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SIU, Hawks raid Kimberley law firm

Location: News

SIU, Hawks raid Kimberley law firm

The Special Investigating Unit (SIU), together with the Hawks, have conducted a raid on a Kimberley based accounting firm allegedly related to corruption at the National Lotteries Commission.

The raid comes in the wake of a deep SIU investigation delving into incidents of alleged rampant corruption and maladministration, which is said to have cost the commission at least R1.4 billion.

“The raid follows a tip-off received from a whistle blower suggesting that certain accounting firms and accountants were allegedly engaged in criminal activities by aiding non-profit organisations [NPOs] and non-profit companies [NPCs] in preparing and producing fraudulent financial statements which are meant to be submitted to the NLC in support of their application for grant funding.

“One of the requirements for NLC grant funding in terms of the Lotteries Act is that an applicant must submit an audited financial statement together with a duly completed application form.

“The whistle blower alleged that several NPOs and NPCs submitted fraudulent financial statements to the NLC, which were prepared, produced, and signed off by the directors and or representatives of the accountants without any bank statements submitted to the accountants,” the SIU said in a statement.

The search resulted in the seizure of laptops and documentation.

“In line with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996 (SIU Act), the SIU will refer any evidence pointing to criminal conduct it uncovers during its investigations to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further action.

“The SIU is empowered by the SIU Act to institute civil action in the High Court or a Special Tribunal in its name to correct any wrongdoing uncovered during its investigation caused by acts of corruption, fraud, or maladministration,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Thu, 02/22/2024 - 11:56

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President condemns the killing of traditional leaders

Location: News

President condemns the killing of traditional leaders

President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned in the strongest terms the rise in the killing of traditional leaders, especially in KwaZulu-Natal. 

The President delivered the keynote address at the annual official opening of the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders (NHTKL) at the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) Chamber in Cape Town on Thursday. 

“Our law enforcement agencies are hard at work to ensure that those responsible are brought to book. On behalf of government, I wish to pass our deepest condolences to all families for the loss of their loved ones and to you for the loss of your colleagues. 

“May their souls and those of other traditional leaders who passed on since the last opening of the House continue to rest in peace,” President Ramaphosa said. 

Last year, KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube condemned the killings calling them an attack on the State as they threaten to destabilise an institution critical to the stability and order of society. 

In a meeting with the South African Police Service in January 2022, it emerged that the police were investigating 51 murder cases going back to 2012, and at the time 30 people had been arrested, while 18 cases were still pending in court. 

“As government we remain committed to working with the institution of traditional leadership in pursuit of progress and development. We did so extremely successfully during the COVID-19 pandemic, during recent floods, and in a number of other areas.”

He said they were working together to combat gender-based violence, a scourge that is tearing communities apart. 

“I have just returned from the annual Summit of Heads of State and Government of the African Union, where we participated in a high-level event on promoting positive masculinity across our continent.

“We need to be doing more in our communities to bring men into this effort, and focus on prevention and awareness raising,” the President said. 

Personally, he said he has been engaging with young men through peer dialogues where they are able to not only speak openly about what masculinity and manhood means to them, but also commit themselves to playing their part to end gender-based violence.

The President called on male traditional leaders to be part of this effort and to start their own men’s dialogues. 

“The influence and stature you bring to bear can and does make a difference, given the role that cultural norms and practices often play in perpetuating violence against women and girls,” he said. 

President Ramaphosa pointed out that drug abuse is another serious challenge in communities.

He said it was encouraging to note that the House was supporting the work of the Central Drug Authority. “I urge you as this House to encourage provinces and local Houses to establish relationships with community organisations to fight the scourge of drugs together,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

DikelediM
Thu, 02/22/2024 - 14:01

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Pandor calls on the G20 to help resolve global tensions

Location: News

Pandor calls on the G20 to help resolve global tensions

International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor, has challenged G20 nations to address ongoing global tensions, which have been fueled by a variety of developments in recent years.

Pandor drew attention to a few pressing issues including the increasing debt load faced by poor and middle-income countries, inequality, and neglect in certain parts of the world like Palestine.

She highlighted the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, the recent Israel-Gaza war, and related violations of international law and United Nations (UN) guidelines.

The Minister also mentioned that there are several issues, such as trade tensions between major economies, economic decline due to COVID-19, and continuing terrorism and extremism.

“All these have placed the world in a more precarious context and as G20 we must attempt to craft implementable responses,” she said. 

Pandor was speaking at the G20 Foreign Ministers Meeting in Brazil on Wednesday.

She believes that the G20 leaders are most suitable to tackle the challenge of providing effective solutions to issues that are leading to conflict, division, insecurity, and growing inequality.

“The world is watching to see whether the most powerful can initiate a reversal of our slide to disaster,” the Minister stressed. 

G20, which is also known as the Group of 20, is a forum for international economic cooperation and plays an important role in shaping and strengthening global architecture and governance on all major international economic issues.

