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SAPS
Alleged fraudster appears in court
Alleged fraudster appears in court
Nhlanhla Sizani (24) has appeared briefly before the Pretoria Magistrates Court on charges of fraud, alternative forgery and uttering after he was issued with a summons on 12 December 2023.
It is reported that during the 2021 Local Government Elections (LGE), Sizani submitted a fraudulent letter with the United Nations (UN) insignia, requesting South African Police Service (SAPS) escort to polling stations for the duration of the elections.
Sizani is said to have misrepresented himself as a United Nations (UN) Ambassador/Diplomat and thus was escorted by SAPS Diplomatic Police Unit to various polling stations as an observer.
Through an investigation by the Hawks' Crime against the State within Serious Organised Crime Investigation, the UN confirmed that Sizani was not an Ambassador/Diplomat (observer) and the request for escort was not requested by them.
SAPS suffered financial loss as a result of the misrepresentation.
The case was postponed to 23 January 2024 for the accused to obtain legal representation. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 01/17/2024 - 11:06
86 views
Operation Shanela nets 149 wanted suspects in the Northern Cape
Operation Shanela nets 149 wanted suspects in the Northern Cape
Operation Shanela remains an operational tool to prevent and combat crime in the Northern Cape, with 149 wanted suspects arrested over the course of three days.
According to the Office of the Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), multi-disciplinary intensified disruptive police actions held from 11 to 14 January 2024, had a sharp focus on reducing contact and violent crimes in hotspot areas.
Operation Shanela is the SAPS crime-combating high density operation incepted in May 2023.
The police executed vehicle checkpoints, stop and searches, foot and vehicle patrols, compliance inspections, drugs, and other cross-border commodities smuggling and tracing operations by detectives.
The operation netted a multitude of successes, with 149 wanted suspects traced by detectives across the province during tracing operations.
Meanwhile, 14 roadblocks and 30 vehicle checkpoints to combat transit crimes were conducted in different locations, of which 2 764 vehicles and 6 460 people were stopped and searched.
The police also conducted compliance inspections at second-hand dealers, liquor premises, scrapyards, recyclers, private security establishments, firearm dealers, formal and informal businesses, farms and mines.
“The police arrested 92 suspects for various offences that include, murder, assault, robbery, burglary, malicious damage to property, dealing and possession of drugs, possession of dangerous weapons, illegal liquor dealing and 24 undocumented immigrants,” said the police in a statement on Sunday.
The operation also led to the confiscation of large volumes of alcoholic beverages, cellphones and drugs as well as illicit mining implements and equipment.
The Provincial Commissioner of the Northern Cape, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, indicated that these successes are a result of heightened police visibility. SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 01/15/2024 - 12:35
190 views
Arrests made in connection with fake certificates
Arrests made in connection with fake certificates
Over the last six months, police have arrested at least 11 people in relation to the buying and selling of fake certificates.
This according to Umalusi CEO, Dr Mafu Rakometsi, who was speaking during a media briefing on Monday.
“Since the [National Senior Certificate exams] State of Readiness Media Briefing held on 13 October 2023 during which we, amongst others, informed the public about the safeguards implemented to ensure the authenticity and credibility of Umalusi certificates, eleven suspects have been arrested by the South African Police Service (SAPS) on different dates.
“The first two suspects were arrested in Burgersfort in Limpopo on 27 October, one suspect was arrested in Pretoria in November, the next three were arrested on 20 November, and the last five were nabbed on 13 December 2023 again in Burgersfort, Limpopo,” he said.
Furthermore, a Department of Higher Education and Training official is facing a charge of corruption for issuing a diploma certificate in exchange for cash.
“Police investigations are ongoing and Umalusi will continue to work closely with the law enforcement agencies in whatever way possible to ensure that the scammers or fraudsters are made to face the full might of the law,” Rakometsi said.
He asserted that the education quality assurance body “has got no business with fake certificates” and is mandated to issue authentic certificates to qualifying candidates.
