Water-starved eThekwini families are being charged for “free” municipal water
Private contractor is selling water out of trucks
SAPS
Limpopo mother arrested for son’s gruesome murder
Limpopo mother arrested for son's gruesome murder
A woman has been arrested after allegedly decapitating her 18-year-old son in the Leshikishiki village in the Lebowakgomo policing area in Limpopo.
According to a statement by the South African Police Service (SAPS), the 48-year-old mother was arrested on Friday after a report was lodged at around 13:00.
“Upon arrival of the police at the scene next to a local tavern, they found the decapitated body of an 18-year-old man lying on his wheelchair and his head on the ground. Shockingly, there were no people found on the scene,” the statement read.
The police began their initial investigations and the deceased’s mother was located.
“After thorough investigations, she was positively linked to the murder of her son and arrested,” said police.
The SAPS seized a knife at the scene believed to be used by the suspect to cut off the victim’s head.
Provincial Commissioner of Limpopo Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe said she was deeply shocked by the incident.
“This is a heartbreaking incident that has deeply affected our community and the SAPS family.
“While the police are duty bound to protect and serve the public, parents have a critical role to nurture and protect their children. This horrendous act by the senseless mother is condemned... The law will take its course without fear or favour,” she added.
Police have opened a case of murder and the motive behind the gruesome attack is not yet known.
The suspect will appear before the Thabamoopo Magistrate’s Court in due course. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 05/05/2024 - 10:13
152 views
Suspect arrested for allegedly transporting cocaine
Suspect arrested for allegedly transporting cocaine
The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Mpumalanga has made a major breakthrough with the apprehending of a 23-year-old man with about R4 583 370 worth of suspected cocaine on the N4 freeway during a minor accident in Valencia near Nelspruit on Thursday afternoon.
According to a police report, a white KIA bakkie pulling a trailer was traveling on the N4 road when the trailer somehow broke from the truck, resulting in a slight accident.
The police from Nelspruit SAPS attended the accident scene and on arrival discovered that the courier vehicle had spilled about eight crates of a white powder.
As members were suspicious, they called their counterparts from the K9 Unit of the police as well as members from Directorate for Priority Crime Investigative (DPCI) Unit.
Substances found, weighing at about 11 kilograms and suspected to be cocaine, became subject to a police investigation.
An inquiry was opened and the confiscated substances will undergo tests while the driver was taken in for further questioning.
Police believe the consignment could have been on its way to places in the Gauteng province, however, investigators will share more light as the probe continues.
Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela, commended members for their vigilance and reiterated a call for members of the public to work hand in hand with the police in the fight against crime. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 05/03/2024 - 10:37
283 views
Operation Shanela nabs 904 suspects in North West
Operation Shanela nabs 904 suspects in North West
Operation Shanela continues to make an impact across communities with 904 suspects having been apprehended for various transgressions in the North West province.
According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), the suspects arrested across all districts in the province were held for crimes, including murder, attempted murder, assault with the intent to do grievous bodily harm, dealing in drugs, malicious damage to property and driving under the influence of alcohol.
A total of 374 suspects were arrested in raiding operations.
Operation Shanela consists of regular stop and searches, roadblocks, vehicle check points, high visibility patrols including foot patrols, the tracing of wanted suspects with a focus of murder and rape suspects, compliance inspections at liquor outlets and second hand good dealers.
In addition, 43 suspected undocumented foreign nationals were taken in for processing by Immigration Officials.
The police also visited and searched 95 premises while 2 622 persons and 1 477 vehicles were searched.
Seven firearms, 37 ammunition, 11 cellular phones, a variety of drugs and tobacco products were confiscated.
The Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena commended all law enforcement agencies and other role players for their continuous efforts in the fight against criminality. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 05/02/2024 - 09:50
252 views
Children run a gauntlet of muggings and traffic on the way to school
Pedestrian bridges across major Cape Town freeway are favourite haunts for criminals
Presidency ‘rejects’ narrative on BHP, Anglo American proposed deal
Presidency 'rejects' narrative on BHP, Anglo American proposed deal
The Presidency has moved to dismiss media speculation and reports that BHP Billiton’s proposed takeover of Anglo American, excluding South African assets, is a sign of reluctance to invest in the country.
This is according to Presidential Spokesperson Vincent Magwenya who was briefing the media in Pretoria on Monday.
Anglo American mines diamonds, Platinum Group Metals (PGM) and iron ore in South Africa.
“Some analysts and sections of the media have sought to portray this market activity as a vote of no confidence on South Africa. The Presidency rejects the notion that a commercial approach by BHP Billiton equals to a hostile environment for investors,” he said.
Magwenya said the issues cited in media that impact doing business in South Africa are being resolved “with the participation and partnership of business”.
“In June 2023, President Cyril Ramaphosa along with members of his Cabinet and senior business leaders agreed to establish a partnership to reverse the economic downturn and rebuild confidence in the country’s trajectory.
“Three priorities were identified as undermining investor and societal confidence, namely: load shedding, the challenges in the freight logistics sector as well as crime and corruption.”
Magwenya said the collaborative government-business partnership has resulted in many initiatives including the Joint Initiative on Crime and Corruption (JICC).