“The G20 was conceived to draw together governments that would work together in strategic cooperation to create a platform or global practice that would assist developing countries to overcome poverty inequality and insecurity. 

“Our governments acknowledged that changing the material conditions of the poorest was and remains fundamental to maintaining the relevance of G20,” she explained. 

She said it was encouraging that following the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the group renewed its focus on development compared to the past.

Meanwhile, according to Pandor, if developing countries were to achieve greater progress with the Sustainable Developmental Goals (SDGs), funding would be needed from the multilateral development banks (MDB). 

According to the United Nations Development Programme, SDGs, were adopted by the United Nations in 2015 as a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that by 2030 all people enjoy peace and prosperity.

“Greater financing and development support could be secured through active support to arrest illicit financial flows from and between African countries given the impact on development illicit finances fuel corruption undermine the rule of law and the stability of markets, yet little has been done to address them,” said the Minister.

The MDBs offer financial and technical assistance to developing countries to improve economic management and reduce poverty.

She told delegates that the multidimensional and transnational nature of illicit financial flows also requires concerted international action. 

“G20 could do much to strengthen its important role in acting on this drain of developing countries resources,” she added. 

The Minister also called for an urgent need to reform international institutions to make them more able to address development challenges. 

She highlighted the Breton Woods Institutions, which she said had been more responsive to development needs. 

However, she said much more has to change to enhance and safeguard these changes.

“The international tension we see today requires balanced and fair approaches to global challenges, respect for diversity of opinion and belief and acceptance that global bodies are most successful when they act in the interests of all equally,” she added. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 02/22/2024 - 09:38

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Teacher caught in possession of drugs at school

Location: News

Teacher caught in possession of drugs at school

Gauteng Education MEC, Matome Chiloane has condemned an incident at a school in Ekurhuleni where a teacher was allegedly found in possession of drugs on school premises. 

In a statement on Wednesday, the Gauteng Department of Education said the incident took place on 14 February 2024 at the Thoko Thaba Secondary School.

According to the department’s reports, the educator was allegedly found with a bag and box of drugs inside school premises.

Police were called in and the teacher was arrested. He appeared in court on Thursday, 15 February 2024.

MEC Chiloane said it is also concerning that this matter was not reported to the Department by the School Management Team (SMT) in a timely manner, which led to a planned protest by the community on Wednesday.

The department has launched an investigation, and the educator has been removed from the school as a precaution. 

“We are disappointed about this incident, and vehemently condemn such conduct and we will be acting against it accordingly. We also plead with the community to allow this matter to be handled by the department and relevant law enforcement authorities for appropriate resolution,” Chiloane said. - SAnews.gov.za

 

DikelediM
Wed, 02/21/2024 - 13:17

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IEC welcomes announcement of 2024 Election Date

Location: News

IEC welcomes announcement of 2024 Election Date

The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) has welcomed the announcement by President Cyril Ramaphosa setting the 2024 National and Provincial Elections date for 29 May.

The President has, in line with section 17(2) of the Electoral act 73 of 1998, consulted with the IEC on the election date.

“This pronouncement of the Election Date provides an unambiguous motivation for the Commission to pull out all the stops in the intensification of preparations for Election Day. The Electoral Commission reiterates its commitment and readiness to ensure a successful 2024 general elections,” the Commission said in a statement.

Furthermore, the President convened a meeting with all nine provincial Premiers and the IEC to discuss the state of readiness for the General Elections.

“It creates certainty for us. It creates certainty for those who want to participate as contestants, be they on party lists or as independent candidates,” said IEC Deputy CEO, Masego Shiburi.

Shiburi said the President announced the date in consultation with the Commission, as that is the statute requirement.

“With each election, the number of competing parties increase. For these elections, we will also have independent candidates and their numbers are still indeterminate because candidate nomination is yet to open.

“Once we finalise candidate nomination, we will be able to print  ballots and make them available in our missions to those who will be voting abroad but mostly importantly, to those who will be voting in the country,” Shiburi said.

The announcement of the Election Date comes after the successful voter registration campaign, which included two general registration weekends, an overseas voter registration drive, campus activations and registration within Correctional Services centres.

The 2024 Elections coincide with South Africa's celebration of 30 years of freedom and democracy.

President Ramaphosa has called on all eligible voters to fully participate in this important and historic milestone of the democratic calendar.

“Beyond the fulfilment of our constitutional obligation, these upcoming elections are also a celebration of our democratic journey and a determination of the future that we all desire.

“I call on all South Africans to exercise their democratic right to vote and for those who will be campaigning to do so peacefully, within the full observance of the law. We also urge unregistered voters to use the online registration platform to register,” President Ramaphosa said.

According to the IEC, more than 27 million South Africans are registered to vote and 14 million others remain unregistered but are eligible to do so.

