MyZA

News, Directory, Events and Other Stuff

You are here: Home / Archives for Mpumalanga

Mpumalanga

Minister George announces actions to grow SA’s green economy

Location: News

Minister George announces actions to grow SA’s green economy

The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has announced key actions to accelerate South Africa’s green economy, create sustainable jobs, and to stimulate economic growth.

These actions focus on renewable energy, energy efficiency, and circular economy initiatives.

In a statement on Wednesday, the Minister said these actions will contribute to environmental targets while fostering economic opportunities.

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) is prioritising renewable energy projects, including solar, wind, and hydropower. 

It has streamlined environmental authorisation processes to speed up project approvals, including the exclusion of solar and battery facilities from environmental authorisation in low and medium environmental sensitivity areas.

Furthermore, 11 renewable energy zones and five transmission corridors for incentivised green energy projects have been identified.

“Efforts to incentivise renewable energy development include identifying strategic zones where the environmental review will take just 194 days, instead of the usual 300.

“These measures will stimulate job creation in installation, maintenance, and in other related sectors, specifically targeting underserved communities,” the department said.

The Minister emphasised the importance of improving energy efficiency across sectors. 

“Through energy-saving programmes and technology incentives, we aim to reduce consumption and cut costs,” George said.

The DFFE is also investing in waste management to support the transition to a circular economy. 

The circular economy refers to a model in which products are re-used and recycled, waste is reduced, and products are re-designed.

“Initiatives like the Recycling Enterprise Support Programme (RESP) and e-waste projects in Bushbuckridge and Nkomazi municipalities are providing economic opportunities for communities while addressing waste,” the department said.

Earlier this month, government launched two E-Waste Recycling pilot projects in Mpumalanga that will enable residents to bring their old and unused electronic waste, such as cell phones, computers, televisions, and other electrical appliances.

Another green economy initiative that the department is driving is the launch of a Green Hydrogen Guideline, which will be launched on 17 February 2025. 

The guideline will help to streamline approvals for green hydrogen projects, which will support the country’s energy transition.

The Minister said that all of these initiatives are not only designed to preserve the environment but will also create much-needed jobs, especially in disadvantaged areas, while driving long-term economic growth. 

“By focusing on the green economy, we’re not just protecting the environment, but creating a sustainable future with meaningful jobs,” he said. -SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle
Wed, 02/12/2025 - 09:32

100 views
Read moreMinister George announces actions to grow SA’s green economy

Social Development issues notices of non-compliance to NPOs 

Location: News

Social Development issues notices of non-compliance to NPOs 

The Department of Social Development has issued 41 787 notices of non-compliance to non-profit organisations (NPOs), with a total of 6 221 NPOs deregistered for failure to honour their obligations in terms of the NPO Act. 

In a statement, the department said a total of 203 279 organisations comprising non-profit organisations, voluntary associations and trusts across South Africa face the risk of deregistration. 

This is due to failure to comply with the requirements to submit annual reports as per the provisions of section 18 (1) of the Non-Profit Organisations Act (Act No. 71 of 1997, as amended through the General Laws Amendment Act 22 of 2022).

“The consequences for non-compliant NPOs are severe as they will no longer be able to access certain privileges such as tax exemption, letters of support and funding from government, donors and private institutions that uphold accountability and the rule of law,” the department said. 

The majority of these non-compliant organisations are based in Gauteng at 64 221, followed by KwaZulu-Natal at 36 605, Western Cape at 20 371, Limpopo at 19 982, Eastern Cape at 19 202, Mpumalanga at 15 102, North West at 12 363, Free State at 10 661 and Northern Cape at 4 770.

These organisations provide a wide range of services to children, youth, persons with disabilities, older persons and humanitarian relief.

“While the department acknowledges the significant contribution of NPOs in providing the much-needed services to the vulnerable, the deregistration of non-compliant NPOs is a regulatory requirement aimed at fostering accountability and transparency within the NPO sector.

“The department remains committed to continue working in partnership with the sector to ensure the integrity and protect the legitimate activities of NPOs that comply with South Africa’s regulatory framework,” it explained.

The commencement of the deregistration process follows a formal notice issued by the department in August 2023.

The notice was followed by a series of targeted workshops and outreach programmes conducted across South Africa to engage NPOs and provide them with the necessary opportunity and support, including capacity building and corrective steps to be taken to address the compliance issues. 

READ | Social Development announces de-registration of non-compliant NPOs

FATF recommendation

In addition to the NPO Act, the deregistration of non-compliant organisations is consistent with the Financial Action Task Force (FATF)’s Recommendation 8 on non-profit organisations and the risk-based approach, which highlights the vulnerability of South Africa’s NPO sector to money laundering and terrorist financing.

The FATF grey listed South Africa at its February 2023 plenary meeting held in Paris.

The FATF is the international standard-setting body that oversees global compliance with anti-money laundering rules.

It developed an Action Plan with 22 Action items linked to the eight strategic deficiencies identified in the country’s anti-money laundering and combating of financial terrorism regime.

In November 2023, the FATF Plenary noted the considerable progress South Africa has made to address the technical compliance deficiencies identified in the mutual evaluation report.

“With South Africa due to report back to FATF on the remaining deficiencies in its fifth round mutual evaluation this year, the department would like to implore all registered NPOs to ensure their operations meet the legal prescripts for compliance without further delay.

Assistance

“In line with its developmental mandate, the department stands ready to assist registered NPOs that are struggling with the process to comply with the requirements of the NPO Act,” the department said. 

To date, the department said it has processed over 18 000 requests through email correspondence, 3 000 telephone enquiries and assisted 4 000 clients through walk-in service.

A total of 3 450 NPOs have updated their details on the NPO register. 

As the registrar and custodian of the NPO Act, the Department of Social Development has a legislative mandate to maintain a reliable database of all non-profit organisations registered in terms of the Act.

“We must once again emphasise that compliance is a regulatory requirement not only to ensure transparency and accountability in the NPO sector, but also to ensure the protection of beneficiary communities in which the registered NPOs operate and render their services,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Tue, 02/11/2025 - 10:35

76 views
Read moreSocial Development issues notices of non-compliance to NPOs 

President Ramaphosa tees off for charity

Location: News

President Ramaphosa tees off for charity

In a bid to raise funds for charity, President Cyril Ramaphosa has this morning teed off alongside a diverse stakeholder grouping during the annual Presidential Golf Challenge.

This year, President Ramaphosa partnered with an 11-year-old golfer Shalom Madlala from Malelane in the Mpumalanga province. Shalom is a provincial player in the South African Golf Development Board’s (SAGDB) program.

The PGC, held at the Atlantic Beach Golf Estate, Melkbosstrand, is held every year following the State of the Nation Address (SONA) and is hosted by the Ministry of Public Service and Administration in partnership with the private sector as part of the activities around SONA.

According to the Presidency, the challenge raises funds for charities designated by the sitting President and provides an opportunity for networking between government and the private sector. 

The proceeds will be donated to the Cyril Ramaphosa Foundation, which will in turn distribute funds to deserving charities to improve education and promote skills development in the communities across the country. 

Job creation, economic development and investment

Speaking to members of the media on the sidelines of the PGC, the President outlined his strategy for job creation and economic growth. He highlighted that investment confidence was rising, indicating a potential increase in investments and job creation.

“As I said yesterday in the State of the Nation Address, we intend to grow our economy, we're focusing more intently on growing the economy by ensuring that our reforms take root, and we broaden our reforms as well to the second phase. 

“We've done relatively well so far with our reforms, particularly when it comes to network industries our electricity, our logistics, our rail, and our ports with doing much better than we did in the past. And that in itself is a really good indicator to investors they see that we are serious and beginning to address issue that they were believing are holding back their own investment,” he said. 

The President emphasised that increased investor confidence was a key driver of economic growth and job creation.

“Investment confidence is up, and once investment confidence is up, we will see a real growth in investments in our economy, and then we will see growth and creation of jobs. 

