MyZA

News, Directory, Events and Other Stuff

You are here: Home / Archives for Mthatha

Mthatha

SCOPA Alarmed Following Oversight Visit to Two Eastern Cape Municipalities

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: The Parliament
Download logo

At 8 pm on Friday, 28 March 2025, the Standing Committee on Public Accounts (SCOPA) concluded its week-long oversight visit to the Eastern Cape's OR Tambo District Municipality and Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality where it noted with alarm the state of most of the projects it visited at both municipalities.

The projects were chosen following the reports the committee received from the Auditor-General of South Africa (AG) and the Special Investigating Unit (SIU).

Key oversight observations: 

  • Chronic capital project delays with cost overruns being the norm rather than the exception, to the tune of hundreds of millions.
  • Persistence of years-long legacy of supply chain and financial management misdeeds and mismanagement – leading to write-offs or unresolved irregular expenditure.
  • Consulting engineers certify invoices for payment when work has not been completed and are never held accountable.
  • A culture of no consequences, with executive authorities either quashing reports on malfeasance or defending inexcusable failure to act.
  • Infrastructure departments and projects appear to be a cesspool of malfeasance and maladministration.

OR Tambo District Municipality
The committee visited the Lusikisiki Sewerage Project, whose third phase has been plagued by delays, with a service provider abandoning the site after it ran out of funds. The committee found on the site abandoned pipes and materials that, according to the municipality officials, are still usable. But the committee could not ascertain whether any had been stolen.

The visit was followed by a visit to Ntsonyini Dam in Port St. John's, which has also been delayed for years, notwithstanding a lot of money spent on it. The committee found a lot of unused materials strewn at the site, yet the project is still far from completion and more money is needed to complete it. Other parts of the project, which depend on the dam, have nonetheless progressed but cannot be utilised due to the delayed completion of the dam.

Members of the committee were alarmed to learn that some senior officials who have been arrested on more than one occasion are still on duty, with the Municipal Manager and the Executive Mayor defending their continued presence at work. The committee made its displeasure clear and demanded that immediate action be taken to protect the integrity of the district municipality.

In other cases, the committee found that the director of a company recently awarded a contract of over R105 million has been charged with fraud pertaining to Alfred Nzo District Municipality and officials claimed to be unaware about that.

The Mqanduli Bulk Water Project which was also visited by the committee, is beset with various problems, despite upbeat reporting by officials. The OR Tambo District Municipality is unable to draw water from Mthatha Dam due to a defective pipe owned by the Department of Water and Sanitation and instead draws directly from Mthatha River. The Thornhill Water Treatment Works is, in any event, below the capacity needed to supply the network of reservoirs that are supposed to bring water to urban and rural residents in the district.

The committee heard residents complaining of frequent and drawn-out water shortages and received from officials accounts of old infrastructure that breaks down often, leading to further water cuts. This affects both households and Walter Sisulu University.

Although the committee has noted signs of improvement in audit outcomes at the OR Tambo District Municipality, it remains deeply concerned by project delays, cost overruns, lack of consequences for errant officials and seemingly poor due diligence in the selection of service providers.

Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality
The committee visited the Zwelitsha Waste-water Treatment Plant, which has been beset by chronic delays, mainly involving litigation and payment disputes. The plant remains incomplete and is causing delays in housing developments in the region. The site is poorly maintained, frequently vandalised and is vulnerable to organised crime.

However, it was at the Mdantsane NU2 Swimming Pool and Water World projects where the committee experienced first-hand the most egregious examples of years of mismanagement, malfeasance and possible fraud and corruption. While R57 million and R121 million have been spent at Mdantsane and Waterworld respectively, both projects are effectively unusable due to neglect, vandalism and non-existent maintenance.

The committee was further alarmed to learn that the Speaker of Council, the Chief Whip and the Executive Mayor have on more than one occasion quashed damning reports pertaining to the projects. They were unable to provide convincing reasons why this was the case, leading to what appears to be a culture of impunity and procurement malfeasance.

Conclusion
The committee will carefully consider its observations and table a comprehensive report before the National Assembly. Some matters will be referred to the AG for special audits and the SIU to pursue civil recoveries against service providers and staff.

It also became clear to the committee that urgent action must be taken in respect of supply chain, infrastructure and project management units where most of the malfeasance appears to be rooted, with some officials reportedly owning assets well beyond the salaries they earn.

While the committee noted that OR Tambo District Municipality and Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality had recovery programs in place, it is nonetheless clear that both are far from recovery.

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

Read moreSCOPA Alarmed Following Oversight Visit to Two Eastern Cape Municipalities

Government activities for the week 24 – 28 March 2025

Location: News

Government activities for the week 24 – 28 March 2025

On Monday, 24 March, the Deputy President Paul Mashatile will deliver the keynote address at the national World TB Day commemorative event and launch of the National End TB Campaign at Ugu Sports and Leisure Centre, Gamalakhe Township, KwaZulu-Natal.

On Tuesday, 25 March, the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George to lead the Group of Twenty (G20) Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group as part of South Africa’s Presidency of the G20. 

On Wednesday, 26 March, South Africa hosts the second G20 Health Working Group Meeting in KwaZulu-Natal (26-28 March). 

On Thursday, 27 March, the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition is offering Basic Sewing Training Programme in Mthatha, Eastern Cape (17-28 March).

Friday, 28 March, no confirmed events.

 

Neo
Mon, 03/24/2025 - 10:58
 72 views

Read moreGovernment activities for the week 24 – 28 March 2025

Government adopts improved approach to curb road crashes

Location: News

Government adopts improved approach to curb road crashes

Over the last two months, government has adopted an improved approach to managing road safety and it has resulted in a decrease in road crashes.

