Promises, Promises, but Still No Proper Water Supply in Musina
Children do the family’s washing at a broken municipal water pipe
Family
Repatriated five-year-old born in Mauritian prison to return home
Repatriated five-year-old born in Mauritian prison to return home
The Republic of Mauritius has officially handed over a five-year-old girl born to a mother jailed for drug trafficking to South African government officials.
The girl was handed over to the government of South Africa, through the Department of Social Development (DSD).
The DSD, in partnership with the South African diplomatic mission in Mauritius, has been working diligently for the past three years to bring the little girl back to her maternal family.
In an emotional handover on Thursday, the mother and daughter hugged and kissed as the minor left her mother behind at the gates of Beau Bassin Prison.
"It is painful to see her go, but I know it's for the best for her future," said her mother.
The mother also expressed her regret for placing herself in such a difficult position, where she would not be able to see her child grow within the foreseeable future, while her case is being finalised.
The mother is still awaiting trial since the time she was arrested in 2019.
READ | Government to repatriate child whose mother is incarcerated in Mauritius
As the little girl left the prison gates, all the female South Africans incarcerated at the prison there stood in a guard of honour to see the girl off as she began the journey back home.
According to the DSD, earlier in the day, the girl bid farewell to her Early Childhood Development (ECD) teacher, who expressed sadness to see the girl leave.
“It is sad to see her go, but we are also happy for her, and we understand that it is time to let her go so she can grow with her family and in her country,” said the teacher, who also revealed that the girl was very close to her own daughter and occasionally requested to go on play dates with her.
She described the child as independent and mature beyond her age, who helped her to pack up things in class and always offered assistance to the teachers.
The delegation will touch down in South Africa on Friday evening and the girl will be handed over to her grandmother, who is eagerly awaiting her arrival.
Her grandmother from the North West, said the return of the child is the greatest Christmas present for her and her family.
“The timing of her repatriation could not be more ideal as it ensures that she will be able to join us as a family and start school without delay,” the grandmother said.
Deputy Commissioner of the Mauritius Prison Service, Aubeeluck Gunneete emphasised that it is important that this repatriation process happens now, as it will allow the girl to reunite with her family and begin her schooling in South Africa just like any other child.
The girl is now the 25th child repatriated from another country.
South Africa is mandated by section 7 of the Children's Act 38 of 2005 to protect the best interests of the child.
Section 7(1)(f)(ii) of the Act mandates that the Department to ensure that a child "maintains a connection with his or her extended family, culture or tradition" - SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 12/13/2024 - 10:14
21 views
Queen Masalanabo Modjadji legally recognised
Queen Masalanabo Modjadji legally recognised
President Cyril Ramaphosa has legally recognised Princess Masalanabo Modjadji as the Queen of the Balobedu Queenship – the only legally recognised Queenship in South Africa.
Queen Modjaji VII – known as the Rain Queen – has been recognised in terms of Section 8(3)(a) and (b), read with Section 12(8)(a) of the Traditional and Khoi-San Leadership Act.
A statement from the Presidency explained that the Queenship of the Balobedu was recognised in 2016 when Queen Modjadji was just 16 years old and “could not legally ascend the throne”.
Since then, His Royal Highness, Prince Mpapatla Modjadji – the now Queen’s maternal uncle – has held the fort for her as a Regent until she turned 18.
“The Queen has turned 18 and ascends the throne as Queen Modjadji VII of [the] Balobedu nation. In accordance with Section 12(8)(a) of the Traditional and Khoi-San Leadership Act of 2019, as soon as the successor to the position of a queen/king ceases to be a minor, the rightful successor must be recognised by the President as the queen/king.
“A certificate of recognition must be issued after her/his name has been published in the Gazette,” the statement said.
The Presidency described Queen Modjaji VII’s legal recognition as a “new chapter and is a moment of great significance to the rich history of Balobedu Nation”.
