Western Cape police investigating the kidnapping of a woman

Western Cape police are probing cases of kidnapping and attempted murder after a woman was abducted in Blue Downs.

The incident occurred outside business premises along Ipswich Road on Thursday.

According to reports, the 35-year-old woman was alone inside her car during the time of the incident.

In a video that is spreading through social media, the victim's yellow Audi is blocked between a white Toyota Avanza and a white Ford.

The woman is then pulled from her vehicle and forced into the Ford by a number of occupants of both cars.

They are then seen driving off, leaving the Audi in the middle of the road with the door still open.

It’s also being reported that the kidnapped woman is a Ukrainian national and the wife of a business owner in that area.

 

By Lulama Klassen

Elderly man’s body recovered while diving in Yzerfontein

An elderly man from Melkbosstrand has died after he had been diving near to the Yzerfontein’s Schaapen Island on Thursday.

The NSRI’s Craig Lambinon said that a local diver alerted the team that his diving partner had gone missing.

‘’Family of the missing man had joined in a search. During a search, the body of the man was located by his dive partner on rocks on the shoreline near to where he had reportedly gone missing.’’

‘’The body of the man was taken into the care of Police and Government Health Forensic Pathology Services,’’ Lambinon added.

Police have opened an inquest docket.

 

Done By: Mitchum George

Man accused of murdering Cape Magistrate case postponed

The case against the 18-year-old accused of the murder of the Vredenburg Magistrate, Romay van Rooyen has been postponed.

Cassidy Hartzenberg appeared in the Simon’s Town Magistrate court on Thursday, and it was revealed that he is a family member of Van Rooyen.

The court also heard that he was a pallbearer at the magistrate’s funeral. The 50-year-old was found dead in her home in Marina Da Gama, on the 10 September 2022 and her vehicle was missing.

Police Minister, Bheki Cele who attended court proceedings confirmed that Van Rooyen died due to a lack of oxygen and not from a gunshot wound.

“Things such as the motive are discussed in court, for now we must just wait. Investigations are continuing and maybe they might take us to other places but with him, we are confident that we got the right person.

“We believe the information with police is strong, and it seems that the suspect is a close relative to the deceased. They were speculating that perhaps it was one of the criminals that were trailed by her, but we have no evidence of that at the moment.”

The case has been postponed to 6 October for further investigations and bail applications.

 

Done By: Mitchum George

Nzimande announces NSFAS 2023 applications are open

Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande, held a media briefing on Tuesday, announcing the 2023 appplications for the National Student Financial Aid Scheme that opened on Wednesday.

As NSFAS is about to celebrate its 30^th anniversary, Nzimande said the scheme has resolved the issue to open the application process early, as opposed to the previous year, in order to give applicants enough time to submit their applications and supporting documents.

Amongst other announcements, the minister also gave an update report on NSFAS funding for this year`s academic funding and highlighted that a budget of R43 billion was allocated to NSFAS towards the beneficiarie`s tuition fees.

He added that 985 672 applications were received, while 140 636 applications were unsuccessful. Of the applications that were received, there were approximately 739 526 applications that were provisionally funded from their institutions.

While trying to improve its application system, Nzimande said this year that NSFAS has implemented a number of enhancements to the system to ensure a smooth application process and added that the NSFAS online application portal was redesigned to be more user friendly.

The minister concluded by ensuring that no applicant will be left behind, and said NSFAS will embark on an outreach campaign, to ensure that individuals who do not have access to technological devices that enable them to apply online are given the necessary resources and support to apply.

 

By Lulama Klassen

Stage 4 load shedding to continue until Saturday

Eskom has announced that Stage 4 loadshedding will continue to be implemented until 5a.m on Saturday and reduce to Stage 3 throughout the weekend.

The power utility yesterday said it had to preserve the low diesel levels at Gourikwa, due to low levels of diesel. The diesel deliveries, says Eskom, have started at PetroSA’s facility in Mossel Bay, with the vessel having berthed this morning.

Eskom’s spokesperson, Sikonathi Manthanthsa said that transferring the fuel to the Gourikwa and Ankerlig Open Cycle Gas Turbine stations will take place throughout the weekend to replenish by Monday.

‘’Eskom will also use the weekend to replenish the dam levels at the pumped storage schemes, which have been utilised extensively to complement generation capacity.’’

‘’It is anticipated the first unit of the Camden Power Station will return to service during the weekend, with the remaining returning over the course of the following ten days,’’ he added.