“We intend to get into the second phase, which will focus on water and local government as well and the regulatory environment. So, we are intending to do a clean sweep of everything that is holding our economy back,” he said. 

The President also highlighted the government's commitment to expanding public employment programs, particularly targeting young people, women, and people with disabilities. He pointed to emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence, the green economy, and the digital economy as key areas for job creation.

“And at the same time, government itself is ramping up its public employment programs, we are going to be integrating them and making sure that we bring in young people, we bring in women, we bring in disabled people and give them opportunities, real opportunities of learning new skills…we want to get into new industries, the green economy, artificial intelligence and digital economy,” he said. 

The President expressed confidence that opportunities would open up in South Africa, adding that the government was excited about this prospect. He highlighted the importance of collaboration with business, labour, and social organisations in driving economic growth.

“The growth of our economy is going to revolve around pulling together and I have a sense that South Africans collectively now want the country to move forward and that nothing should hold us back and government is going to be there to facilitate that,” he said. 

International relations

President Ramaphosa stressed a diplomatic approach when it comes to international relations, particularly regarding engagements with the United States and South Africa’s role in the G20. 

He reiterated that the United States was an important player on the global stage. 

“They're the biggest economy and they are a very important trading partner. So, we intend to deal with them in a formal way and in proper engagement. And as I said, I'm going to be sending a delegation to the world, on our own continent, to Europe, to America, Asia, and to the Middle East…to go and explain our position, more particularly our G20 objectives, because we want this G20 to be an African G20 but also to be a G20 that is going to focus on the issues that impact on the global south and humanity more broadly,” the President said. 

Addressing South Africa’s stance on international negotiations, President Ramaphosa underscored the importance of open dialogue and consensus-building.

“Anybody who says some things are not for negotiation is not being realistic. We live in a world where we want to promote cooperation. We want to promote dialogue. We want to promote being able to work with others, so we want people to put their views forward. 

“It must be a festival of ideas being put forward, where we sharpen each other's wits and where we put wisdom and facts on the table, so we will be willing to talk to people,” he said.

As the current president of the G20, the President said South Africa takes on the role of host and lead in dialogue. 

“We are the dialogue leader; we are going to be presenting positions and therefore we are open to talking as we are open for business. And when you're open for business, you want to hear views even when they are divergent to your own views. And you want to find consensus, and once we get consensus, we're then able to move forward,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

DikelediM
Fri, 02/07/2025 - 14:07

103 views
Read morePresident Ramaphosa tees off for charity

President Ramaphosa ready and focused for SONA

Location: News

President Ramaphosa ready and focused for SONA

President Cyril Ramaphosa is fully prepared and focused ahead of his State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Thursday, says Presidential Spokesperson Vincent Magwenya.

Addressing a media briefing in Cape Town on Wednesday, Magwenya emphasised that despite various pressing national matters, the President remains undistracted and committed to delivering his address. 

“He's very ready for tomorrow. Typically, in our office, there's never a time when we are dealing with one issue. The sort of typical day, week or month in our office involves dealing with multiple issues at the same time. 

“So, we are excited. We are not in any way distracted by all these other issues. We accept these issues to be par for the course, in the nature of the President's work, and like the issues that we have to deal with and resolve, we are not in crisis mode,” Magwenya said. 

He said the President’s office was addressing issues as required and remained focused on preparations for tomorrow’s SONA. 

He noted a great deal of excitement surrounding the event, as it will be the first SONA under the seventh administration and the Government of National Unity (GNU). 

“Tomorrow's address will have received inputs from Ministers that come from other parties who are responsible for their respective portfolios, and so tomorrow's address will be very much reflective of the Government of National Unity, and we are finding a great deal of excitement,” he said. 

President Ramaphosa will deliver the 2025 SONA on Thursday at 7 pm at Cape Town City Hall, before a joint sitting of both Houses of Parliament.

The first SONA of the seventh administration will be held under the theme “A nation that works, for all” and holds added significance as it coincides with South Africa’s 30 years of freedom and democracy as well as its Presidency of the G20.

“The annual address gives us an opportunity to reflect on how far we have come as a nation and recommits us to working together to build the country we envisioned at the start of our democracy. 

“In the address, the President will outline the task of the government of national unity in implementing the three strategic priorities of the Medium-Term Development Plan, namely, driving inclusive growth and job creation, reducing poverty and tackling the high cost of living and building a capable, ethical and developmental state,” he said. 

Presidential Gold Challenge

Following the SONA, President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Friday tee off alongside a diverse stakeholder grouping to raise funds for charities during the annual Presidential Golf Challenge (PGC) which will be held at the Atlantic Beach Golf Estate, Melkbosstrand.

The PGC is held every year following the SONA and is hosted by the Ministry of Public Service and Administration in partnership with the private sector as part of the activities around SONA.

Magwenya explained that the challenge raises funds for charities designated by the sitting President and provides an opportunity for networking between government and the private sector. 

“The proceeds will be donated to the Cyril Ramaphosa Foundation, which will in turn distribute funds to deserving charities to improve education and promote skills development in the communities across the country.

“The President is honoured to partner with an 11-year-old golfer Shalom Madlala from Malelane in the Mpumalanga province. Shalom is a provincial player in the South African Golf Development Board’s (SAGDB) program,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

DikelediM
Wed, 02/05/2025 - 12:42

494 views
Read morePresident Ramaphosa ready and focused for SONA

SASSA warns of scam 

Location: News

SASSA warns of scam 

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has warned senior citizens who are 75 years and above, including people living with disabilities, to be aware of a scam circulating on social media claiming that they will get an additional R500 allocated payment to them.

SASSA Mpumalanga spokesperson, Senzeni Ngubeni, said that access to social grant-in-aid is not a stand-alone social grant. If an individual is living on a social grant but can’t look after themselves, they can get an additional grant to pay the person who takes full-time care of them.

Ngubeni said the agency in Mpumalanga is currently educating the public and clientele at large about the benefits of the grant-in-aid.

“The applicant must be in receipt of an Older Persons Grant, Disability Grant or a War Veteran’s Grant, and require regular attendance by another person owing to his/her physical or mental disabilities; must not be cared for in an institution that receives subsidy from the State.

“[The applicant] must undergo a medical or functional assessment confirming disability; provide clinical information or a referral form confirming disability; must provide a referral form duly completed by a treatment facility or practitioner if previously rejected on medical grounds,” Ngubeni explained in a statement on Tuesday.

Ngubeni urged all SASSA beneficiaries to use the official platforms to access accurate information.

“If the beneficiary is not sure about the correct information, contact SASSA on various platforms provided to enquire. Beneficiaries are also warned not to share their personal details and always be vigilant of those posing as SASSA officials and call the police.

“SASSA has provided the clientele and beneficiaries with info on how to contact SASSA and on how to apply online, or visit SASSA's nearest offices,” Ngubeni said.

Beneficiaries can contact the toll free number 0800 60 10 11during working days/hours and email GrantsEnquiriesMP@sassa.gov.za . 

•    How do you know if you qualify?
Those who qualify for the aid must already be getting a disability grant, war veteran’s grant or grant for older people and not be able to look after themselves owing to physical or mental disability. These individuals must therefore need full-time care from someone else an not be cared for in an institution that receives a subsidy from government for care or housing.

•    How much will you get?

You will get R530 per month.
•    How will you be paid?

The SASSA will pay the grant to you through cash at a specific pay point on a particular day, electronic deposit into your bank or Postbank account (the bank may charge you for the service) or an institution acting as administrator of the grant (e.g. welfare organisation).
The grant will be paid together with your social grant.

If individuals are unable to collect the money themselves, they can appoint a procurator at the SASSA office or give someone power of attorney to collect the grant on their behalf. – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

GabiK
Tue, 02/04/2025 - 12:06

250 views
Read moreSASSA warns of scam 

Seven officials sentenced for issuing fraudulent roadworthy certificates

Location: News

Seven officials sentenced for issuing fraudulent roadworthy certificates

Seven private vehicle testing station officials have been sentenced by the Polokwane Commercial Crimes Court for fraudulently issuing roadworthy certificates to vehicles that were never tested. 