“The consequence of these actions is that we saw a 10% month-on-month decline in accidents in January 2025 compared with January 2024, and a 25% decline in accidents when one compares February 2025 with February 2024,” Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy, said on Thursday.

As part of this strategy, the Department of Transport has deployed the National Traffic Police on key routes at month end, deepened cooperation and focused on high-risk areas amongst national, provincial and municipal traffic officers. It also focuses on arresting pedestrians who walk on highways.

During this period 21 282 fines were issued to drivers for speeding, and over 3 000 drivers were arrested for drunk driving during January and February. About 12 000 illegal vehicles were impounded.

The Minister was speaking during the launch of the 2025 Easter Season Road Safety Arrive Alive campaign, that is taking place from 20 March to 2 May 2025, under the theme: “It begins with Me”. 

“We chose this theme because driver and pedestrian behaviour is responsible for 87% of road accidents and fatalities in our country. And so, reducing road fatalities and accidents is the responsibility of each one of us.

“The National Traffic Police, [including] South African Police Services provincial traffic departments, Cross Border Road Traffic Agency, Border Management Agency, the metros and local authorities, will work together to patrol routes leading to Limpopo, KwaZulu Natal, Mpumalanga, Free State, Eastern Cape and Western Cape. High visibility will also be maintained in Gauteng.

“We have identified the most critical routes across the country requiring additional resources and more focused monitoring over this period,” she said.

These include among others, the following:

  • The N4 Nelspruit;
  • Mankweng (R71);
  • Libode on the N2, Mthatha’s R61;
  • Parys (FS), R54;
  • Harrismith and the N3;
  • KwaDukuza, N2 in KZN and
  • N4 Middleburg in Mpumalanga.

Over the next six weeks the department will focus on working with the bus industry to check vehicle roadworthiness and educate drivers on fatigue management ahead of the Easer weekend.

Meetings will also be held with faith-based sector to support safe and appropriate travel arrangements to the big events over the Easter weekend. Taxi ranks will be visited to inspect vehicles and safer driving practices will be promoted. -SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle
Thu, 03/20/2025 - 14:09
 121 views

Read moreGovernment adopts improved approach to curb road crashes

Basic Education works to develop school safety guidelines

Location: News

Basic Education works to develop school safety guidelines

Following recent cases of food poisoning among learners, the Department of Basic Education is working with the Department of Health to develop safety guidelines for schools to effectively mitigate the risks of organophosphate pesticide exposure in school environments.

This was announced by the Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube at a media briefing in Cape Town on Wednesday.
Gwarube said that learner safety is her top priority, and that the Department of Basic Education (DBE) is taking the matter seriously.

“In response to these incidents, my department is working with the Department of Health to develop safety guidelines for schools on how best to mitigate the risks of organophosphate pesticides entering school environments. 

“These will be aimed at ensuring that communities and vendors near schools are aware of the risks associated with hazardous chemicals, especially those used for pest control purposes. I will ensure that these are finalised as soon as possible,” she explained.

This as the country has experienced a spate of deaths and children falling ill after eating snacks from local spaza shops across the country.  Six Soweto children died after they were said to have consumed snacks from a local spaza shop. At a recent media briefing, Health Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, announced that forensic tests unveiled that the six primary school children were killed by a highly toxic organophosphate called Terbufos.

READ | Death of six Soweto children linked to Terbufos

At the briefing Gwarube highlighted that initial investigations have shown that incidents originated from food items purchased outside of school premises, particularly items tainted with hazardous chemicals such as organophosphates. 

READ | Mother and son hospitalised after consuming food from spaza shop

Organophosphate pesticides are highly toxic substances and pose a significant risk, especially to young children. In these cases, it appears that certain foods were contaminated, resulting in serious health consequences for the affected learners.

“I want to urge communities, parents, and vendors to exercise extreme caution when handling, storing, and selling pesticides, particularly those known to contain harmful chemicals. The proper handling of pesticides is not just a matter of regulatory compliance but of ensuring that our children are safe in the environments where they learn, play, and grow,” she said. 

The Minister said that she is exploring all possible legal avenues, within a basic education context, to ban these pesticides and insecticides from entering into school environments. 

“It is my view that no school should be permitted to store or use these dangerous chemicals on its premises. Our objective is to create a safe learning environment for every child, and we are committed to implementing the necessary steps to make this a reality.”

Learner safety

Within the DBE’s commitment to fostering a safe and supportive environment for all learners, Gwarube said it was with a heavy heart that she addresses the deeply distressing incident of the rape of five Grade 12 learners in the Eastern Cape.

The incident occurred in Mqhekezweni, outside Mthatha, where the learners from Jongintaba High School were sexually assaulted by two armed intruders last week. 

“I want to express my deepest sadness for what these young people have endured. Such acts of violence are abhorrent and utterly unacceptable, particularly during a time when these learners should be focused on their studies and their futures.

“In response to this tragedy, the department has prioritised psychosocial support for the affected learners, ensuring that they have access to counselling and trauma care services. Our priority is to support them in their recovery, giving them the space and assistance they need to heal.”

She added that this incident also highlights the broader need for a more robust approach to safeguarding learners from gender-based violence (GBV) within and outside the school environment. 

She emphasised that schools are a space of learning and growth, and that this should be reflected in communities as well. 
“It is unacceptable that women and children should feel unsafe in this country, we must act with all urgency to end the scourge of gender-based violence and femicide. 

“We are working closely with local law enforcement and community stakeholders to ensure that justice is served for those five learners,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

DikelediM
Wed, 11/06/2024 - 15:20

144 views
Read moreBasic Education works to develop school safety guidelines

Condolences for Prof Noel Chabani Manganyi

Location: News

Condolences for Prof Noel Chabani Manganyi

The Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande, has expressed his shock and great sadness at the news of the passing of Professor Noel Chabani Manganyi – a distinguished academic, scholar, intellectual activist, psychologist, and public servant.