The Electoral Commission has reminded South Africans that while the Election Date has been set and announced, eligible voters have until Friday, 23 February 2024 to register. The latter date is the anticipated day of the proclamation of the Election Date.

Unregistered voters and those who need to update their address details can visit their local municipality office, the Electoral Commission or go to the online voter registration portal, registertovote.elections.org.za or reach the chat bot on 0600 88 00 00 WhatsApp line.

Election Timetable

Following the proclamation of the Election Date, the Electoral Commission will publish the Election Timetable in the Government Gazette after consultation with the National Party Liaison Committee.

The Election Timetable will outline the various cut-off dates for the performance of certain electoral activities. The timetable will include the following:

-             Certification of the voters’ roll.

-             Publication of details of voting stations.

-             Submission of candidates nomination.

-             Submission of notice to vote outside of the country.

-             Applications for special votes .

Meanwhile, the Commission has reminded eligible voters of the general rule in elections. That is, a person must register where they live and vote at the voting station where they are registered.

“The only exception to the rule is that a voter may vote outside of the voting district of registration upon notifying the Electoral Commission by a date to be regulated by the Election Timetable,” the Commission said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 02/21/2024 - 11:14

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SAPS beefs up highway patrols

Location: News

SAPS beefs up highway patrols

The National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), General Fannie Masemola, has ordered the maximum mobilisation of resources along Gauteng highways and other strategic locations during peak hour traffic.

This is after a video and voice note emerged on various platforms depicting suspects allegedly robbing motorists.

“The SAPS has also bolstered the deployment of the Highway Patrol, SAPS Airwing and Gauteng Flying Squad units to monitor and conduct regular patrols along the identified routes,” said the SAPS in a statement on Tuesday.

By Tuesday afternoon, no cases had been reported yet and the SAPS encouraged anyone that has fallen victim to this alleged crime to call the Johannesburg Central Police Station Commander on 0823325016 for better coordination and prompt dispatching of resources.

“Engagements with the JMPD [ Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department] and other law enforcement agencies are ongoing in an effort to curb further incidents.

“SAPS tracking teams are on the ground searching for these suspects,” said the police.  – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Tue, 02/20/2024 - 14:59

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AI in Contract Analysis and Management: Strategies for the Modern Era

Location: MyPR

AI in the context of contract analysis and management refers to the use of machine learning and natural language processing technologies to automate and improve various aspects of contracts, transforming the way contracts are analysed, managed, and enforced. AI has become an indispensable tool in contract analysis and management, offering significant improvements in efficiency, accuracy, …

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Safeguarding Your Wealth: Asset Security in the Fintech Era

Location: MyPR

The financial technology (fintech) law and regulatory landscape is constantly evolving and could present first-mover fintech opportunities for those who keep up-to-date with these developments. In this article we delve into strategies and best practices for asset protection for those venturing into the realm of fintech investments. The Fintech Landscape Fintech has revolutionised the financial …

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DPCI determined to deal with national priority offences

Location: News

DPCI determined to deal with national priority offences

Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, Lieutenant General Godfrey Lebeya, says members of the DPCI are determined to deal with national priority offences.

“Their persistence led to securing the attendance in court of at least 724 suspects, which is made of 705 natural persons and 19 juristic persons,” Lebeya said.

Briefing media in Pretoria on Monday to outline progress made in the third quarter of the 2023/24 financial year, Lebeya said 229 accused persons, which is made of 220 natural persons and nine juristic persons, were convicted and sentenced.

“The top five national priority offences that contributed a high number of arrests are 156 for fraud, including 15 companies; 64 for precious metals and diamonds; 67 for narcotics; 51 for non-ferrous metals and 51 for corruption,” Lebeya said.

Lebeya said during the arrests, the DPCI seized various exhibits, including precious metals and diamonds, endangered species, vehicles, cash, firearms, ammunition, counterfeit goods, explosives and electronic devices worth R102 614 521.89.

“Out of the 229 convictions, fraud contributed the highest number of convictions, with a total number of 63. Precious metals and diamonds are the second highest, with a total number of 45 accused persons.      

“Over and above arrests and convictions, the Directorate, in collaboration with the Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), secured 92 orders with a monetary value of R39 642 652.71,” Lebeya said.

Lebeya used the opportunity to warn criminals attacking police officers that the law will not have mercy on them.

“An attack on police official is an attack on the State, and the death of one police official, who is the protector of all the people in South Africa, is unacceptable,” he said.

Lebeya said 22 police officials were murdered in the third quarter, 12 off duty and 10 on duty, and that 12 arrests were effected.

As part of successes in apprehending those that are attacking police officers, three accused persons were convicted and sentenced to share four life imprisonment and 38 years imprisonment terms.

“This sentence serves as a deterrent to other would-be criminals that under the doctrine of common purpose, not only will the accused be held liable and charged for the murder of police officers, but also for the murder of their accomplices who died during a crossfire with the police.