‘’In addition to all the eight Camden Power Station units that were taken offline due to de-mineralised water contamination last night as a result of the incorrect valve being opened, a generating unit at Kriel Power Station was also taken offline for repairs,’’ concluded Manthanthsa.

 

PICTURE - Mitchum George: Load shedding at Bush Radio

Done By: Mitchum George

Education MEC condemns intimidation and extortion at Manenberg School of Skills

The Western Cape’s Education MEC, David Maynier, has condemned the intimidation and extortion at Manenberg School of Skills.

It’s understood that a group of people arrived at the site, which is under construction, and demanded to be awarded a contract for providing security services in exchange for “protecting” the site from gangsters. It’s further alleged that they wanted all contracts for supply of materials to be awarded to businesses that are under the ownership or control of the group and their associates.

Maynier said work at the school was interrupted at the end of last month by a group of individuals attempting to extort the appointed contractor.

‘’The construction of Manenberg School of Skills is an R84 million project, scheduled to take 87 weeks. Any delay in construction has a direct impact on the community, which is in desperate need of more places for learners in Schools of Skills.’’

 SUPPLIED: WCED

The MEC has since given an affidavit to SAPS.

 ‘’We have now received additional information about a group seeking to intimidate the contractors on the site. Today, I met with a senior South African Police Service (SAPS) officer at the Manenberg police station, where I provided this information in the form of an affidavit to the SAPS.’’

‘’We will not be held to ransom by those who seek to exploit public funds, and will give SAPS our full support in ending the extortion rackets that plague our building industry. Our children’s futures come first,’’ added Maynier.

 SUPPLIED - WCED: MEC David Maynier writing affadavit at Manenberg SAPS

Maynier has sent out a stern warning to criminals.

‘’It is imperative that our government be allowed to construct schools speedily, unencumbered by illegal extortion practices that compromise the delivery of enough places for learners in our schools.’’

‘’It’s time to stand up to the “construction mafia”. If you interfere in our school construction sites, we will not hesitate to involve SAPS. Be warned,’’ he added.

 

Done By: Mitchum George

8 year old boy kidnapped for ransom found dead in Siqalo

Western Cape police arrested two men after they were connected to the murder of a four-year-old girl in Paarl. This is after Tamia Botha's family reported her missing at the Paarl East Police Station on Sunday.

The little girl's body was found among bushes on a school field the following day. Tamia is one of four children found murdered in the Western Cape between last Thursday and this past Monday. The suspects have not yet appeared in court.

Meanwhile Captain FC van Wyk, confirmed a body that was found in a bush in Siqalo in  Phillipi has been identified as that of eight-year-old Lukhololwam Mkontwana, who went missing last week. The death of the boy came after his mother received a call from people demanding a ransom for the safe return of her son, but she could not afford to pay it.

image by hindustan Times

by Everngelista Muza

The 2nd Quarter Employment Stats

Statistics South Africa has released the Quarterly Employment stats for the 2nd quarter of 2022 consisting of March and June ,the Director of Quarterly employment Statistics Matlapane Masupye revealed that there has been a decline in Employment by 119 000 from 10 067 000 in March to 9 948000 in June 2022

This was largely due to decreases in the following Community services,Business Services manufacturing aswell as Electricity

There was an increase in Total Employment (including paid and self employment)by 74 000 translating to 0.7% between June of 2021 and June this year

Full Time Employment decreased by 0.2% which was 8 842 000 in March  to 8 826 000 in June this year

Part time employment decreased by 103 000 quarter on quarter from 1225 000 in March to 1 122000 in June ,this was due to decreases in the following industries ,Community services, manufacturing ,trade , Electricity and Construction

Transport industries reported no quarterly change ,the Business services industry reported quarterly increase of 4000 employees ,part time employment increased by 154 000 year on year between June 2021 and June 2022….

The year on year Basic Salary/wages increased by R26.2 Billion between June 2021 and June 2022

Average monthly earnings showed a quarter on quarter increase of 3.7% from R23 697 in February 2022 to R24 578 in May 2022

Basic Salary Wages paid to Employees increased by R10.3 Billion from R706.7 Billion from March to R717 000 Billion in June 2022 this was due to increases in the following Industries Business services,trade construction,manufacturing ,transport mining and community services

Done by Lizeka Tsotetsi

Help find Clifton Dames alias Clicks

The Western Cape Anti-Gang Unit detectives are seeking the assistance of the public to trace a person of interest in the investigation of a murder case in Kraaifontein.