“Fake certificates are issued by scammers or fraudsters who are not employees of Umalusi.
“We advise all employers both in the public and private sectors to consider verifying their current and future employees’ qualifications through the verification agencies whose contact details are available on the website of Umalusi (www.umalusi.org.za).
“On the landing page, you simply click on the Certification & Verification icon,” Rakometsi said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 01/15/2024 - 14:30
187 views
Police to host stakeholder engagement session in Mpumalanga
Police to host stakeholder engagement session in Mpumalanga
The Deputy Minister of Police, Cassel Mathale and the National Commissioner of the South African Police Service, General Fannie Masemola are set to engage with the lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer, intersex and asexual (LGBTQIA) community as well as people living with albinism.
“The purpose of the engagement is to provide a platform to discuss crime related challenges faced by these communities with a sole purpose of ensuring policing services and actions promote diversity,” said the South African Police Service (SAPS) ahead of the Friday, 12 January session.
The stakeholder engagement session led by the Deputy Minister and Commissioner with communities will take place at the SANDF Military Sports Club, Graniteville, West Acres in Mbombela.
“This initiative also aims to establish and strengthen the fight against crime perpetrated against the LGBTQIA and people living with albinism community,” said the police service. -SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Fri, 01/12/2024 - 09:37
144 views
Limpopo Premier condemns gender-based violence
Limpopo Premier condemns gender-based violence
Limpopo Premier Chupu Stanley Mathabatha has strongly condemned all forms of violence against humanity, especially women and children.
This is after the province reported an increase in incidents of violence in the past few days.
“These inhumane acts seem to have continued to rise in the province, especially during the 2023 festive season. The province is mourning the deaths of women, children, and men whose precious lives were mercilessly cut short,” said the Premier in a statement.
The recent spine-chilling incidents involve the gruesome discovery of the body of an 18-year-old girl on Monday, who was murdered in an abandoned house at Mokomene, Ga-Thoka village, under the Botlokwa policing precinct.
The Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has since appealed to the community to provide valuable information to assist the police with its investigation.
According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), their members received a complaint about the lifeless body of a woman at an abandoned house and rushed to the scene.
“Upon arrival, they found the body of the woman in an advanced state of decomposition. The deceased’s identity will be released in due course as the investigation is still in its preliminary stages,” the SAPS statement read, adding that the motive behind the gruesome act has not yet been established.
The Premier’s Office also raised concerns about the heartless murder of Dr Johannes Mehlape, who was the Department of Education Circuit Manager of the Lebopo Office in the Capricorn District.
According to reports, Mehlape was gunned down at his home during an alleged robbery on 28 December 2023 at night after two unknown suspects accosted the victim and his two children.
“Enough is enough; we cannot let our lives continue to be cut short in this manner. I implore all to work with the police and other law enforcement agencies to ensure that perpetrators of these atrocities are arrested.
“Let us join hands in combating these barbaric acts and uproot them in our communities,” Mathabatha stressed.
He has since urged residents not to look away, but to report crime. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 01/11/2024 - 09:01
82 views
Nyanga families battle two-day water outage
City of Cape Town workers are on site to fix burst pipe
Drugs seized at OR Tambo airport
Drugs seized at OR Tambo airport
Customs officers of the South African Revenue Service (SARS) have seized 23kg of narcotics disguised as moulded artwork with an estimated street value of R37 million at the cargo sheds of the OR Tambo International Airport.
The customs officers were doing their inspection rounds last week when they came across a box headed for New Zealand.
The box contained items of moulded artwork, which looked suspicious. The officers used a narcotics test kit and some of the items tested positive for crystal meth, which weighed 10kg.
A test by the South African Police Service (SAPS) on other items tested positive for fentanyl, which weighed 13kg. The narcotics were handed over the SAPS for further investigation.
In a statement on Saturday, SARS Commissioner Edward Kieswetter praised the vigilance of the customs officers who detected the narcotics.
“SARS Customs will spare no effort in stopping the export or import of narcotics and any illegal substance which cause so much pain and hardship for families, particularly their youth.