“On behalf of government, President Ramaphosa wishes Her Majesty a long and prosperous reign and looks forward to working with Her Majesty and the Royal Family in advancing socio-economic development of people living under the jurisdiction of [the] Balobedu Queenship,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Fri, 12/13/2024 - 09:48
19 views
Rape of 7-Year-Old Child: Mother Accuses Police of Being Slow to Act
Police blame delays on “a shortage of manpower”
“Pot” Stemmet Faces Charges Over Theft of Lottery-Funded Equipment
Machinery removed from “minstrel museum”
Five to appear in East London court for kidnapping
Five to appear in East London court for kidnapping
Five suspects are to appear before the East London Magistrates court on Friday, on allegations of kidnapping, the Hawks said on Thursday.
The quintet was arrested in a joint effort by the East London Serious Organised Crime Investigation team of the Hawks, East London Flying Squad, Mdantsane Flying Squad and Crime Intelligence on Wednesday.
The arrest came after it was alleged that on 9 December 2024, at about 15:30, the victim was at his construction site conducting an inspection.
The victim and his business colleague were in the guard room, when an unknown suspect wearing a face mask carrying a firearm entered the guard room and instructed both to lie down.
Further reports indicated that whilst lying on the floor, his colleague noticed two more suspects also wearing face masks armed with firearms, who snatched the victim from the floor and took him to a white SUV that was parked outside which then drove off with him to an unknown location.
Later on in the day, the suspects reportedly contacted the victim’s family demanding a ransom.
Through intensive investigation by the joint team, the suspects were traced and arrested at Scenary Park in East London.
Further investigations led the team to Litha Township in King Williamstown, where the victim was allegedly kept.
On their arrival, the team searched the house and the victim was found inside where he was rescued unharmed on Monday.
“One suspect was inside the house and was apprehended on the spot. Search continued and a white Chevrolet Captiva SUV was confiscated as it was allegedly used to transport the victim. The victim was taken to hospital for medical treatment,” said the Hawks.
The Provincial Head of the Hawks in the Eastern Cape, Major General Mboiki Obed Ngwenya expressed his delight for the exceptional teamwork shown by officers. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 12/12/2024 - 14:19
31 views
Cape Town Welcomes the Exceptional as Radisson Collection Makes Its South African Debut
Radisson Hotel Group (www.RadissonHotels.com) proudly announces the opening of Radisson Collection Hotel, Waterfront Cape Town (https://apo-opa.co/3ZPodhO), marking the South African debut of its luxury lifestyle brand, Radisson Collection. Poised on Cape Town's iconic Atlantic coastline, the meticulously refurbished hotel embodies a harmonious blend of modern sophistication, local heritage, and the tranquil energy of its breathtaking surroundings.
The hotel's design takes inspiration from the dramatic meeting of land and sea, capturing the powerful yet calming essence of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged beauty of Table Mountain. Natural materials like timber, brass, and stone echo South Africa's raw yet refined landscapes. A color palette of oceanic blues, sandy neutrals, and earthy tones complements intricate patterns, that nod to the region's Kaapse Fynbos, vibrant fauna, and renowned Winelands.
African craftsmanship is woven seamlessly into the interiors, with locally sourced materials and bespoke art installations reflecting Cape Town's rich cultural tapestry. A dedicated bespoke art gallery features curated pieces showcasing local fashion and architecture, adding a contemporary yet authentic touch to the hotel's elegant public spaces.
"We are delighted to introduce the Radisson Collection brand to South Africa with this remarkable property in Cape Town, a city renowned for its natural beauty, history, and cultural vibrancy. By transforming the Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront, Cape Town through an extensive refurbishment, we've elevated this beloved landmark into a true destination that captures the very essence of Cape Town. Guests can now immerse themselves in the city's charm from the perfect vantage point, enjoying unmatched luxury and comfort," said Tim Cordon, Chief Operating Officer, Middle East, Africa, and South East Asia Pacific at Radisson Hotel Group.
The hotel offers 175 rooms and suites, each designed to provide both comfort and sophistication. Floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies invite guests to revel in sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean or the marina. Thoughtful design ensures an intuitive flow of spaces, blending plush furnishings with bespoke amenities for an elevated guest experience. The gentle soundscape of ocean waves, layered natural lighting, and contemporary luxury touchpoints—like metallic accents juxtaposed with organic weaves—underscore the hotel's mission to balance urban vibrancy with coastal tranquility.