The suspects appeared in court last week, where they were sentenced to five-year imprisonment or R20 000 fine.

The officials were found guilty of 51 charges of fraud related to transactions conducted at the Palala private testing station in Lephalale in 2019.

They were arrested in 2019, following investigations by the National Traffic Anti-Corruption Unit (NTACU), a division of the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), and the serious corruption team of the Hawks.

The investigation follows the South African Revenue Service concerns raised in April 2019 about the vehicles they had impounded at a facility in Mpumalanga. The vehicles were found to have been issued roadworthy certificates by the Palala testing station without being physically presented for testing.

“An investigation was immediately launched. When the investigation team visited the station, they found the officials processing roadworthy certificates for vehicles that were not present at the station. They were immediately arrested and charged with fraud alternatively contravening the National Road Traffic Act,” RTMC said on Friday.

The accused were found guilty on July 31, 2024, and appeared in court again on Wednesday, where they were sentenced.

The seven officials include Pieter Frederick Francoois Schutte (68), Marisca Erasmus (34), Lebogang Rapetsoa (30), Democracy Vhutolo Khangale (36) Thapelo Kgositsile Medupi (42), Makwena Silas Mashala (34) and Mphokane Nicol Medupi (41).

“The RTMC welcomes that sentence as it sends a message that there are consequences for crime irrespective of whether it is committed at a privately owned company. The seven will not be able to work at any testing station in South Africa again. 

“However, the RTMC would have preferred a custodial sentence because unroadworthy vehicles are a menace on the country’s road causing avoidable crashes and fatalities.”

Mpumalanga officer sentences to four years over R200 bribe

Meanwhile, a Mpumalanga traffic officer was recently sentenced to four years' direct imprisonment for accepting a R200 bribe from undercover anti-corruption agents.

This followed a sting operation organised by the NTACU and the Mpumalanga division of the Hawks in 2019, to target traffic officers coercing motorists into paying bribes on the N4 near Middelburg.

Zanele Christian Vilakazi (39) and Andrew Bongani Simphiwe Nkosi (48), were arrested during the operation and charged with corruption. 

After a protracted trial, the court found them guilty and handed down a four-year custodial sentence. Unfortunately, Nkosi passed away before the trial’s conclusion, while Vilakazi began serving her sentence earlier this month, the RTMC confirmed. – SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle
Sun, 02/02/2025 - 09:20

591 views
Read moreSeven officials sentenced for issuing fraudulent roadworthy certificates

Government takes bold step towards a cleaner environment

Location: News

Government takes bold step towards a cleaner environment

South Africa has demonstrated its commitment to reducing landfill waste, increasing recycling rates, and promoting a circular economy with the launch of two new E-Waste Recycling pilot projects in Mpumalanga.

According to Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), Bernice Swarts, the improper disposal old electronic devices is a concern, as these devices contain harmful materials, such as lead, mercury, and cadmium, which can have devastating effects on the environment and public health if not properly managed.

In response to this challenge, government has launched two E-Waste Recycling pilot projects in Mpumalanga that will enable residents to bring their old and unused electronic waste, such as cell phones, computers, televisions, and other electrical appliances.

“In South Africa, we generate over 360,000 tons of e-waste annually, and unfortunately, only a small fraction of 10% of this is properly recycled. The rest ends up in landfills, or worse, is illegally dumped, posing serious risks to our ecosystems,” Swarts said.

On Friday, the Deputy Minister launched the first E-Waste Recycling pilot project in Bushbuckridge Local Municipality, and on Saturday, the same project was launched in Schoemansdal, Nkomazi Local Municipality. 

“As we all know, the municipality faces challenges with waste management, and (e-waste) is one of the most problematic. The increasing number of electronic devices being used without a proper system for disposal has led to the accumulation of waste that harms our environment and contaminates water and soil. 

“Today’s launch of the E-Waste Recycling Project is our response to this growing crisis. The goal of this project is to test and implement a sustainable system for recycling e-waste in Nkomazi,” the Deputy Minister said.

This initiative was launched in partnership with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Mpumalanga Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs, Ehlanzeni District Municipality, Nkomazi Local Municipality, Industry and the Producer Responsibility Organisations (PROs). 

“Through this collaboration, we aim to not only manage and dispose of e-waste responsibly but also raise awareness among communities about the importance of recycling and the dangers of improper e-waste disposal.

“The wheelie bins provided by the Producer Responsibility Organisation (eWASA) to the Nkomazi Local Municipality will be placed at designated sites, which will be determined by the Nkomazi Local Municipality and communicated widely to the community,” she said.

These bins will serve as dedicated receptacles for collecting e-waste, ensuring that it is separated from general household waste and directed to specialized recycling channels. 

E-Waste collection enterprises that are based in Nkomazi will be charged with the responsibility of servicing these designated sites through collecting the e-Waste. 

The enterprises will be led by Previously Disadvantaged Individuals and with a particular demonstration of transformation and inclusivity.

“The collection and recycling of Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) will prevent toxic substances from leaching into the soil and water, protecting both our environment and our health.

“One of the key aspects of the Extended Producer Responsibility Regulations is the legal requirement for Producer Responsibility Organisations to provide a service fee for waste collection by the informal waste sector, waste pickers,” Swarts said.

This service fee is over and above the money that waste pickers get for “selling” the waste.

“Furthermore, this project is about more than just waste management, it is about creating jobs and stimulating local economic development. Through this initiative, we are engaging more Producer Responsibility Organisations (PROs) to facilitate the increase of e-Waste recycling. 

“These organisations play a crucial role in managing the end-of-life phase of electronic products and are an important part of the national effort to promote a circular economy, where materials are reused and recycled rather than discarded. 

“Through collaboration with these organisations, we can ensure that this project is sustainable and scalable, with the potential to expand across other regions in the future. The importance of this project cannot be overstated. Not only will it help Nkomazi manage its e-waste problem more effectively, but it will also contribute to our country’s broader environmental goals,” the Deputy Minister said.

 As part of the National Waste Management Strategy 2020, South Africa has committed to reducing waste sent to landfills, increasing recycling rates, and promoting a circular economy. 

“The Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations, which place responsibility for end-of-life products on producers, are key to this vision. By encouraging industry involvement in waste management, we are ensuring that those who create waste are also part of the solution.

“In the coming months, we will monitor the progress of this project to ensure that it meets its objectives. This includes tracking the volume of e-waste collected, the effectiveness of the community awareness campaigns, and the number of local jobs created through the project. 

“Our goal is to ensure that this project becomes a success story and a model that can be replicated across other municipalities in Mpumalanga and beyond,” the Deputy Minister said. -SANews.gov.za

nosihle
Sun, 02/02/2025 - 10:02

181 views
Read moreGovernment takes bold step towards a cleaner environment

Hawks make significant progress in combatting serious crime

Location: News

Hawks make significant progress in combatting serious crime

The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) has made significant strides in tackling high-profile criminal cases, resulting in the arrest of over 1 400 suspects, who have since appeared in various courts across the country.

This achievement was highlighted during a media briefing in Pretoria on Friday, where the DPCI (the Hawks) National Head, Lieutenant General Godfrey Lebeya, gave an update on the progress made in the third quarter of the 2024/25 financial year.

In the reporting period, a total of 1 452 suspects had been secured before various courts in the country, including 1 409 individuals and 43 corporate entities. Of these arrests, 451 were South Africans, while 958 were foreign nationals.

“These arrests targeted people involved in serious corruption, serious organised crime, serious commercial crime, including fraud, theft, money laundering, cybercrime, police killings, cash-in-transit robberies, other armed robberies, kidnapping for ransom, State capture, illegal mining, counterfeit goods, tax-related offences, COVID-19-related offences, drug trafficking and trafficking in persons,” Lebeya said.

