Minibus-Taxi Task Team signs agreement to safeguard commuters

The Minibus-Taxi Task Team’s (MBTTT) three-day Imbizo has ended, and an agreement that safeguards commuter safety and outlines a clear process for continued cooperation was signed.

PICTURE: SANTACO

City of Cape Town, Western Cape Government, and SANTACO-WC – sat for three days to systematically work through the enforcement consequences for each of the operating license conditions reviewed.

In a joint statement, the trio said it has found common ground on what are ‘’fair and rational consequences’’ for most of the operating license condition transgressions.

‘’Underpinning this exercise is the mutual priority to address fundamental challenges in the transport sector and deliver functional, reliable, safe mobility for our commuters,’’ read the statement.

“We have committed to completing this task within a four-week period, starting today, 31 August 2023, and will redouble our efforts to find common ground on the outstanding points of disagreement,’’ it added.

 

Done By: Esona Mfazwe

Police assasin sentenced to 25 years for murder of Table View officer

An assassin was sentenced to 25 years imprisonment for the murder of a police officer stationed at Table View SAPS.

    PICTURE: Pixabay

38-year-old Luyanda Fuzile was sentenced at the Western Cape High Court on Tuesday for the murder of Sergeant Nametso Molema who was stationed at Table View SAPS. 

Molema was shot and killed in November 2021, after he and his colleague, Malibongwe Mnani, responded to a complaint of a business robbery in progress at GR Spices, Williams road, in Killarney Gardens.

Hawks Provincial spokesperson, Zinzi hani, said when the officers arrived at the crime scene, they were confronted by four to six armed suspects, whereby the suspects opened fire at the members.

‘’During the exchange of fire, two SAPS members were injured. Sgt Molema sustained serious head injuries and passed away in hospital soon after arrival at Milnerton Mediclinic. The suspects robbed the firearms of the two injured members, however both the firearms were recovered on the crime scene.

Hani said at the time, four suspects were arrested and two of the  suspects sustained gunshot wound injuries and were taken to hospital under SAPS guard at Groote Schuur and Somerset hospitals respectively.

Fuzile was sentenced on a range of charges, but the main charge was for 25 years imprisonment for murder.

PICTURE: Sentences handed down to Luyanda Fuzile at the Western Cape High Court

‘’In terms of Section 280(2) of act 51 of 1977, the sentences imposed on count 1,2,4,5 and 6 are ordered to run concurrently with the sentenced imposed on count 3 and the accused is sentenced to an effective 25 years imprisonment,’’ said Zinzi Hani, Hawks Western Cape spokesperson.

SUPPLIED - HAWKS WC: Luyanda Fuzile

The other three accused are still in custody and they will appear for trial on 20 October 2023.

 

Done By: Mitchum George

Two arrested for R1.5million's worth of dagga in Schaapkraal

Western Cape police have arrested two suspects for the possession of dagga worth an estimated R1.5 million in Phillipi. The two were arrested on Monday by members of the Provincial Organised Crime detectives.

COURTESY: SAPS

Warrant Officer Joseph Swartbooi said police followed up on information about dagga that was stored in the area and they proceeded to 8th Avenue in Schaapkraal. According to the police spokesperson,  the two were found packing the dagga.

COURTESY: SAPS

“Police members attached to the National Intervention Unit responded to information pertaining to a dagga storage facility in the Philippi area. The members convened and operationalized the information where after they proceeded to 8th Avenue in Schaapkraal. Upon  the arrival on the identified address they found two unknown suspects hard at work compressing and sealing dagga bags” he said police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Joseph Swartbooi.

COURTESY: SAPS

The police arrested and detained the two suspects on a charge of dealing in dagga. Once charged the suspects are expected to make their court appearance in the Athlone Magistrates Court on the mentioned charge.

Done by: Alungile Njemla

Carl Pophaim is Cape Town’s new Mayoral Committee Member for Human Settlements

Carl Pophaim is the City of Cape Town’s new Mayoral Committee Member for Human Settlements.

PICTURED: Facebook - Carl Pophaim

Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis made the announcement on Tuesday morning.

Pophaim has been serving on the City's Portfolio Committee for Human Settlements for close to five years, also sitting on the Planning Appeals Advisory Panel among others.

Hill-Lewis says he has full confidence in Pophaim.