“The crimes that your co-perpetrator commits are imputed on you. If the crimes committed results in the death of a co-perpetrator, the surviving co-perpetrator will be charged with the death of his or her co-perpetrator, regardless of the fact that the death may have been inflicted by the victim,” he said.

Crimes against the State

With regards to crimes against the State, Lebeya cited an incident which took place in July 2021, where a video clip inciting people to burn and loot the Brookside Mall in Pietermaritzburg was circulated on social media platform. The perpetrator was arrested on 28 August 2021.

The Hawks initiated investigations and identified the author of the video clip as Mdumiseni Khetha Zuma (36). He was arrested in KwaZulu-Natal, where his bail was also denied.

Zuma was sentenced to10 years imprisonment for the first count, of which two years was suspended for five years, on condition that he is not convicted of the same offence during the period of suspension.

He was further sentenced to six years imprisonment on a second count, of which two years is to run concurrently with the sentence on the first count.

“We may recall that 65 alleged July unrest instigators were secured to appear in court on charges of conspiracy to commit public violence, incitement to commit public violence and incitement to commit arson.

“A charge of terrorism has been added. All the accused are on bail and the case is postponed to 8 April 2024 at the Durban Local Division of the High Court,” Lebeya said.

With regards to illegal miners, Lebeya said there have been some successes. On 24 November 2023, three suspects -- Progress Bayeni Mlambo (42), Leornard Moyo (46) and Kocanai Sithole (26) -- were arrested by a team comprising Welkom-based Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation, Hawks’ Head Office Precious Metals & Diamonds (PMD) team, Public Order Police and Protea Coin Security. 

“Information about the accused exchanging gold for cash between the Free State and Gauteng led the investigators to seek a search and seizure warrant. They had their eyes set squarely on a certain house in Parys, where these illegal activities were said to be taking place.

“The suspects appeared before the magistrate in Parys on 27 November 2023 for contravention of the Precious Metals Act 37 of 2005, and again on 29 January 2024,” Lebeya said.

Lebeya described human trafficking as modern-day slavery and a crime against humanity.

“South Africa has not been spared this twin-pandemic of trafficking in persons and smuggling of migrants,” he said.

During this reporting period, 19 potential victims of trafficking in persons were rescued. Three foreign nationals were convicted, while four suspects were arrested.

Lebeya said 16 awareness campaigns were pro-actively conducted and 17 disruptive operations were reactively conducted. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Mon, 02/19/2024 - 12:31

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Justice and Correctional Services Committee Calls Public Input on Deputy Public Protector Candidates

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: The Parliament
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The Portfolio Committee on Justice and Correctional Services today called for public comments on applications and nominations received for the position of Deputy Public Protector (DPP).

Committee Chairperson Mr Bulelani Magwanishe said the position became vacant late last year when the then DPP was appointed as Public Protector (PP). Mr Magwanishe said the committee received a total of 46 applications and nominations of which two has since withdrawn.

Mr Magwanishe said a list of all the nominations/applications received is now available on the Parliament website in order to allow members of the public to comment on the suitability of candidates. Please find list of candidates below:

Adv EM Chipu
Adv A Chowan
Adv FT Maleka
Adv JJ van der Merwe
Adv KA Sedupane
Adv M Marriot
Adv M Mnyatheli
Adv MC Molaudi
Adv MM Mtukushe
Adv MPT Maluleke
Adv N Gumede
Adv N Raedani
Adv S Tebeile
Ms L Mkhize

Adv S Zimema
Adv TA Banguzana
Adv TDL Sagela
Adv TS Thipanyane
Dr PV Pillay
Mr AV Mavhidula
Mr MD Maloka
Mr MM Nyiki
Mr MM Sibiya
Mr P Mokotedi
Mr R Makgalebone
Mr S Ntleki
Mr SM Ludidi
Ms PR Mogaladi

Mr VL Magwebu
Ms ZM Bogatsu
Ms B Mphaga
Ms C Kosi
Ms D Samsity
Ms EN Kabe
Ms FP Ledwaba
Ms KE Malatji
Ms LS Somo
Ms NGK Bunyoyo
Ms TB Mpanza
Prof B Mmusinyane
Adv FK Ngqele

He said the DPP is appointed by the President on the recommendation of the National Assembly for such a period as the President may determine at the time of such appointment, but not exceeding seven years. The DPP may at the end of his or her term be reappointed for one additional term. The annual salary for the position is R1 924 542.

The person recommended for appointment as DPP must be a South African citizen, who is a fit and proper person to hold such office, and who:

  • Is admitted as an advocate or an attorney and has, for a cumulative period of at least 10 years after having been so admitted, practiced as an advocate or an attorney; or
  • Is qualified to be admitted as an advocate or an attorney and has, for a cumulative period of at least 10 years after having so qualified, lectured in law at a university; or
  • Has specialised knowledge of or experience in, for a cumulative period of at least 10 years, the administration of justice, public administration or public finance; or
  • Has, for a cumulative period of at least 10 years, been a member of Parliament; or
  • Has acquired any combination of experience mentioned in paragraphs (a) to (d), for a cumulative period of at least 10 years.