Dining at the Radisson Collection Hotel, Waterfront Cape Town is a celebration of local and international flavors. The renowned Tobago's Restaurant, Bar, and Terrace offers an extensive menu crafted from the freshest ingredients, complemented by unmatched ocean views. A refurbishment of the iconic Tobago Restaurant and Terrace is slated for July 2025, promising an even more elevated dining experience. The newly introduced Waveside Café, located in the west atrium, provides a luxurious deli and café experience, featuring light meals and bespoke Radisson Collection items for guests to enjoy or take home.
The hotel is also home to a variety of flexible event spaces, making it an ideal venue for both business functions and celebrations. With three event rooms that can be combined to accommodate up to 350 guests and an intimate boardroom for smaller gatherings, Radisson Collection Hotel, Waterfront Cape Town provides a versatile space complemented by marina views and dedicated boardwalk access.
“Our team is thrilled to welcome both our cherished loyal guests and new visitors to this extraordinary Cape Town destination. With every detail thoughtfully curated, from our luxurious rooms to our world-class dining and rejuvenating wellness experience, we are committed to offering an elevated experience that surpasses expectations,” said Clinton Thom, General Manager of Radisson Collection Hotel, Waterfront Cape Town.
For relaxation and rejuvenation, the hotel boasts an infinity pool overlooking the ocean, a fully equipped 24-hour fitness center, and the Amani Spa and Wellness Center, offering tranquil treatments in a serene setting.
The opening of Radisson Collection Hotel, Waterfront Cape Town underscores Radisson Hotel Group's dedication to delivering unparalleled luxury and immersive experiences in South Africa. By blending contemporary elegance with authentic local culture, the hotel sets a new standard for luxury hospitality on the continent.
For more information or to book, click here: https://apo-opa.co/3ZPodhO.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Radisson Hotel Group.
Media Contact:
Saadiyah Hendricks,
Area Director,
PR & Social Media, Middle East, Africa, Mediterranean and South East Asia Pacific,
Radisson Hotel Group
saadiyah.hendricks@radissonhotels.com
Nataliya Tkachenko,
Senior Global Consumer PR Manager,
Radisson Hotel Group
nataliya.tkachenko@radissonhotels.com
Connect with Radisson Hotels on:
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Radisson Hotel Group:
Radisson Hotel Group is an international hotel group, operating in EMEA and APAC with over 1,430 hotels in operation and under development in +95 countries. The international hotel group is rapidly expanding with a plan to significantly grow the portfolio. The Group's overarching brand promise is Every Moment Matters with a signature Yes I Can! service ethos.
The Radisson family of brands portfolio includes Radisson Collection, art'otel, Radisson Blu, Radisson, Radisson RED, Radisson Individuals, Park Plaza, Park Inn by Radisson, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, and Prize by Radisson brought together under one commercial umbrella brand Radisson Hotels.
Radisson Rewards (https://apo-opa.co/3ZPUmG3) is Radisson Hotel Group's loyalty program, which delivers an elevated experience that makes Every Moment Matter, counting more than 17 million members. As the most streamlined program in the sector, members enjoy exceptional advantages and can access their benefits from day one across a wide range of hotels in Europe, Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific.
Radisson Meetings (https://apo-opa.co/4g8eVTO) provides tailored solutions for any event or meeting, including hybrid solutions placing guests and their needs at the heart of its offer. Radisson Meetings is built around three strong service commitments: Personal, Professional and Memorable, while delivering on the brilliant basics and being uniquely Carbon Compensated.
At Radisson Hotel Group we care for people, communities and planet (https://apo-opa.co/49yc8AB) and aim to be Net Zero by 2050 based on the approved near-term Science Based Targets. With unique solutions such as carbon compensated Radisson Meetings, we make sustainable hotel stays easy. To facilitate sustainable travel choices, all our hotels are becoming verified on Hotel Sustainability Basics.