‘’Carl is a young and talented councillor who has distinguished himself in the Human Settlements portfolio, and is also a past junior mayor of Cape Town. I am excited about the value he will bring to this portfolio - especially the important work we are doing to enable micro-developers and to release City-owned land to deliver much more affordable housing across the city. He has the energy to get things done and the proven mettle from his experience in both the Human Settlements and Planning Appeals committees,’’ said Geordin Hill-Lewis, Cape Town Mayor.

Malusi Booi was let go from his position as the City of Cape Town’s Mayoral committee member for Human Settlements in March 2023, following alleged cases of fraud and corruption. Booi however remains a councillor.

PICTURED: Facebook - Carl Pophaim: Carl Pophaim (right) replaces Malusi Booi (left) as Mayco Member for Human Settlements

James Vos, who is the mayco member for economic opportunities, acted as Mayco Member for Human Settlements. Hill-Lewis thanked Vos for standing in.

‘’[I thank Alderman Vos] for the way in which he applied himself with much positivity and hard work as acting Mayco member these past months. Under Ald Vos' stewardship there has been continued momentum on accelerated land release for well-located affordable housing,'’ said said Geordin Hill-Lewis, Cape Town Mayor.

 

Done By: Mitchum George

City of Cape Town worried about drunk drivers

The City of Cape Town has expressed concern about the high number of motorists who are caught driving under the influence of alcohol.

According to the city, the number of drunk driving arrests has almost doubled over the past week, from 38 compared to 68, the week before.

City of Cape Town Mayoral Committee Member for Safety & Security, JP Smith said some of these offenders have never been to court even though they were arrested for the same offence before.

Smith says he is not surprised as these, he says, are the norm during payday weekends. He called on the Department of Justice to do its part by making sure people who are arrested have their day in court.

'The trend is unsurprising and what we have come to expect at certain times of the month, most notably around month-end. This past weekend, one of those arrested admitted to being a repeat offender who hasn't yet seen the inside of a courtroom. It is disheartening to hear these stories, particularly when one considers how dangerous and frankly, reckless, drunk driving is, and our country's ongoing struggle with road fatalities. Our officers continue to do the hard yards on the ground, but if we really want to send a strong message to offenders, and effect the necessary behavior change, the criminal justice system needs to move more swiftly. It's no wonder that offenders are brazen enough to continue their bad behavior, because on the face of it, there do not appear to be any real consequences. However, our officers will continue to enforce the law to the best of their ability, particularly as we move towards summer and increased traffic volumes on our roads,' said Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, JP Smith.

                                        

Picture: Getty Images

Done by: Alungile Njemla 

Langa Indoor Sports Centre temporarily closed for repairs to its roof.

The Langa Indoor Sports Centre has temporarily closed for repairs to its roof.

SUPPLIED: City of Cape Town

In a statement, the City of Cape Town, said the repairs are necessary after the facility’s roof sheets were damaged in July, due to heavy rain and high winds.

Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Patricia van der Ross, said the roof sheets replacement was logged for emergency repairs, but continued strong winds and rain further exacerbated the destruction, resulting in additional damage and the need for structural engineer assistance.

‘’Structural engineers with facility staff conducted a site inspection earlier this month in order to assess the condition of the existing building, particularly the affected roof, and to discuss potential alterations and remedial measures.’’

‘’The findings include the western façade projecting beam portion and missing roof sheets, dislodged fixing rails from purlins and compromised waterproofing resulting in water damage to the north walls both internal and external faces.’’

‘’Due to partial roof cover and compromised structural resistance to wind loads, the integrity of the remainder of the roof sheeting cannot be guaranteed,’’ added Patricia van der Ross, Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health.

SUPPLIED: City of Cape Town

The facility will be closed for public use, thus temporarily discontinuing all programmes and events at this facility. Alternative City venues in Langa include Langa Hall located at the corner of Church Street and Washington Street and Monwabisi Recreation Centre at the corner of Brinton Avenue and Mendi Avenue.

''We will do our best to accommodate bookings at alternative facilities during this time and try to complete the work as soon as possible. We ask the community to bear with us as we restore this well-loved and well-used facility,'' said Patricia van der Ross, Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health.

Done By: Esona Mfazwe

Search continues for 35-year-old man who drowned at Groot Wolfgat Beach

The search for a 35-year-old man, who went missing at the Groot Wolfgat Beach, between Monwabisi and Mnandi on the False Bay coast, is ongoing.