“The [JICC] was established to drive collaborative efforts to tackle the most serious forms of crime and corruption and support government’s efforts to remove South Africa off the FATF [Financial Action Task Force] greylist. The [JICC] is an example of government’s commitment to work with social partners to foster a safer and a more ethical South Africa,” he said.
He told the media that government’s own efforts to rebuild the credibility of critical law enforcement has resulted in, among others, appointing new leadership in the South African Police Service (SAPS), the Hawks, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the State Security Agency (SSA) and the South African Revenue Service (SARS).
This has resulted in significant progress in the fight against corruption and crime including:
- The recruitment of 20 000 more police officers and an additional 4 000 public order policing members.
- Establishing of 20 specialised SAPS economic infrastructure task teams to tackle illegal mining, construction site extortion, cable theft and vandalism to infrastructure. They had, by November 2023, made at least 7000 arrests.
- Since 2019, the NPA recorded an average conviction rate of some 91% in high courts, 82% in regional courts and 95% in district courts.
- At least 34 state capture and corruption matters have been taken to court by the NPA Investigating Directorate involving 203 accused and 65 entities.
- Since 2019, the NPA has secured the conviction of more than 500 government officials and nearly 800 people in the private sector on corruption related offences.
- The corruption busting Special Investigating Unit has recovered some R8.6 billion of stolen funds from corrupt individuals.
- The NPA Asset Forfeiture Unit has obtained freezing orders worth some R14 billion related to State Capture with some R5.4 billion returned to state coffers.
“While much still needs to be achieved to turn the tide around completely, the significant steps taken to rebuild credible institutions have begun to bear fruit and set the stage for further progress. President Ramaphosa will continue leading a multi-stakeholder effort to accelerate existing government interventions to address the scourge of crime and the impact on the economy.
“This partnership should reassure both local and foreign investors that considerable resources and expertise are being leveraged in government and in the private sector to curtail crime, continue improving the functionality of our ports and enable an investor and societal environment that fosters inclusive economic growth and prosperity,” he said.
Investment appetite
Magwenya pointed towards the success of the SA Investment Conference which, over five years, reached R1.5 trillion in investment pledges as an indicator of investment appetite in South Africa.
“President Ramaphosa also finds it satisfying that both domestic and international investors continue to demonstrate confidence towards South Africa through their continued investments as evidenced in the last few years and in exceeding the investment targets set at the beginning of the term. President Ramaphosa is confident that the rebuilt capacity of the state remains firm and focused on responding to crime and corruption.
“The Presidency would implore the investor community to note the optimism expressed by the business community in various publications and platform on the progress achieved across the three focal areas. This should reassure investors that momentum is building and will be maintained to reduce crime and corruption, continue improving energy supply and resolve logistic backlogs,” Magwenya said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 04/29/2024 - 15:00
782 views
Philippi gangsters say they’ll only stop killing if government pays them
Two security guards escorting City workers were shot dead last week because protection is their business, say extortionists
SA heads to the polls in a month’s time
SA heads to the polls in a month's time
With one month to go, the Electoral Commission (IEC) is in the final stretch of preparations for the seventh democratic elections, which are believed to be the most contested in the history of the country.
South Africans will go to the polls on 29 May 2024 to the elect the leadership for the seventh administration out of the 70 political parties and 11 independent candidates that were published by the IEC as final contestants in these elections.
In total, there are over 14 903 candidates vying for 887 seats in the National and Provincial Legislatures.
“The finalisation of the list of candidates contesting seats in the 2024 National and Provincial Elections (NPE2024) means that the Commission can now go ahead with the printing of ballot papers for the elections. The 27.79 million registered voters will receive three ballot papers to elect candidates to represent them in the National Assembly and Provincial Legislatures.
“In consort with the provisions of the election timetable, the Electoral Commission has also published the list of addresses of the 23 292 voting stations that will be used in these elections. The route for mobile voting stations has also been published,” the IEC said recently.
The highest number of voting stations will be in Kwazulu-Natal (4 974), then the Eastern Cape (4 868) and Limpopo (3 216). All voting stations are now contracted with lease agreements concluded with landlords or owners.
A list of the voting stations can be found on the Electoral Commission’s website.
Special votes
For those who would like to apply for special votes, for the purposes of home visits and voting station visits, there is still time to do so as the deadline for applications is on 3 May 2024.
“Home visits are intended for those voters who are unable to travel to voting stations whilst special votes at voting stations are for everyone who is unable to be at the voting station on Election Day. Special voting will be conducted on the two days preceding Election Day, on 27 and 28 May 2024,” the IEC said.
Special votes may be accessed using one of the following modalities:
- Using the secured online application form found at www.elections.org.za.
- By SMSing your identity number to 32249 (R1.00 per SMS) for voting station visit only.
- By visiting your local IEC office and submitting an Appendix 1B form for a voting station special vote.
- By visiting your local IEC office and submitting an Appendix 1A form for a home visit special vote. Forms can also be hand-delivered, but someone else can deliver a form on behalf of a voter.
Special votes will also be administered at South Africa’s diplomatic missions abroad to service 58 000 registered voters. These voters will be provided for at the diplomatic missions of the Republic.
Security plan
Government has, meanwhile, assured citizens that the elections will be conducted in a safe and secure environment.