Nominations/applications must contain a curriculum vitae (CV) providing the nominee/applicant's:

  • Full name, ID number and gender;
  • Contact details, including physical address, telephone/cell phone number and email address;
  • Relevant previous work experience (including relevant dates and organisations concerned); and
  • Academic qualifications.

Mr Magwanishe said a list of all the nominations/applications received will be published in order to allow members of the public to comment on the suitability of candidates. He said the shortlisted candidates will be subjected to a screening process.

Comments must reach Mr Vhonani Ramaano at Dppvacancy@parliament.gov.za  by no later than 23 February 2024 at 16H00.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

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Sixth administration cracking down on crime – Lamola

Location: News

Sixth administration cracking down on crime - Lamola

Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, Ronald Lamola says the sixth administration is steadily rebuilding law enforcement agencies like the National Prosecuting Authority to fight crime.

Lamola was speaking during the debate of the State of the Nation Address held in Cape Town.

“[It] is the sixth administration that strengthened the work of law enforcement agencies like the NPA [National Prosecuting Authority] by appointing permanent leadership in the upper echelons of the NPA and the SAPS [South African Police Service] and increased the operational budget resulting in visible institutional growth and stability.

“Organized crime verdicts have increased by 21% from 193 to 234 at a conviction rate that is above 80%. Gang leaders are behind bars or in court, whether it is Jerome Booysen, Nafik Modak, Ralph Stanfield, Mark Lifman and Vusi Khekhe, all are behind bars.

“The conviction rate in gender-based violence and femicide matters is at 74.6%. When it comes to successful prosecutions for cable theft matters, the NPA has exceeded some of the targets, the conviction rate is well above 85%, 299 convictions have been obtained from 347 cable theft verdicts,” Lamola said.

The Minister added that R3.2 billion from the criminal assets recovery funds has been allocated to fighting illegal mining and organised crime.

Furthermore, 2 996 arrests have been executed related to illegal mining activities as at December last year.

“SAPS is implementing Operation Shanela, a comprehensive plan to combat crime throughout the country. The plan includes clamping down on illegal mining areas.

“At the end of last year, the Asset Forfeiture Unit, Special Investigation Units and the Hawks have secured preservation orders to freeze assets which are proceeds of unlawful activities of a syndicate dealing in unwrought gold in Gauteng province.

“The frozen assets include 51 properties with a value of more than R16 million. In Mpumalanga, they secured a preservation order of assets worth more than one billion rands. The message is clear, crime does not pay and the tide against crime is turning,” Lamola said.

‘I am Tintswalo’

Harking back to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s SONA last week in which he described the life of Tintswalo, Lamola described how he himself is a product of progressive government policies.

He recalled how he benefitted from the Tertiary Education Fund of South Africa (TEFSA), now known as the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), after his parents who were both farmworkers could not afford his tertiary education.

“I can stand here in this house [and say] with great conviction that had it not been for …government’s expansion of TEFSA and my sister paying for my university registration and monthly stipend, I would not be standing here today.

“I would not have been an Attorney of the High Court of South Africa having appeared in the highest Court in the world, the ICJ, on global affairs. My life was predestined as a farm worker [by] design by the apartheid government and not by choice.

“The village where I come from, Cunningmore B in Mpumalanga, had no electricity nor running water. Today there is electricity, running water and tarred roads, so are many villages across the country.

“[NSFAS]…results are tangible. You can touch them with your bare hands,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Thu, 02/15/2024 - 09:59

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SIU welcomes arrest of allegedly corrupt former Eskom officials

Location: News

SIU welcomes arrest of allegedly corrupt former Eskom officials

The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has welcomed the arrest and appearance in court of two former Eskom officials on charges of fraud, corruption and money laundering.

The two employees, Thandi Magagula and Nontuthubo Mahweliri, were employed at the Hendrina Power Station and were arrested by the Hawks last week and have appeared in different courts.

“The court appearance is part of the implementation of the National Anti-Corruption strategy by law enforcement agencies to strengthen its fight against corruption, especially when such crimes are committed by state employees in positions of trust to deliver services for the benefit of the public and the economy, but instead, steal from the most vulnerable to enrich themselves and fund their opulent lifestyles,” the SIU said.

Magagula allegedly conducted business with the electricity supplier while employed there.

“An SIU investigation revealed that Magagula held a private investment in a company called Montoza Engineering. Montoza Engineering had one or more contracts with Eskom and according to Eskom records during the period of approximately October 2015 to November 2015, had rendered services and provided work or goods to Eskom to the value of approximately R58 888.76.