PICTURE: NSRI logo

The National Sea Rescue Institute’s (NSRI) spokesperson, Craig Lambinon, said law Enforcement officers had been on a patrol in the area of Wolfgat Nature Reserve shortly before the incident  which occired after 1p.m on Saturday, when they had moved on to patrol at Monwabisi when public members arrived at Monwabisi to alert Law Enforcement officers of a drowning in progress at Groot Wolfgat Beach and the alarm was raised.

‘’It appears that at approximately 12h30 4 local male friends, 2 of them aged 31, a 29 year old and a 35 year old, from Mandalay, were swimming when on exiting the water 3 of the friends noticed that their 35 year old friend had not come out of the water with them. They initiated a search when they noticed their friend floating in the water appearing to be lifeless.’’

‘’They had tried to reach their friend in the breaking surf line but unable to reach him they returned to the beach and summoned public members on the beach to help them to raise the alarm. On arrival on the scene an extensive search commenced for the missing man,’’ added Craig Lambinon, NSRI spokesperson.

Lambinon said despite an extensive air, sea and shoreline search there remains no sign of the missing man. The search continues.

 

Done by: Esona Mfazwe

Western Cape minibus-taxi task team workshop aims to resolve challenges in the industry

A minibus-taxi task team workshop will begin in Cape Town on Monday

PICTURE: SANTACO

The three-day workshop aims to resolve the challenges in the industry in the Western Cape. These include the violence related to the taxi industry and conflicts with law enforcement and the police.

It follows a violent strike by the taxi industry that led to the death of five people and the destruction of property.

The City of Cape Town says the workshop shows progress made by the province, City and the taxi industry to resolve the challenges faced by the industry.

Done by: Esobusi Mkangelwa

29-year-old man shot and killed in Rocklands, M/Plain

Western Cape police are probing a case of murder after a 29-year-old man’s body was found in Rocklands, Mitchells Plain, on Saturday night.

The police’s Wesley Twigg said he was shot dead on the corner of Sunderland and Lightning street.

‘’Police officers attending the scene found the victim with gunshot wounds to his body. The victim was declared deceased on the scene by paramedics. The unknown suspects fled the scene and are yet to be arrested."

Twigg said the motive for the attack was gang-related.

According to the latest crime statistics (April - June 2023), Mitchell's Plain SAPS recorded the highest number of attempted murder cases in the Western Cape, with 46 cases in the reporting period.

Anyone with information regarding Saturday's incident is urged to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111.

 

Done By: Mitchum George

Body of unknown man found at Nyanga Terminus

Nyanga police are investigating a case of murder after a body of a man was discovered at Nyanga Terminus on Monday morning.

Nyanga Community Policing Forum (CPF) Secretary, Dumisani Qwebe, alleges the man could be between the ages of 25-30.

‘’The motive behind the attack is unknown. We are condemning the incident. We are saying to everyone - this is not a solution to solving problems that might result in the retaliation of those who witnessed a crime.’’

‘’Secondly, for now, we are not sure, there are rumors that it’s a driver of a funeral parlour, but we are waiting feedback from SAPS to confirm this,’’ he added.

Police are appealing to anyone who might have information that could assist the police with the investigation to contact SAPS Crime Stop no 08600 10111.

 

Done By: Mitchum George

Matriculants suspended following ''Guy Fawkes'' at Rhodes High School

Mowbray police are investigating a case of malicious damage to property involving private vehicle, after matriculants allegedly went around the school, in what seemed like Guy Fawkes ‘celebrations’.

SCREENSHOT

The Western Cape’s Education Department (WCED) confirmed that learners threw flower bombs, eggs and bricks.

WCED spokesperson, Bronagh Hammond, said several window panes were also broken and walls damaged.

‘’Fire extinguishes were also allegedly set off. The school immediately initiated its emergency procedures and within minutes SAPS, fire department and EMS were on the scene. SAPS detained seven learners.’’

‘’An investigation is now underway, with some of the identified learners issued with suspension letters and will face a disciplinary hearing,’’ added Hammond.

It is unclear what the commotion was about.