“As the government, we want to issue a stern warning to anyone with intentions to disrupt the elections that law enforcement officers will deal with them decisively and will put them behind bars. We want to assure the public of the readiness of the JCPS [Justice, Crime Prevention and Security] Cluster to execute its mandate of protecting the public, our country’s strategic installations and infrastructure during the election period. We will do everything in our power to protect all those who want to exercise their Constitutional right to vote,” Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Thandi Modise said.
Government also urged members of the public to report any crime related to elections to their nearest police station or IEC offices.
“A protocol has been established between the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, South African Police Service (SAPS) Detectives and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to prioritise all election-related crimes.
“Prosecutors stand ready to prosecute offences such as electoral fraud and corruption, removing or defacing political party and campaign posters, interfering with the duties of the electoral officials as well as forcing anyone to vote,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 04/29/2024 - 11:36
176 views
Blue light gang suspects shot dead
Blue light gang suspects shot dead
Three blue light gang suspects who were allegedly terrorising motorists on the N3 freeway were shot dead by a multidisciplinary team of law enforcement officials on Sunday.
According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), this is after information about the gang, which allegedly committed blue light robberies on the N3 between Villiers and Heidelberg using a white Toyota Hilux, was received.
“A multidisciplinary team was mobilised and traced the suspects to [the] N3 highway, Grootvlei in Mpumalanga. The vehicle was spotted with blue lights on.
“The suspects saw the police and sped away, resulting in a high-speed chase towards Zonkizizwe, Ekurhuleni. The suspects started shooting at the team and the team retaliated,” said the Gauteng SAPS in a statement on Monday.
Three suspects were fatally shot, while one gang member managed to flee the scene on foot.
The police seized two unlicensed firearms and ammunition, blue lights as well as the vehicle the suspects were in.
The multidisciplinary team included SAPS National Head Office Counter Intelligence, Secunda Crime Intelligence, Gauteng Tactical Response Team, Gauteng Anti-Gang Unit, DPC Tracking Team, Johannesburg K9, CAP Specialised Operations, Tracker Connect, ICB Insurance Crime Bureau, MZ Werke Security and Telesure Insurance Investigation.
“Crime Scene Management team combed the crime scene for more evidence while the vehicle was taken to the Vehicle Crime Investigation Unit for further analysis," said the SAPS. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 04/29/2024 - 10:24
124 views
Security plan in place for upcoming elections
Security plan in place for upcoming elections
With just 30 days left until South Africans head to the polls, government has assured citizens that the seventh National and Provincial Elections will be conducted in a safe and secure environment.
“As the government, we want to issue a stern warning to anyone with intentions to disrupt the elections that the law enforcement officers will deal with them decisively and will put them behind bars,” Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Thandi Modise said on Sunday in Pretoria.
Addressing a media briefing by the Justice, Crime Prevention, and Security (JCPS) Cluster, the Minister emphasised that no one has a right to intimidate and prevent others from exercising their Constitutional right to vote for a party of his or her choice.
“We want to assure the public of the readiness of the JCPS Cluster to execute its mandate of protecting the public, our country’s strategic installations and infrastructure during the election period. We will do everything in our power to protect all those who want to exercise their Constitutional right to vote,” the Minister said.
The 2024 General Elections are believed to be the most contested in the history of this country. Overall, 70 political parties are contesting the elections, 11 independent candidates, and the national contestants are 52.
In total, there are over 14, 903 candidates vying for 887 seats in the National and Provincial Legislatures.
“Our approach as the JCPS Cluster is to ensure coordinated and intelligence-led planning and operations pre-, during, and postelections where multi-departmental teams work together to ensure that all South Africans exercise their Constitutional rights without fear of intimidation or violence.
“This coordination is managed by National and Provincial JOINTS [ Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure] structures of the JCPS Cluster and the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC). Inter-departmental Priority Committees were established in 2023 at both the National and Provincial levels to safety and security planning.
“Our law enforcement agencies have led in developing the national security plan which has been approved by the Ministers of the JCPS Cluster. NATJOINTS [National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure] has done a thorough threat and crime pattern analysis to inform the development of a security plan and they want to ensure that nothing is left to chance,” the Minister said.
Fit-for purpose
Based on the threat and crime pattern analysis, NATJOINTS has recommended a fit-for-purpose deployment plan that will deal with any potential threats of crime and violence in and around voting stations and national and provincial results centres.
“We have also put measures in place to protect all public facilities that will be used for voting, national key points and other essential infrastructure that might be targeted by criminal elements. In addition, the Criminal Matters Amendment Act of 2015 states that any person who tampers with or damages essential infrastructure is guilty of a criminal offence and he/she can be sentenced to a maximum of 30 years if found guilty
“The South African Police Service (SAPS) Ministry and SAPS management have conducted several oversite roadshows in all provinces where they met with the station commanders of all police stations and district commissioners to assess the SAPS state of readiness and preparedness to ensure safety and security.
“The management of SAPS and Ministry are satisfied with the level of readiness of all the provinces and districts to provide policing services pre-, during and post-the elections,” Modise said.
The elections will be policed within the relevant prescripts and laws and police officers will enforce the law accordingly.