The health and safety of guests and team members remain a top priority for Radisson Hotel Group. All properties across the Group's portfolio are subject to health and safety requirements, ensuring we always care for our guests and team members.
For more information, visit our corporate website (www.RadissonHotels.com/corporate).
About Radisson Collection:
Radisson Collection is a luxury lifestyle collection of iconic properties located in unique locations. While the character of each Radisson Collection hotel feels authentic to its location, all of them offer the ultimate template for contemporary living – united by bespoke design and exceptional experiences across dining, fitness, wellness and sustainability. Designed for guests and locals alike, each Radisson Collection hotel is defined by the guests who visit them. Guests and professional business partners can enhance their experience with Radisson Collection by participating in Radisson Rewards, an international loyalty program offering exceptional benefits and rewards.
Radisson Collection is part of the Radisson family of brands, which also includes art'otel, Radisson Blu, Radisson, Radisson RED, Radisson Individuals, Park Plaza, Park Inn by Radisson, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, and Prize by Radisson brought together under one commercial umbrella brand Radisson Hotels.
For reservations and more information, visit our website (www.RadissonHotels.com/Collection).
#16DaysOfActivism: Captain Chetty
#16DaysOfActivism: Captain Chetty
Meet Captain Loganathan Chetty, who is currently the acting commander of the Milnerton Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit in the Western Cape.
Chetty is one of many dedicated South African Police Service (SAPS) members, who goes beyond the call of duty to help the country to fight the scourge of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF).
Chetty is also an investigator attached to the provincial Serial and Electronic Crime Investigations (SECI) team.
Following in his uncle’s footsteps, Chetty joined the Service 33 years ago as a student constable.
“I wanted to be a police officer just like my uncle, because I want to serve and protect the people of South Africa,” says Chetty.
Chetty has been within the FCS environment for the past 11 years and vividly recalls his first case as an FCS investigator.
He was assigned to investigate a case where a child within the Harare policing area went missing.
The child’s body was found a week later near a shack. Chetty and his team left no stone unturned and managed to arrest the suspect that same day. The accused was found guilty and sentenced to life imprisonment.
While his career highlights are many, Chetty particularly takes pride in a case that landed on his desk for investigation in 2015.
He had received information from Homeland Security regarding a South African suspect linked to possession, distribution and manufacturing of child sexual abuse material.
Through the application of various investigative techniques, Chetty traced the suspect to an address in Bergsig and executed a search and seizure warrant.
Various electronic devices containing child abuse images and videos were seized. One of the victims in these images and videos was positively identified as the suspect’s own daughter. She was three years old at the time of the abuse.
This case is still under investigation to ensure a solid case is being presented against the accused in court.
Currently the acting commander of Milnerton FCS Unit, Chetty’s duties include managing a team of FCS investigators, who investigate crimes such as sexual crimes (rape, sexual assault, incest, bestiality, any other sexual offences); person directed crimes (assault, assault GBH); illegal removal of persons (kidnapping, abduction and missing children), and online sexual child abuse material.
He is also still an active investigator and is currently working on several cases.
Chetty, a devoted husband and father of two, says his family is his pillar of strength. They inspire him to go out every day in the field to trace and arrest more sexual predators.
“A childhood dream came true when I got enlisted in the service. Being a detective is my calling, and it gives me great pleasure to trace and arrest rapists. This is my contribution to make my community a safer and secure environment for all,” Chetty said.
Chetty is one of countless unsung heroes who continue to fly the SAPS’ flag high, protecting women and children with dignity, honour and pride.
South Africa recently observed the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children campaign between 25 November and 10 December. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 12/12/2024 - 10:58
122 views
Spotlight on interventions for economic empowerment of women
Spotlight on interventions for economic empowerment of women
With South Africa officially assuming the G20 Presidency, government is looking forward to rallying the world against all forms of gender-based violence and exploitation of women, through the Working Group on Women Empowerment.
