Body of an unknown man discovered near to Monwabisi beach

Harare police are seeking the assistance of the public to identify the body of an unknown man discovered near to Monwabisi beach.

The police’s Joseph Swartbooi said officers attended a complaint on Tuesday and discovered a naked body on the beach.

‘’Upon arrival near to Monwabisi beach at around 15:30, they discovered the naked body of a man aged between 20 and 30. The victim was declared deceased on the scene by the medical personnel. Harare police registered an inquest for further investigation. A post mortem will be conducted to determine the cause of death,’’ said Warrant Officer Joseph Swartbooi.

Anyone who has reason to believe that a family member is missing, is kindly requested to call Crime Stop on 08600 10111.

 

Done by: Mitchum George

Convicted Killer Ntuthuko Shoba`s Lawyer`s ask for a Reduced Sentence

Ntuthuko Shoba`s lawyers argued to get him a reduced sentence.

 source: miningmx

Shoba has been convicted for masterminding the murder of his pregnant girlfriend. Earlier this year, he was found guilty of premeditated murder for ordering a hit on 28-year-old Pule, who was eight months pregnant in 2020.

Shoba appeared in the Johannesburg High Court for sentencing proceedings on Thursday. One of the perpetrators who was hired by Shoba to kill his girlfriend managed to overturn state witnesses and was given a reduced sentence of 20 years in prison.

Advocate Norman Makhubela argued that since the two men acted together, they should be given a similar sentence, but the State prosecutor Faghre Mohammed give a number of arguments why the two perpetrators should be treated differently.

The Acting Judge Stuart Wilson postponed the trail until Friday when he will hand down the length of the sentence.

By Lulama Klassen

Concerns raised over SASSA's inability to secure office space

 Western Cape Social Development MEC Sharna Fernandez has raised concerns over South African Social Security Agency’s (SASSA) inability to secure proper office space.

She wrote to the National Minister of Social Development, Ms Lindiwe Zulu in regards to her concerns. Fernandez said that the province’s SASSA is currently rendering services in Mitchells Plain, Khayelitsha and Eerste River service centres-buildings owned and used by the Western Cape Government.

Fernandez further stated that the recent developments at their Khayelitsha shared services office have resulted in numerous aggrieved SASSA clients contacting DSD offices and threatening staff members.

“Even though SASSA is a national entity and not under the jurisdiction of the Western Cape Government, we wish to stress the importance of cooperation in an effort to find solutions to resolve the plight of the most vulnerable in our province” said Fernandez.

image: Ilastha

by Everngelista Muza

Police looking for women who paid someone else to receive the COVID-19 vaccination on her behalf

 Western Cape police arrested three suspects on fraud charges on Wednesday. This is after the Provincial Commercial Crime Unit had received a tip off on suspicious individuals in relation to the vaccination for the COVID-19 epidemic.

Colonel Andrè Traut said that a 51-year-old female suspect from Claremont paid R3000 to a 33 year old woman and a 43 year old man to arrange someone to receive the COVID-19 vaccination on her behalf, so that she can obtain the vaccination certificate which was required for travelling purposes.

A 51 year old year old suspect was arrested after he received the vaccination on the Government’s account, The other two suspects who assisted to arrange the recipient of vaccination were also arrested meanwhile the main reciprocate is still being sought

“This suspect is still being sought but we believe that her arrest is imminent” said Traut.

by Everngelista Muza

Explosive device discovered on Macassar Beach

The Western Cape police’s explosives unit is investigating an incident in which a resident of Macassar found an “explosive device” on the beach.

A resident discovered an explosive device on Macassar Beach. The woman shared a picture of the device she allegedly discovered on Macassar Beach on a Facebook group dedicated to the areas of Strand, Gordon’s Bay, Somerset West and Stellenbosch on Monday. She asked on her post if anyone knew what it was, as she had dug it up on the beach. She also stated that there were names printed on it in black but she could not see [what is stated.].  She eventually contacted South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Explosives Unit who came out to assess the item and eventually took it away.

Ward councillor, Peter Helfrich, said concerned residents reached out to him for assistance.

“When I initially heard about the matter I contacted the senior management of the RDM to ask them to provide me with formal feedback. I received a speedy response from them stating that their experts have closely studied the photographs of the ammunition which was found on Macassar beach and is being shared on social media. They informed me that they can with absolute certainty confirm that the item is not an RDM product. They stated that they do not make, nor have they ever made this particular item”.