Captain FC Van Wyk said Clifton Dames alias Clicks, said the murder incident occurred on 13 April 2022 in Watsonia Park, Kraaifontein.

‘’Clicks might be in the vicinity of Elsies River, Stellenbosch, Eerste River, Mitchells Plain, Wellington or Worcester.’’

Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of the man, is kindly requested to contact the investigating officer, Detective Sergeant Elvin Conradie on 071 673 1569, alternatively call Crime Stop on 08600 10111.

 

PICTURE - SAPS: 

Clifton Dames alias Clicks

Done By: Mitchum George

CoCT's Zahid Badroodien steps down, following allegations of tampering of an electricity meter

The City of Cape Town’s Mayoral Committee Member for Water & Sanitation, Zahid Badroodein has stepped down from his position.

This comes after Badroodien is accused of tampering of an electricity meter at a property owned by him.

‘’Councillor Badroodien has however written to me to request that he step down from his position as Mayoral Committee Member for Water and Sanitation pending the finalisation of the disciplinary hearing. I have accepted his request. It is important for every member of the Mayoral Committee to be fully focused on their work,’’ said Cape Town Mayor, Geordin Hill-Lewis.

Badroodien is facing a disciplinary hearing by the City of Cape Town’s Speaker's Office.

‘’This is a Council matter being dealt with by the Speaker's Office. I am therefore not at liberty to comment on the charges against Councillor Badroodien, nor the disciplinary process to be followed,’’ said Hill-Lewis.

In the interim, Siseko Mbandezi, who is the Mayco Member for Finance, has agreed to assume responsibility for the Water and Sanitation portfolio on the Mayoral Committee. When asked why Mbandezi, Hill-Lewis said: ‘’Most of the current priorities in water and sanitation are focused on big infrastructure projects - I.e. capital spending - pipe replacements, pump station upgrades, waste water treatment upgrades.’’

Badroodien was appointed as Mayco member for Water and Sanitation in November 2021, following Hill-Lewis’ appointment as Executive Mayor of Cape Town. He will however remain ward councillor for ward 41

 ‘’I am confident that Councillor Mbandezi will do an excellent job until such a time as Councillor Badroodien has successfully answered this case,’’ added hill-Lewis.

 ‘’I look forward to a fair and speedy resolution of this matter, in the best interests of all Cape Town residents. Further enquiries can be addressed to the speaker's office, concluded Hill-Lewis.

GOOD’s City of Cape Town Councillor & Caucus Chairperson, Suzette Little said that Badroodien should not be given ‘’special treatment’’

‘’Badroodien must be disciplined for breaching the Councillor Code of Conduct, but he must also face the criminal charges, as provided for in the by-law, like any other resident accused of tampering with electricity meters and stealing electricity.’’

‘’Such behaviour by any resident, no matter their position or status, cannot be condoned and should not simply be dealt with through an internal disciplinary process,’’ she added

PICTURE - Facebook: Cllr. Zahid Badroodien

Done By: Mitchum George

Five people sustained gunshot wounds in Khayelitsha

Five people sustained gunshot wounds in Khayelitsha. According to police, the shooting erupted at the corners of Cosa and Dika Street on Tuesday night. Authorities initiated a 72-hour activation plan to get to the bottom of the incident.

Police spokesperson, Captain Frederick van Wyk, said that the victims were between the ages of 21 and 38.

"According to reports, the victims were transferred to a nearby medical facility for treatment by private vehicles. The five victims sustained gunshot wounds. There were also another two victims that were injured whilst running away. The unknown suspects fled the scene and are yet to be arrested. The motive for this shooting incident is currently unknown”, said Van Wyk.

Community members believe the shooting might be gang-related.  Since March this year, 26 people have died from mass shootings in Khayelitsha

The incident came just two days after Police Minister, Bheki Cele, visited the area on Monday at an imbizo with men in Khayelitsha on gender-based violence and femicide, domestic violence, and sexual offences.

by Everngelista Muza

123 suspects apprehended by LEAP officers

 Law Enforcement Advancement Plan (LEAP) officers confiscated 6 illegal firearms and arrested of 123 individuals for a variety of crimes between 12 to 18 September.