“Magagula as an employee of Eskom was not supposed to conduct any business with the entity as this is against Eskom’s policy on conflict of interest,” the SIU said.

She also underwent a disciplinary hearing at Eskom, was found guilty and was given a seven-day suspension.

Mahweliri also allegedly operated under the same modus operandi.

“The investigation by the SIU found that Mahweliri failed to declare that she is a member of a company called NKG Trading investments, which had a contract with Eskom and failed to apply for permission to perform private work. Her company received payments to the value of R1 082 884 for the period 2017 and 2018.

“The SIU also referred Mahweliri for disciplinary action. Eskom held a hearing, and she was found guilty of all charges of misconduct and suspended for 7 days without pay,” the SIU said.

Both cases were postponed and they are expected to appear in the Middelburg Specialised Commercial Crime Court. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Wed, 02/14/2024 - 10:01

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Significant strides made in social assistance programme and combating GBV 

Location: News

Significant strides made in social assistance programme and combating GBV 

Government has over the last 30 years made significant strides in improving the social assistance programme, combating gender-based violence (GBV) and providing underprivileged children with opportunities for a better life through grants. 

This is according to Social Development Minister Lindiwe Zulu, who was speaking during the State of the Nation Address (SONA) Debate in Cape Town on Tuesday.

She highlighted the gains made over the last 30 years, indicating that government is currently providing regular income support each month without fail to those who are underprivileged. 

Zulu said when government signed the Social Assistance Act into law, the nation took a historic step toward fulfilling a fundamental principle of the Freedom Charter and the Constitution, that "social security is a right, not a privilege".

She said the social assistance programme is the most enduring and one of the biggest poverty alleviation and redistribution interventions by the sixth administration.

“We have progressively expanded social protection coverage from 2.4 million in 1994 to 28 million [today] to support those who cannot support themselves due to no fault of their own.

“We are currently providing regular income support each month without fail to more than four million older persons, about one million adults with disabilities and 160 000 children with disabilities.  More than 13 million children from poor households receive the Child Support Grant, while a further 237 000 children are supported through our Foster Care Grant,” Zulu said. 

She said there has been improved access to sustainable livelihoods and entrepreneurial opportunities through grant funding and capacity building of civil society organisations by the National Development Agency (NDA). 

The department has also provided financial support to the tune of R8.2 billion to non-profit organisations that render the much-need community development and statutory services in communities.
 
The achievements include an increase in the number of children benefitting from Early Childhood Development, living up to the mantra, 'From inception to the grave'.

“We have restored the dignity of our older persons and increased life expectancy through, amongst others, the provision of the Old Age Grant. We created over 500 000 employment opportunities through the Expanded Public Works Programme, and addressed the disproportionate impact of poverty on women through women empowerment initiatives,” she said. 

The Minister further highlighted that government has passed progressive pieces of legislation, such as the Children’s Act, to ensure the protection of children, providing universal access to social welfare services, including adoption, foster care and psychosocial support services. 

There has also been intensified international collaboration with development and UN agencies such as UNICEF, United Nations Development Programme, and International Labour Organisation on best practice,s focusing on poverty eradication initiatives.

Turning to gender-based violence and femicide, Zulu said that there has been expanded access to care and support services for victims/survivors through the implementation of Pillar 4 of the National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (specific focus on GBV hotspots). 

“We have capacitated the Gender-Based Violence Command Centre and the National Emergency Response Team (NERT) to render psychosocial, trauma counselling and referral services. We are currently expanding shelters and the Khuseleka One-Stop Centre Model to all provinces,” she said. 

The Minister told Parliament that with a total budget of R266 billion this year, over R22 billion is directly injected into the economy every month and into the hands of those who need it most to facilitate their participation in the economy and the labour market.  

“This in turn stimulates key sectors of our economy, what in economic terms is referred to as the multiplier effect. The positive spin-offs of this investment are reflected in numerous local reports and international studies. This is no small achievement by any measure,” she said. 

Guided by the developmental philosophy of 'Leave no one Behind', Zulu said government is now finalising policy proposals for the introduction of the Basic Income Grant. 

“As we stride into the third decade of freedom and democracy, we do so with great confidence that our goal for social and economic transformation is well on course,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za 

DikelediM
Wed, 02/14/2024 - 11:15

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Read moreSignificant strides made in social assistance programme and combating GBV 

SIU updates Parliament on NLC corruption investigation

Location: News

SIU updates Parliament on NLC corruption investigation

The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has completed 90% of the second phase in its three-phased National Lotteries Commission (NLC) investigation.

The unit said in a statement on Wednesday the investigation in its totality is worth approximately R1.4 billion which the state and the NLC have allegedly lost due to corruption at the organisation.

The value of each phase is:

• Phase 1 - R279 710 409.

• Phase 2 -R246 659 310.