“In their response to me, they also confirmed that the item is an old teargas grenade which was made to be fired from a rifle. According to them, it was on the beach because these types of items were historically tested in wide open spaces like beaches. They also confirm that their experts are available to assist in any way possible should SAPS require additional information,’’ he added.

 

PICTURED - Esmarie Fourie: Explosive device discovered at Macassar beach

Done By: Mitchum George

Man kill 6 year old child in revenge killing

33-year-old man handed himself over to police after he allegedly strangled a six year old child to death, in Swartkops, Gqeberha

Police believe the murder accused is the child’s mother's ex-boyfriend, who strangled the child in revenge killing.

Police spokesperson, Colonel Priscilla Naidu said that the body of Thabang Klaas was found on Monday on a footpath in the bushes between Mathys Grounds and Wells Estate in Swartkops. This is just hours after the perpetrator had handed himself over in connection with the murder.

“According to police information, the suspect took the child from his grandmother's house in New Brighton on Friday and went into the bushes between Mathys Grounds and Wells Estate in Swartkops, where he allegedly strangled [the child]," said Naidu.

The man faces a charge of murder and he is expected to appear in the Gqeberha Magistrate's Court on Wednesday. Naidu said the investigation was continuing.

by Everngelista Muza

42 schools vandalised, burgled at WC schools over June/July holidays

The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) says that 42 schools have reported incidents of vandalism and burglary during the June/July holidays. This is four more cases compared to the same period in 2021

Items stolen or damaged included bathroom fixtures, fencing, solar panels, consumables such as stationery and cleaning materials, tablets and ICT equipment, security and electrical equipment, and bicycles. Criminals event looted packs of sanitary pads and first aid kits.

Education MEC, David maynier says one major incident involved damages estimated at over R121 000. He added that the total cost of all the incidents is currently estimated at R808 600, with the estimates for some of the incidents still outstanding.

‘’That means that nearly a million rand that could have been spend on educating our learners now must be spent on fixing wanton damage,’’ said Maynier.

Four hundred and seventeen schools received holiday security from the WCED over the June/July school holidays.

‘’We thank our school communities for keeping a close eye on our schools and reporting suspicious activity in their areas.’’

‘’Of particular concern is that some of the schools which fell victim to crime over the holidays had security guards, cameras, and other security features in place. We need to better understand what our schools need to ensure that they are safe from criminal attacks,’’ added Maynier.

The MEC said community has the responsibility to keep schools safe as well.  

‘’Our schools have reported the cases to SAPS, and I will seek a meeting with the provincial police commissioner, Lieutenant-General Thembisile Patekile, to discuss progress on these and the cases reported by our schools and the Department previously,’’ said Maynier.

Done By: Mitchum George

COSATU to strike over violent crimes in the Western Cape

The Congress of South African trade Unions in the western Cape, with affiliates such as Democratic Nursing Organisation of South Africa (DENOSA), Trade Union for Musicians of South Africa (TUMSA), South African Communist Party (SACP), and Agricultural Food and Allied Democratic Workers Union (AFADWU), held a media briefing on Wednesday regarding its planned provincial strike on the 4^th of August.

COSATU says it submitted a notice regarding violent crimes in the Western Cape, which includes gang violence, substance abuse and crimes against women and children, to the National Economic Development and Labour Council (Nedlac) in September 2018.

COSATU’s provincial chair, Motlatsi Tsubane, says they filed a Section 77 of the labour relations act, which allows affected parties to strike if no resolution has been reached, out of desperation, following what they say a decline in safety situations of residents in the province.

The planned strike says COSATU, is to improve the situation for workers and their families and to provide a channel, through legitimate demands.

COSATU’s provincial secretary, Malvern De Bruyn says it had no option but to strike, as different spheres of government failed to agree with the union’s grievances

‘’We are forced to go to NEDLAC, where we cited the national minister of safety and security, Western Cape Police Oversight and Community Safety MEC, SAPS, SANDF, Security Industry Association, city of Cape Town, Civil Society, they were all part of the discussion.’’

De Bruyn says the parties met on 28 September 2018, 1 November 2018, 1 March 2019, 29 July 2019, 2 September 2019, 122 March 2020, 15 May 2020, 15 July 20202, 9 March 2021.