“We want to reiterate that the security plan will be constantly reviewed as the situation changes and we will adapt as required. As the JCPS Cluster leadership, we want to send a clear message to the public that no incitement to violence, lawlessness, destruction of infrastructure, or barricading of roads will be tolerated. Anyone who participates in any form of criminal activity will be dealt with.
“We therefore reiterate to all South Africans that political rights for citizens are guaranteed and should not be violated. The JCPS will ensure that all the rights enshrined in the Constitution are not violated,” she said.
Among these rights are the rights to freedom, security, and protection from all forms of violence from either public or private sources.
“Although the Constitution allows all citizens to participate in protests, pickets and present petitions, those who participate in these activities must do so peacefully and not violate the rights of those who do not want to participate. Anyone who is found to have contravened these critical provisions of the Constitution during this period will be met with the full authority of the state,” the Minister said. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 04/28/2024 - 11:18
469 views
Public urged to report crimes related to elections
Public urged to report crimes related to elections
Government has urged members of the public to report any crime related to elections to their nearest police station or Electoral Commission (IEC) offices.
“A protocol has been established between the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, South African Police Service (SAPS) Detectives and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to prioritise all election-related crimes,” Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Thandi Modise said on Sunday in Pretoria.
Addressing a media briefing by the Justice, Crime Prevention, and Security (JCPS) Cluster, the Minister said prosecutors stand ready to prosecute offences such as electoral fraud and corruption, removing or defacing political party and campaign posters, interfering with the duties of the electoral officials as well as forcing anyone to vote.
“Individuals who use social media and electronic platforms to send threatening messages, incite violence, or cause harm to others will be charged. When an individual creates a video or share a post to the public and where the post contains words, speech or conduct that may encourage others to commit public violence, the aforementioned post will make one guilty of the offence of inciting public violence and police will not hesitate to track the person down and hold you accountable,” Modise said.
The Minister appealed to political and community leaders to exercise caution when speaking on public platforms.
“Do not make inflammatory or threatening statements as you will be breaking the law and may also encourage others to carry out criminal activities.
“We urge the public to exercise caution before sharing the information with others. Ensure that you double-check the accuracy of the information and be aware of the unintended consequences of your actions. Members of the public should report any inflammatory statements to law enforcement agencies,” the Minister said at the briefing held in Pretoria.
She warned the public against sharing false, unverified information, rumours, or threats online or in person as that can have serious consequences.
It can incite violence, confuse voters, and undermine the democratic process.
Meanwhile, the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC) has activated provincial disaster management teams to identify risks and put mitigation measures in place for any disasters that may occur pre, during and post the elections.
“The NDMC is working closely with the South African Weather Service to monitor the situation, early warning messages will be issued when necessary. On the day of the elections, these teams will be deployed for 24 hours to monitor the situation,” the Minister said.
Collection of Identity Documents
To assist voters with the process of application for new Identity Documents and Temporary Identity Certificates and the collection of these documents, the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has opened its offices from 8 am to 1 pm on Saturdays from 06 April to 25 May 2024.
“In addition, Home Affairs will open its offices on voting day. Mobile offices are also scheduled to be opened in remote areas to assist with the application and collection processes. The department will engage with councillors and other community leaders to decide on the dates, times and venues of the operation of mobile offices.
“Citizens can also use the Branch Appointment Booking System (BABS), which is available on the DHA website to book appointments to collect their Smart ID Cards and Green barcoded ID books. We encourage clients who have applied for identification documents and have received their SMS notifications, to seize this opportunity by visiting their Home Affairs office to collect these critical documents.”
Modise encourage all eligible voters to go out in their numbers to the different voting stations on 29 May 2024 to cast their votes.
The 2024 General Elections are believed to be the most contested in the history of this country.
“Overall, 70 political parties are contesting these elections, 11 independent candidates, and the national contestants are 52. In total, there are over 14, 903 candidates vying for 887 seats in the National and Provincial Legislatures. Ensuring the safety and security of all voters and officials are of paramount importance,” the Minister said. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 04/28/2024 - 11:49
119 views
President Ramaphosa sets sights on five million EPWP jobs in next five years
President Ramaphosa sets sights on five million EPWP jobs in next five years
President Cyril Ramaphosa believes that the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) remains a critical policy instrument to tackle unemployment and reduce poverty as government grapples with high levels of joblessness.
The President has since pledged on behalf of government to improve the EPWP and to deliver five million work opportunities in the next five years.
President Ramaphosa was speaking on Tuesday at the 20-Year celebration of the EPWP and launch of Phase 5 of the programme in Buffalo City Municipality, Eastern Cape.
The President painted the EPWP as a success story that has empowered communities to address local needs and build resilience.
The country’s commander-in-chief said since 2004, the programme has created more than 14 million work opportunities across the EPWP sectors, with more than 300 public bodies across all spheres of government and non-profit organisations (NGOs) as implementing agents.
WATCH |
“The EPWP is changing lives and transforming communities, and the evidence is there for all to see,” President Ramaphosa told the crowd.
Through the EPWP infrastructure projects, President Ramaphosa said Welisizwe Rural Bridges are constructed and maintained to create better access to markets, schools and clinics.
READ | Zikalala announces construction of over 100 Welisizwe bridges
Beneficiaries include those cleaning streets and beaches, and those involved in Early Childhood Development (ECD), community home-based care, school feeding and community crime prevention.