• Phase 3 - R905 901.910.04

The SIU appeared before Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Trade and Industry on Wednesday to give an update on the investigation. In the presentation, SIU revealed new investigation findings.

One of the findings is related to award-winning actress, Moiteri Pheto, who unduly benefitted once again from the NLC grant funding.

The NLC approved grant funding of R5 million to Zibisibix Non-Profit Company for a chicken farm in December 2018. After receiving the R5 million, money moved from the account and the following payments were made:

• Black Planet Trading (Director: Thula Sindi) of an amount of R140 000.00

• Tsoseletso (Director: Moitheri Pheto) - R253 000.00

• Pheto Safe and Cleaning (Director: Dimakatso Pheto) - R124 000.00

• Sunguti projects (Director: Moitheri Pheto) - R2 800 000.00

• Moitheri Pheto’s personal bank account - R182 000.00

• Dimakatso Pheto (Moitheri’s sister) - R315 500.00

• Vehicle dealership- R252 400

• Agricultural Supplies- R209 500

The farm was purchased for R850 000, and the SIU found that the former chairperson of the NLC board Professor Alfred Nevhutanda signed the offer to purchase the farm in the Vaal area.

“Furthermore, the evidence that SIU gathered revealed that the farm was purchased for the benefit of Dimakatso Pheto. The case has been referred for civil litigation for recovery and criminal referrals are being prepared,” it said.

The SIU also presented to Parliament how the South African Youth Movement (SAYM) applied for grant funding on behalf of the Presley Chweneyagae Foundation, which belong to award winning actor, Presley Chweneyagae.

The main purpose of the application was for the Take Back the Future Musical, Documentary and Poetry Arts programme. The NLC approved a grant funding of an amount of R15 million.

From the R15 million, R2 999 967.00 was transferred to Iron Bridge Travelling Agency and Events in August 2016. Iron Bridge Travelling Agency and Events is owned by the former NLC Chief Operating Officer, Phillemon Letwaba’s wife, Rebotile Malomane.

In May 2017, a further R950 190.00 was transferred to VNMM Consulting Engineers CC. VNMM Consulting Engineers is owned by Prof Nevhutanda’s son-in-law, Meshack Makhubela. On 25 May 2017, an amount of R500 000 with a reference plot purchase was transferred to conveyancing attorneys.

From the balance of R 450 190, Prof Nevhutanda received R100 000 for a bus purchase and a further R60 000 for a funeral and debit orders for a car finance account.

The SIU investigation revealed how a non-profit organisation (NPO) was hijacked and funds that were meant to uplift poor women in Marikana and the surrounding areas in the North West province on a chicken farming project were misused.

The application was adjudicated and the grant funding for the value of R13 million was awarded to an NPO and was to be paid in two tranches of R7 million and R6 million. In November 2020, the hijacked NPO made an application for additional funding and received a further R3.5 million.

The SIU’s investigation revealed that a shelf company named Silverlite Trading bought the land in Marikana for this project for R400 000. Advocate William Huma, a former NLC board member is the current sole director of Silverlight.

The SIU went on a site visit and found that the farm was well-built and completed. The chicken farm contains a workers' house, guard house, egg packaging and storehouse and chicken egg production house and there is a borehole.

However, since the chicken farm is not in operation. It is being vandalised, and some of the electric cables and solar panels were stolen from the farm.

The SIU has so far made eight criminal referrals to the National Prosecuting Unit and 11 disciplinary referrals to NLC officials.

The SIU was, in terms of Proclamation R32 of 2020, authorised by President Cyril Ramaphosa to investigate allegations of corruption and maladministration in the affairs of NLC and the conduct of NLC officials and to recover any financial losses suffered by the State.

In line with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996 (SIU Act), the SIU will refer any evidence pointing to criminal conduct it uncovers during its investigations to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further action.

The SIU is empowered by the SIU Act to institute civil action in the High Court or a Special Tribunal in its name to correct any wrongdoing uncovered during its investigation caused by acts of corruption, fraud, or maladministration. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Wed, 02/14/2024 - 13:22

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Read moreSIU updates Parliament on NLC corruption investigation

Gauteng receives CCTV cameras to battle crime

Location: News

Gauteng receives CCTV cameras to fight crime

Efforts to fight crime in Gauteng have received a much-needed boost through a partnership with Vuma Cam, which will allow the province to have access to an additional 6 000 CCTV cameras to keep an eye on the province’s streets.

CCTV cameras are part of the Gauteng Provincial Government’s strategy to utilise technology in the fight against crime. The CCTV cameras are being placed in townships, business districts, areas with high crime, roads, schools and other public places.

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lusufi said at the launch event held on Tuesday that this was a big milestone for the campaign and that the cameras will go a long way to realising a crime-free Gauteng.

“I am excited that this partnership finally took place. It has been a long time coming. I am tired of crime. We cannot be held hostage by criminals. We cannot be scared and be scared even of our own shadows because of criminals.