The affiliates have listed demands they want national government to react on, including:

1.   An end to gang violence in communities

2.   A responsive government that listens to all its people

3.   Government end all corruption

4.   All police stations and station commanders be evaluated by communities

5.   Quarterly community report back meetings are called by all stations commanders

6.   Regular police patrols in industrial areas

7.   Public safety at railway stations

8.   SAPS do more to enforce the provisions of the Domestic Violence Act.

9.   Government fire and charge police officers involved in gang violence

10.                Firearms are removed for communities and banned.

 

De Bruyn outlined proceedings for the day

‘’We will march from Hanover Street up until the City of Cape town offices to hand over a memorandum to the city, law enforcement agencies. We will then march to the Provincial Legislature where we will hand over the memo to the MEC and Premier. We will then proceed to Parliament to hand over the memorandum to the Speaker and we would love the police minister to be there.’’

‘’We will give them 14 days to respond. If they fail to do so, we will apply for another Section 77 application to ensure we go back and collect our memorandum,’’ added De Bruyn.

Ernest Theron, South African Communist Party Provincial Treasurer, alleges that the City of Cape Town & WCG does not use allocated funds for its intended use

‘’They have been taken people for a ride. If you look at the budget for safety and security which is millions, but if you ask where it is, they don’t know. I think we find farming communities within an urban setting where drugs are kept, GBV, nothing is being done. A lot of talk but no action.’’

DENOSA’s Jaco Van Heerden says health workers at medical facilities has been unsafe to work at. He highlighted the New Somerset Hospital, where two patients and a police officer were shot dead, and the killing of a patient by another patient at Valkenberg Hospital.

TUMSA’s president, Vicky Sampson, says musicians across the country has been affected through violence. Sampson says they want to raise awareness and wants to see action from government

AFADWU’s provincial secretary, Michael Helu, says workers in the agricultural sector feel unsafe in terms of safety and security

‘’You find that people do not have enough beds so service delivery is non-existent so that leads to workers probably stabbed, and unemployed. Furthermore, there’s a lack of resources for workers. In general, in the agricultural sector, safety and security is non-existent for workers, but they are available for their employers.’’

PICTURE - Mitchum George: AFADWU’s provincial secretary, Michael Helu; COSATU’s provincial chair, Motlatsi Tsubane; COSATU’s provincial secretary, Malvern De Bruyn; SACP provincial treasurer, Ernest Theron;TUMSA’s president, Vicky Sampson; DENOSA’s Jaco Van Heerden 

COSATU has urged members to attend the strike. De Bruyn says the union hopes to bring the province to a standstill on  4 August.

‘’We applied for 3 000 to attend the event, but we can’t guarantee this number. We intend to bring the Cape Town to a standstill, to bring the economy to a standstill, so government can see that workers and community are angry and we can’t sit hand folded as leaders and not do something to fight the plight of the vulnerable in the province.

‘’It will be a strike, a stay away and we will march. We however appeal to members to come to Town to show government we are angered. We have called on taxi associations, and all other organisations to get their support,’’ added Malvern De Bruyn, COSATU Provincial Secretary.

 

PICTURE: COSATU WC

Done By: Mitchum George

Ramaphosa`s advocate argues that there`s no conflict of interest regarding Public Protector`s suspension during hearing.

President Cyril Ramaphosa`s advocate, Karrisha Pillay argued during Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane`s impeachment hearing to have her suspension declared unlawful and to ruin the parliamentary removal process against her on Tuesday.

Mkhwebane's advocate Dali Mpofu, argued that the Public Protector was investigating six cases against Ramaphosa, including the Phala Phala drama and that it constituted a conflict of interest that prevented President Cyril Ramaphosa from suspending her. He said that the suspension came days after she started an investigation into the Phala Phala theft.

According to Section 96 of the Constitution, Pillay said the risk of a conflict only exists if the president derives a private benefit from exercising an official duty.

Ramaphosa`s advocate argued that the only case where it involved the president`s own self interests was the Phala Phala situation and added that the Public Protector Act needed the Deputy Public Protector to fulfil the functions of the Public Protector in the event that she became unable to do so.

The court is expected to hear Mpofu's response and argument as Mkhwebane`s impeachment hearing continues.

By Lulama Klassen

 

City of Cape Town issues eviction orders for Nyanga Residents

Mau-Mau residents in Nyanga have accused the City of Cape Town of trying to displace them from their homes.

The City has issued 160 eviction notices and is in the process of obtaining an eviction order against the residents who illegally occupied incomplete houses in the Mau-Mau housing project in Nyanga.

According to the City, residents who illegally occupied its rental units have also received eviction notices.

The Nyanga backyard dwellers occupied the incomplete structures in the delayed housing project after purchasing their windows, doors and roofs and completed the structures, with water and electricity connections.

The Mau-Mau housing project started in January 2018 to submit 434 units. It was expected to be completed in 15 months but this goal was marred with delays after both contractors experienced cash-flow challenges.