According to the President, some of the beneficiaries have gone on to be trained as emergency response personnel in the South African Police (SAPS) and even qualified as pilots.
While there are many achievements, President Ramaphosa urged government to use the 20-year milestone as a springboard for even greater achievements in the years to come.
“We must build not only on lessons from the EPWP but also from the Presidential Employment Stimulus, which has, over the last few years, demonstrated that public employment can go to significantly greater levels of scale.”
However, he acknowledged that the quality of work experience and service delivered to the communities needed to be improved.
According to the President, government also needs to mobilise the nation behind a revitalised portfolio of public employment programmes.
This, he said, will include urgent service delivery priorities such as road upgrading through pothole patching and block paving, and infrastructure maintenance.
VIEW | Celebration of 20 years of the EPWP
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The President is of the view that public employment can also assist in tackling social challenges, such as gender-based violence (GBV) and substance abuse.
The programme will also support tackling clean energy installation and catchment management to improve water quality and limit the risks of floods.
President Ramaphosa said it could also help in the digitisation of public records and give young people a first step into this growing sector of the economy.
Deepening youth participation
The President believes that the EPWP Phase 5 will rise to the challenge by increasing youth participation and strengthening skills development.
“As we enter this new phase, we must reiterate that there can be no space for corruption, nepotism or favouritism. Effective and fair recruitment practices must be applied.”
He called on social partners and the private sector to work with the State during Phase 5 to lend a hand in creating jobs and work opportunities for South Africa’s youth, women and people with disabilities.
“Working together through public and social employment programmes and by providing support for small enterprises and cooperatives, we can create more jobs at a much faster pace while improving the delivery of basic services.”
The President has vowed to continue to expand public employment through the EPWP, the Presidential Employment Stimulus, the National Youth Service, and others.
In addition, he stated that government will assist civil society organisations that are creating work opportunities.
The Head of State also promised to back entrepreneurship and job creation by increasing support for small enterprises and cooperatives in townships and villages.
“We will continue to prioritise young people in public employment programmes, in work-based learning programmes, in artisan training and entrepreneurship programmes.”
He assured the young South African men and women that government will not leave them behind.
“We are determined to reach you, one and all, to help you and to support you. This is the promise of democracy and freedom,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 04/24/2024 - 14:17
493 views
Three Cape Town SAPS officers appear in court for torture of barber
The officers were arrested on Monday, five months after Juma Igiranieza was brutally assaulted at his workplace
Phaahla condemns acts of violence at Themba Hospital in Mpumalanga
Phaahla condemns acts of violence at Themba Hospital in Mpumalanga
Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla, says he has noted with concern and has condemned the acts of anarchy, violence and criminality targeting healthcare facilities to disrupt the provision of essential health services and depriving patients of lifesaving treatment.
This comes after members of a local business forum who were disgruntled about procurement processes recently allegedly attacked healthcare workers at Themba Hospital in Kabokweni, Mpumalanga.
Reports suggest that the hospital had to be closed for almost three weeks due to the unrest which forced doctors to down tools.
According to Phaahla, these acts that threaten the safety and security of the health workers, patients, service providers and infrastructure are unacceptable and will not be tolerated.
“We welcome the swift response and interventions by members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) and other law enforcement agencies to normalise the situation to enable the health workers to perform their lifesaving duties in a safe and protected environment without disruption and acts of violence.”
According to the Minister, government will continue to respond proportionally to these criminal acts to protect those who need help in the hospital, the healthcare workers and the infrastructure.
“We are already working with the SAPS to ensure that healthcare service continues undisrupted and prevent future incidences. We want to assure the healthcare workers and community at large that similar acts will not happen unattended and will be responded with speed and appropriately,” said Phaahla.
The department and the SAPS signed a Memorandum of Agreement in 2019 committing to cooperate to ensure the security and safety of patients, workers in the health facility and the entire infrastructure.
“The SAPS in response to criminality in the health facility will deploy a dedicated team to ensure the security of the facility.”
Phaahla has called on anyone with evidence of unethical behaviour by health officials and who has concerns about the level of service delivery or operations to raise them through proper channels instead of resorting to violence and intimidation.
“We will not entertain any form of anarchy and feeling of entitlement in our facilities because we follow normal procurement processes like any other public institution.
“We implore people to exercise their constitutional rights to protest peacefully within the confines of the law, without infringing the rights to life by others and access to healthcare,” he stressed.
In addition, the Minister confirmed that no life has been lost at the facility due to the recent violent incidents.
However, several patients could not access their chronic medication and some planned surgeries had to be rescheduled, while other patients were transferred to nearby hospitals and stable patients were discharged.
“The situation is now under control and the hospital is fully operational. Staff members are back at work.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 04/19/2024 - 14:08
438 views
Minister Joe Phaahla on state of public health service
Minister of Health, Dr Joe Phaahla notes with concern and condemns in strong terms the acts of anarchy, violence and criminality targeting healthcare facilities with the intention to disrupt the provision of essential health services, depriving patients of life-saving treatment.