He said out of the 1 452 suspects, 1 172 were secured by the Serious Organised Crime Investigation (SOCI), while the Serious Commercial Crime Investigation (SCCI) secured 234, and the Serious Corruption Investigation (SCI) secured 46 suspects.

Lebeya shared the geographical distribution of arrests, which showed the highest number of the arrests were made in the North West, where 919 suspects were apprehended, followed by Gauteng with 116 arrests, KwaZulu-Natal with 106, Mpumalanga with 67, and the Western Cape with 57 suspects arrested.

Lebeya noted that the North West figures include 854 illegal mining cases that were allocated from Operation Vala Umgodi at Stilfontein, which added to 21 arrests from organised crime projects, known as Tarantula and Grumpyface operations. 

“During these arrests, 86 firearms and 3 617 rounds of ammunition were seized. Three clandestine drug laboratories, involving R37 713 500, were dismantled with four arrests,” Lebeya said.

The DPCI had secured 202 convictions during the same period, including 186 individuals and 16 corporate entities. Furthermore, 222 individuals (204 South Africans and 18 corporate entities), including those who were convicted before this quarter but not sentenced, were also sentenced.

Of the 204 convicts, 153 were South Africans, while 51 were foreign nationals.

“Most of these convictions and sentences were secured in the Gauteng province. Of these 222 sentenced convicts, the Serious Organised Crime Investigation secured 106, Serious Commercial Crime Investigation secured 86 and Serious Corruption Investigation secured 30. 

"Let me hasten to say that the Directorate has secured 32 life imprisonment sentences during this quarter,” Lebeya said.

Freezing and forfeiture orders issued

To ensure that crime does not pay, the Priority Crime Specialised Investigation (PCSI) has contributed towards the issuing of a combined 96 freezing and forfeiture orders, amounting to R55 210 753-43.

In addition, Lebeya said an amount of R2 022 773-09 has been deposited into the Criminal Assets Recovery Account (CARA).

Digital forensics and ongoing investigations

Lebeya announced that the DPCI’s Digital Forensic Investigation Section has finalised the extraction and analysis of data evidence from 315 electronic devices.

The Priority Crime Management Centre (PCMC) has also received a total of 362 reports from telephone service providers for analysis in support of investigations.

Lebeya said at the beginning of the third quarter, the Directorate was handling 18 264 dockets with a monetary value of R1 026 817 012 597-38.

Of these, 5 616 dockets worth R111 332 466 767-03 and involving 12 607 accused, were still pending in the courts, with 1 836 under investigation, awaiting decisions from the National Prosecuting Authority on whether to prosecute or otherwise.

The Lieutenant General highlighted that the total success achieved by the DPCI on arrests, convictions and attachment of assets stood at 1 770. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 01/31/2025 - 15:25

125 views
Read moreHawks make significant progress in combatting serious crime

Government launches project for proper disposal of old electronic devices

Location: News

Government launches project for proper disposal of old electronic devices

In response to the challenge of waste management, government is providing households in Mpumalanga with easy access to recycling facilities, and offering guidance on how to properly separate and dispose of their old electronic devices.

“The increasing number of electronic devices being used without a proper system for disposal has led to the accumulation of waste that harms our environment and contaminates water and soil,” Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Bernice Swarts, said on Friday.

Addressing a service delivery imbizo in Bushbuckridge, Swarts said the project aims to change the way residents think about their waste.

“In Bushbuckridge Local Municipality (BLM), like many other parts of our country, improper disposal of e-waste has become a growing concern. As we all know, the municipality faces challenges with waste management, and electronic waste is one of the most problematic. The goal of this project is to test and implement a sustainable system for recycling e-waste in BLM,” the Deputy Minister said.

This initiative was launched in partnership with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE); Mpumalanga Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs; Ehlanzeni District Municipality; BLM; industry and producer responsibility organisations (PROs).

“We aim to change the way residents think about their waste. The PROs will work with local enterprises and the municipality to set up collection points and provide infrastructure (such as collection bins) for separate collection of e-waste to ensure ongoing sustainability of the project.

“The local enterprises will be responsible for servicing the collection points. This process will prevent toxic substances from leaching into the soil and water, protecting both our environment and our health,” Swarts said.

The Deputy Minister said this project is about more than just waste management -- it is about creating jobs and stimulating local economic development. 

“Through this initiative, we are engaging more PROs to facilitate the increase of e-waste recycling. These organisations play a crucial role in managing the end-of-life phase of electronic products and are an important part of the national effort to promote a circular economy, where materials are reused and recycled rather than discarded. 

“Through collaboration with these organisations, we can ensure that this project is sustainable and scalable, with the potential to expand across other regions in the future.

“The importance of this project cannot be overstated. Not only will it help BLM manage its e-waste problem more effectively, but it will also contribute to our country’s broader environmental goals,” she said.

South African cities face a challenge with landfill space in the country, whereby some are expected to run out in six years if drastic steps are not taken to significantly reduce the amount of waste generated and accelerate recycling efforts. 

Census 2022 results indicate that only 20.6% of households in the Bushbuckridge Local Municipality (BLM) had their refuse removed at least once a week, with most households (72.1%) illegally dumping in open areas.

“As part of the National Waste Management Strategy 2020, South Africa has committed to reducing waste sent to landfills, increasing recycling rates, and promoting a circular economy.

“In the coming months, we will monitor the progress of this project to ensure that it meets its objectives. This includes tracking the volume of e-waste collected, the effectiveness of the community awareness campaigns, and the number of local jobs created through the project. 

“Our goal is to ensure that this project becomes a success story and a model that can be replicated across other municipalities in Mpumalanga and beyond,” she said. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 01/31/2025 - 12:40

66 views
Read moreGovernment launches project for proper disposal of old electronic devices

SIU investigates Defence Department, KwaDukuza Municipality and Mpumalanga Education

Location: News

SIU investigates Defence Department, KwaDukuza Municipality and Mpumalanga Education

The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) is rolling up its sleeves in preparation to launch three separate investigations into the Department of Defence, the KwaDukuza Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal, and the provincial Mpumalanga Department of Education.

The three investigations were given the green light by President Cyril Ramaphosa after he signed proclamations authorising the tender corruption related probes.

Department of Defence

The Department of Defence is under the SIU’s investigative microscope for allegations of “serious maladministration” related to two tenders.

These tenders relate to inventory verification, continuous asset verification, and the supply, delivery, installation and commissioning of an asset management system.

“The probe will also examine whether the payments for these contracts adhered to national treasury guidelines and ascertain whether the payments were irregular, fruitless, and wasteful expenditures or financial losses for the department or the state,” the SIU said.

The probe will also hone in on department employees to “establish if there was unlawful or improper conduct” by the employees, officials or agents and any other person or entity to “corruptly or unduly benefit themselves or others”. 

“The investigation will also look at whether fraudulent conduct occurred, including the causes of such maladministration, any losses, damages, or prejudice actually or potentially suffered by the Department or the State, and any irregular, improper, or unlawful conduct by employees or officials of the Department or any other person or entity,” the corruption busting unit said.

Mpumalanga Department of Education

The SIU has set its sights on probing six contracts related to the “procurement and contracting for the supply of foodstuff for six schools in the province.

Investigations will assess whether the department followed National Treasury guidelines and if any irregular, fruitless, and wasteful expenditures or financial losses were incurred.

“Furthermore, the SIU will seek to establish if there was unlawful or improper conduct by the department employees, officials, agents, and any other person or entity to corruptly or unduly benefit themselves or others.

“The investigation will also at whether fraudulent conduct occurred, including the causes of such maladministration, any losses, damages, or prejudice actually or potentially suffered by the department or the State, and any irregular, improper, or unlawful conduct by employees or officials of the department or any other person or entity,” the SIU said.

KwaDukuza Municipality

The probe into the KwaZulu-Natal-based municipality will investigate three infrastructure tenders issued by the municipality.