Manganyi passed away on Tuesday, 31 October 2024, at the age of 84.

“I knew Prof Manganyi in a number of different respects. Firstly, we both trained in psychology and thus shared many intellectual positions on the importance of mental liberation as a site of struggle, especially for all black people in the face of apartheid colonialism. 

“Secondly, we were both activists in the struggle against apartheid and shared a common vision for a radically transformed post-apartheid South Africa, including challenging dominant intellectual discourses.

“This brought us together in the period immediately after the establishment of democratic rule, working together in the reconstruction and development of South Africa’s post-apartheid education system,” the Minister recalled. 

Manganyi was the first Director-General of the Department of Education after the establishment of democracy and worked with the Minister in his capacity as the first Chairperson of Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Education.

Nzimande has described his fellow former activist as one of the most eloquent and deeply thoughtful intellectuals spawned by the black consciousness movement. 

“His writings are still as relevant as ever,” said the Minister.

According to the Minister, Manganyi’s earlier book, ‘Being Black in the World’ was one of his prescribed texts in his Honours Psychology class in 1980 at the then University of Natal. 

“A fine text indeed in the mould of the black consciousness philosophy, but very well written and well-argued. 

“Prof Manganyi is without doubt one of our country’s most decorated academics.” 

His roles include a Professorship at the then University of Transkei in Mthatha (now Walter Sisulu University), where he established the Department of Psychology and served as its first Chairperson. 

In the 1980s, he was appointed Professor and Senior Research Fellow at the University of the Witwatersrand’s African Studies Institute.

He also served as Vice-Principal of the University of Pretoria, Vice-Chancellor and Principal at the University of the North (now the University of Limpopo) and as Chairperson of the Council on Higher Education.

During the 1970s and 1980s, Manganyi published a series of monographs, which included ‘Being Black in the World’ and the biographies of E’skia Mphahlele, Gerard Sekoto and Dumile Feni.

Adding to his already vast body of work, in 2016, he published a memoir and autobiography titled ‘Apartheid and the Making of a Black Psychologist’. 

“Through this work, he examines the impact of apartheid underdevelopment, and how it hindered the success prospects of black people.

“Owing to his exceptional and groundbreaking scholarship, he was conferred with a number of prestigious national and international honours.”

These include being an Honorary Fellow of the Psychological Society of South Africa in 2012, the Lifetime Achievement Award by the National Research Foundation in 2016 and the Humanities Book Award by the Academy of Science of South Africa in 2018.

“Through his life’s work, Prof Manganyi enhanced our understanding of the impact of racism and colonial underdevelopment on the black psyche, identity, and power relations in apartheid South Africa. However, his work also reinforces the honour of fighting for freedom in a context where some chose to be indifferent,” Nzimande said.

Nzimande is of the view that the passing of Manganyi constitutes a monumental loss for the country and its people. 

The Minister believes the Professor represents a rare breed of intellectuals, who concerned themselves with both the oppressive nature of society and the struggle to rid society of oppression. 

“He was endowed with intellectual courage, an irrepressible urge to serve his people and despite his monumental personal achievements, he possessed a disarming humility. We will remember him as an incorruptible public servant and selfless son of the soil,” the Minister said.

He has since conveyed his heartfelt condolences to his wife, Dr Sekele-Manganyi, their children Nkhensani and Tintswalo, and extended family. 

The memorial service for the late Manganyi will take place at the University of the Witwatersrand on Wednesday, 6 November 2024. 

The funeral service will be held on Friday, 8 November 2024, at St Michael’s Anglican Church in Sandton in Gauteng. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Tue, 11/05/2024 - 10:11

159 views
Read moreCondolences for Prof Noel Chabani Manganyi

President condemns killing of Eastern Cape community patrollers

Location: News

President condemns killing of Eastern Cape community patrollers

President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed deep sorrow following the tragic killing of six community patrollers in Tina Falls/Godini near Qumbu in the Eastern Cape on Sunday night. 

The patrollers were reportedly preparing for duty at their base at Lugongozo Senior Secondary School when attackers struck with an assortment of firearms.

In addition to the six fatalities, four other patrollers were injured in the attack.

The President offered his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and extended wishes for a speedy recovery to the injured. 

He condemned the violence, describing it as a grave loss to the community and an assault on the efforts of ordinary citizens to maintain safety in their area.

“Our thoughts are with the families of these community members who died in the course of playing their part to keep their area safe. Following so soon after an equally tragic shooting at Lusikisiki, this new incident saddens and outrages us,” President Ramaphosa said on Tuesday.

Last month, in the same province, 18 people lost their lives in a mass shooting in Ngobozana village, in Lusikisiki. In that tragedy, the President assured the grieving families that the South African Police Service (SAPS) had mobilised all available resources to bring the perpetrators to justice. 

READ | Condolences for Lusikisiki mass shooting victims’ families

In his statement on Tuesday, the President vowed that justice would be served, warning that criminals, along with anyone who sheltered or protected them, would face the full might of the law.

He reaffirmed government’s commitment to working with communities to ensure safety in homes, neighbourhoods, and public spaces.

“However, it should also add to our resolve to stop criminals from terrorising communities in the mistaken belief that they’re untouchable. They will be brought to justice alongside anyone who harbours such criminals and does not report information to the authorities.

“Government will continue to work with communities to ensure our homes, neighbourhoods and public spaces are safe and that criminals know they will pay for their deeds.”

The President welcomed the progress made in the investigation into the incident by the police, which has reportedly yielded a positive lead in the case. 

Police update

This as the National Commissioner of the SAPS, General Fannie Masemola, said he was confident that police were following a positive lead in apprehending suspects linked to the killing of the six community patrollers.

Masemola visited the crime scene on Monday. 