The recent acts of violence committed in Themba Hospital in Mpumalanga which threatened the safety and security of the health workers, patients, service providers and infrastructure is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. These acts disrupt the provision of essential health services, threaten the safety and security of health workers, patients, and health infrastructure.
We welcome the swift response and interventions by members of the South African Police Service and other law enforcement agencies to normalise the situation to enable the health workers to perform their life-saving duties in a safe and protected environment without disruption and acts of violence, and at the same time enable the patients to access essential health service including life-saving treatment.
The government will continue to respond proportionally to these criminal acts to protect those who need help in the hospital, the healthcare workers and the healthcare infrastructure we have. We are already working with the South African Police Service (SAPS) to ensure that healthcare service continues undisrupted and prevent future incidences. We want to assure the healthcare workers and community at large that the similar acts will not happen unattended and will be responded with speed and appropriately.
The National Department of Health (NDOH) and the South African Police Service (SAPS) have signed Memorandum of Agreement in 2019, at which have committed to cooperate to ensure security and safety of patients, workers in the health facility and the entire infrastructure. The SAPS in response to criminality in the health facility will deploy a dedicated team to ensure security of the facility.
We call upon anyone with evidence of unethical behaviour by health officials or concerns about the level of service delivery, operations of the health facility or whatsoever, to raise them through proper channels instead of resorting to violence and intimidation because that will not be tolerated, and the law will take its course.
We will not entertain any form of anarchy and feeling of entitlement in our facilities because we follow normal procurement processes like any other public institution. We implore people to exercise their constitutional rights to protest peacefully within the confines of the law, without infringing the rights to life by others and access to healthcare.
We can confirm that no life has been lost in the facility due to the recent unfortunate violent incidents, but a number of patients couldn't access their chronic medication, while some planned surgeries had to be rescheduled. Other patients were transferred to nearby hospitals, while stable patients were discharged. The situation is now under control and the hospital is fully operational. Staff members are back at work.
Human Resources for Health
The Department of Health continues with efforts to address the challenge of unemployment of health professionals, including medical doctors who completed statutory community service programme. We are working closely with Provincial health departments focused on all critical vacant posts to strengthen healthcare delivery to adequately respond to the needs of our people. We are making progress in the recruitment of the qualified health professionals across the country. Let me dispel the myths by some critics and allay fears that the department is dragging its feet to recruit and appoint unemployed health professionals.
There are 2012 unfunded vacant posts of medical doctors on the health sector establishment at the current moment across nine provinces which require R2,4 billion to fill them. This numbers excludes other categories of health professionals like nurses, pharmacists, radiographers, dentists et cetera. We are happy to announce that a total of 2066 health professionals have been appointed between January and March 2024 across the country.
This consists of 1121 medical officers on Grade 1 of entry level, 579 professional nurses, 127 Allied Health workers, 100 pharmacists, 91 Radiographers, 23 Dentists Grade 1 and 9 Environmental Health Officers. The recruitment processes are continuing in provinces to finalize more appointments scheduled to enable the successful candidates to assume duties in May 2024.
The Ministry continues to work closely with the provincial Health MECs to activate unfunded vacant posts using the allocated additional budget to enable recruitment of more health workers. It is our wish to employ as many health professionals as possible to play a meaningful role in the public health system of the country. It is important to emphasize that the filling of posts is done in line with the employment guidelines as issued by the Department of Public Service and Administration. This means the applicants should not limit themselves to the provinces or districts of their residence.
Cholera Update
The country has recorded more than 150 suspected cholera cases, 12 laboratory- confirmed cases and one death between 1 January and 18 April 2024. Eleven of these cases were recorded in Limpopo and one in Gauteng. Three of these cases are imported from Zimbabwe, with no definite history of contact with other confirmed cases. The demised patient was a 48-year-old male South African citizen from Musina, in Vhembe District who experienced diarrhoeal symptoms and was admitted in hospital on 16 March, unfortunately he passed away on 21 March 2024 in Pietersburg hospital.
The risk of both imported cases and local transmission remains high due the cross- border movements to and from both Zimbabwe and Mozambique. We appeal to the organisers of social gatherings including religious and traditional events to ensure strict compliance with personal hygiene (including handwashing) especially during food preparation and serving, and ablution facilities to prevent possible transmission of cholera and other foodborne and waterborne diseases.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of Health.
Shelters for homeless families a rarity
The Somerset West Family Shelter is one of few in the country
World Cup police accommodation fraud and corruption case postponed
World Cup police accommodation fraud and corruption case postponed
The case against nine suspects facing charges relating to the R47 million Soccer World Cup police accommodation fraud and corruption investigation has been postponed in the Durban High Court.
The case was postponed to allow for pre-trial conferencing.
The accused in the case include former high ranking police officials including:
- Former KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner General Mmamonnye Ngobeni
- Colonel Navin Madhoe
- Former police captain Aswin Narainpershad
The other accused are:
- Businessman, Toshan Panday
- Panday’s mother, Arevenda Panday
- His wife, Privisha Panday
- His sister, Kajal Ishwarkumar
- Panday's brother-in-law, Seveesh Maharaj Ishwarkumar
- Panday’s personal assistant, Tasleem Rahiman
National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Investigating Directorate spokesperson Henry Mamothame explained that the nine face at least 275 charges of racketeering offences and fraud, corruption, money laundering and forgery.
