to open the lift doors, the man lost his balance and plunged four storeys down the lift shaft. Jaws-of-life had to be used to force open the lift doors .The man sustained several serious injuries.

He passed away on arrival at the Netcare Christiaan Barnard Hospital.

Madiba celebrates his 92nd birthday

By Jurina Nkwazi
18 July 2010


South Africa's first black president, Nelson Mandela turns 92 years old today. His birthday was in 2009 recognised by the United Nations as Nelson Mandela International Day and will be celebrated across the world.

The people of South Africa and abroad have committed to devoting 67 minutes of their time to community service, to mark the number of years Mandela spent in politics.

Mandela will be spending his birthday with family at his Johannesburg home. Local and international politicians including celebrities united in wishing the anti-apartheid icon well on his birthday.

The former president was jailed for 27 years by the country's white minority government for resisting apartheid rule. After his release in 1990, he led negotiations with apartheid rulers, which led to his election as the country's first black president in 1994.

He arrived at the World Cup closing ceremony to wave at soccer fans before the final match kick-off. He however, did not stay for the match.

MISSING PERSON ALERT


MISSING PERSON ALERT


Saturday, July 17, 2010

Unidentified man killed in Somerset West

By Jurina Nkwazi
17 July 2010

On Friday Somerset West police responded to a burglary in progress complaint at Steen Street in Somerset West.

Police found an unidentified male, lying outside the yard with a gunshot wound to his chest.

The 72 year old complainant said: "He heard his dogs bark and went to investigate. He noticed an unidentified man hiding in his store room. "

Police say the complainant who was in possession of a torch and a firearm was attacked by the suspect. A scuffle ensued and a shot went off.

The suspect fled the scene and he collapsed in the street. The unidentified man was later declared dead.

Police opened an inquest docket and no arrest was made.

Atlantis man arrested for attempted murder

By Jurina Nkwazi
17 July 2010


A 26 year old male suspect was arrested earlier this morning for attempted murder after he shot a 22 year old man in the left leg at Edinburgh Place in Atlantis.

The victim informed police that two men tried to rob him and got shot in the leg. The 22 year old man was taken to Wesfleur hospital. On arrival at the hospital, he identified one of the suspects, who was walking near the hospital.

Police and security guards at the hospital apprehended him and the suspect fired several shots at the them.

He fired at the police officials, who returned fire and wounded him in the stomach. The suspect was taken to Somerset Hospital and is under police guard.

Police officer killed by ATM bombers

By Jurina Nkwazi
17 July 2010


A police officer has been shot dead by a gang of automatic teller machine in Braamfischerville, Soweto, on Friday.

The 32-year-old was responding to to one of two money machines that were targeted in the area.

Spokesperson Lungelo Dlamini says two ATMs were bombed just before midnight. A 40-year-old suspect was arrested on the scene. The rest got away in three cars.

A bakkie which was hijacked in Honeydew in July was recovered, along with some abandoned cash, a firearm and explosives.

Collision Claims Drivers Life

By Jurina Nkwazi
17 July 2010

A collision that occurred this morning on the corners of Forest Drive and Silver Tree in Estier River has claimed the life of the driver and leaving the passenger with minor injuries.

The driver who is in his late thirty’s lost control over his bakkie and crashed into a tree before crashing into a fence. He had to be freed by the Fire Department after been entrapped for forty five minutes. The female passenger sustained minor injuries and was transported by Metro to Bay Hospital.

He sustained critical head and chest injuries and needed advanced life support intervention. The patient was intubated and placed on a ventilator on the scene.

While paramedics were trying to stabilise the man further, he started to deteriorate and CPR had to be started. Emergency personnel were able to get a pulse back and rushed him off to hospital but unfortunately he lost the fight due to his injuries and passed away moments later in the trauma unit.

It is still unclear what caused the driver to lose control. Police authorities will investigate the incident further.