Addressing the closing event for the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence gainst Women and Children campaign at Ntsimbini Sports Ground in Port St John’s in the Eastern Cape on Tuesday, Minister in the Presidency for Women, Children and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, announced a range of socio-economic interventions to transition vulnerable women to income-generating activities.
Chikunga said economic empowerment was incomplete without women’s meaningful access to land, which was the basis of all economic activity and a source of dignity.
The catalytic interventions for the economic empowerment of women include prioritising transferring productive land and productive assets to women for commercial purposes.
Working with Transnet Properties, Chikunga said over 20 sites have been identified in Limpopo, KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape, spanning over six district municipalities.
The sites will be leased to women at highly-subsidised rates, enabling them to develop sustainable enterprises.
“We are actively identifying more sites across all nine provinces, [and] we have also partnered with the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) to create a value-chain-driven Agricultural Cooperatives Model.
“By leveraging the CSIR’s intellectual property and advanced technologies, including precision agriculture, this model will equip and prepare women farmers for market success.
“The Minister of Finance recently announced that public procurement makes up around 19% of government spending, totalling R1.5 trillion over the next three years. I have tasked the Women’s Economic Assembly to assemble a team of experts that will dissect Public Procurement and Gender-Responsive Supply Chains to ensure that a minimum of 40% of that R1.5 trillion goes to women-owned businesses,” Chikunga said.
The department was also rethinking financial support structures and incentives.
Chikunga said women-owned businesses do not just need contracts, but the resources to deliver on their contracts and build sustainable enterprises.
While South Africa recognised the important symbiotic relationship between promoting women in science, building equitable societies, and the advancement of humanity, Chikunga noted that currently, women make up less than a third of the workforce across science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) careers.
She said confronting the historical and ongoing exclusion of women from STEM would be a priority for the department.
“We will be developing tangible programmes and campaigns that are needed to correct societal and cultural beliefs that use gender stereotypes to perpetuate scientific inequality. Science and humanity suffer when women are excluded from STEM.
“We also intend to leverage the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Emerging Digital Technologies to improve the wellbeing and prospects of persons living with disabilities,” Chikunga said.
The Minister added that the South African government was looking forward to planning and executing catalytic legacy projects and interventions in collaboration with the G20 family and partners in areas including women in high-tech industries, women in the agricultural value chains, women in the oceans economy, logistics, pharmaceutical industries, and the creative industries. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 12/11/2024 - 12:52
128 views
Government to repatriate child whose mother is incarcerated in Mauritius
Government to repatriate child whose mother is incarcerated in Mauritius
A delegation from the Department of Social Development (DSD) is today travelling to the Republic of Mauritius to repatriate a child born to a mother who is incarcerated in that country for drug trafficking.
In a statement, the department said the delegation will arrive back in the country with the five-year-old child on Friday, 13 December 2024.
The DSD under the Directorate: Adoptions and International Social Service (ISS) received a request from the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) on 15 May 2024, to assist with family tracing, assessment and possible repatriation of the child.
“The biological mother was arrested in May 2019, while she was pregnant with the child. The minor child is currently in prison under the care of her mother, whilst awaiting her repatriation to South Africa.
“If the child is not repatriated to South Africa, she might be placed in the welfare system in Mauritius which will not be in her best interest, as it might complicate her chances of her being returned to her family in South Africa,” the department said.
The Children’s Act mandates the department to repatriate South African children distressed in foreign countries.
“The department has assessed the nominated grandmother in the North West and found her to be suitable to look after the child. Upon their return from Mauritius, the child will be placed in the care of the grandmother who has agreed to look after the child until the mother is released,” the department said.
Since 2015, the department has repatriated 22 children who were distressed in foreign countries. The department is obligated by Section 7, subsection (1), (f), (ii), of the Children’s Act 38 of 2005 that a child needs to maintain a connection with their family or extended family, culture or tradition. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Mon, 12/09/2024 - 11:32
301 views
Fentanyl Is Here: South Africans Test Positive for Potent Opioid
Preliminary research shows people are using fentanyl, a lab-made opioid over 30 times as potent as heroin, responsible for thousands of deaths in the US
Our Justice System Is Grinding to a Halt
Simple cases are taking years and years to be finalised
Janusz Walus to be deported to Poland
Janusz Walus to be deported to Poland
Janusz Walus, the convicted murderer of South African struggle hero Chris Hani, will be deported to Poland from South Africa on Friday.