In a statement, authorities stated that 13 illegal firearms confiscated in Gugulethu, Bishop Lavis, Delft and Nyanga. This included 302 suspects that were apprehended.

Western Cape's Police Oversight & Community Safety MEC, Reagen Allen said of the 123 persons that were arrested, 1 was arrested for the possession of an illegal firearm, 6 for the possession of illegal ammunition, 5 for the possession of an imitation firearm, 77 for the possession of drugs and 14 for the possession of dangerous weapons.

As LEAP officers work with a multitude of law enforcement agencies, they conducted 179 joint and Integrated operations with other City of Cape Town Law Enforcement Agencies and SAPS.

“LEAP’s strategic and deliberate deployment will continue, as it’s directly working in areas that require these extra resources. The National Minister continues to fail the Western Cape by not providing the resources that are required, but we’re not sitting on our laurels, and instead is going the extra mile for our citizens. LEAP, and the manner in which they are managed is but an introduction to what SAPS would look like once they are devolved to a capable province such as ours. We should never lose the appetite in our fight against crime,'' said Allen.

images from Marcellino Martin

By Everngelista Muza

Three family members killed in Kuilsriver

Western Cape police are investigating the deaths of three family members in Kuilsriver.

A 48-year-old man allegedly shot and killed his 44-year-old wife and 15-year-old daughter on Sunday morning before turning the gun on himself.

"Upon arrival at the scene, police found victims had sustained gunshot wounds to their bodies. The trio were declared deceased on the scene by the medical personnel. The circumstances surrounding the incident are still unclear at this stage," said Warrant Officer, Joseph Swartbooi.

According to Action Society leader Ian Cameron, the man asked his 23-year-old son to shoot him, but the son refused and ran away. He then alerted the police.

 

Done By: Mitchum George

Two men released on bail for dealing in steroids

Two suspects were released on R5 000 and R10 000 bail, respectively, after they appeared in the Strand Magistrates Court on Tuesday for dealing in steroids.

The Hawks arrested 24-year-old Jean Stemmet in the Strand area on Monday, whilst 38-year-old Christiaan Jacobus Roode, a Shop owner handed himself over on Tuesday morning.

''An authorised search warrant was executed at the said store following information received about a business owner who was selling medicine from his shop. This resulted to an intelligence operation which established that the shop owner did not have valid documents for the medicine,’’ said Hawks provincial spokesperson, Zinzi Hani.

‘’During the search, numerous steroids worth an undisclosed amount were found together with an undisclosed cash amount suspected to be proceeds of crime, were all seized for further investigation,’’ she added.

The case has been postponed to the 31 October 2022.

 

PICTURE: Fed Health

Done By: Mitchum George

SAPS Holds men imbizo in Khayelitsha regarding violence against women

The South African Police Service held it`s first men`s Imbizo in Khayelitsha on Monday, to address the ongoing gender based violence and Femicide, Domestic Violence and Sexual offences crisis in the township.

Source: SAPS

The meeting was attended by men from various areas in the township  mainly in Harare, Lingelethu-West Site B and Makhaza as these areas have recorded the highest GBV cases.

The imbizo was led by Provincial Commissioner, Lt General Thembisile Patekile and his management team. Police Minister Bheki Cele and Western Cape Police Oversight & Community Safety MEC, Reagan Allen, representatives from the liquor industry; gender activists, youth and civil society formations also attended the community engagement.

Speaking at the meeting, Police Minister Bheki Cele said even though police are playing a role in providing victim centred-services to all victims of GBV, he added men too must change the way they view women.

“It is a fact, men commit the most violent crimes against women, for some reason, men think they own women and this false sense of ownership often leads to men treating women with disrespect and violence. It’s quite simple, women are fully fledged human beings and are not our pets.”

The minister then concluded by saying that GBV can be defeated if everyone including other government departments play they role and concluded by saying that GBV engagements with men, should be happening on a regular basis in order to eradicate GBV.

 

By Lulama Klassen

 

18-year-old arrested for the murder of slain Cape Town Magistrate, Romay van Rooyen.

The Hawks have arrested an 18-year-old for the murder of slain Cape Town Magistrate, Romay van Rooyen.

Hawks spokesperson Katlego Mogale says the suspect has been linked to the murder and was traced and arrested at his home in Mitchell's Plain.

‘’The suspect was traced and arrested at his home in Mitchell’s Plain, Cape Town in a multi-disciplinary operation comprising of the Hawks’ Crimes Against the State, National Priority Violent Crime Investigation, Digital Forensic Investigation and Priority Crime Management Centre.’’