MISSING PERSON ALERT


MISSING PERSON ALERT


MISSING PERSON ALERT


Friday, July 16, 2010

Flustered Mom: Child dies a tik hostage

By Olona Vika
16 July 2010


A four-year-old girl from the Cape Flats suffered and died from over 30 bruises on her frail body. Her step father, the man accused for her death is said to have used her as a pawn for drugs.

The little girl’s body could not handle the severe beatings she suffered and as a result her stomach ruptured from trauma in her abdomen, and that was what ultimately killed her.

Anthon Asia appeared at the Wynberg Magistrates’ Court on Thursday for the murder of little Kiara Holmes. During the bail hearing the accused denied any involvement in the death of the little girl

Kiara’s mom told the police how Asia threatened her and forced her to buy drugs using the child support grant money and how he would hold the little girl hostage until she came back.

The little girl was used by Asia to force the mother to stay with him. He would keep Kiara hostage until the mother came from where she went.

Kiara died on the same day her real father died and her mother is distraught over the death of her baby girl.

Two Men nabbed for attempted robbery

By Olona Vika
16 July 2010


Four females were travelling in a train from Somerset west to Eersterivier on Thursday. The strain stopped at Hilgrove station. Two men armed with an emty beer bottle approached them that time.

The man threatened them and forced them to take out all their belongings and give to them. When the train was just about to leave the station, the four girls managed to jump off.

The victims are between the ages 20 and 28. They were injured and were taken to Helderberg Hospital. One of the victims was later transferred to Tygerberg Hospital due to her serious injuries.

The suspects fled the scene on foot the same time the four women jumped off the train. Late on Thursday after an investigation the police arrested two suspects who were a positive link to the incident.

The suspects are age 20 and 21 from Maccasar. They will appear in Somerset Magistrates’ court on Monday 19 July 2010 for attempted robbery.

Mthethwa, Zille and Cwele address the media on Xenophobic outbreaks

By Lelethu Mquqo
16 July 2010

Minister of South African Police Service Nathi Mthethwa together with Western Cape Premier Helen Zille say plans implemented to try and prevent xenophobic threats and violence are working.

Addressing a media briefing in parliament today, Mthethwa said Inter Ministerial Committee got together last week and took the decision to engage Local and Provincial Government in their plans of prevention.

He added that the committee also decided to involve other independent organisations, media being one of them, in a call to work together in fighting impossible outbreaks of xenophobia.

Zille responded by saying, she was pleased with the minister for responding very positively to their request to be included in the ICM. She added that the challenge of xenophobia and all tragedies that result from it must be prevented.

“This is not a party political issue, but is an issue we all need to work together and agree on plans, agree on routes and address those routes” said Zille.

Amongst the officials at the briefing was Minister of State Security Siyabonga Cwele who agreed that xenophobia is a criminal act which to takes advantage of foreign nationals.

Mthethwa, Zille and Cwele address the media on Xenophobic outbreaks

By Lelethu Mquqo
16 July 2010

Minister of South African Police Service Nathi Mthethwa together with Western Cape Premier Helen Zille say plans implemented to try and prevent xenophobic threats and violence are working.

Addressing a media briefing in parliament today, Mthethwa said Inter Ministerial Committee got together last week and took the decision to engage Local and Provincial Government in their plans of prevention.

He added that the committee also decided to involve other independent organisations, media being one of them, in a call to work together in fighting impossible outbreaks of xenophobia.

Zille responded by saying, she was pleased with the minister for responding very positively to their request to be included in the ICM. She added that the challenge of xenophobia and all tragedies that result from it must be prevented.

“This is not a party political issue, but is an issue we all need to work together and agree on plans, agree on routes and address those routes” said Zille.

Amongst the officials at the briefing was Minister of State Security Siyabonga Cwele who agreed that xenophobia is a criminal act which to takes advantage of foreign nationals.