Done by Lizeka Tsotetsi

Metrorail Western Cape to start trial operations of recovering the Central line train service

Metrorail Western Cape will on Tuesday morning start its trial operations of recovering the Central line train service. The lines were closed in 2019 due to vandalism on the Central Line. The trial operations of the service include Bellville to Ysterplaat via Lavistown station, Cape Town to Langa via Pinelands station, as well as Cape Town to Langa via Mutual station.

Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula and Prasa staff will be travelling by train to monitor the routes.

The region currently has a total fleet of thirty yellow train sets. This is complemented by the thirteen ready for service Electrical Motor Units (EMUs) out of the 16 that are deployed in the region. There are currently two yellow train sets that are operational on the Central Line between Langa and Cape Town. Metrorail says there will be an additional train set that will be added to the Central line service to run between Bellville and Cape Town via Lavistown on Tuesday. The Central Line will have a total of three train sets.

Metrorail Spokesperson, Zino Mihi, says they had to repair 5 substations along the Cape Town – Bellville and Bellville – Langa route.

‘’These substations had to feed 19kms of newly rebuilt Overhead Traction Equipment (OHTE). The rebuilt programme for the OHTE involved construction of the mast foundations, structures and electrical wires. Additional power distribution lines were done through internal and external teams.’’

Mihi says that PRASA recovered services at stations in Pinelands, Langa, Bonteheuwel, Lavistown, Belhar, Unibel, Pentech and Sarepta, following vandalised platforms, station lighting, ablution facilities for commuters, and station buildings.

She added that infrastructure, such as rail tracks, rail clips and the formation of the trains, had to be rebuilt from scratch.

COURTESY - PRASA: 

Construction works underway aimed at recovering the Central Line e.g. the removal of rubble on the rail tracks, replacing of rail clips, repairing of the OHTE etc

Prasa says it increased security at train stations, which includes on-board the trains and between the stations protecting the infrastructure, for the safety of commuters and their staff.

 

Done By: Mitchum George

Public Protector`s legal counsel argues removal proceedings haven`t begun yet during hearing

The suspended Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebwane`s legal counsel, Advocate Dali Mpofu said during the Western Cape High Court Mkhwebane`s impeachment hearing on Monday that the parliamentary committee that will decide if she is removed from officer have not even started yet.

Mpofu argued meticulously why President Cyril Ramaphosa shouldn't have suspended Mkhwebane.

According to Mpofu, the work has not even begun yet. The Section 194 Committee, which started its work two weeks ago, isn't the committee the Constitution expected, Mpofu says.

The Western Cape High Court heard Mkhwebane's application to declare her suspension, and the parliamentary proceedings, unlawful and unconstitutional.

Mpofu also went on to argue that it is against the law for a speaker to send a letter to the president

According Section 194 of the Constitution, it allows the president to suspend a Public Protector once a committee for her removal has started its work.

Mkhwebanwe`s impeachment hearing continues on Tuesday.

By Lulama Klassen

Case postponed in case against man who allegedly killed mother and niece

Western Cape police's Joseph Swartbooi said that one suspect was arrested in connection with a double murder in Bishop Lavis.

The 39-year-old believed to be a family member made a court appearance on Monday. This is after police officers uncovered the bodies of a 65-year-old woman and her 12-year-old granddaughter, in Kalksteenfontein on Saturday.

"Upon arrival at the crime scene, they found the bodies of two females inside the dwelling. The victims were both declared deceased on the scene by the medical personnel. A 39-year-old male has since been arrested and detained on a charge of murder," Swartbooi said.

Kalksteenfontein residents rallied outside, saying the justice system had already failed the victims as the perpetrator had protection order against him.

The murder case has been postponed until Thursday for the accused to get a Legal Aid lawyer.

by Everngelista Muza

Eskom warns of possible Loadshedding

 

Eskom has warned that loadshedding may be implemented at short notice should further capacity losses occur. Electrical faults tripped five generating units at Kriel Power Station on Monday morning, as a result it has removed 2 000MW from the system.

While some generation units at other power stations are expected to return to service on Monday, these will take time to load to full capacity. Should there be any further loss of generation capacity during this time, or some units fail to return to service as expected, loadshedding may be required to be implemented at short notice.

Source: MyBroadBand

The power utility says their teams are working hard to return as many of the units to service as possible.

Eskom has urged South Africans to continue using electricity sparingly especially during these uncertain times on the power system.