In a statement, the police said a team of specialised detectives from the district office of the SAPS in Mthatha, were hot on the heels of the suspects wanted in connection with the incident. 

“The investigation is ongoing, and arrests are imminent in this regard; as the detective leads are pointing at ongoing stock theft related matters between the affected village and other neighbouring villages,” said Masemola.

With regards to last month’s killing of 18 family members, police said investigations “are at an advanced but sensitive stage in relation to the arrest of the suspects linked to the gruesome murder of 18 family members and relatives in Lusikisiki last week”.

A multi-disciplinary team and detectives from specialised operational environments has been on the ground, since last week and significant progress has been made.

“To date, the joint provincial and national teams are working around the clock to apprehend the wanted suspects and to maintain law and order in the affected areas.” -SAnews.gov.za
 

DikelediM
Tue, 10/08/2024 - 09:47

20 views
Read morePresident condemns killing of Eastern Cape community patrollers

778 newly qualified Constables add boots on the ground

Location: News

778 newly qualified Constables add boots on the ground

Deputy Minister of Police, Polly Boshielo, on Friday addressed 778 newly qualified Constables at the Bhisho South African Police Service (SAPS) Academy, as the police held six parallel passing out parades across the country.

The other parades were held at Bishop Lavis Academy in the Western Cape, Mankwe Academy in the North West, Moloto Academy in Mpumalanga and Graaff Reinet and Mthatha academies in the Eastern Cape.  

The Eastern Cape province received a total 274 new Constables to bolster its crime fighting initiatives.

Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nomthetheleli Mene said: "Out of these newly qualified Constables who are passing out today, the Eastern Cape will receive a total of 274, just in time for the Festive Season Operations. We expect to receive more new Constables by December this year.”

During her address, Boitshelo said government remained committed to ensuring South Africa achieves the United Nations recommendation of one police officer for every 220 people.  

“As of 2023, the police-to-population ratio is 1:423, which means we still need to work harder to recruit more police officers,” she said.

The new Constables successfully completed the six-month introductory Police Development Learning Programme, with qualifications in the field of Law, Policing and Criminology.

They will add more boots on the ground to combat and prevent emerging crime trends.

The members will be deployed to various police stations and specialised units, such as Public Order Police (POP), Visible Police (Vispol), and the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) unit.

The parallel parades were attended by several stakeholders, families and friends of the newly qualified Constables. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Janine
Sun, 10/06/2024 - 10:13

96 views
Read more778 newly qualified Constables add boots on the ground

More than 10 000 suspects arrested through Operation Shanela

Location: News

More than 10 000 suspects arrested through Operation Shanela

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has arrested 10 668 suspects between 23 and 29 September under Operation Shanela.

In a statement on Tuesday, the police said they remain relentless in their efforts to deal decisively with crime in the country through detectives and crime intelligence tracing operations, roadblocks, as well as stop and searches.

All Operation Shanela activities are led by the Provincial Commissioner of each province.

The following arrests were made:

  • 1 941 wanted suspects were arrested for crimes that including murder, attempted murder, rape and assault GBH [grievous bodily harm]. 

  • 110 suspects were arrested for murder, with 31 of these murder suspects being arrested in the Western Cape province.

  • 113 suspects were arrested for attempted murder.

  • 116 suspects were arrested for rape, with 35 of these suspects arrested in Gauteng.

  • 111 suspects were arrested for being in the illegal possession of firearms, with 44 of these suspects being arrested in the Western Cape.

  • 1 132 suspects were arrested for assault GBH.

  • 460 suspects were arrested for the illegal dealing in liquor, and 173 of these arrests were made in the Western Cape, while 85 were made in KwaZulu-Natal.

  • 236 drug dealers were also arrested during this period.

  • 593 drivers were arrested for drunken driving, with 173 of them arrested in Gauteng.

  • 677 suspects were arrested for being in possession of drugs, and 150 of these arrests were made in Gauteng, 149 in KwaZulu-Natal and 127 in the Eastern Cape.

Under recoveries and confiscations, police registered the following successes:

  • 117 firearms were confiscated during operations; 22 of these firearms were confiscated during police operations in the Western Cape, while 22 were confiscated in KwaZulu-Natal.

  • 872 rounds of ammunition were also confiscated.

  • 54 hijacked and stolen vehicles were also recovered during the week's operations.

A highlight of major takedowns and other successes include the following:

  • Police arrested an 11th drug mule at the OR Tambo International Airport within a period of two months. The 21-year-old South African female had just landed from Sao Paulo on Sunday morning when she was arrested. An x-ray examination confirmed that she had swallowed bullets containing drugs.

  • In the Western Cape, police arrested a 35-year-old suspect in Ruyterwacht for dealing in drugs on Saturday, 28 September 2024 and seized 87 058 mandrax tablets, cocaine and crystal meth worth more than R5 million.

  • Six extortionists, aged between 21 and 41, were arrested in Tshwane during an intelligence-driven operation on Wednesday, 25 September 2024. These suspects reportedly collected money from shops owned by foreign nationals around Akasia and Soshanguve.

  • On the same day, police in KZN arrested four extortionists, who are under police guard following their arrest. These suspects sustained gunshot wounds following a shootout with security guards. They are linked to a case of extortion at a construction site in Sydenham.

  • Police operationalised a tip-off on suspected extortionists operating in Mthatha, Eastern Cape and successfully intercepted the suspects’ vehicle. The suspects fired gun shots at the police officers, who then returned fire. The two suspects were fatally wounded during the shootout with the police.

  • During a takedown operation, police arrested four males and one female suspect, and rescued 29 human trafficking victims in Germiston, Gauteng.

  • Operation Vala Umgodi continues to record significant successes since its activation in December 2023. This week, 157 illegal miners were arrested, with 91 being arrested in Mpumalanga.