Mogale says Rooyen's car, which was stolen on the night of her death, has since been recovered in Mitchell's Plain.

Van Rooyen's body was discovered by a family member at her Marina Da Gama home near Muizenberg on the 10th of September.

Done By: Mitchum George

City officials concerned over the spike in trauma and assault cases reported

 The City of Cape Town has raised concerns over the spike in trauma and assault cases that’s reported to the City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre.

According to the latest statistics, 1 870 incidences were reported in the past week. This is 146 more than the previous week. There’s been an increase in the number of assaults, domestic violence calls and road accidents involving both motor vehicles and pedestrians, with majority being for Assault at 172. Last week that number stood at 122.

Mayco member for safety and security, JP Smith, says these figures are not surprising, as the City tends to see an increase near month-end.

Smith appealed to citizens to drink responsibly as the relationship between trauma cases and alcohol consumption, he says are disappointing.

by Everngelista Muza

Bodies of four children found in Western Cape 5 days apart

Western Cape police are investigating the death of four young children found murdered in less than 5 days. This is after the bodies of two school children were discovered in Paarl and Philippi on Monday. According to reports the gruesome discovery was made by school children who found the body of a four-year-old girl, among bushes on a school rugby field in Paarl, on Monday afternoon. Meanwhile police officials discovered the body of a young boy while deployed to a bushy area along Weltevreden Road in Philippi.

Western Cape Community Safety MEC Reagen Allen says he's horrified. "Our children cannot lose their lives in this manner - 29 children were murdered in the first quarter of the 2022-2023 financial year. The murder of one child is not only one too many, but it is unacceptable," said Allen.

The incident came just a few days after two young girls were found dead in Albertina. Police stated that the suspect was apprehended on Friday, a day after the bodies of the victims were discovered in a shack. The police’s Malcolm Pojie said that the girls aged 9 and 10 had been reported missing before the gruesome discovery.

On Monday a 53 year old Timothy Michael Ova, made his first court appearance at the Riverdale Magistrate’s Court. He faces two counts of murder and he is expected back in court on the 29^th of September where the state will oppose bail.

By Everngelista Muza

Eskom rotates between Stage 3 & Stage 4 load shedding

Eskom has announced that Stage 3 loadshedding will continue to be implemented at 00:00 – 16:00 daily until Thursday. The embattled power utility added that Stage 4 loadshedding will be implemented daily during the evening peaks between 16:00 and 00:00

 

 

In a statement, Eskom said it is still experiencing constraints from its diesel suppliers that is affecting the availability of bulk diesel to the Ankerlig and Gourikwa Open Cycle Gas Turbines, which have a combined capacity of 2 000MW.

‘’While we expect diesel deliveries from Tuesday onwards, should this uncertainty of supply persist, higher stages of loadshedding may be required. While some generation units are anticipated to return to service, it is necessary to continue the loadshedding to conserve emergency generation reserves,’’ it said in a statement.

 ‘’Since Friday a generation unit each at Camden and Kriel power stations were taken offline for repairs. Another generating unit each at Kriel and Kusile power stations were returned to service,’’ it added

Eskom said a further update will be published on Wednesday afternoon, or as soon as there are any significant changes.

 

By: Lizeka Tsotetsi

Four suspects arrested for attempted robbery in Mitchell’s Plain

Four suspects were arrested for attempted robbery in Mitchell’s Plain on Sunday

The City of Cape Town’s Mayco Member for Safety and Security, JP Smith, says officers attended to complaints around illegal street racing, spotted a security guard involved in a scuffle with another individual on the corner of Eisleben and Spine Road.

‘’The security guard managed to get away, and the other person jumped into a silver Toyota Corolla that sped off. Officers pursued the vehicle, and managed to stop it – the security guard positively identified the person who tried to rob him, and four occupants in the vehicle were taken to Mitchells Plain SAPS.’’

According to Smith, there was also an allegation, that the vehicle has been used in a number of robberies in the Portland area.

Police are investigating the matter.

‘’Many of the City's enforcement successes are the result of either tip offs from the public, or a visible enforcement presence. It underscores the importance of boots on the ground, because it not only means quick turnaround times and catching perpetrators in the act, but it increases the level of trust between communities and enforcement services, which in turn increases the number of tips that are relayed,’’ said the City’s Mayco Member for Safety and Security, JP Smith.