 

By Danielle Mentoor

Two bodies found on Strandfontein beach

 Mitchells Plain police are investigating the discovery of two bodies on Strandfontein beach. Police spokesperson Joseph Swartbooi said officers made the discovery on Saturday morning, around 7.15am near Mnandi Beach, the bodies were found covered in white sheets

According to medical personnel the victims, a male and female were found with gunshot wounds to their bodies and were declared dead on scene.

“The unknown suspect/s who fled the scene is yet to be arrested. Mitchells Plain police are investigating two counts of murder,” said Swartbooi.

By Everngelista Muza

Delft SAPS seeking public's help to trace a suspect involved in a rape case

Delft Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit are seeking the assistance of the public to trace a suspect, who allegedly raped a  17-year-old female in May 2022.

The police’s Jospeh Swartbooi said the suspect forced the victim to accompany him on Saturday, 21 May 2022 to a secret location and threatening to kill her if she should resist.

‘’Upon arrival at a shack in Greenpark Informal Settlement in Delft, he repeatedly raped the women. At the time of the incident he was wearing a jeans and a white shirt, and was driving a silver vehicle,’’ said Warrant Officer, Joseph Swartbooi.

Swartbooi added that an identikit, was compiled with the assistance of a rape victim, to help trace the suspect.

‘’The suspect is described as an Indian man, aged 40 and 1,70 m tall with a scar to the right side of his neck.

IDENTIKIT SUPPLIED BY SAPS WC

Anyone with information that can assist with the investigation are urged to call the investigating officer Detective Sergeant Christelle Frieslaar on 084 755 5208 or alternatively call Crime Stop on 08600 10111

 

Done By: Mitchum George

Man found with gunshot wounds at Mitland Cemetery

Kensington Police are on a man hunt after a 30-year-old man was found with gunshot wounds to his body on Monday at Maitland cemetery.

The police's Joseph Swartbooi says a 39-year-old woman was also wounded in the incident.

“Upon arrival at the scene at Maitland cemetery Gate 1, at around 20:35, they found the body of a male who sustained gunshot wounds to his body. The 30-year-old victim were declared deceased on the scene by the medical personnel. A 39-year-old woman who sustained gunshot wounds to her leg, was transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment. The motive for the attack on the victims is unknown”.

Anyone with information is kindly urged to contact CrimeStop on 08600 10 111.

 

Done By: Mitchum George

Bonteheuwel mother selling pics of her naked daughter online, will soon know her fate

Bonteheuwel ward councillor, Angus McKenzie, hopes that the case of a mother arrested by the FBI and Homeland Security after allegedly selling naked pictures of her 4-year-old daughter on the dark web, will soon know her fate.

The suspect made a brief appearance in the Parow Regional Court on Wednesday, as the matter was postponed to 31 August 2022 for a possible plea and sentencing agreement.

The woman had been arrested in March 2021. The investigation was led by an agent from Homeland Security, who pretended to be a buyer, and traced her to Bonteheuwel after she allegedly received payments via PayPal.

She is facing charges of manufacturing child pornography, possession of child pornography, distribution of child pornography and financial gain from child pornography and rape.

“We trust that this matter will find conclusion on this day and justice will be served,” said McKenzie.

“This possible justice will not only be a major boost for healing process of the victims but also should send out a strong message that GBV specifically implicated against children will not be accepted,” he added.

“As a community we are hopeful the end of this sordid period in our communities history will come on the 31st,” concluded McKenzie.

 

PICTURE: Pixabay

Done By: Mitchum George

Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi praises Home Affairs for ensuring the safety of 2023 online admissions.

The Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi led a media briefing at the Jeppe High School Boys in Joburg on Thursday.

During the briefing, the MEC said they had separate applications in 2021 for grades 1 and grades, however the MEC also indicated that both applications would go through a single process. This means parents will able to apply for both applications at the same time.

The MEC added that the system will get a high volume of applications that could lead to the system crashing but the MEC did assure parents that it won`t happen due to the improvements made in the system and no one will be left in the application process.

The MEC will assist parents to apply as the system will be opening at 8am on Friday at Mohlakeng Recreation Centre.

By Lulama Klassen

Extra time allocated for improving Foundation Phase Curriculum

Western Cape pupils will receive extra time to catch up on the hours of maths and reading they lost during the Covid-19 pandemic.

 The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) announced that in the second half of the school year, which started on Tuesday, pupils in Grades 1 to 3 will be given extra time for the two subjects every week.

 Education MEC David Maynier said. "These are the grades that were most severely affected by the Covid-19 pandemic and we must do everything we possibly can to ensure that our youngest students are not disadvantaged in later grades,"

According to the Systemic tests for 2019 and 2021 Grade 3 pass rate in Maths dropped by 13.8 percentage points and the pass rate in Language dropped by 8 percentage points between 2019 and 2021.