Meanwhile, SAPS has asked anyone with information that can assist with the investigation to call Crime Stop on 08600 10111

 

Done By: Mitchum George

Suspect to appear in court for taxi related murders

A suspect who was arrested on Thursday last week for murders related to the taxi industry is expected to appear in the Simon’s Town Magistrate’s Court on Monday.

The man was arrested in connection with a triple murder that occurred in Khayelitsha in December last year. He is also charged with another murder in Masiphumele in June this year.

According to the police spokesperson, Novella Potelwa, the team has been working on several other taxi violence-related murder cases.

"They are also in the process of bringing another suspect from KwaZulu-Natal after he was arrested for possession of an unlicensed firearm in that province. He, too, is allegedly linked to taxi violence-related murders that occurred in Western Cape”, she added. 

 

                              Picture: SANTACO

Done by: Alungile Njemla

One person sustained third-degree burns after a fire broke out at a building in Commercial Street, Cape Town CBD

One person was taken to hospital after he sustained third-degree burns, while other residents were evacuated, after a fire broke out at a building in Commercial Street in Cape Town CBD, on Sunday evening.

SCREENSHOT - FIRE IN COMMERCIAL STREET: Twitter - @sunellmari - ''this is from our 6th floor.''

The City of Cape Town's Fire and Rescue Services spokesperson, Jermaine Carelse, said the building sustained "major damages" to the ground, first and second floors. Carelse added that in a nearby apartment block, one flat was severely affected by the fire and one apartment block was partially damaged.

"The City's Fire and Rescue Services was alerted at approximately 21:50 of a building alight… The first arriving crew from Roeland Street confirmed that it was well alight and requested additional resources. On scene, we had crews from Roeland Street, Salt River, Sea Point, Brooklyn, Goodwood, Milnerton and Constantia with a total of 12 firefighting appliances, including two specialised vehicles and 45 firefighters

A huge building fire on Commercial Street, Cape Town CBD.

A building that’s occupied mostly by UberEats, MrDelivery, CheckersSixty60 and other delivery drivers. pic.twitter.com/12ntcONvlQ

— Mbekezeli (@MbekezeliMB) August 27, 2023

"An Incident Management Team was activated to assist in mitigating the incident, and electricity to the building was isolated to prevent firefighters from being electrocuted,’’ added Jermaine Carelse, the City of Cape Town's Fire and Rescue Services spokesperson.

Carelse said the blaze was extinguished at 00:45, and the cause of the fire is yet to be determined.

 

Done By: Mitchum George

Three people sustained minor injuries after roofs were blown off at several homes in Hanover Park

Three people sustained minor injuries after roofs were blown off at several homes in Hanover Park on Friday morning.

COURTESY: Facebook - Hanover Park my Home

Gale force winds have affected properties in Athry Walk and Phillians Walk.

Mayco member for Safety and Security, JP Smith, said initial assessments reveal that the roofs of six properties were blown off and a further nine sustained extensive damage.

‘’Three of the properties are Council rental units and City Human Settlements has dispatched their maintenance unit to the tenants. The other properties are private properties which limits the City's ability to make repairs. We will instead focus on assisting with coordinating assistance and donations to these residents.‘’

The City of Cape Town says it is providing humanitarian relief to those affected.

‘’The City’s Disaster Management Centre is coordinating City services to assist the affected communities as well as humanitarian relief through our NGO partners.  We have attempted to secure large plastic sheeting to offer short term protection to the properties against ongoing rain damage,’’ said JP Smith, Mayco member for Safety and Security.

‘’Gift of the Givers is currently on site to assist.  Blue Ribbon has also offered bread and soup which will be delivered to victims of the storm damage,’’ he added.

Residents are claiming it was a tornado that ripped through the area, but this still needs to be investigated by the South African Weather Services (SAWS).

Apparently there was a mini #Tornado in Hanover Park 😳#Capetown pic.twitter.com/mXIah8dQOI

— Shaheem Laattoe (@shaqct) August 25, 2023

The SAWS has forecast inclement weather for Friday and Saturday, which brings in rain, strong to gale force winds, cold temps and rough seas.

☔️🌊💨A cold front will make landfall over south-western Cape tomorrow (Friday, 25 August 2023) spreading eastwards on Saturday. Rain, rough seas, strong to gale force winds, and cold temperatures can be expected over parts of the Cape provinces. pic.twitter.com/WwsHhwmxEG

— SA Weather Service (@SAWeatherServic) August 24, 2023

Smith said a similar storm damage has been reported in Mamre and Wolwerivier. The mayco member called for any private companies or people to assist with donations, particularly in relation to the roof repairs by making contact with Cape Town Disaster Management Operations Centre on 0215976000.