Police will continue with their operations by asserting the authority of the state to ensure the safety and security of all South Africans and visitors to the country. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Tue, 10/01/2024 - 12:52

251 views
Read moreMore than 10 000 suspects arrested through Operation Shanela

Illegal business occupants given 14 days to comply with the law

Location: News

Illegal business occupants given 14 days to comply with the law

Businesses illegally occupying government premises in Mthatha have been given 14 days to apply for legal leases from the Eastern Cape Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, should they wish to continue with their businesses on the current premises.

This was revealed when Public Works and Infrastructure Deputy Minister Sihle Zikalala, together with the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure MEC Siphokazi Lusithi, issued eviction orders to a number of businesses in the Mthatha CBD as part of Operation Bring Back (OBB), which aims to reclaim hijacked and illegally occupied government properties.

READ | Reclaiming State property

“Our aim is not to shut down legally operating businesses, but we want these businesses that are paying rent to criminals, who have stolen government properties, to start paying the rent to the rightful owners of these properties,” the Deputy Minister said on Wednesday.

Zikalala and Lusithi visited mixed business premises housing offices, driving school, salons, tombstones and a hardware store, where they addressed business owners and workers who voiced their fears of losing their businesses.  

In the Eastern Cape, there are 82 properties that are currently going through legal channels, including 57 eviction orders. 

Of these, 21 have been evaluated and are recommended for execution, with a target of completing 36 evictions by the end of the 2024/2025 financial year.  

All eviction actions will strictly adhere to legal standards and respect tenant rights. The two DPWI leaders allayed the fears of the concerned businesses, promising that should they follow the correct legal routes, their businesses would not be out in the cold.

“As the province, we are undertaking the Operation Bring Back, which aims at bringing back government properties that are illegally occupied. The illegal occupation of government properties both commercial and residential undermines the state's capacity to generate revenue and maintain our properties, but even more tragically, it victimizes small business owners who are unaware they are being taken advantage of by these bogus landlords. 

“In response, we have entered into negotiations with these small businesses to regularize their leases, ensuring that they are protected, and that government assets are not exploited for personal gain,” the MEC said. - SAnews.gov.za
 

nosihle
Thu, 09/26/2024 - 09:34

1203 views
Read moreIllegal business occupants given 14 days to comply with the law

Reclaiming State property

Location: News

Reclaiming State property

Public Works and Infrastructure Deputy Minister Sihle Zikalala will today undertake Operation Bring Back (OBB), which aims to oversee the implementation of eviction orders in State-owned properties around Mthatha in the Eastern Cape.

Zikalala will be accompanied by the Eastern Cape Public Works and Infrastructure MEC, Siphokazi Lusithi. 

The action is part of the Eastern Cape and nation-wide Government plan to reclaim unlawfully occupied state properties. 

Operation Bring Back is an initiative of the national Department of Public Works (DPW), which aims to recover land and other properties, including farms that were illegally occupied or stolen from the State prior to and immediately after the 1994 democratic transition.

In terms of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, No 108 of 1996, all State owned national and provincial immovable assets must be vested in the name of the national government or in the name of the nine provinces. The national government is therefore the custodian of all national government immovable assets.

In April 2011, the National Department of Public Works started the OBB programme, which was largely dependent on the public coming forward to report cases of misappropriation through a call centre that was launched during a public communication campaign at the time. This OBB programme ceased to function in October 2011 and no cases were investigated.

Following the evictions under today's programme, an oversight visit will be carried out at the construction site of the Mqanduli Office Precinct in Mqanduli.

In the Eastern Cape, there are 82 properties that are currently going through legal channels, including 57 eviction orders. 

Of these, 21 have been evaluated and are recommended for execution, with a target of completing 36 evictions by the end of the 2024/2025 financial year. 

All eviction actions will strictly adhere to legal standards and respect tenant rights. 

The Mqanduli Office Precinct is designed to enhance local government services and stimulate economic growth in the area. 

This modern facility aims to improve accessibility for residents and provide a collaborative space for various government departments. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 09/25/2024 - 10:13

206 views
Read moreReclaiming State property

Police to intensify operations to root out crime

Location: News

Police to intensify operations to root out crime

The police will intensify compliance inspections at all police stations and service points in a bid to continuously improve service offering to communities, said the South African Police Service’s (SAPS) National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola.

“Our responsibility as a police service is to keep all people living in South Africa safe and as the South African Police Service we will continue to act without fear, favour and prejudice to realise this vision,” said Masemola.

The Commissioner addressed the media in Johannesburg on Thursday.

“The SAPS remains at the coalface of the criminal justice system, and it is upon our members to ensure that the work that they do continues to inspire confidence in the system,” he said, adding that the police’s ongoing operations are yielding the desired results.

This as the police is continuously implementing an “all hands-on deck approach” that leaves no one behind.

“It is a joint effort working closely with other law enforcement agencies, other government departments, the business sector, our community police forum structures and private security.

“At the heart of it all, lies our communities. Through community participation and through the tip-offs that we continue to receive, criminals are feeling the heat. There is no longer much room and space for criminals in all provinces including KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, Western Cape and [the] Eastern Cape to operate because that space has been squeezed,” Masemola said.

According to the Commissioner, ongoing takedowns and the arrests of wanted suspects is sending a firm and stern warning to all criminals that police are hitting the ground running and that the men and women in blue will continue to sniff out criminals.

“We do believe that we are registering progress in destabilising the work of organised crime syndicates as well as ruthless criminals in all forms and shape.

“Since our last briefing four weeks ago, 85 000 more suspects have been arrested for various crimes ranging from murder to rape, kidnapping and extortion. This brings the total number of suspects arrested since the launch of Operation Shanela to 850 375.

“During this period, 824 illegal and unlicensed firearms with more than 17 282 rounds of ammunition [were] seized,” the Commissioner said.