This was announced by Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, during a media briefing held in Pretoria.
Walus - a Polish right wing extremist - assassinated the SA Communist Party (SACP) Secretary General in 1993 during a sensitive time in South Africa’s democratic transition, causing widespread outrage and an outpouring of grief in the country.
It prompted the negotiations for a free and fair South Africa, and brought about the setting of 27 April 1994 as the day of the first democratic general elections.
For the murder, Walus was sentenced to death. However, this was commuted to a life sentence and applications for parole had since been consistently denied.
“On 21 November 2022, the Constitutional Court ordered that Wanus Walus be placed on parole within 10 days of the date of the order, in line with applicable legislation. At the time, the applicable parole period was two years. Januz Walus was subsequently placed on parole on 7 December 2022, subject to parole conditions.
“Today, the 6th December 2024, the parole period of Janus Walus has come to an end, in line with the Constitutional Court decision. Since Janus Walus no longer holds any South African enabling documents, the Department of Home Affairs will be deporting him,” Ntshavheni explained.
The National Commissioner of Correctional Services will formally hand over Walus to the Department of Home Affairs for deportation.
This process will be handled by the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS).
Ntshavheni said a delegation of high-ranking government leaders visited the Hani family to deliver the news of Walus’ deportation.
“In preparation for this deportation, Cabinet assigned the Deputy President, Mr. Paul Mashatile; the Minister in the Presidency, Ms. Khumbudzo Ntshavheni; the Minister of Justice, Ms. Mmamoloko Kubayi; and the Minister of Home Affairs, Dr. Leon Schreiber, to visit the family of the late Chris Hani to inform them of these developments.
“During this engagement, government delegation received a request for an inquest from Mr. Hani’s wife and the SACP. The request will be referred to the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development,” Ntshavheni said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Fri, 12/06/2024 - 12:36
15 views
SAPS highlights work of its men and women in blue
SAPS highlights work of its men and women in blue
As the country observes this year's 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children, the South African Police Service (SAPS) is highlighting the work of its men and women in blue, who go beyond the call of duty to protect women and children in South Africa.
Today, SAPS introduces the nation to Warrant Officer Sonwabile Dlomo, an investigator attached to the Serial and Electronic Crime Investigations (SECI) Unit in Zwelitsha, Eastern Cape.
Dlomo says his childhood dream of becoming a police officer came true when he got enlisted to the Service 19 years ago.
His inquisitive mind eventually led him to become a detective and he has been within the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) environment since 2010.
To date, Dlomo secured 23 life terms and 594 years for 16 rapists, who are now behind bars.
In June 2024, the Makanda High Court sentenced Glass Lechesa to six life terms and an additional 125 years imprisonment on multiple counts of rape, robbery with aggravated circumstances and robbery common.
Lechesa targeted young girls in and around the areas of Joubertina and Addo, the youngest victim being 14 years old at the time. He stalked and attacked these victims in farm areas, robbed and repeatedly raped them before he fled the scene.
The case landed on Dlomo’s desk for further investigation. The suspect was still unknown at that stage, but that did not deter Dlomo from cracking the case. He meticulously pieced all available leads together and through the application of various investigative techniques, he managed to link the suspect to 10 rape cases.
Hot on the suspect’s heels, Dlomo proceeded to Addo police station to ascertain if there were more rape dockets similar to these 10 cases.
Dlomo says his instinct led him to trace the suspect’s activities during his ‘cooling off’ period. He then found three more cases with a similar modus operandi. These cases were eventually added to the serial following positive confirmation from the SAPS’ Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL).
Lechesa’s reign of terror came to an end on 16 April 2023, when he was arrested by Dlomo and his team. They operationalised information they obtained on the location of the suspect. Dlomo successfully opposed bail and Lechesa remained in custody until sentencing.