According to the proclamation, the tenders under investigation are:

  • Tender MN132/2018 - Panel of contractors for road rehabilitation for a 36 month contract;
  • Tender MN30/2019 - KwaDukuza Mall Bulk Supply; and
  • Tender MN240/2019 - KwaDukuza Mall Bulk Supply – construction of industrial 33/11 KV substation upgrade.

“The SIU probe will examine whether the procurement and contracting were made in a manner that was not fair, competitive, transparent, equitable, or cost-effective or in violation of applicable legislation, guidelines, or instructions from the National or Provincial Treasury. This includes the municipality or the State’s unauthorised, irregular or wasteful expenditure. 

“The probe will also look at any irregular, unlawful, or improper conduct by officials or employees of the municipality, its suppliers or service providers, or any other person or entity implicated,” the SIU said.

Holding wrongdoers to account

The SIU assured that any evidence of alleged criminal acts will be referred to the National Prosecuting Authority for further action.

“Under the SIU Act, the SIU is also authorised to initiate a civil action in the High Court or a Special Tribunal in its name to address any wrongdoing identified during its investigation resulting from acts of corruption, fraud, or maladministration,” the SIU concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Thu, 01/30/2025 - 11:16

321 views
Read moreSIU investigates Defence Department, KwaDukuza Municipality and Mpumalanga Education

Health Minister encourages adherence to ARV treatment

Location: News

Health Minister encourages adherence to ARV treatment

Health Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, has appealed to people on antiretroviral (ARV) treatment to continue taking their medication amid reports that grant funding by the United States of America (USA) is under review.

The review of the grant funding is expected to affect the US President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) programme, which is aimed at supporting HIV prevention, care and treatment. The programme supports several countries, including South Africa, to achieve HIV epidemic control.

Addressing members of the media on the sidelines of a two-day Cabinet Lekgotla, Motsoaledi said the country’s ARVs proramme will not be affected, as it is funded by the South African government and the Global Fund.

“For now, all HIV/AIDS programmes continue. As the South African government, we want to ascertain that nobody must stop taking ARVs because that will be devastating,” Motsoaledi said on Wednesday.

South Africa has 52 districts and of those, 27 districts are funded by PEPFAR.

“PEPFAR chose 27 of the most affected districts and these districts are in eight provinces, as they choose districts based on the burden of HIV/AIDS. The only province that is not included is the Northern Cape because it does not have any districts that are highly affected by HIV/AIDS,” the Minister said.

Of the 27 districts, seven of them are in KwaZulu-Natal; five are in the Eastern Cape, four are in Gauteng; three are in Mpumalanga and the North West, respectively; two are in Limpopo and one is in the Western Cape.

“The total number of people on the ground who are dealing with HIV/AIDS in those 27 districts is 271 606. Of the 271 606 people, 256 452 are funded by South Africa from the fiscus. That leaves us with 15 145 people, who will be affected by the withdrawal.

“Our biggest problems will be the salaries and the operational costs. That is what we are looking at with National Treasury,” Motsoaledi said.

Seventy-six percent of the funding for HIV/AIDS programmes is from South Africa. This constitutes 74% of funding from the government and 2% from the private sector.

“That leaves us with a gap that is filled by the Global Fund, which gives 7% and PEPFAR, which accounts for 17%. When you add the funds from the Global Fund and South Africa’s funding, that makes 83% and PEPFAR remains with the 17%. We are buying ARVs, together with the Global Fund,” the Minister said.

With reports indicating changes in the grant funding by the US, Motsoaledi said the government of South Africa has not received any communication on these changes.

“So far, we have not received a letter from the American government. These funds for the HIV/AIDS programmes come through National Treasury and they have not received a letter; the Department of Health and Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) have also not received a letter.

“We have tried to contact the US embassy and we couldn’t get them. The NGOs and the clinics that are funded by PEPFAR are the ones who have received letters,” the Minister said.

Out of the 63 million people in South Africa, 7.8 million people are HIV positive, with 5.5 million on ARVs.

In 2014, the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) adopted the strategy of 95-95-95, which sets a target that 95% of people living with HIV (PLHIV) must know their HIV status; 95% of people diagnosed with HIV must receive antiretroviral therapy (ART) and 95% of people receiving ART must achieve viral load suppression (VLS).

“We are on 96%. That means 96% of people who have HIV in South Africa know their status but of those, 79% are on treatment and in that 79% who are on ARVs, 94% of them are virally suppressed. It means that they can no longer spread the virus, reducing the number of new infections.

“For us to reach the 95-95-95 targets by 2030 - because we want to eliminate HIV as a threat to human health - we need 1.1million people to be on treatment so we reach the target,” the Minister said. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 01/30/2025 - 07:00

85 views
Read moreHealth Minister encourages adherence to ARV treatment

Government condemns torching of PUTCO buses 

Location: News

Government condemns torching of PUTCO buses 

The Ministry of Transport has called on law enforcement to arrest those responsible for the torching of 50 Public Utility Company (PUTCO) buses and ensure that they are prosecuted in court.

PUTCO’s bus fleet plays a key role in moving about 200 000 commuters a day, with its biggest operation being in the province of Mpumalanga. 

In a statement on Tuesday, PUTCO said that the buses were set alight on Monday night after unknown men ambushed and tied-up security guards at the Moloto depot before burning buses on site. 

It added that two employees were injured during the incident and had to be treated in hospital. 

“Soon thereafter, attacks were reported at the Wolwekraal and Siyabuswa depots,” it said, adding that it is closely monitoring the situation. 

“Authorities are investigating the incident, and we appeal to members of the public who may have information on these coordinated attacks to contact their local police,” said PUTCO.

This as the Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy, and Deputy Minister Mkhuleko Hlengwa have condemned the incident in the strongest of terms and described it as an act of aggression.

“The Minister and Deputy Minister have thus characterised the act as economic sabotage given the critical role that the bus industry plays in the mobility of the workforce in the country. 

“The Minister has instructed the department to organise an urgent meeting with National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) to discuss this matter and develop necessary integrated response,” the Transport Ministry said on Tuesday.

The ministry said it fears that interfering with the company’s operations may regrettably have disastrous impact on the commuters in Mpumalanga, who rely on the bus operator to commute to as far as Gauteng on a daily basis. 

“It is therefore of utmost importance that the law enforcement agencies take every possible course of action to investigate Monday’s incident and bring the perpetrators to book to face the full might of the law. 

“The department will also continue to support any effort taken to prevent acts of sabotage on the country’s public transport system.

“The Minister and Deputy Minister wish a speedy recovery to the two employees who were injured in the course of the arson attack, and they have also expressed their full support to PUTCO in this period,” the Transport Ministry said. -SAnews.gov.za
 

 

nosihle
Wed, 01/29/2025 - 08:04

337 views
Read moreGovernment condemns torching of PUTCO buses 

Rhino poachers handed prison sentences

Location: News

Rhino poachers handed prison sentences

Police have commended the sentencing of three wildlife poachers, who have been found guilty of a number of serious crimes by the Skukuza Regional Court.

Two South African citizens, Sam Khosa (40) and Solly Bennett Selahle (30), and Mozambican national, Oddis Maluleke (46), were sentenced by the court on Friday, 24 January.

During proceedings, the court heard that on Friday, 15 February 2019, a regional field ranger observed suspicious activity inside the Kruger National Park (KNP) involving the accused individuals.

A field ranger, who passed away before the case was finalised in court, was seen transporting two passengers in his vehicle and meeting with another individual, later identified as Selahle. The regional ranger immediately called for backup.

Two vehicles, a VW Polo and a Hyundai, were intercepted on the road between Skukuza and the Kruger Gate.

Upon searching the Hyundai, one hunting rifle with ammunition, one rhino horn, two knives and some clothing items were discovered.

The four suspects were immediately arrested and charged accordingly. The two vehicles were also confiscated by the police.

During their court appearance, the four were granted bail at the Bushbuckridge District Court. As proceedings of the case continued at the Skukuza Regional Court, the implicated field ranger passed away, leaving behind the other three suspects to face the music.