Extortions

Regarding extortions, the SAPS is working hard to bring an end to extortion related crimes.

He added that communities should report these crimes to police.

“We have developed an Extortion Action Plan and thus far, we are pleased with the manner in which this plan is being implemented throughout the country. As management, we are particularly encouraged with how our police officers are addressing the crime of extortion across all provinces that have been identified as hotspots. 

“We are following up on tip-offs and information shared through our hotlines and crime stop number. We are fetching each of these extortionists, one by one,” he said.

In the past two weeks, 14 extortionists were shot and killed during confrontation with police in various provinces.

The most brazen of these alleged extortionists were in the Eastern Cape in Mthatha where three followed and tailed the National Intervention Unit (NIU) members to their base.

“Our members had been conducting stop and searches in Mthatha during tracing operations and had earlier confiscated firearms from these alleged extortionists. These extortionists indeed got what they were looking for. They shot at our police officers who were ready to defend and assert the authority of the state.”

READ | SAPS  to 'deal decisively' with extortionists

Masemola said the crime of extortion requires a specialised investigative capacity and that is why police have deployed specialist teams led by the Directorate of Priority Crime Investigations (DPCI), crime intelligence and organised crime units to lead these investigations. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 09/12/2024 - 15:11

185 views
Read morePolice to intensify operations to root out crime

Suspects arrested in countrywide Operation Shanela crackdown  

Location: News

Suspects arrested in countrywide Operation Shanela crackdown  

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has over the past week arrested 13 691 suspects in nationwide Operation Shanela operations.

The arrests were made from Monday to Sunday, 08 September, in various operations that included roadblocks and stop and searches.

According to the SAPS, 1 953 wanted suspects for crimes such as murder, rape, possession of illegal firearms and business robberies were arrested while 149 suspects were arrested for murder.

A total 179 suspects were arrested for rape of which 76 of them were arrested in KwaZulu-Natal while 161 suspects were arrested for being in the illegal possession of firearms.

“Assault GBH [grievous bodily harm] continues to register a large number of arrests with 1 536 suspects arrested,” said the police in a statement on Monday.

In addition, 271 drug dealers were arrested during this period while 404 people were arrested for drunk driving, 107 while 1 460 suspects were arrested for being in possession of drugs.

Meanwhile, 137 firearms were confiscated during operations and 5 922 rounds of ammunition were also confiscated.

“Highlights of major takedowns include six CIT [cash-in-transit] armed robbers [who] were killed in Germiston and three kidnappers [were] arrested in Ennerdale, Gauteng.”

In addition, three alleged extortionists were shot and killed at the National Intervention Unit (NIU) base in Mthatha following an attack on NIU members at the police unit base.

READ | SAPS to 'deal decisively' with extortionists

In addition, six extortionists were shot and killed in Durban through confrontation with police.

All Operation Shanela operations are led by the Provincial Commissioner of each province. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Tue, 09/10/2024 - 09:23

312 views
Read moreSuspects arrested in countrywide Operation Shanela crackdown  

SAPS  to ‘deal decisively’ with extortionists

Location: News

SAPS  to 'deal decisively' with extortionists

National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), General Fannie Masemola, has warned would be criminals that attacks on police officials will not be tolerated.

This after an attack on a member of the National Intervention Unit (NIU) at the base of the unit in Mthatha in the Eastern Cape who are investigating allegations of extortion in the area.

During a media briefing following a visit to the NIU base in Mthatha on Sunday, Masemola said police bare the duty to protect.

“[We] are not going to fold our arms and allow a situation where our dedicated and hardworking police officers who are entrusted with investigating and tracing hardened criminals are targeted. 

“We will not tolerate attacks on our men and women in blue who are doing all they can to put a stop to incidents of extortion and all other crimes. We continue to urge our members to act decisively when faced with danger.

“Our members have a duty to protect themselves and also protect the communities which they serve,” he said.
The National Commissioner expressed concern that extortion cases in the area are “under-reported” but added that at least 38 cases had been reported since the set-up of an extortion hotline some two weeks ago.

“We are assuring communities that a dedicated team of investigators and members of specialised units that are attached to the task team dealing with extortion are working on this information with a view to build up cases and bring those responsible to book.

“[From] mid-August, we have deployed additional members to support and augment the available capacities in this province to deal with extortion decisively. To date, a lot of work has been put in through intelligence gathering on suspected syndicates linked to extortion and protection fees. Tracing operations, roadblocks, vehicle check points and searching of persons have been conducted.

“[We] are sending a strong message out there to those who are involved in all forms of crime and especially those gangs, criminals and syndicates involved in extortion. We are going to deal decisively with you. We will not hesitate to assert the authority of the state where necessary,” Masemola vowed. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Sun, 09/08/2024 - 15:54

135 views
Read moreSAPS  to ‘deal decisively’ with extortionists

Cabinet commends efforts to fight crime

Location: News

Cabinet commends efforts to fight crime

Cabinet has commended the signing of the Cooperation Agreement to Combat Crime in the Western Cape.

The agreement enhances collaboration and coordination among all stakeholders to address safety and security concerns.

Signed last Friday, the agreement paves the way for sharing technology and resources, information, and best practice to improve the state of public policing.

“Through community-driven initiatives, the integration of resources and the development of innovative strategies, the agreement allows for a united front between the South African Police Service (SAPS), the province and communities to combat crime and promote public safety,”acting Minister in The Presidency, Maropene Ramokgopa said during a post Cabinet media briefing.

Ramokgopa reiterated government’s warning against crime, fraud and corruption.

“Government has zero-tolerance for crime, fraud and corruption; and will hold those who violate the laws of the country accountable. Cabinet remains determined to ensure that South Africa is a society where all people feel safe; and the recent arrests and conviction of suspects involved in various serious crimes demonstrates the commitment to push back against crime,” Ramokgopa said at the briefing held in Cape Town on Thursday.