As a SECI investigator, Dlomo's duties include the investigation of serial rape cases, as well as sexual crimes committed on electronic mediums, such as the possession, distribution and manufacturing of child pornography.
"In most of my cases, the suspects are unknown at first. My goal is always to go beyond the call of duty to trace and arrest these suspects to ensure justice prevails for the victims," said Dlomo. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 12/06/2024 - 08:07
90 views
Here’s How an SRD Beneficiary Spent Their R370 Grant
We joined Willem Witbooi from George while shopping on Black Friday
Pilot Project to Count Homeless People in Cape Town
Volunteers hope the data they collect can be used to improve services
Father’s Heartbreaking 15-Month Search for Baby’s Body After Marshalltown Fire
Broken promises and dashed hopes in Mike Ngulube’s desperate quest to locate Memory’s misplaced body
Chiloane sends condolences after exam marker’s death
Chiloane sends condolences after exam marker's death
Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane has expressed his profound sadness at the untimely passing of an IsiXhosa National Senior Certificate (NSC) examination paper marker following an incident at the Alberton marking centre on Tuesday.
According to reports, the 50-year-old marker allegedly tripped and hit her head against a pole while leaving the centre on Tuesday evening. She was immediately rushed to the hospital but regrettably succumbed to her injuries later that night, while receiving medical attention.
Chiloane said the department’s Psycho-Social Support Unit has arranged to be on-site at the Alberton marking centre today to provide emotional support to the marker’s colleagues and other markers affected by this incident.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of the deceased marker. Her commitment to the education sector was invaluable, and her untimely passing is a profound loss to all of us,” Chiloane said.
Northview High Acting Principal shot on school premises
In another unfortunate incident, Chiloane once again expressed his sadness and shock at an unfortunate incident that took place at Northview High School on Tuesday, where the Acting Principal was shot at six times in his office.
According to information at the department’s disposal, two unidentified armed men entered the school premises on Tuesday morning, under the guise of seeing the Acting Principal to give him a quotation for tree felling.
The men then reportedly entered the Acting Principal’s office and suddenly opened fire, hitting him six times before fleeing the scene. The Acting Principal was rushed to a medical facility, where he is currently in ICU.
The department said police investigations into the circumstances surrounding this incident are currently underway.
The department’s Psycho-Social Support Unit will be dispatched today to provide trauma counselling for learners and educators, who may be affected by this incident.
“As the department, we are deeply shocked by this brazen act of violence and lawlessness, which not only targeted a school leader but undermined the sanctity of our educational institution. We are working closely with law enforcement to ensure the perpetrators are brought to book.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with the Acting Principal, his family, and the school community during this difficult time, and we wish him a speedy recovery,” Chiloane said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Wed, 12/04/2024 - 10:54
222 views
Relief and hope as Social Development brings critical services to East London
Relief and hope as Social Development brings critical services to East London
The Department of Social Development (DSD) has brought vital services to citizens in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality by setting up a temporary service point during the Berlin November horse racing festival, which was recently held in the Eastern Cape.
Mother of four, Pamoria Mayengane, 48, is one of the residents who could not contain her joy after receiving the help she urgently needed from the DSD. Mayengane had been struggling for months with the suspension of her Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant due to fraud activity, which impacted her.
The weight of uncertainty had taken a toll on Mayengane, but that changed when she heard on the radio that the DSD would be bringing its services to Berlin, a small, yet vibrant town in East London, in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality.
The annual Berlin November event draws thousands of visitors from across South Africa, providing a unique platform for government departments and corporate organisations to showcase their services and promote social cohesion.
Mayengane, who lives within walking distance of the Berlin racecourse, seized the opportunity to reach out to the DSD.
“I was so happy when I heard the announcement [on the radio]. I did not even have to pay for transport. I walked from my house to the venue. It was such a relief to finally be assisted,” she said.
The SRD grant, coupled with child support grants for her two younger children, is the lifeline for her family. The fraudulent attempt to access her SRD grant had left her unable to receive payments, plunging her into financial stress.