“[These were] allegedly committed between March 2009 and April 2010, wherein the prescripts of the Public Finance Management Act were allegedly ignored in procuring accommodation for members of the South African Police Service during the 2010 Soccer World Cup.
“The state alleges Panday’s family [were] party to a common purpose with Toshan and others to defraud SAPS, through their association with entities which were used to score lucrative contracts from SAPS. The policemen who are accused in this matter face accusations of colluding with Panday to receive contracts from the KZN police for an amount of over R47.3 million in fraudulent and irregular tender procedures.
“Judgment on an application for disclosure of certain information is still reserved for a date that will be provided by the court. The state has strongly argued against this application,” he said.
The case is expected back in court on 25 July 2024. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 04/17/2024 - 09:12
577 views
GBV fight strengthened with opening of Thuthuzela centre
GBV fight strengthened with opening of Thuthuzela centre
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has launched a state-of-the-art Thuthuzela Care Centre (TCC) in Stellenbosch.
TCCs are a one stop facility for survivors of gender-based violence (GBV) where they are able to receive psycho-social support, medical treatment, and legal services.
These centres are also aimed at removing incidents of secondary victimisation and create a platform for building successful cases.
Speaking at the launch of the TCC, NPA National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP), Advocate Shamila Batohi, explained that the site became operational in February this year.
“It enables the victims of GBV in Stellenbosch and surrounding communities to access and receive world class GBV services. The TCC model is an international best practice. This model works because it is victim centred [and] court directed which is really important because we need to ensure justice for the victims.
“One of the NPA’s innovative interventions to give effect to these commitments [on the response to GBV] has been the introduction of the TCC model. But now, it is not just an NPA initiative, it is a collaborative initiative by various government departments,” Batohi said.
Reflecting on the statistics of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) in South Africa, the NDPP called on all of society to join hands to fight it.
“Sadly, as we all know, GBV is a scourge in South Africa. The 2023 World Population Review Report notes that South Africa is amongst 10 countries with the highest levels of rape worldwide.
“It is therefore not unexpected that a December 2022 Afrobarometer survey found that South Africans – both men and women – see GBV as the most important women’s human rights issue that government and society must address as a collective.
“The rape and killing of our women is in fact reflective of the society that is devoid of a sense of humanity. It requires that a whole of society approach be adopted in particular by men that we declare war on GBVF,” she said.
Batohi highlighted that in Sexual Offences Courts around the country, the NPA has a conviction rate of at least 70%.
However, she bemoaned the fact that this drops “dramatically” when unreported cases are included.
“If included; the unreported matters; the conviction drops dramatically to under 10%. So, under 10% of victims actually get justice. It’s something that we really need to look at. SAPS have done presentations…where they say that over 50% of these offences are committed by people known to the victim.
“So the question is if over 50% of these offences are committed by people known to the victim, why do we not have at least 50% of cases reported ultimately convicted?
“Children are very often abused because there are not enough care facilities for mothers working and so they leave the young children, with a neighbour [or] family member and very often, these young children are actually then violated by people that are known to the family. So, we really need to look at why that detection rate is still this low,” she explained.
Batohi said that through the more than 60 TCC units across the country, more victims are reporting.
“Besides providing better services to victims of GBV, a larger footprint of TCCs translates into improved reporting. We had 29 593 matters reported in 2020/21 at the 60 TCCs. This increased to 36813 reported in 22/23 at 62 TCCs. In this past eight years combined, TCCs have dealt with 266 593 matters reported at these sites.
“More TCCs means more reporting, more confidence in the system. We also have an increase in convictions rates in cases that are finalised through the TCC process. They have steadily increased from about 60% ...to now sitting around 75, 76%,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 04/17/2024 - 10:45
540 views
Extortion rackets disrupt work in Cape Town’s townships
We no longer go to some townships without an escort, says waste collection worker
Over 281 000 people intercepted from unlawfully entering SA
Over 281 000 people intercepted from unlawfully entering SA
The Border Management Authority (BMA) has successfully intercepted and prevented more than 281 000 people from unlawfully entering South Africa since the initial deployment of border guards last year.
“It is in this celebratory mode of 30 years of democracy, coupled with the first anniversary of the BMA that we are presented with an opportunity to reflect on the benefits of moving away from a multi-agency approach to an integrated border management platform under a single command and control,” said Commissioner of the BMA, Dr Mike Masiapato.
The BMA celebrated its first anniversary on 1 April this year.
“To this end, the BMA has taken full control of all immigration, health, agricultural and environmental functions across all ports of entry, with the departments retaining responsibility for policy and legislation,” Masiapato said at a media briefing held on Sunday.
However, the access control function across the ports of entry remains co-implemented between the border guards and the South African Police Services (SAPS) due to the capacity challenges confronting the BMA.
Masiapato presented the report on the authority’d 2024 Easter plan, which ran for 10 days starting from 26 March to 4 April 2024.
During the Easter period, the BMA facilitated 1 136 250 travellers across South Africa’s 71 ports of entry. This was a 24% increase, with 222 391 more travellers facilitated and registered compared to last year.
Operations
The Commissioner revealed that 3 841 people attempting to enter South Africa illegally were intercepted.