VIDEO SUPPLIED: Justine Adams 

Done By: Mitchum George

World Environmental Health Day

Today marks World Environmental Health Day and the aim is to raise awareness about the crucial work that is done by environmental health workers and encourage people to contribute to the protection of our  environment.

Source: City of Cape Town

In order to commemorate the day, the focus will be on the assessment and control of the environmental factors that can potentially affect health

World Environmental Health Day is also an opportunity for City Health to take a look what its Environmental Health Practitioners do each year, which is to keep Cape Town`s environment safe, from air quality to food safety and many other important aspects in between. 

According to last year`s Cape Town's Environmental Health Service financial statistics, it dealt with a lot of complaints and concerns, with the most being vector control, unhygienic conditions, noise pollution, overgrown erven and air pollution.

While during that same period, the Environmental Health Service attended to 8 356 complaints from the public.

Residents have been reminded that their behaviour directly impacts on the ability of the environment to sustain human health as human activities such as dumping, lack of recycling, increased carbon footprints, pollution of water sources and air pollution will impact the environment negatively

 

By Lulama Klassen

Man killed after losing control of vehicle in Tokai

One man was killed and four others injured when their car they were travelling in lost control and crashed into a tree off Tokai Road in Tokai, on Sunday afternoon

‘’ER24, Metro EMS and Rescue, Western Cape Fire, Life Healthcare and other services arrived on the scene at 12h18 to find the wrecked vehicle on the side of the road. One man was found trapped inside the car, while four others were lying outside the car,’’ said ER24's communication officer, Russel Meiring.

‘’On assessment, medics found that the entrapped man had already succumbed to numerous injuries. Nothing could be done for him, and he was declared dead,’’ added Meiring.

The four other patients were found with serious to moderate injuries. Medics treated the patients and provided the seriously injured man with advanced life support before they were transported to nearby hospitals for further care.

Local authorities were on the scene for further investigations

 

Done By: Mitchum George

Cape Town woman killed by shark in Plettenberg Bay

A 39-year-old woman from Cape Town was killed by a shark at Central Beach in Plettenberg Bay on Sunday morning.

The NSRI's Craig Lambinon said the woman's body was recovered from the water and brought to the beach, after NSRI & Bitou municipality were alerted of the incident just before 8a.m.

“A NSRI Plettenberg Bay and police services were activated at 07:53, following reports of a shark incident at Central Beach.”

“Police have taken the body in their care, together with Western Cape Government Forensic Pathology Services. Police have opened an inquest docket,” he added.

All beaches in Plettenberg Bay have since closed.

“NSRI and the Bitou municipality are appealing to the public to be cautious along the Plettenberg Bay and Southern Cape coastline. Beaches have been closed in Plettenberg Bay by Bitou municipality,” said NSRI's spokesperson, Craig Lambinon.

The Bitou municipality said it is researching shark activity at Central Beach.

“The Bitou Council in May approved a research on shark barrier at central beach. This study will go a long way to assist in understanding the behaviour of the sharks. At this moment there seems to be more shark activities in our beaches. This is very unusual when compared with previous years,” said Andile Namntu, Bitou Communications Manager.

“Bitou Municipality have also established a shark committee to work with experienced private sector personnel to assist with limiting such incidents,” he added.

 

PICTURE - NSRI: The scene where the shark incident occurred in Plettenberg Bay

Done By: Mitchum George

B97 route will remain closed

The Western Cape Mobility Department confirmed that the B97 route from Mbekweni, Paarl, to Bellville will remain closed until further notice starting from Monday 26 September 2022, despite an agreement reached between leaders of CATA, and CODETA aligned route associations

The taxi route was closed in July 2021, due to taxi violence between the local Paarl Alliance Taxi Association (PATA), which is affiliated to CODETA, and CATA Boland.

MEC Daylin Mitchell said the reason for the extended closure is due to a regulatory process that still needs to be finalised.

“Several peace talks and difficult discussions took place over the past year and a landmark agreement has recently been brokered on the sharing of the contentious Route B97. The memorandum of agreement sets out how the allotted operating licences will be divided and how the respective parties will operate on the route.”

“In terms of the agreement, operating licences will be apportioned on an equal basis (50/50) between the two associations commensurate to the demand for services as shown in the transportation plans for the area. Both associations have committed to stop recruiting new members in excess of passenger demand and to desist from allowing illegal operators to trade on route B97.