After a lengthy legal process, Khosa and Maluleke were convicted and sentenced as follows:

- On Count 1: Trespassing in a national park. The two were sentenced to two years’ imprisonment.

- On Count 2: Contravention of the Immigration Act of South Africa. The two accused persons were not found guilty.

- On Count 3: Possession of an unlicensed firearm. The two were sentenced to five years’ imprisonment.

- On Count 4: Possession of a firearm with the intention to commit crime. The two were sentenced to four years’ imprisonment.

- On Count 5: Possession of a prohibited firearm (serial number obliterated). The two were sentenced to six years’ imprisonment.

- On Count 6: Conspiracy to commit crime. The two were sentenced to four years’ imprisonment.

- On Count 7: Illegal hunting of rhinoceros. The two were sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment.

- On Count 8: Possession of unlicensed ammunition. The two were sentenced to two years’ imprisonment.

- On Count 9: Possession of a dangerous weapon. The two were sentenced to one year imprisonment.

The court ordered that the sentence on Count 3, 4, 8, and 9 run concurrently with Count 5.

The effective sentence for the two accused persons will be 22 years’ behind bars.

On the other hand, Selahle was sentenced to four years’ in imprisonment for conspiracy to commit crime.

The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General,  Dr Zeph Mkhwanazi, commended the collaboration between various stakeholders, which led to the successful conviction of the poachers. 

"We are encouraged by the sentences handed down to these poachers. We hope that the sentences will serve as a deterrent to others, who might consider emulating the actions of the accused persons," said the General. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Mon, 01/27/2025 - 09:34

60 views
Read moreRhino poachers handed prison sentences

Security officers to appear in court 

Location: News

Security officers to appear in court 

A group of security personnel are expected to appear in the Nelspruit Magistrate's Court on Friday after they were found in possession of fraudulently acquired competency certificates.

In a statement on Saturday, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks), said firearm competency certificates are required by law to certify that individuals are properly trained and qualified to handle firearms safely and responsibly. 

“The Hawks' Nelspruit based Serious Corruption Investigation, Priority Crime Management Centre (PCMC) and a private security company's joint investigation paid off as 21 security personnel were summoned to court after they were found in possession of fraudulently acquired competency certificates in February 2024,” said the Hawks.

This as a third group made up of six suspects are due to appear in the Nelspruit Magistrate’s Court in Mpumalanga on Friday, 31 January, with the exception of the seventh suspect who has since passed away. 

The appearance of the six follows on the appearance of the second group of seven suspects in court on Friday, 24 January. The first group of seven suspects appeared in court on 17 January.

“In both appearances, the suspects were released by the court and warned to appear before the same court again on 07 February 2025,” said the Hawks, adding that three other suspects (two women and a man) suspected to be the masterminds in orchestrating the fraudulent activities and receiving gratuity, will also be summoned to court on a date that is yet to be confirmed.

The Mpumalanga Provincial Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, Major General Nico Gerber, warned that fraudulently acquired competency certificates poses a serious threat to the holder and other people. 

The Major General said the unqualified competency certificate holder may increase the chances of accidents and damage to security reputation. He called on security companies to verify such reports with the issuing authority.

The directorate said the investigation was prioritised to ensure the safety of the inhabitants of South Africa by not allowing firearms to be in the wrong hands. 

“The fact that the firearms were going to be in the hands of people who are entrusted to provide safety and security to human lives and property is one of the many reasons the investigation received priority attention. 

The investigation was launched shortly after the private security company learned that some of their employees were in possession of fraudulently acquired and unregistered competency certificates,” said the Hawks. -SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Mon, 01/27/2025 - 09:52

4 views
Read moreSecurity officers to appear in court 

R60 billion lost to illegal mining in 2024, says Minister

Location: News

R60 billion lost to illegal mining in 2024, says Minister

Illegal mining is waging war on the South African economy, with the illicit trade costing the economy at least R60 billion in 2024.

This is according to the Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, Gwede Mantashe, who briefed the media on Thursday.

“Our view on illegal mining remains unchanged. Illegal mining is a criminal activity and a war on the economy. There can be no two ways about it. 

“The truth of the matter is that those that are involved in illegal mining, both the syndicates and the active illegal miners, have no regard for the health and safety of others, nor are they concerned about the laws that regulate the industry. They are in it for their own selfish gains and have no regard for the country. In 2024 alone, the country lost an estimated R60 billion to illicit precious metal trade,” Mantashe said. 

The Minister insisted that the department was working with law enforcement to root out the scourge. 

“As government, we will continue our fight against illegal mining through initiatives such as the Operation Vala Umgodi which continues to help us deal decisively with illegal mining in Limpopo, Gauteng, Mpumalanga, Free State, Northern Cape and the North West.

“We wish to assure the nation that the state will not take responsibility for the reckless actions of illegal miners,” he said.

Replying to questions from journalists, the Minister called on mining companies to take responsibility for rehabilitating mines.

“An operational mine must do rehabilitation as they operate. There are big chunks of holes which were left…[these are] what we call derelict and ownerless mines. Those are mines that were operated under Apartheid where there was no legislation enforcing rehabilitation. The state has taken responsibility to attend to that,” he said.

Turning to the situation at Stilfontein where at least 78 illegal miners have died, Mantashe called out the owners of the abandoned gold mine – urging them to take responsibility.

“If you go to…a mine that’s neglected, you go and stay there for three months and you starve yourself to death, how does that become the responsibility of the state? Capital owned mines exploit them, make money and when there’s a risk, that risk must be offloaded to the state…that cannot be correct.

“The Stilfontein goldmine…is not an ownerless and derelict mine. It is owned by an existing company and that company must take responsibility. The state intervened to facilitate the rescue operation as an interim measure. But that owner must take the ultimate responsibility for that disaster, not the state,” he said.

 The rescue operation at the abandoned Buffelsfontein gold mine near Stilfontein was recently concluded with at least 246 illegal miners being brought to the surface alive, while 78 bodies were recovered. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Thu, 01/23/2025 - 17:29

316 views
Read moreR60 billion lost to illegal mining in 2024, says Minister

Bud rot of palms detected in some parts of SA

Location: News

Bud rot of palms detected in some parts of SA

The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) has issued a warning on the detection of the Bud rot of palms (Phytophthora palmivora) in certain parts of the country.

This follows the detection of P. palmivoraIn orchards in the Mopani District in Limpopo, and three commercial papaya orchards in the Ehlanzeni District Municipality in Mpumalanga.

The National Plant Protection Organisation of South Africa (NPPOZA) confirmed detection of the pest in August 2024. The disease is caused by a fungus that attacks palms. Disease transmission may also occur through soil contaminated with roots from an infected palm.

According to a statement issued by the department on Wednesday, NPPOZA, in collaboration with different role players and stakeholders, initiated a delimiting survey to determine the extent of spread of the pest in the country.

“This was done in accordance with the P. palmivora National Action Plan and relevant standards. DALRRD is currently conducting delimiting surveys in all production areas to determine the extent of the spread.

“Phytosanitary measures are implemented to restrict the movement of host material from infested areas to non-infested areas, unless such movement is authorised by means of a removal permit,” the department said.

The department noted that removal and, or movement of host material from affected areas to unaffected areas in the rest of the Republic of South Africa, is restricted in accordance with the Agricultural Pests Act, 1983 (Act No. 36 of 1983), and Control Measures R.110, as amended to prevent further spread of the pest to other provinces.

The department said hundreds of plant species, including horticultural, ornamental, and agricultural crops, have been infected by P. palmivora.

The agricultural host crops include papaya, pineapple, citrus, black pepper, cocoa, and coconut.

“Potential spread or establishment of P. palmivora from infested areas through host material to other areas, may negatively affect domestic and international trade, as well as export potential of relevant host commodities to various countries, where it is recognised as a quarantine pest.

“This pest can be managed by practicing effective cultural control, use of resistant varieties, chemical control, constant monitoring, and regulation of the removal of host material from quarantine (infested) to non-quarantine (non-infested) areas,” the department explained.