He said that there was a decrease in the number of undocumented and unaccompanied minors arriving at ports of entry during the Easter period of 2024.
Although this was a positive development, the agency intercepted five children at the Beitbridge port of entry on 28 March 2024.
The children were handed over to the Department of Social Development and have since been returned to their home country.
He also shared about the incident involving a child at the Grobler’s Bridge port of entry where a woman was attempting to exit South Africa to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) via Botswana.
“The supposed ‘mother’ did not have a passport but was carrying an Emergency Travel Document, which was issued by the embassy of the DRC and the child was completely undocumented. They were both handed over to the colleagues of the Department of Social Development who processed and took them to the place of safety within Limpopo.”
In addition, eight penalties were issued to some bus companies found transporting illegal migrants in various ports of entry to the value of R270 000.
“At this point, we would like to send a stern warning to all conveyers to desist from transporting illegal migrants in or out of South Africa.”
The border guards also managed to intercept and deny entry to about seven cargo consignments of meat worth about R9 294 551 which were destined to enter South Africa through the port of Cape Town due to non-compliance.
They also seized about 748 kg of non-compliant regulated agricultural products at various ports of entry.
In the period of 10 days, BMA health specialists screened about 91 743 travellers for various infectious and or communicable diseases and seized about 120 tablets, 57 658 mg of medications, 59 530 ml of cosmetics and about 50 insulin injections.
The guards working with the SAPS arrested about 143 individuals for committing various crimes and transgressions within the ports of entry and the border law enforcement area.
“The majority of these individuals served as facilitators of illegal activities around the ports of entry and were therefore charged for aiding and abetting. Interestingly, one individual was arrested at Lebombo port of entry to Mozambique while in possession of 13 passports attempting to bribe an immigration specialist with some banknotes which were placed in between the pages of the individual passports.”
In addition, about R641 of dagga with the value of R2 602 500 was seized and destroyed in both Grobler's Bridge port of entry to Botswana and Caledonspoort port of entry to Lesotho.
Another joint operation by officials of the SAPS, South African Reserve Service (SARS) and BMA included 217 master cases of counterfeit cigarettes with the value of R3 351 690 at the Lebombo port of entry from Mozambique en route to South Africa.
Other operations include the interception of 573 items of counterfeit alcohol, 272 pairs of counterfeit clothing and parts of a Toyota Hilux 4 x 4 worth R150 000.
“As the BMA, we remain committed to robustly confront the complex challenges associated with border management across all modalities, ranging from sea, land and air,” said the Commissioner. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 04/14/2024 - 12:17
384 views
Elections 2024: What the major political parties say about education
We sent questions to the ANC, DA, EFF, IFP, FF Plus, ActionSA, PA, MK Party and RISE Mzansi
Traders accuse border officers of beating them and burning their stalls
Lawyers for Human Rights accuse authorities of violating human rights
Medical workers protest against attacks on them
20 armed attacks on EMS workers in the past year.
KZN reaffirms commitment to provide essential services
KZN reaffirms commitment to provide essential services
KwaZulu-Natal Social Development MEC, Nonhlanhla Khoza, has reaffirmed the provincial government's commitment to continue with its efforts to ensure that all communities have access to essential services.
Khoza made the commitment during Operation Sigalelekile (“We’ve arrived”), where she led various departments in a united force to provide vital services to the community of Ngudwini and Samungu’s Ward 05 in Umlalazi Local Municipality, under King Cetshwayo District Municipality.
Operation Sigalelekile is an initiative that serves as a beacon of hope for rural communities located in far-flung areas, remotely located from government services.
The community of Ngudwini was previously affected by faction fights, which robbed people of their lives and properties.
As government commemorates 30 years of service delivery, Khoza emphasised the need for strengthened strategies to bridge the gap in service delivery, particularly in rural communities.
Addressing the community during an event held this week at Esikhumbeni Sportsground, Khoza said regardless of location, government is committed to ensuring that essential services reach every citizen, with the aim of fostering a successful nation.
"We are deeply concerned that older persons have to use their grants to support grandchildren who cannot access child support grants due to lack of important documents. We have been made aware of this challenge, hence our visit to the area to address it.
“There are orphans, as a result of infighting within the communities and that robbed children of a better life. We have a responsibility to deal with social challenges affecting our communities," Khoza said.
Khoza also stressed the importance of reaching every corner of the province, adding that government is caring, as it responded to the plight of people needing access to government offices and services.
During the outreach, various departments, including Social Development, South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), South African Police Services, Health, Home Affairs, and the Electoral Commission, collaborated to address the pressing needs of the Ngudwini and Samungu communities.
The community members had an opportunity to make applications for important documents, including birth certificates and IDs, as well as access grants, with on-site assistance from SAPS for affidavits.
The MEC underscored the significance of these documents in unlocking opportunities for individuals and ensuring their inclusion in society.
She affirmed government's commitment to addressing challenges faced by the community, particularly regarding documentation for children and older persons.
"We are here to bridge the gap and ensure that every person, regardless of their circumstances, has equal access to essential services. The integrated effort by the KwaZulu-Natal Government exemplifies its dedication to uplifting communities and fostering inclusivity in service delivery," Khoza said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 04/11/2024 - 14:27
272 views