There are several administrative and legislative procedures that must be followed for the regis tration of new members and the issuing of operating licences to affiliated members. The process to issue operating licences is prescribed by law and applications must be published for public comment. The route will remain closed until the regulatory process has been finalised.”

Mitchell said Golden Arrow bus trips will remain in operation between Bellville and Paarl to transport commuters. The MEC remains hopeful that the reopening of the B97 route is soon.

“Extending the closure of these routes and ranks will help to maintain the relative stability that was restored to the public transport environment in the affected areas and support the process of finding lasting peace.”

 

Done By: Mitchum George

Two men succumbs to Woodstock explosion; Prelim report reveals cause of explosion was due to gas leak

Two people have succumbed to their injuries following a fire and series of explosions that occurred in Woodstock on Thursday. Ward councillor, Angus McKenzie, confirmed the news, saying the owner along with the co-worker passed away at Groote Schuur Hospital on Saturday.

Meanwhile, the City of Cape Town revealed that the Woodstock explosion that occurred on Thursday evening was due to a gas leak. In a statement, the City said preliminary investigations indicate that the fire was caused by a gas leakage, after 2x 48kg gas bottles were found inside the premises.

According to the City's by-law, this is in contravention as it only allows for 19kg’s of canisters, and if installed and used correctly and operated under a valid Certificate of Compliance.

PICTURE: City of Cape Town

“The gas canisters were themselves still in tact, but evidence suggests that gas was possibly been used for basic cooking purposes after a 2 plate gas cooker was found towards the back of the shop in close proximity to the canisters,” said mayco member for safety and security, JP Smith.

“It is believed that due to the increased pressure of the larger canisters, a leak could have developed and since gas is heavier than air, it is believed that the gas created a “blanket” that crept along the floor until the shop had become completely saturated, including soaking the clothes of the 2 victims unbeknown to them, as they were standing behind a counter close to the entrance of the shop,” he added.

PICTURE: City of Cape Town

The City’s Fire & Rescue Safety division speculated that ignitions would have come from any of the induction motors used to drive the refrigeration equipment, which would have then ignited the pocket of gas that had filled the premises.

“With the sudden expansion of mass resulting, the windows and shop front exploded out to the street, followed by debris from inside the shop.”

“Due to the coincidental design of the shop front where aluminum and glass was fixed between the structural pillars, it caused the softer material to be forced outwards allowing the pressure to easily escape, while leaving the structural pillars and formwork of the building undamaged,” added Smith.

PICTURE: City of Cape Town

Furthermore, it was revealed that the neighbouring take-aways shop was not affected by the fire and has suffered only smoke damage, with slight damage to a dividing wall, but no structural damage evident.

“While the scene has been handed over to SAPS for further investigation, the City of Cape Town's Fire Safety division does undertake compliance inspections where complaints are received from the public. To date, no complaints were received for fire safety related aspects for the premises in question,” said mayco member for safety and security, JP Smith.

Smith appealed to property owners to comply with the law.

“ The importance of fire safety remains an important aspect for all property owners to consider, and likewise the tenants that operate such properties. Safety requirements as stipulated within the SANS10087 manual, as well as the City of Cape Town Community Fire Safety by-law applies to all.”

“Fire safety is everyone's responsibility. If you should suspect any person or establishment operating in a manner that can jeopardize their own safety or that of another, you are encouraged to please report the matter to the City of Cape Town's Public Emergency Call Centre on 021-480 7700, he added.

 

Done By: Mitchum George

One killed, several injured in Langa, when car rolled and crashed into a light pole

One person was killed and seven others injured when their vehicle rolled and crashed into a light pole off the N2 in Langa, on Friday night.

ER24's Russel Meiring said Metro EMS, Western Cape Fire and other services arrived on the scene at approximately 22h00 to find a wrecked light motor vehicle on its side some distance from the road.

“Several people were seen scattered around the car. Medics quickly assessed the patients and found that one person had already succumbed to their injuries. Nothing could be done, and they were declared dead. Two other patients were in critical condition, while five others, including a child, had sustained moderate injuries,” said ER24's communication officer, Russel Meiring.

The spokesperson said the patients were treated for their injuries, and the critically injured were provided with advanced life support interventions before they were transported to nearby hospitals for further care.
Local authorities were on the scene for further investigations.