UPDATE AT 13:00

Twenty formal houses have been damaged and ten back yard dwellings sustained extensive damage.

''Damages to these properties were mostly the result of debris from the roofs blown off from surrounding properties.  No injuries or deaths were reported,'' said JP Smith, Mayco Member for Safety & Security.

''Emergency Sheltering was activated at the AME Church in Hanover Park. Various NGO’s are on site to assist the community. The City’s Disaster Management Centre is engaging with the South African Weather Services to verify the weather event which caused the damage,'' he added.

Done By: Mitchum George

Hawks with NPA WC granted preservation order for vehicle used in R 3.2 million drug bust

The Western Cape High Court has granted a preservation order on 8 August 2023, for the Hawks and in a joint effort with National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), in the province, on a vehicle.

The vehicle, a Ford Ikon, valued at R59 100, was used in a crime in March 2022, when the suspect, 40-year-old Fabian Jacobs, was arrested after he was found in possession with 82 000 mandrax tablets found inside the boot of the car.

COURTESY - HAWKS WC: Fabian Jacobs

‘’The team seized the drugs worth an estimated value of R 3.2 million as well as the vehicle used in the commission of crime,’’ said Zinzi Hani, spokesperson for Hawks Western Cape.

According to IOL, the Hawks and the SA Narcotics Enforcement Bureau (Saneb), in March 2022, attempted to pull Jacobs over and a chase ensued, coming to an end in Tokai.

“It is alleged that the Hawks’ Saneb team in Cape Town together with Crime Intelligence Counter Narcotics tried to pull him over, after they reacted to information about a vehicle that was transporting mandrax tablets. Police report that the suspect took off resulting in a chase that ended in the Tokai area near Cape Town with a two vehicle crash shortly after 3.45pm,’’ said Hani, at the time.

Jacobs has since appeared in court, and reappeared in the Wynberg Magistrate’s Court on Thursday and the case was postponed to 18-20 March 2024 for trial.

 

Done By: Mitchum George

Suspect arrested for dogfighting in Hanover Park

Residents in Hanover Park took matters into their own hands when they arrested a suspect on Monday, for dog fighting.

Dogfighting is illegal in South Africa. A person found guilty for any involvement in dogfighting is liable for a fine of R80 000 and/or imprisonment of up to 24 months with a criminal record.

The Cape of Good Hope SPCA said a complaint was lodged and Inspector Lwazi Ntungele was immediately dispatched to investigate the matter.

‘’When Inspector Ntungele arrived at the scene, the community already apprehended one of the suspects and kept the injured dog safe. Unfortunately, the other suspects fled the scene. We are led to believe that the group of suspects are all teenagers,’’ said Cape of Goodhope SPCA’s Chief Inspector, Jaco Pieterse.

PICTURE: Cape of Good Hope SPCA

‘’A severely injured female Pitbull dog was found by Inspector Ntungele. The dog had multiple bite wounds all over her face, muzzle and right forelimb. It is evident that this is not the first time this dog was used for dog fighting. The dog was taken to a 24-hour veterinary practice for immediate examination and treatment,’’ he added.

PICTURE: Cape of Good Hope SPCA

The suspect was taken to the Philippi police station, where he was detained and charged in terms of Section 2A of the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962.

Pieterse is hopeful that the other suspects will be arrested and charged. He appealed to the public to report any information they might have about the incident to the SPCA or SAPS.

“We are heartened by the actions of this community. It’s truly inspiring to see a community come together with a united purpose to put an end to the cruel and illegal activity of dog fighting. This collective effort demonstrates a strong commitment to animal welfare and a desire to create a safer and more compassionate environment for both animals and people” says Chief Inspector, Jaco Pieterse.

 

Done by: Mitchum George

Avoid false trail at Skeleton Gorge, warns Wilderness Search And Rescue

The Wilderness Search And Rescue has warned hikers to be aware of a false trail by Skeleton Gorge.

Spokesperson David Nel said three Dutch hikers reported that they were stuck on a steep slope on the left side of Skeleton Gorge at the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden on Monday afternoon, 14 August 2023.