An extra two hours of reading lessons every week and an extra hour of Maths will be provided after adjusting the amount of time allocated to Life Skills. This will result in an additional 60 learning hours

Minister Maynier has confirmed that the length of the School day will not be increased.

Done by Lizeka Tsotetsi

Mpumalanga farmer has been remanded in custody for running over three kids

 A Mpumalanga farmer has been remanded in custody, after allegedly knocking over two children with his car, while assaulting the third.  Louis Johannes Grobbler was arrested last week Friday, a few hours after the incident took place.

Police spokesperson Colonel Donald Mdhluli said the attack happened after Grobler accused the children of theft. Two of the victims aged 11 and 13 sustained minor injuries and the third one aged 10 years’ old sustained serious injuries.

The 42 year old man faces two counts of attempted murder and one of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. During his bail proceeding on Wednesday, local community members demonstrated outside court and called for the magistrate to deny him bail. The case has been postponed until Friday.

by Everngelista Muza

Pietermaritzburg High Court to sentence man for the brutal murder of three people

 The Pietermaritzburg High Court is expected to sentence a 29-year-old man who brutally killed three people, 65-year-old Zanele Ndlela, her daughter 46-year-old Simangele Ndlela and seven-year-old granddaughter Zenande Ndlela in their Sobantu home outside Pietermaritzburg .

Njabulo Ndlovu pleaded guilty to three charges of murder and rape. The took place in June when he strangled and stabbed the victims to death fooling an argument. In a confession the court heard that he raped the minor two time's before killing her, reports indicated that she suffered from internal bleeding. 

Ndlovu also allegedly committed the murders while he was out on parole for an earlier conviction. Senior state advocate C Kander said the extent of brutality in the offence, portrayed Ndlovu as a violent man with no empathy and no mercy. 

The court wants to apply for sentencing without parole.

by Everngelista Muza

Cape Forum in support of Policing transferal to the WC Government

The newly-established civic organisation, Cape Forum has voiced its support for policing powers to delegate to the Western Cape Government

The provincial government has in recent years been calling for SAPS powers to be handed over to local officials alleging that national policing is failing to ensure residents’ safety.

Cape Forum’s Executive Chairperson Heindrich Wyngaard has said: ‘’Even if, as a civil society organisation who speaks for communities, even if we want SAPS power to be devolved to the province, ultimately it is the people of the province who have to decide whether they support or don’t support it. We will then see if the support of the community’s Cape Forum is aiming to become the largest, if most relevant, civil society organisation,”however

Police Minister Bheki Cele has criticised the Western Cape Government for it’s call of wanting to take control of the running of SAPS in the region, saying the province is wasting its time

“The last call I read is that the provincial police must be given to the province, there is nothing called the provincial police, that’s why they are called South African Police Sevice. Don’t waste time and energy, let’s work on how to strengthen if there are weaknesses, so let’s work and move forward with the South African Police."

Done by Lizeka Tsotetsi

Duo behind Jesse Hess and grandfather murder sentenced

The men who murdered 19-year-old Jesse Hess and her 85-year-old grandfather, Chris Lategan in their Parow home was sentenced in the Western Cape High Court on Tuesday.

David Van Boven was sentenced to two life imprisonment for murder, 40 years for the two counts of robbery, eight years for sexual assault and three years for fraud. The sentences will run concurrent with the life sentence. His co-accuse, Tasliem Ambrose was sentenced to twelve years imprisonment for two counts of robbery.

In August 2019, first year UWC student,  and her 85 year old grandfather were murdered in their home in Beaumont Court, Parow. Two television sets, a cellular telephone and a laptop were stolen from the house. Hess was sexually assaulted before she was suffocated to death, while her grandfather was strangled.

‘’An intensive investigation by our detectives revealed that Van Boven committed the murders and that Ambrose participated in the robbery at the victims’ home. During the trial, the duo turned on each other, revealing the gruesome details of what had transpired on the day of the heinous crime,’’ said SAPS spokesperson, Ndakhe Gwala.

‘’The Western Cape High court found David Van Boven guilty on the two murder charges, two counts of robbery with aggravating circumstances, sexual assault and fraud while his accomplice Tasliem Ambrose was convicted for two counts of robbery with aggravating circumstances,’’ she added.

 

Done By: Mitchum George

Health Minister tests positive for Covid-19

Health Minister Dr Joe Phaahla has tested positive for Covid-19. The department confirmed the development in a statement on Tuesday.