The department has since encouraged farmers and communities to practice effective cultural control, and “not to move host materials from infested areas to non-infested areas without authorisation”.

“International travellers are advised to avoid illegal importation of agricultural commodities into South Africa, as this may lead to the introduction of new pests and diseases that are expensive and difficult to manage.” - SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Wed, 01/22/2025 - 12:55

42 views
Read moreBud rot of palms detected in some parts of SA

NPA seizes R52.5m in cross border strike against illegal mining

Location: News

NPA seizes R52.5m in cross border strike against illegal mining

The National Prosecuting Authority’s Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) – working in collaboration with the South African Financial Intelligence Centre (SA-FIC), the Namibian Financial Intelligence Centre (Nam-FIC) and the Namibian Prosecutor-General (Nam PG) office has seized some R52.5 million held in eight Namibian bank accounts.

NPA Mpumalanga Regional spokesperson Monica Nyuswa said the money is allegedly linked to intentions to commit or proceeds from “massive alleged illegal coal mining” in the province’s Carolina area.

“On 2 December 2024 the SA-FIC, in collaboration with their Nam-FIC counterparts, obtained a Namibian FIC temporary freeze upon the funds of Jacobus Hosea Jordaan and his wife Elza Jordaan… to the value of R50 205 872.

“On 30 December 2024 the Nam PG’s office managed to obtain a Preservation of Property order in the Namibian High Court, Windhoek in respect of the abovementioned R50 205 872 on the basis that the money… represents the proceeds of, and/or was used as instrumentalities, to commit the abovementioned massive alleged illegal coal mining and other offences, including money laundering in the Carolina area,” she said.

Nyuswa added that last week, a second preservation of property order was granted to the value of R2 285 500 in the Namibian High Court “in respect of two further Namibian bank accounts in the name of Reinet Binneman," the sister of Elza Jordaan.

“Jacobus Jordaan and his wife Elza Jordaan are among the main accused in the Carolina illegal coal mining case that was transferred to the Mbombela High Court on 6 December 2024 to November 2025 for trial. 

“The illegal financial benefit obtained by the accused from the illegal coal mining and other offences in Mpumalanga allegedly amounts to at least R2 billion,” Nyuswa explained.

She described cooperation between the two countries’ law enforcement officials as “remarkable”.

“There was remarkable cooperation and hard work during the December festive season between the abovementioned Namibian and the South African law enforcement agencies to obtain the abovementioned Namibian High Court seizure orders.

“Both Namibia and South Africa were grey listed a few years ago by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) for, amongst others, failing to sufficiently combat money laundering. The abovementioned two Namibian seizure orders will assist enormously in getting both countries off the FATF grey list,” she said.

The dedication, enthusiasm and commitment of the abovementioned law enforcement agencies also make a huge difference in combating transnational crime in the two countries. 

Digging in

Nyuswa said that as early as November 2023, police and law enforcement had already pounced on alleged illegal mining activities in the Carolina – leading to arrests and seizures of property.

“On 15 November 2023 the NPA AFU in Mpumalanga, in collaboration with a special illegal mining unit in the [SAPS], obtained provisional preservation of property order in the Mbombela High Court upon, amongst others, a farm in the Carolina district, stockpiles/heaps of coal in two separate areas, heavy duty mining machinery, equipment and motor vehicles as well as the washing plant machinery and all movable buildings, machines, equipment and motor vehicles used at Droog Valley farm Barrel Coal Processing and Washing Plant near Carolina, Mpumalanga area.

“The assets were seized on the basis that it was, on reasonable grounds, believed to be, used as instrumentalities to commit various illegal large-scale coal mining and environmental offences at the farm in the Carolina area, and/or that the assets are reasonable grounds to believe the proceeds of unlawful activities, and/or represents the proceeds of unlawful activities, namely the large-scale illegal coal mining and environmental offences. 

“It was the largest seizure of its kind ever in South Africa,” Nyuswa said.

A further provisional restraint of property order was granted to law enforcement against assets to the value of some R1 billion.

“Jacobus and his wife, Elza Jordaan, and 15 other persons and companies are currently standing trial in the Mbombela High Court for multiple offences, Including illegal coal mining, environmental offences, theft, corruption, money laundering etc. 

“Their criminal trial was postponed to the Middelburg High Court for trial from 3 to 28 November 2025,” she added.

The spokesperson said the prosecutorial body remains committed to supporting the work of law enforcement agencies in rooting out criminality.

“Illegal mining activities, coupled with money laundering, in South Africa, are a huge concern for the government, as also pronounced by the State President who last year deployed the South African Defence Force to assist the SAPS in eradicating the illegal mining activities and syndicates. 

“Illegal mining amounts to the plundering of the most valuable natural resources of South Africa to the detriment of the fiscus and the broader public. It also destroys the beautiful South African natural environment and bona fide farming activities. 

“The NPA is committed to assisting the SAPS, the South African government, and governments of foreign jurisdictions to eradicate this scourge of illegal mining and money laundering activities,” Nyuswa concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Mon, 01/20/2025 - 13:39

290 views
Read moreNPA seizes R52.5m in cross border strike against illegal mining

Road crashes and fatalities increase during festive season

Location: News

Road crashes and fatalities increase during festive season

While law enforcement maintained a constant presence throughout the festive season, conducting operations around the clock - the preliminary 2024/2025 Festive Season Statistics reveal a concerning increase in crashes and fatalities, primarily attributed to human behavior. 

“Tragically, South Africa witnessed 1,502 deaths resulting from 1,234 fatal crashes during the 2024/25 festive season. The number of fatalities represents a year-on-year increase of 5.3% (70) compared to the 2023/24 festive season, with a 4.2% (50) increase in the number of crashes,” Transport Minister Barbara Creecy said during a media briefing, held in Pretoria, on Monday.

The preliminary 2024/2025 Festive Season Statistics indicate that 87% of crashes happened because of human behaviour, including hit-and-runs, jay-walking (pedestrians crossing or walking in the street or road unlawfully), fatigue, loss of control over vehicles, speed, drunken driving, and reckless overtaking.

“The number of people who died on our roads this festive season has increased because people continued to behave badly. In spite of our pleas and warnings, and notwithstanding our efforts to clamp down on irresponsible and reckless behaviour, it is clear that many road users – both drivers and pedestrians – continue to act without regard for the lives of others.

“Six provinces recorded increases in the number of fatalities in the 2024/25 festive season compared to 2023/24, namely KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, Free State, Limpopo, Northern Cape and North West,” the Minister said.

The Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal and Free State recorded increases of 70, 54 and 21 fatalities as compared to 2023/24, while Gauteng, Western Cape and Mpumalanga recorded decreases of 76, 23 and 15 fatalities, respectively.

Concern over pedestrian fatalities

Creecy said pedestrian fatalities remain a huge concern, with 41% of all road fatalities being pedestrians. 

The highest percentage of pedestrian fatalities were recorded in Gauteng, Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal, which are the most populous provinces in the country in terms of vehicles and people.

Gauteng had the highest pedestrian fatalities at 63.84% followed by Western Cape with 53.9% and KwaZulu-Natal with 44.33%.

During this period, law enforcement conducted joint operations in line with the focus areas, including vehicle road worthiness, public passenger transport, drunken driving, execution of warrants of arrest, and speed law enforcement.

Law enforcement officers issued 711,184 fines for various traffic offences across the country. 

“Some 23,607 fines were issued to drivers who failed to wear seatbelts, while another 16,925 motorists were fined for using cell phones while driving. Then, 16,527 vehicles were found to be unroadworthy and issued with traffic fines, as well as their motor vehicle licence discs removed, particularly in areas where vehicles could not be impounded due to lack of impoundment facilities,” the Minister said.

In total, 8,917 motor vehicles were impounded in areas where facilities were available.

“To clamp down on drunken driving, speeding and other moving violations, our officers arrested more than 9,550 motorists, with 3,840 individuals arrested for drunken driving.