“Drug smugglers must know that our Customs Division is fully committed to this objective, and will act without fear or favour against those criminals involved in the drugs trade. They must know that they will face the full might of the law,” Kieswetter said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 01/08/2024 - 09:27
576 views
Eastern Cape mother arrested for allegedly murdering baby
Eastern Cape mother arrested for allegedly murdering baby
Police have arrested a 27-year-old woman for allegedly murdering her 11-month-old baby girl in the Eastern Cape.
“It is alleged that on Friday, 5 January 2024, a man went into the bushes at the Nonyevu locality in Port St Johns to urinate when he found the baby in a refuse bag. He alerted the members of the community, and the mother was traced,” the South African Police Service (SAPS) said on Sunday.
According to police information, on 29 December 2023 the infant got sick and passed away at about 5am on 1 January 2024.
It is believed that the mother wrapped the child with a towel, put her in a plastic bag and threw her in the bushes at Nonyevu locality where she was living at the time.
“The mother was assaulted by the community and is hospitalised. She faces a charge for murder and will appear in the Port St Johns Magistrate Court. A post mortem will be conducted to determine the cause of death,” SAPS said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 01/08/2024 - 09:36
475 views
Four more suspects arrested for Novel Year’s killings in Soshanguve
Four more suspects arrested for New Year’s killings in Soshanguve
Four more suspects have been arrested for the killing in Soshanguve that claimed the lives of four people, including a teenager on New Year's Day.
They were arrested during an intelligence-driven operation by the Hawks' Serious Organised Crime Investigation team based in Pretoria and the Hawks’ Tactical Operations Management Section (TOMS).
“The suspects, three males and one female, were arrested on the night of 06 January 2024 in various areas around Pretoria, which brings the total number of arrested suspects to six. Three firearms, an AK 47 and two pistols were confiscated.
“The suspects will appear in the Soshanguve Magistrate’s court on Tuesday 9 January 2024 on charges of murder and possession of an unlicensed firearm,” the South African Police Service (SAPS) said on Monday.
The two previously arrested suspects, Sipho Kgomo and Tshepo Mosemeni, will appear in court again on 12 January 2024. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 01/08/2024 - 10:45
150 views
Operation Shanela efforts pay off in Tshwane
Operation Shanela efforts pay off in Tshwane
Efforts to combat crime in the City of Tshwane continue to pay off, as 371 suspects have been arrested as part of Operation Shanela, which focused on high-visibility patrols in crime hotspots, compliance inspections and raids at liquor outlets in different areas of the city.
The operation was executed on Thursday, in collaboration with various stakeholders, including the Departments of Home Affairs and Labour; the Gauteng Traffic Department, Tshwane Metro Police Department, crime prevention wardens, Community Policing Forums and local councillors.
“Throughout the operation, Tshwane Detective teams successfully apprehended a total of 371 suspects. Among them were 79 individuals involved in gender-based violence, four charged with murder, three with attempted murder, eight involved in armed robbery and five arrested for rape.
“Three uniformed groups, comprising two tactical teams and a roadblock group, were tasked to police the areas of Garsfontein and Boschkop. The tactical groups inspected 29 liquor premises, with four of them being not compliant with the Liquor Act and liquor totalling 90.6 litres were confiscated and will be destroyed upon finalisation of the criminal cases,” the South African Police Service (SAPS) said on Thursday.
A motorcycle was impounded for further investigation after it was found abandoned.
Eighty-nine undocumented foreign nationals were detained and will undergo deportation once the legal processes have been finalised.
One suspect was arrested for possession of drugs.
"Throughout the operation's duration, a total of five premises, 1 412 persons and 747 vehicles were searched, with 12 vehicles being tested to ensure they were not stolen, which resulted in the issuing of 191 Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO) infringement notices, totalling R104 250. The Department of Labour inspected 11 businesses and subsequently issued 10 businesses with contravention notices,” the SAPS said.