Department spokesperson Foster Mohale says the minister took the test after experiencing minor symptoms.

"Minister Phaahla took tests earlier today and the results came back positive, and he immediately self-isolated. He will perform his official duties from home for a period of seven days, and all his planned contact meetings have been rescheduled, while others converted into virtual.’’

“This is a reminder that the pandemic still remains amongst us and infectious, hence the Department continues to report Covid-19 daily positive cases and deaths," Mohale added.

Mohale also confirmed that the Phaahla has received two doses of J&J vaccine.

"The department would like to remind the public that lifting the Covid-19 restrictions doesn’t mean the pandemic is over, hence vaccination serves remain accessible at all times at selected sites."

 

PICTURE: Parliament - Dr. Joe Phaala

Done By: Mitchum George

CoCT's Mayco member concerned over trauma and assualt cases logged over the weekend

The City of Cape Town’s Mayco member for Safety and Security, JP Smith, has raised concern over the number of trauma and assault cases in the past week.

The City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre(PECC) had a busy weekend, logging 1 788 emergency incidents. Of these, 98 requests were logged for assistance related to incidents of assault at the weekend, including 15 gunshot related trauma incidents.

A 36-year-old suspect was arrested on Friday, for being in possession of stolen vehicle.

‘’Law Enforcement Auxiliary officers noticed a vehicle without number plates driving along Belgravia Road in Athlone. Officers stopped the vehicle and also noticed the vehicle had no licence disc. Upon further investigation, it was discovered that the vehicle was reported stolen in Maitland in 2014. impounded,’’ said Smith.

Smith added that while officers were attending to the incident, another vehicle pulled up and the driver explained to officers that he and his infant son had been shot and wounded. The mayco member added that officers immediately administered first aid while waiting on EMS to arrive to transport the victims to hospital.

Smith says the number of complaints lodged for violence is concerning.

‘’The high levels of violence plaguing many of our communities and households remains one of our biggest concerns. That someone would take aim at a baby is not only callous, but incredibly cruel. I’m thankful that our volunteer officers were able to step in and ensure that the child and his father received the necessary medical attention. Then there is the number of assault cases reported weekend after weekend to our PECC. Violence as a means to resolve differences is not the answer – not to mention the toll it takes on families and communities,’’

‘’I also want to commend our officers for their tireless efforts in bringing criminals to book week after week, as well as the role that our volunteer staff and the community policing structures play. It is through these collective efforts that we are able to make arrests, and remove dangerous weapons and narcotics from our streets,’’ he added.

 Residents are reminded to report any criminal activity or life or property threatening emergency by contacting the PECC on 021 480 7700 from a cellphone or 107 from a landline.

 

PICTURE: Pixabay

Done By: Mitchum George

Two Locals arrested for Hijacking a truck with appliances

Two suspects who were travelling in a hijacked truck carrying cargo worth R1 million have been arrested by Cape Town Police. The arrest follows a tip off that the vehicle was travelling from Strand on Monday

The members involved in the operation pursued information pertaining to a truck with cargo that was hijacked in Bishop Lavis, travelling from Strand in the direction of Paarl. The members followed the truck until it stopped in Northern Paarl. The members descended on the truck as well as a Renault Sandero that was escorting the truck and searched the occupants as well as the cargo loaded on the truck.

SAPS Spokesperson Joseph Swaartbooi confirmed that two suspects were apprehended and detained on charges of Stolen property

Once charged the suspects are expected to make a court appearance in the Paarl Magistrate court.

 

Picture by WC SAPS

 Done by Lizeka Tsotetsi

Western Cape Mobility MEC sends stern warning to speeding motorists

Western Cape Mobility MEC, Daylin Mitchell has sent out a stern warning to motorists disobeying the rules of the road, especially to those speeding.

The department handed out 404 speeding offences in the past week. Last week, officials wrote 229 speeding offences.

‘’I want to send a stern warning to all drivers who are speeding and those who are not complying with the rules of the road. I want to caution drivers and all road-users to keep within the speed limit.’’

‘’Speeding is a serious concern. The faster you drive, the less time you have to respond to an emergency and the more space you need to stop to avoid a crash. Speeding is irresponsible and dangerous,’’ added Mitchell.

The highest speeds recorded this week were as follows:

·        167 km/h in a 120 km/h zone

·        161 km/h in a 100 km/h zone

·        124 km/h in a 80 km/h zone

·        94 km/h in a 60 km/h zone

 

Furthermore, 7 987 fines were issued for various traffic violations ranging from driver to vehicle fitness. Twenty-three vehicles were impounded and 39 were discontinued for unroadworthiness. Traffic officials arrested 59 suspects for various offences, the bulk of these were for driving under the influence of alcohol (41).