READ | Criminals will face full might of the law - President Ramaphosa

Quarterly crime statistics 

Cabinet also noted the increase in contact crimes in the latest quarterly crime statistics for the first quarter from April to June 2024, which indicated that more still needs to be done to ensure every citizen feels safe.

Ramokgopa said the SAPS, led by the Ministry of Police, is actively fighting these crimes through recent operations, including a confrontation with suspects in Milnerton, Cape Town, resulting in fatalities and arrests and operations in the Eastern Cape focusing on Mthatha and Nelson Mandela Bay. Arrests related to extortion activities have also been made in Gauteng, Mpumalanga and the Free State. 

“Government is implementing a whole government approach, including signing cooperative agreements with provincial and local governments; rolling out operational plans in Cape Town and Nelson Mandela Bay, with plans to replicate in all metros; [and] engaging with sister departments to improve collaboration against crime.”

READ | SA's crime figures "tell sobering story"

National Policing Policy
The Minister also announced that the National Policing Policy is set to be completed and adopted by the end of October 2024. It will address issues such as police stations and infrastructure based on norms and standards. 

The policy will serve as an overarching framework for policing and will accommodate the provincial needs and priorities in line with section 206 (1) and (2) of the Constitution. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 09/05/2024 - 12:12

420 views
Read moreCabinet commends efforts to fight crime

SA’s crime figures “tell sobering story”

Location: News

SA's crime figures "tell sobering story"

Crime is generally on the increase and crimes that are of concern include murder, rape, hijacking, kidnapping for ransom payments, and extortion.

This is according to Police Minister Senzo Mchunu who released the crime statistics for the fourth quarter of the 2023/2024 financial year and the first quarter of the 2024/2025 financial year in Cape Town on Friday.

“These numbers tell a sobering story, reflecting the severity of the challenges we face. These numbers represent more than just figures on a page; they reflect the lived realities of our citizens—their fears, their losses, and their hopes for a safer tomorrow.

“The data is a stark reminder of the urgent need for action. We are confronted with a crisis that threatens the safety of our communities and undermines the stability of our nation. Contact crimes, in particular, are wreaking havoc and instilling fear,” said the Minister.

South Africa has seen an increase in the number of contact crimes reported at the country’s police stations during this year’s first quarter, from April to June 2024.

Contact crimes increased by 3 831 from 149 806 cases to 153 637 cases reported in the first quarter of 2021-2022 and 2023-2024. 

This is followed by assault with intent to inflict grievous bodily harm with 2 247 cases and common assault with1 339 cases.

Mchunu said the top crime police stations are in four provinces, Western Cape, Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape. 

“It is worth noting that the Limpopo province recorded 3.3% per capita, making it the safest province in as far as murder is concerned,” he said. 

The top 30 police stations for murder cases were in four provinces.

“All the top 30 stations for murder were in only four provinces, namely Western Cape [11 stations], KwaZulu-Natal [eight], Eastern Cape [six] and Gauteng [five]

“The leading stations among them were Nyanga [Western Cape], followed by Inanda [KwaZulu-Natal], Umlazi [KwaZulu-Natal], Khayelitsha [Western Cape] and Harare [Western Cape],” the Minister said.

During the previous quarter, 6 228 cases of murder were reported as compared to the current 6 198 cases.

Mchunu said there has been an increase in rape and extortion cases reported.

“We have been reading about kidnappings and extortion cases in the media; 135 cases of kidnapping for ransom were recorded in the first quarter, with Gauteng and KZN accounting for 81 and 15 cases respectively.”

On the list of the top 30 police stations where rape cases were lodged, Inanda in KwaZulu-Natal is first, followed by Mthatha in the Eastern Cape and third is Thohoyandou police station in Limpopo.

Touching on police murders, Mchunu said 21 police officers were killed in the first quarter (16 off duty and five on duty officers), with the largest number of officers being from the Eastern Cape (five), KZN (four) Western Cape (four).

“We will ensure that our personnel receive the support and resources they need to perform their duties safely and effectively,” he said.

The number of cash-in-transit (CIT) heists in KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape and Gauteng are still a concern.
Police would be meeting with various cash in transit companies to discuss measures aimed at curbing this crime.

He said his department’s priorities for the 7th Administration are clear and resolute. 
“Bringing crime levels down is our number one priority, to protect the citizens of South Africa and make them feel safe again,” he said. 

The Minister explained that elections had resulted in the delay of the release for the last quarter of the previous financial year and that these would be made available on the police’s website at https://www.saps.gov.za/services/downloads/2024/2024-2025_-_1st_Quarter_WEB.pdf. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Fri, 08/30/2024 - 13:54

260 views
Read moreSA’s crime figures “tell sobering story”

Govt pulling resources together to curb extortion crimes, says Mashatile

Location: News

Govt pulling resources together to curb extortion crimes, says Mashatile

Through the Justice, Crime Prevention, and Security  (JCPS) Cluster, government is consolidating resources to end extortion and ensure that communities conduct business without fear or intimidation.

“We are also aware of the persistent issues of high levels of extortion crimes, particularly in Mthatha, Eastern Cape,” said Deputy President Paul Mashatile. 

The Eastern Cape town of Mthatha is battling extortion crime by syndicates, which have led to at least one school and several businesses shutting down, according to reports. 

Mashatile, in his capacity as Leader of Government Business in Parliament, was delivering a keynote address during the first Three-Sphere Planning session of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) of the seventh Parliament in Cape Town.

He told the Members of the NCOP that the Government of National Unity (GNU), has adopted three priorities, including inclusive growth and job creation, reducing poverty and tackling the high cost of living, and building a capable, ethical, and developmental state.