‘’The three Dutch hikers, all in their twenties, had started their hiker earlier in the day and intended to hike up Skeleton Gorge. They had researched the trail, they were carrying a map, water, food, and the emergency contact number. According to the group, they had hiked up to a gabion wall and turned left following an obvious trail. The trail ushered them out of the gorge onto the steep side of Nursery buttress high above Skeleton Gorge.’’

COURTESY: Wilderness Search And Rescue

‘’They battled along the slope in wet, slippery, and loose conditions until it became clear that they were no longer following the correct path. Realising that they were in trouble, and unable to retrace their steps, they called for help,’’

‘’While ground teams were gathering at Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, a small team on board the Western Cape Department of Health & Wellness EMS / Air Mercy Service (AMS) rescue helicopter were flown to the scene and hoisted down to a point close to the stranded hikers. They were helped into rescue harnesses and hoisted up into the helicopter, before being flown to a nearby landing zone,’’ he added.

COURTESY: Wilderness Search And Rescue

Friends of Table Mountain (FOTM), spokesperson, Andy Davies, said this is not the first incident in this area.

“We (Friends of Table Mountain) have noticed the alarming number of visitors getting lost on Table Mountain and landing up in dangerous situations that require difficult, technical rescues. With hiking and trail running becoming ever more popular, we are seeing more and more of these situations occurring.’’

Davies said they have written to SANParks - Table Mountain National Park, identifying a number of critical areas on TMNP that require signage immediately, in order to prevent further rescues.

Wilderness Search And Rescue spokesperson, David Nel, appealed to hikers to use the correct path.

“In the meantime, we ask that our friends in the outdoor community help us by sharing this message and assist any hikers they see making this mistake onto the correct path; to the right at the gabion wall.’’

 

Done By: Mitchum George

Man accused of the murder of Jerobiojin van Wyk finally undergoing a mental evaluation

The man accused of the murder of Jerobiojin van Wyk is finally undergoing a mental evaluation.

Daniel Smit has finally been given a bed at the Valkenberg Psychiatric Hospital in Cape Town.

PICTURED: Daniel Smit

Smit was arrested last year after human remains were found in sewerage pipes at his home. He faces charges of murder, attempted murder, kidnapping and defeating the ends of justice among others. Smit allegedly killed Van Wyk for stealing mangoes from his garden.

He was referred for psychiatric evaluation last year, but there were no beds available.

Smit will now be evaluated by a panel of psychiatrists and psychologists to determine whether he is accountable. The case has been postponed to 6 September 2023

Eight cases related to extortion being probed in Cape Town

There are currently eight ongoing investigations into cases of extortion related to construction activities in Cape Town.

This was revealed in response to a parliamentary question by the Democratic Alliance (DA).

PICTURE: Slafarek Law

Of these, four cases are in Manenberg, two cases in Gugulethu, and one case each are being probed in Delft and Milnerton.

DA Provincial Spokesperson on Infrastructure, Matlhodi Maseko, said the cases are centred around unlawful material supply, site security breaches, demolitions, and acts of intimidation.

‘’The Department of Infrastructure has emphasised its close collaboration with relevant stakeholders and the South African Police Service (SAPS) to ensure the effective pursuit of these cases. Regular investigation updates are also requested by the Department to monitor the progress made in these investigations.’’

‘’Amidst the prevailing wave of crime in South Africa, exacerbated by the persistent understaffing of the SAPS, the Western Cape Government continues to go beyond its mandate to try and bring calm and safety to our communities, as this remains one of our top priorities,’’ she added.

Maseko said to prevent the widespread impact of extortion across the Western Cape, the Department has implemented a prevention plan, which requires all sectors of society.

‘’This proactive strategy encompasses not only internal stakeholders but also external ones such as project steering committees and ward councillors, all of whom play vital roles in executing this plan. The efficacy of this plan has already been demonstrated in several key municipalities within the province.’’

"Extortion is, unfortunately, a countrywide problem, but the Western Cape Government is leading the charge in making sure that those who engage in extortion are held accountable. Here in the Western Cape, it is a well-known allegation that there are certain political parties who play an active role in extortion in some communities, and we look forward to the law running its course,’’ added Matlhodi Maseko, DA Provincial Spokesperson on Infrastructure.