Falling inflation brings relief

By Olona Vika
16 July 2010

Tony Twine, a senior economist at Ecometrix says that the falling inflation has brought about relief on the hard pressed South Africans especially the poorest.

He said that the key factor in the moderating price rise is the strength of the rand. The inflation rate in May for people was 2.8 percent, down from 2.9 in April and 5.4 in the fourth quarter of last year, said Twine.

Compared to the overall inflation rate of 4.6 percent that month, May figure was the lowest for this income bracket in four-and –half years.

SADTU strike might happen

Lusanda Bill
16 July 2010

There is a possibility that teachers union South African Democratic Teachers Union (SADTU) could embark on one of the biggest strikes ever.

This comes after Sadtu had a wage negotiation meeting, which disrupted classes. Government has offered a 6.5 percent increase but teachers demanded an 8.6 percent.

It has been stated that government was suppose to have finalised wage negotiations before the World Cup, but that did not happen.

This comes 100 days before the matrics write their National Senior Certificate exams, if the teachers demand are not meet up then it could cause enormous disruption in schools.

Sadtu Ronald Nyati was quoted as saying “the mood on the ground is that teachers are ready to go on a strike. We are going to have one of the biggest strikes ever”.

Black Gun to Sue Government

By Olona Vika
16 July 2010

The Black Gun Owners Association threatens to sue government an amount of 3.2.bn rands over lost jobs. They say that this is since the government implemented the new Fire Arms Control Act in 2004.

The association’s chair person Abios Khoele told the press that a total of 10 000 thousand people lost jobs, 800 hundred gun shops closed down and over 40 000 blacks were refused firearm licences in the period between 2004 and 2010.

Khoele also said that the South African government is so hell burnt in making sure that black people do not have access to fire arms and the reason being that it has made empty promises to blacks that now they are afraid if they are armed they will turn on the government.

About 700 000 people are being represented by the organisation. Khoele says this number includes gun shop owners who are losing business, gun shop owners that were liquidated, and also those people that paid for the training and passed the complimentary test but were refused licences.

The lawsuit will be filed before the end of July 2010

Wage negotiations on to its second round

Lusanda Bill
16 July 2010

Trade union Solidarity and the Union of Mineworkers (NUM) have rejected a wage offer that was made by Exxaro.

The company made a wage offer of a 7 percent increase and an offer regarding the standardising of three issues during the second round of wage negotiations.

The members of Solidarity and the Union of Mineworkers have stated that unless the company revise the offer and must include the issue of grading which has been dragging on for three years then they won’t take the offer.

Jaco Kleynhans stated that there is a huge problem of degrading and the different salaries is another issue which needs to be rectified.

Unless Exxaro changes the offer then Solidarity and NUM won’t be accepting the offer.

The second round of negotiations is taking place today.

Lekota back in Parliament

By Olona Vika
16 July 2010

Congress of the people (Cope) president Mosioua Lekota goes back in parliament. This follows the resignation of the Parliamentary leader Mvume Dandala.

Lekota told the media that he has not been discharged of his duties instead he has need given an extra responsibility of working inside and outside parliament. He will be officially sworn in as MP next week.

Lekota is not a stranger in Parliament. He served as the Defence Minister from 1999 to 2008 before he resigned from the African National Congress.

He also assured the journalist that under no circumstances is Cope going to split. This statement was contradictory to the one of Mvume Dandala saying that he found it very sad that the divisions within the party have deteriorated to a point where devisions are so great that they threaten a split.

Lekota also said that the forensic audit of Cope’s finances continues. With this a decision has been made that during the audit Mbazima Shilowa will be temporarily relieved of f his duties as the Chief whip.

The Forensic audit came after parliament found 32 regularities with the parties audited financial Statements.

Lekota concluded by saying that there have been points of differences in the party but there is surely no bitterness.

Two suspects were arrested for being in possession of abalone

Maitland Flying Squad members arrested two suspects aged 32 and 39-year-old for the possession of abalone. Picture by: SAPS/X The members ...