“A total of 414 drivers were arrested for driving at high speed and five amongst them were driving at excessive speeds of between 200km/h to well above 240km/h,” Creecy said.

The highest speedster was arrested in Gauteng, driving at 245km/h (kilometre per hour) in a BMW Sedan on N1 near Honeydew, on 18 December 2024.

“We, South Africans, must change our behaviour on the roads. As we said at the beginning of the festive season, government and our law enforcement agencies cannot do it on our own.

“The statistics clearly send all of us, as South Africans, one message: Drivers and pedestrians must change their behaviour. We must obey the law, we must obey the basic rules of the road,” Creecy said.

Interventions 

The Minister has asked the provinces to conduct a detailed analysis of their respective statistics, and come up with a clear plan for the way forward, by the end of January. 

This will include a look at severe consequences for those who continue to show a disregard for road safety.

“We will continue to direct our efforts at changing the behaviour of road users, invest in designing and engineering safer roads, enforcing safe speeds in high congestion areas, and enhancing emergency response systems and access to quality trauma care, which is essential to saving lives.

“By reducing response times and improving the availability of critical care, we can increase survival rates and reduce the long-term impacts of road traffic injuries. This initiative will require collaboration with the Department of Health, and other industry role-players,” she said.

Creecy said indications are that the implementation of 24/7 traffic policing shifts is more critical than ever. 

“During the festive season, we agreed to release National Traffic Police resources to provinces, to intensify road safety communication and education campaigns and strengthen monitoring of our law enforcement operations especially at night.

"This approach will serve as a blueprint for our road safety activities but will only succeed if it is consistent all year round, especially on weekends and in every province across the country,” the Minister said. -SAnews.gov.za

 

 

 

nosihle
Mon, 01/20/2025 - 13:47

29 views
Read moreRoad crashes and fatalities increase during festive season

All fraudulent COVID-19 SRD grants automatically canceled

Location: News

All fraudulent COVID-19 SRD grants automatically canceled

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) in Mpumalanga has announced the automatic cancellation of all fraudulent R370 COVID-19 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant payments.

The SRD grant is administered in terms of app-section 32 of the Social Assistance Act, 2004 (Act No. 13 of 2004) and is implemented with the concurrence of the Minister of Finance. The grant is meant for South African citizens, refugees, asylum seekers and special permit holders, who are between the ages of 18 and 60 years, who have insufficient means, who do not receive social grants on behalf of themselves, or who are not contributing to or eligible for Unemployment Insurance Fund payment, and have no financial support from any other source.

In a statement on Monday, the agency informed all beneficiaries that it is mandated to cancel all fraudulent grant payments, while emphasising its commitment to combatting fraud and ensuring that grants are paid to the rightful beneficiaries.

Beneficiaries, whose grants are cancelled due to suspected fraud, are allowed to reapply.

“SASSSA implemented this activity to ensure that the Agency pays social grants to the right people and avoid fraud.

“The agency is encouraging people to take responsibility to make sure that their identity numbers are not utilised for fraudulent activities. SASSA beneficiaries must ensure that they do not share their identity numbers with strangers to avoid becoming aiding fraudsters,” the Agency said. 

To manage these cases effectively, SASSA has deployed a team of well-trained officials assigned to deal with COVID-19 SRD grant cases.

Beneficiaries, who suspect fraudulent activity involving their grants, are encouraged to report it immediately via SASSA's toll-free hotline or WhatsApp service.

“Beneficiaries are encouraged to note that when they check their status and find out that it states “referred” it means that the SASSA system is suspecting fraudulent activity therefore the beneficiary must contact SASSA immediately to resolve the case,” the Agency said. 

SASSA also warned beneficiaries not to keep changing their banking details and contact numbers because those processes delay the payment processes.

For further assistance or information, beneficiaries can contact SASSA toll-free on 0800 60 10 11, or call 013 754 9428/9363 during working hours, Monday to Friday. WhatsApp inquiries can be directed to 082 046 8553. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Mon, 01/20/2025 - 10:01

26 views
Read moreAll fraudulent COVID-19 SRD grants automatically canceled

Weather service warns of thunderstorms

Location: News

Weather service warns of thunderstorms

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned of thunderstorms that have the potential to become severe with heavy rain and strong winds in Gauteng, Limpopo and Mpumalanga from this afternoon. 

On Thursday, SAWS said the thunderstorms will occur with saturated soil and an additional 15-30mm of rain.

This is likely to cause localised flooding in susceptible low-lying areas and bridges, falling trees due to strong winds and localised service disruption due to power surges.

In addition, there will be poor driving conditions due to pooling of water on roads and reduced visibility can also be expected. Trees may also fall due to strong winds. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 01/16/2025 - 13:53

151 views
Read moreWeather service warns of thunderstorms

Department monitors Vaal Dam levels

Location: News

Department monitors Vaal Dam levels

The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) is closely monitoring the Vaal Dam after the dam’s water levels drastically increased from last week’s 24.3% to 46.2% this week.

According to the department’s real time data, the water levels have again significantly increased overnight to 50.53%.

Departmental spokesperson, Wisane Mavasa, said the dam has, for the past few months, been on a downward spiral with the department making plans to release water from the Sterkfontein Dam into the Vaal Dam, to augment its levels when it reached 18% in volume.

However, Mavasa said this will no longer be necessary, as the dam is rapidly rising. This is due to this week’s heavy rainfall experienced in Gauteng, and other provinces, including North West, Free State, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu-Natal.
She said the department is now clear of the risk of the dam dropping below its minimum operating level of 18%.

“The dam had experienced continuous decline over the past few months due to elevated temperatures which have led to increased evaporation losses, and the low inflows owing into the dam, due to lack of rainfall in the Vaal catchment.

“The current dam level is now plotting above 50% and there is a good inflow because of recent rainfall in the catchment. There is therefore no more a need for water release from Sterkfontein Dam to support Vaal Dam,” Mavasa said in a statement on Wednesday.

Mavasa said the rising of the dam levels has also boosted the Integrated Vaal River System (IVRS) that provides water to Gauteng and key industries within the province that has shot up from 71.4% to 79.4% this week.

“Recent rainfall has significantly improved surface water storage levels in the country’s dams with 79.8% this week, a huge increase as compared to last week’s 74.5%. Although the heavy and disruptive rainfall has resulted in localised flooding in those provinces, it has also boosted their Water Supply Systems significantly,” Mavasa explained.

The Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal provinces have also experienced the highest upsurge with 10.2%, respectively.

The dam levels in Mpumalanga have increased from 82.9% to 93.1% this week, while KwaZulu-Natal increased from 81.0% to 91.2%.

Limpopo has also increased from 73.2% to 82.6% this week, while North West rose from last week’s 64.7% to 72.5%, with Free State seeing a considerable increase from last week’s 68.5% to 72.6% this week.

Rainfall in parts of the provinces has exceeded 150 millimetres (mm), while parts of Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu Natal received more than 200 mm.

“There is an expectation of isolated to scattered rainfall over central and eastern areas of the country, particularly in [the] Free State, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu-Natal provinces this week, as a result, surface water storage in these areas is expected to improve further next week.

“However, the Department of Water and Sanitation would like to caution the residents in those provinces to be careful during the heavy rains, and urge residents to avoid water bodies, particularly when the rain can be disruptive, “ Mavasa said.

She also urged the public to stay away from rivers, lakes and dams, especially in the low-lying areas.

“Pedestrians should avoid crossing bridges, and motorists should also refrain from driving through flooded areas, even though the water seems to be shallow. Water can be deadly during the floods and should not at all be underestimated. Let us all keep safe and stay indoors, if possible.”

While the surface water storage capacity has improved in the majority of the country’s dams in most provinces, the department reiterated its call on citizens to continue to use water sparingly. – SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK
Thu, 01/16/2025 - 10:04

26 views
Read moreDepartment monitors Vaal Dam levels