“Crime is a big problem and it is even halting investment interests in our province. We are signing this agreement to protect our people,” he said.

The campaign to fight crime using technology is an intergovernmental collaboration between the Department of e-Government, Community Safety and the South African Police Services (SAPS).

The collaboration is meant to boost all other available crime-fighting initiatives, through providing CCTV cameras, high-quality drones for surveillance, issuing of panic buttons to improve access to help from law enforcement officers during distress, and installation of tracking devises on cars.

The MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) and e-Government, Mzi Khumalo, said government collaboration with the policing, security and technology sectors resulted in this agreement coming to fruition.

“Today’s occasion also marks the coming to fruition of a partnership with Vuma Cam to building safer communities. This partnership strengthens the collaboration between the private and public sector, using technology to fight crime and build safer communities.

“The signing of this agreement is a demonstration of commitment by Vuma Cam,” he said.

Vuma Cam have committed to extending camera coverage to underserved areas, particularly within the TISH (townships, informal settlements and hostels) areas.

Vuma Cam CEO Ricky Croock said through the agreement, Vuma Cam is also offering an additional 5 000 partner cameras across South Africa, which would ensure that any known vehicle, involved in a criminal activity in another province, would trigger an immediate alert if seen by the cameras within Gauteng.

“We believe that the alerts from our extensive network, delivered through our world-class software platform and verified by expertly trained operators, will result in a 'new normal' in the fight against crime in South Africa’s economic heartland,” Crook said.

“The launch of our partnership with the Gauteng Provincial Government builds on the success of Vuma Cam’s partnerships with public entities, as we deploy our advanced technology to make the people of Gauteng safer,” he said.

Acting Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service in Gauteng, Major General Tommy Mthombeni, said that this programme is a step closer to the realisation of e-policing, and it is important to also look after this infrastructure.

“We are collaborating with the Department of Community Safety on several initiatives, one of which includes the involvement of our communities. They will also be critical in this campaign as they will ensure that these cameras are safe,” Mthombeni said.”

In continuing with its mission of combatting crime using technology, the Gauteng Provincial Government will be launching 6 000 additional CCTV cameras in due course. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 02/14/2024 - 10:53

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Read moreGauteng receives CCTV cameras to battle crime

Inmate escapes from Mamelodi hospital

Location: News

Inmate escapes from Mamelodi hospital

The Department of Correctional Services is conducting a widespread search operation to locate and apprehend Clatta Gumbo, an offender who escaped on Monday.

Department spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo said Gumbo – who is serving a life sentence for rape, kidnapping and assault – escaped from the grounds of Mamelodi Regional Hospital.

“He was escorted to the hospital for a consultation with a dietician when he attacked the guarding official, disarmed him and escaped from the hospital premises.

“Immediate action has been taken to initiate a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the escape,” Nxumalo said.

Members of the public are asked to report any sightings of the escaped convict.

“Correctional Services is appealing to anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of the escapee to contact the nearest correctional facility or police station. Crucially, we encourage members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement authorities.

“Public safety is our utmost priority and every effort is being made to effect the rearrest of Gumbo,” Nxumalo said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Tue, 02/13/2024 - 09:29

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Read moreInmate escapes from Mamelodi hospital

Operation Shanela nets 1 651 suspects in Limpopo

Location: News

Operation Shanela nets 1 651 suspects in Limpopo

Police in Limpopo, together with other law enforcement agencies, have arrested 1 651 suspects and recovered seven stolen or hijacked motor vehicles during Operation Kukula (Shanela).

The operation was held across the five districts from Monday until Sunday.

The Department of Home Affairs and private security companies also formed part of the operation.

The suspects were arrested for charges such as murder, attempted murder, robberies, rape, sexual offenses, assaults, burglaries, fraud, theft, malicious damage to property, public drinking, drug-related cases and contravention of the Immigration Act.

The operations were conducted through roadblocks, stop and searches, blue light patrols, compliance inspections at liquor premises and second-hand dealers, among other duties.

During the operation, 20 suspects were nabbed for transgression of the Domestic Violence Act, 393 suspects for contravention of the Immigration Act and 117 suspects for drug-related crimes.

The drugs confiscated were 1552.174 grams of dagga, 1 dagga plant, 4.601 grams of crystal meth and 34 grams of nyaope.

Police said they recovered nine firearms, 28 knives, 32 dangerous weapons, 604 162 counterfeit cigarette sticks and 569627.5ml of liquor.

Police attended to 549 reports of domestic violence and 281 protection orders were served.

Limpopo Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant-General Thembi Hadebe has commended the teams for working relentlessly and ensuring that the citizens in the province are safe and secured.

The suspects have started to appear before various magistrate’s courts across the province. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Tue, 02/13/2024 - 14:16

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Read moreOperation Shanela nets 1 651 suspects in Limpopo