“We have adopted the above three priorities because whilst we have made significant progress over the 30 years in reducing poverty and inequality, we remain faced with the challenges of a slow-growing economy, high unemployment and poverty rate, high incidence of crime, corruption and lawlessness, and a highly fractured society.” 

Mashatile said the seventh administration has decided to invest in the building of a capable, developmental State. 

“A developmental State, in our context, is a State that will redirect resources towards job creation and ensure that people have access to asset ownership, economic opportunity, education, healthcare, and other basic services.” 

More importantly, in a quest for a developmental State, the Deputy President mentioned that government will continue to invest in building safer communities. 

“Building safer communities is not only a police responsibility, but it is a shared responsibility between the police, communities and all sectors of our society.”

He has since urged citizens to hold hands with law enforcement agencies to combat crime in communities. 

The planning session is being held under the theme: ‘Establishing an Oversight Agenda for the Seventh Parliament: Defining Key Oversight Priorities for the NCOP in the Seventh Parliament’.

Parliament‘s strategic innovation emphasises joint and integrated planning, encouraging collaborative work in programme planning and implementation across government.

The session is aimed at ensuring that the NCOP institutionalises and implements a comprehensive Three-Sphere Planning oversight framework and mechanism, in line with the constitutional mandate of promoting the principles of cooperative governance coordination.  

Government believes this will enhance the effective implementation of key transformation priorities, in line with National Development Plan Vision 2030. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Tue, 08/27/2024 - 14:53

418 views
Read moreGovt pulling resources together to curb extortion crimes, says Mashatile

Committee Chair Calls for Immediate Resumption of Schooling in Protection-Fee Affected Mthatha Schools

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: The Parliament
Download logo

The Chairperson of the Select Committee on Education, Sciences and Creative Industries, Mr Makhi Feni, has called on law enforcement agencies to speedily bring to a complete stop the thugs whose actions have closed schools and threatened educators in the Mthatha (OR Tambo District) area.

The committee condemns in the strongest terms the criminal conduct that has led to the closure of Mthatha schools. Mr Feni said: “The people who have decided that schools are soft targets for these nefarious acts are cowards who do not value education whatsoever. They do not have respect for learning time, educators and learners.”

It has been confirmed that Sinolwazi Senior Secondary School, Bambanani Junior Secondary School, Maholweni Junior Secondary School and Laphumikhwezi Junior Secondary School have been all affected by thugs operating in the area who demand money. Teachers from these schools have been threatened and, in one instance, assaulted, and are now not going to work.

Mr Feni said this unacceptable conduct, which has reportedly led to the closure of many businesses in the area, has now gripped the education sector. “This is one area where law enforcements cannot be sluggish or tardy. Surely these thugs are known people. The police should assist before we have a situation of having police and security permanently stationed at schools; that will not be conducive for learning and we do not wish it to happen,” Mr Feni said.

Mr Feni said no man should be allowed to dare the state as these thugs have done and the state must respond to this challenge. “Soon this will extend to clinics, hospitals and homes if no decisive action is taken,” emphasised Mr Feni.

He called on the Department of Education in the Eastern Cape to assist schools with recovery and catch-up plans for the affected learners, especially matriculants who will soon be writing trial examinations. “Educators ought to be schools teaching and learners ought to be learning too,” added Mr Feni. The committee also noted with appreciation the imbizo that was led by King Buyelekhaya Dalinyebo on Tuesday.

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

Read moreCommittee Chair Calls for Immediate Resumption of Schooling in Protection-Fee Affected Mthatha Schools

SIU authorised to investigate the O.R Tambo District Municipality

Location: News

SIU authorised to investigate the O.R Tambo District Municipality

President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed Proclamation 172 of 2024, authorising the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) to investigate allegations of serious maladministration in the O.R. Tambo District Municipality in the Eastern Cape province.

This is to recover any financial losses suffered by the State or the municipality.

Proclamation 172 of 2024 authorises the SIU to probe the procurement of five water supply structures. 

The SIU will investigate allegations of serious maladministration for the following contracts:

•              The construction of the Signal Hill Reservoir, and the appointment of Amatola Water Board in 2019 and an alleged irregular payment made to Amatola in 2020.

•              The construction of the Manduli Bulk Water Scheme and the appointment of Ginasonke Engineers and an alleged irregular payment made to Ginasonke in 2019.

•              The construction of the Mganduli Bulk Water Scheme and the appointment of Khwalo's Construction and an alleged irregular payment made to Khwalo in 2019.

•              The supply and installation of a pump at Mhlontlo Cluster 1 and the appointment of Valotone 94 CC and Phoenix Tanks (Pty) Ltd in 2019 and an alleged irregular payment made to the service providers in 2019.

•              The electrification of the Mthatha Dam and Highbury, and the construction of the Thornbill Clear Water Pump Station, and the alleged irregularities regarding payment of Amatola for these projects in 2018 and 2019.

The SIU will also investigate any unauthorised, irregular, fruitless or wasteful expenditure incurred by the department or the State. 

The scope of the investigation also covers any unlawful or improper conduct by department officials or employees, the applicable suppliers or service providers, or any other person or entity which has caused or may cause serious harm to the interests of the public

Furthermore, the investigation will also establish whether there was any unlawful appropriation or expenditure of public money.

The proclamation covers allegations of unlawful and improper conduct that took place between 1 January 2018 and 16 August 2024, the date of the publication of the Proclamation or before 1 January 2018 and after the date of the Proclamation that are relevant to, connected with and incidental to the matters or involve the same persons, entities or contracts investigated. 

In addition to investigating maladministration, malpractice, corruption and fraud, the SIU will identify system failures and make systematic recommendations to improve measures to prevent future losses.

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
Tue, 08/20/2024 - 14:47

72 views
Read moreSIU authorised to investigate the O.R Tambo District Municipality