 

Done By: Mitchum George

Chaos erupts at Cape Town council meeting, as EFF calls for removal of City's JP Smith over taxi strike

The Cape Town council meeting was temporarily suspended on Thursday morning, after EFF councilors, who disrupted a speech by the Cape Town Mayor, Geordin Hill-Lewis, were removed.

The members wanted answers about the taxi strike that recently took place in the Western Cape, but that is only scheduled for later in the meeting. They called on mayoral committee member for safety and security, JP Smith, to be removed from office because of his handling of the recent strike of the minibus taxi industry.

When the meeting was adjourned, some of the councilors walked to the podium, where Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis was due to speak and held posters arguing that Smith had "blood on his hands" and was "killing the black economy".

SCREENSHOT: City of Cape Town - YouTube 

EFF members also chanted ‘’JP [Smith] must fall’’

Hill-Lewis only spoke for a few minutes when speaker Felicity Purchase asked for an adjournment and for Council security to remove the council members in question.

‘’In terms of the [City of Cape Town council] rule, you may not disrupt the meeting, you may not hold posters. Please take a seat. I am naming you now, the whole [entire] party for the first time, second time, and for the third time. Can you please leave the meeting. The EFF will get no speaking time in the meeting. Mr. mayor we will adjounrn the meeting whilst these councilors are being removed from the chamber,’’ said Felicity Purchase, Cape Town council speaker.

The session had not resumed [online] by 13:00.

 The GOOD party meanwhile, has condemned the EFF for disrupting Thursday’s proceedings.

‘’GOOD agrees that Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, JP Smith needs to be held accountable for his role in the violent Taxi Strike that saw five lives lost. However, sending the chamber into chaos will not bring about accountability,’’ said Suzette Little, GOOD’s City of Cape Town Councillor & Caucus Chairperson.

‘’It was clear that taxi operators felt victimised by the leadership of the city and JP Smith. They believed their operations were being unfairly targeted by vindictive policing operations. Child-like comments made by Smith only fuelled an already tense situation. He was quoted as saying “we will proceed with impounding 25 vehicles for every truck, bus, vehicle or facility that is burnt or vandalised”.

‘’As GOOD, we requested this debate so that the City executives could be held accountable for their role in the strike.  An hour was already a stretch to get all the issues ventilated and the actions of the EFF will only further damage our pursuit of the truth,’’ concluded Suzette Little, GOOD’s City of Cape Town Councillor & Caucus Chairperson.

 

Done By: Mitchum George

Western Cape is opposed to the use of Karpowerships to generate electricity

The Western Cape Government has resolved not to support the use of Karpowerships to generate electricity for the province or country.

The provincial cabinet met yesterday to discuss the energy crisis. The cabinet resolved that future energy generation for the province should come from low-carbon and renewable technologies.

The national government is considering using Karpowerships to generate electricity end loadshedding. According to Premier Alan Winde, Karpowerships are also not good for the environment.

“I do not believe investing vast resources into one company is appropriate and allowing Karpowership SA (Pty) to operate in South Africa for such a long time should not be allowed,” said Premier Alan Winde. “Karpowership SA (Pty) Ltd should not be given the monopoly. If we are to include powerships in our efforts to resolve the energy crisis, we must also consider other companies, and the time period over which they would be utilised must be strictly limited to 5 years, subjected to clear guidelines. This measure should also not negate our investment into ‘green energy’,” he stressed.

“This crisis demands urgent interventions which must be considered in a transparent manner. We must explore all viable and feasible options to end rolling blackouts, but not at the expense of other role players in the energy space who should also be given the opportunity to be a part of the overall solution,” said Premier Alan Winde.

 

Done by: Alungile Njemla

Health services will be transferred to Atlantis

The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness has announced the process of handing over services to clinics in Atlantis.

MEC Doctor Nomafrench Mbombo visited the clinics yesterday.

The visit followed complaints from the community about services that were not offered at the Saxon and Protea Park clinics.

The people stated that they had to go to City of Cape Town hospitals instead to get chronic medication for illnesses like diabetes and hypertension.

According to Mbombo, the department is committed to strengthening healthcare services in Atlantis.

“There are series that we have actually started. For example, the patients that normally go to the Hospital now will be able to go to the Protea Park and there is a full-time Doctor so that they can see the adult curative. Other aspect is that there will an advert so they can see this post and anyone else will be able to apply,” she added.