With the South African Social Security Agency's new face verification system in place, the fraudulent individual was blocked, and the payment was stopped.
At the Berlin temporary service point, officials helped Mayengane to resolve the issue, ensuring that her grant would be reinstated for the next payment cycle.
“This grant means everything to me. It helps me buy groceries and cover my children’s basic needs. Now I can look forward to buying them Christmas groceries, just like other families,” she said.
Berlin, nestled between East London and King William’s Town, is a historical town that has maintained its charm, while growing into a hub of cultural activity. The Berlin November horse racing function, in particular, has become a major drawcard, blending tradition with entertainment.
This year, the DSD used the function as a platform to bring its services closer to the people, addressing pressing social challenges and fostering community engagement during the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children campaign.
In addition to assisting residents like Mayengane, the DSD and other participating stakeholders provided information and support on various issues, including social grants, child protection, substance abuse, non-profit organisations and community development.
This initiative exemplified the department’s commitment to addressing social issues in a holistic and accessible way. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Wed, 12/04/2024 - 11:14
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Celebrating Colonel Celeste van der Klashorst
Celebrating Colonel Celeste van der Klashorst
The South African Police Service (SAPS) is observing the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign by highlighting the work of its men and women in blue who go beyond the call of duty to protect women and children in South Africa.
Colonel Celeste van der Klashorst is among those who go beyond the call of duty.
Van der Klashorst is the Section Commander of the National Serial and Electronic Crime Investigations (SECI) Unit. The unit is a specialised investigation team that deals with the investigation of serial rape cases and sexual crimes committed through electronic mediums, such as child pornography.
Her duties as the Section Commander include monitoring and evaluating SECI units within the nine provinces, leading and guiding major child pornography takedown operations and investigating high profile cases.
Van der Klashorst’s illustrious career commenced in 1991 when she joined the SAPS as a student constable.
In 1993, the SAPS established Child Protection Units which are now known as the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit.
Van der Klashorst played an instrumental role when the foundations were laid and again when SECI units were established in 2017 on national level and within all nine provinces.
A recent career highlight includes the execution of a major takedown operation named BAD VIBES.
International operations led to 27 South Africans being identified who are involved in the possession, distribution, manufacturing, accessing and downloading of child pornography.
National and provincial SECI Units formed part of this particular takedown which led to 12 sexual predators being arrested in different parts of the country since January 2023.
Four child victims were also positively identified while millions of images and videos classified as child pornography were seized during these operations.
Under van der Klashorst’s leadership, the SECI teams on national and provincial level continue with investigations under OPERATION BAD VIBES to trace and arrest more suspects linked to this international child pornography ring.
As a subject matter expert, van der Klashorst also presents key topics at SECI workshops and FCS courses. She says sharing her knowledge and expertise with members in the field allows her to plough back into the organisation.
“This ultimately leads to quality investigations and water-tight cases being presented in court,” van der Klashorst said.
Just last week, the National SECI team was awarded FCS Team of the Year during the Division for Forensic and Detective Service’s annual Excellence Awards.
“Being at the forefront of fighting crimes against women and children is my passion. I always tell my team that it needs all hands on deck to prevent, combat and investigate sexual offences, gender-based violence and online child exploitation," said van der Klashorst.
Colonel Celeste van der Klashorst remains relentless in her pursuit to trace and arrest more online sexual predators.
The 16 Days campaign forms part of government’s comprehensive 365 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children.
This year’s campaign is being held under the theme: “30 Years of Advancing Collective Action to End Violence against Women and Children".
The campaign is held from 25 November to 10 December every year. -SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 12/04/2024 - 10:12
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The Christmas Chronicles: A Family Musical Experience of Hope
This December, treat your family to an unforgettable holiday experience with The Christmas Chronicles: A Family Musical Experience of Hope. Set to take place at Good Hope Christian Centre, Ottery from 13-15 December at 19:30 PM, this enchanting musical promises to bring the entire family together in celebration of the Christmas season. You will be …
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