Sadly, 30 people lost their lives on the provinces roads between 11 – 17 July 2022. Of these, 14 were pedestrians, 9 were drivers, 4 passengers, and one each for fell off vehicle, cyclist, and motorcyclist. A total of 29 crashes occurred in the reporting period.

‘’Never speed. Speeding is especially risky when visibility is poor and when roads are wet. Speeding drivers risk the lives of the people in their vehicles, and the lives of others. It is best to travel slowly and carefully. It’s the only way that you will be able to react to emergencies in time,’’ said Western Cape Mobility MEC, Daylin Mitchell.

 

PICTURE: AutoTrader

Done By: Mitchum George

WCED sees increase in winter school programmes

The Western Cape’s Education Department (WCED) says over 26 000 learners participated in winter school programmes over the June-July school holidays

In addition, over 185 000 unique users accessed the WCED’s ePortal site resources for all grades, and 524 staff members received training through the Cape Teaching and Leadership Institute (CTLI) while schools were closed.

Metro North Education District held a virtual programme that streamed lessons to 10 062 students at their schools, Cape Winelands Education District held five residential camps for 445 students.

The WCED says traditional winter school programmes reached over 5 800 students in Metro East Education District, 1 463 in Metro South Education District, and 4 366 students in Metro Central Education District.

SUPPLIED: WCED - Beacon Hill High School in M/Plain

The Overberg Education District’s Specialised Learner and Educator Support Services (SLES) team also held a weekend life and study skills camp for at-risk students, while Eden and Central Karoo Education District undertook a circuit-based support programme for progressed students with 204 students over two days. The West Coast Education district held revision camps at three schools with 322 students in attendance – a 99% attendance rate!

‘’Our districts have been hard at work to ensure that our matric students are ready for the upcoming trial and NSC exams, using different models for supporting students,‘’ said Western Cape Education MEC, David Maynier.

‘’We thank every one of the teachers and officials who gave of their time over the holidays – their dedication and expertise will stand the Class of 2022 in good stead to pass their exams. And we commend the students who chose to invest in their own futures by attending these revision classes,‘’ he added.

Maynier says the department’s ePortal saw a huge increase in activity.

‘’Students have been putting in the hours from home, too, by using the WCED’s ePortal to access learning resources across all grades. Usage of the ePortal increased by 101% compared to last year’s June/July holidays, with over 185 000 unique users accessing the site – including those from other provinces. The site includes 8 988 free Grade 12 resources to support our matrics, including revision guides, past papers and marking guidelines, and Telematics lessons.’’

The MEC said that 547 staff members used some of their holiday to improve their skills at the CTLI. The courses were offered on a wide variety of topics, including Women In and Into Leadership and Management Positions, Recruitment and Selection Training, ICT integration, and contact sessions for both the Advanced Certificate in Teaching (ACT) and the Advanced Diploma in Education: School Leadership and Management (ADE).

‘’This is exactly the kind of extra effort that we will need to overcome the learning losses caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, especially in the Foundation Phase. We are looking forward to the new term and the interventions that our teachers will be undertaking to ensure that we get back on track as soon as possible in the Western Cape,’’ said Western Cape Education MEC, David Maynier.

SUPPLIED: Recruitment & Selection Training at the CTLI

Done By: Mitchum George

Worcester senior pastor arrested for alleged child porn

A woman who was previously jailed for child rape has been arrested for child pornography charges. The police’s Ndakhe Gwala said the suspect was a senior pastor of a church in Worcester.

Between 2016 and 2022, the suspect allegedly invited three children to sleepover at her home. Gwala says she drugged the children, undressed them and took pictures.

‘’One of the victims said the suspect locked her in a bedroom and told her to undress and not be uncomfortable because they are both females. She then took naked pictures of her in different angles. Investigations revealed that the suspect and her husband are former convicts, and both served 15 years for rape of minor children. The husband’s involvement in this case is under investigation.’’

The female suspect was arrested by Serial and Electronic Crimes Investigation unit in collaboration with Worcester Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual offences unit, on Monday, 11 July, and was charged with five counts of human trafficking, two counts of rape and one hundred counts of possession and creation of child pornography.

The suspect made her first appearance in the Worcester Magistrate’s court on 13 July 2022 and the case was postponed to 19 July 2022 for a bail application.

 

PICTURE: Pixabay

Done By: Mitchum George