 

Done by: Alungile Njemla

Western Cape police arrest suspect for possession of a prohibited firearm

The Manenberg police in the Western Cape arrested a 25-year-old man on Monday for possession of a prohibited firearm.

Members were busy with stop and search operations in the area when they noticed a suspicious group gathered outside a premises.

The team stopped the group and ensued with a search where they found the 25-year-old in possession of a 357 Revolver.

According to the Police spokesperson, Sergeant Wesley Twigg, he is expected to appear in the Athlone Magistrate’s Court later today.

“Members of the Western Cape Flying Squad, deployed in Manenberg policing precinct to curb the ongoing gang violence in the area, were busy with stop and search operations in the area when they saw a group of people gathering outside a premises. The members accosted them and ensued with a search upon which they found a firearm with ammunition on one of the males. He was arrested and detained,” said Twigg.

 

Done by: Alungile Njemla

Western Cape Minibus Taxi Task Team reconvenes

The Western Cape Government has welcomed the reconvening of the provincial Minibus Taxi Task Team.

The task team is made up of the provincial government, the City of Cape Town and the taxi industry in the province.

The reconvening of the task team follows the recent withdrawal from of the taxi industry from the body.

According to the MEC for Mobility, Ricardo Mackenzie, the Tuesday’s meeting agreed on the revision of terms of reference of the task team.

“It is in this spirit, with open minds and hearts that we got back to work, prioritizing the interests of commuters. We deliberated on a revision of the Terms of Reference for the MBTTT, which will be shared for final inputs and signed by the end of this week.

Furthermore, we agreed on the agenda items for a three-day ‘imbizo’ to take place next week. This includes separating out the critical points for immediate discussion from the longer-term issues to be addressed in the MBTTT,” he added.

                                           

                                  Picture: WC page

Done by: Alungile Njemla

The City of Cape Town responds to the a section of road that collapsed in Lavender Hill

 PHOTO: Collapsed truck/ City of Cape Town

A refuse truck was involved in an incident where a section of the road collapsed while it was driving in Lavender Hill on Monday, 21 August.

The City's Mayoral Committee Member for Urban Waste Management Alderman Grant Twigg, said that there was no visible sign of damage on the road surface prior the accident.

He added that contingency measures are being put in place to ensure minimal delays to refuse collection services in the area.

The City's Mayoral Committee Member for Water and Sanitation, Zahid Badroodien, said his department is investigating the incident including its cause.

“Currently the affected area has been cordoned off for safety reasons. The main priority at this stage is to ensure the area is structurally safe to recover the vehicle and then the necessary assessment of the area can be done to determine the cause of the incident, among which is a sewer collapse,” said Councillor Badroodien.

Councillor Badroodien further urged residents to stay away from the site for safety reasons.

Done by: Esona Mfazwe

Ninth suspect arrested in connection with alleged kidnapping of Welgemoed woman

The Hawks has arrested a ninth suspect in connection with the alleged kidnapping in June 2023 of a Welgemoed woman at Parow Industria, after she left a family business where she works.

The victim was rescued four days later in a house in Mfuleni, during a raid by the police. It is reported that the victim’s vehicle was later found abandoned in Gugulethu.

PICTURE: Investopedia

Provincial Hawks spokesperson, Zinzi Hani said officers executed a warrant of arrest and the ninth suspect was arrested on Thursday and will appear in transit in the Maluti Magistrates’ Court in the Eastern Cape court on Monday, where he will be transferred to Bellville Magistrate Court. The suspect is then expected to make his first appearance on Tuesday at the Bellville Magistrate Court.

‘’On Thursday, 17 August 2023, at 17:30, the Multidisciplinary Kidnapping task team successfully executed a warrant of arrest for the suspect. He is the ninth accused arrested on this matter. The operation received support from Cape Town CIG members and Maluti detectives at Herbron informal settlement in Maluti.’’

The case against eight other men - Sivuyile Chris Miki, Yamkela Gedeni, Mandisi Mzikayise Zweni, Athenkosi France Nyathi, Lwandile Mngazana, Lwazi Landzela, Siyabulela Madini and Zolile Sombo – are still before the court. They are facing charges ranging from kidnapping, robbery with aggravating circumstances, extortion and theft.

Done By: Mitchum George