PICTURE: ER24

Done By: Mitchum George

SA Reserve Bank interest rate hiked by 75 basis point

The South African Reserve Bank’s monetary policy committee (MPC) has implemented Interest rates similar to pre-pandemic levels after the SA Reserve Bank hiked rates by 75 basis point.

Following a three-day meeting with the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) Governor of the SA Reserve Bank, Lesetja Kganyago said five committee members were split while two wanted a 100 basis point increase the three others  voted in favour of the 75 basis point hike.

The move brings the repo rate to 6.25%, and the prime rate to 9.75%. On a new home loan of R2 million, this hikes the monthly instalment by more than R970.

Governor of the SA Reserve Bank said that the bank is under pressure to keep up with jumbo interest rate hikes in other countries, especially in the US, where rates were hiked by 75

He said that South Africa cannot afford to be left behind when it comes to rate hikes, otherwise the rand and local assets like bonds will lose their appeal to foreign investors, who are on the hunt for good returns. A stable rand is key to inflation, as South Africa imports almost all its oil, priced in dollars.

The rand is currently taking a lot of strain as the dollar is bolstered by aggressive US rate hikes. It is currently close to R17.80/$, after starting the year below R16. Guiding inflation back towards the mid-point of the target band can reduce the economic costs of high inflation and enable lower interest rates in the future.

 

image: AIDC

By Everngelista Muza

Eskom hopes to reduce load shedding stage by weekend, with Stage 3 forecasted for the week ahead

Eskom has released its load shedding schedule for the coming days.

The ailing parastatal said that Stage 5 loadshedding will continue until 05:00 on Saturday morning. Thereafter it will be lowered to Stage 4 until 05:00 on Sunday. It added that a further reduction to Stage 3 will be implemented until 05:00 on Monday.

SCREENSHOT: Eskom's load shedding schedule for the weekend

In a statement, Eskom said that the loadshedding over the weekend will be used to replenish the pumped storage dam levels, which have been utilised extensively, it added, over the past week.

‘’Since Thursday, a generation unit each at Camden, Kriel, Majuba and Matla power stations were taken offline for repairs. A generating unit at Hendrina and two at Kusile power stations were returned to service,’’ said spokesperson, Sikonathi Manthantsha.

The spokesperson predicts that Stage 3 load shedding will persist for most of next week.

‘’A further update will be published on Sunday afternoon, or as soon as there are any significant changes.’’

‘’Eskom is currently experiencing constraints from its diesel suppliers that is affecting the availability of bulk diesel to the Ankerlig and Gourikwa Open Cycle Gas Turbines, which have a combined capacity of 2 000MW. Should this uncertainty of diesel supplies persist, higher stages of loadshedding may be required,’’ he added.

 

Done By: Mitchum George

Suspect arrested for gang-related shooting in Bonteheuwel

Bonteheuwel’s Law Enforcement Officers arrested a suspect on Friday morning after a man was shot multiple times in the face. The incident occurred in Jasmine Street, just after 7am

The motive for the attack is believed to be gang-related.

‘’Once again we would like to thank community members for providing information and ensuring that we are consistently fighting back against gangsters and their activities,’’ said Bonteheuwel ward councilor, Angus Mckenzie.

 

COURTESY: Bonteheuwel ward councilor, Angus Mckenzie.

Done By: Mitchum George

Ashton police constable shoots 2 people, and then drives home whereby he turnd the gun on himself

The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) are investigating cases of murder, attempted murder and a death inquest after a 34-year-old police constable opened fire at three members of the public at Ashton police station in the Cape Winelands on Friday morning.

The police’s Andre Traut said the officer who was on duty at the time of the incident, shot dead a man and wounded another. A third person escaped unharmed.

Traut added that the policeman left the police station and drove to his residence in Zolani, where his body was discovered with a gunshot wound.

The motive for the incident is unknown at this stage.

The Western Cape’s Police Oversight & Community Safety MEC, Reagen Allen, said he is shocked by the incident.

‘’I am deeply shocked by the incident that occurred. My condolences go out to all loved ones affected by these tragic circumstances. I also wish the wounded individuals a speedy recovery.’’

‘’I would like to encourage anyone with information about this incident related make it available to the South African police Service so that the investigation can be concluded. Although the circumstances surrounding the incident must still be determined, I would like to say to all SAPS members that support is always available to them, regardless of where and when they might require it,’’ added Allen.

 

Done By: Mitchum George