Through intensified high-density operations under the Operation Shanela umbrella, regular roadblocks, stop and searches and the tracking and tracing of wanted suspects was carried out regularly during the Safer Festive Season operations.
The heightened police visibility during the holiday period and beyond is aimed at preventing, combating, and at the same time, countering serious and violent crime. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 01/05/2024 - 11:21
76 views
Three women raped, one dead in Recent Years Day attack
Three women raped, one dead in New Years Day attack
Police have launched a manhunt for two suspects who allegedly raped three women and fatally stabbed one of them on New Year's Day in Tsolo in the Eastern Cape.
“It is alleged that on Monday evening, 01 January 2024, at about 7pm two unknown men accosted three women who were walking in between the grazing fields. The two were armed with knives and started threatening their victims and demanded cash and cellphones. The women, aged between 18 and 19, were robbed of their cellphones and then raped,” the South African Police Service (SAPS) said on Thursday.
It is further alleged that when one of the victims tried to resist with some of her belongings, she was stabbed on her upper body.
“The two men tied up two of the victims before throwing them into a nearby stream. Moments later, the victims managed to free themselves and went to their relatives to report the incident. The third victim was later found dead at the scene. A case of murder was opened with three additional counts of rape for further investigation,” SAPS said.
Police are urging anyone with information that could lead to the arrest of the suspects to contact the nearest police station.
The information may also be shared via the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111.
Eastern Cape Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Nomthetheleli Mene expressed her deepest condolences to the family of the deceased teenager.
She further expressed her concern on the increase in reported rape cases during this festive period. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 01/04/2024 - 10:32
452 views
Limpopo police launch manhunt after discovery of dismembered body
Limpopo police launch manhunt after discovery of dismembered body
The Limpopo South African Police Service (SAPS) has launched a manhunt for unknown suspects following the gruesome discovery of a dismembered body of an unknown man in a shallow grave in Apel.
Community members who were collecting firewood in the bushes near Strydkraal alerted police about the body of a man buried in a shallow grave on Wednesday.
Upon arrival, police were able to retrieve the dismembered body with multiple injuries and some of his body parts which were buried along with him.
“Preliminary investigations indicated that the victim was brought to the scene by suspects driving in an unidentified motor vehicle. An initial investigation conducted at the scene also indicated that the victim was dragged for some metres to where the shallow grave was dug up, as there were trails of bloodstains. The victim suspected to be in his 30s was found wearing only underwear,” SAPS said on Thursday.
Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe described the incident is one of the most disturbing and inhumane incidents in the province.
“I have confidence in our investigating team that they will follow all possible leads to track down the suspects and bring them to book.
“We also appeal to community members to come forward with any information that can assist in identifying the deceased or apprehending the suspects," Hadebe said.
Community members with information can contact Sergeant Martin Betha on 0636699344 or Lieutenant Colonel John Kubayi on 0825657602 or Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or the nearest police station or use MySAPS app. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 01/04/2024 - 10:43
326 views
Two held for triple murder in Cape Town
Two held for triple murder in Cape Town
Police in Cape Town have arrested two people for a shooting that left three men dead and another seriously wounded in Gugulethu on New Year’s Day.
The suspects were arrested on Wednesday in Goodwood and Blue Downs.
“As investigations unfold, the detectives have set their sight on another suspect. The shooting incident is alleged to have occurred on New Year’s Day in Gugulethu on Monday afternoon. Reports at the disposal of police indicate the victims were in a vehicle about to drop off someone when another vehicle with occupants emerged and several shots were fired.
“As a consequence, three people died from the first vehicle and a third one was taken to a medical facility after sustaining serious injuries. Since the incident occurred provincial serious violent crime detectives have been hard at work in pursuit of the perpetrators of the act,” the South African Police Service (SAPS) said.
Early on Wednesday morning, the detectives with crime intelligence arrested the suspects at different locations.
The suspects, aged 26 and 36, are expected to appear in the Athlone Magistrate’s court on Friday on charges of murder and attempted murder.
The motive for the shooting incident is the subject of the police investigation currently underway. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 01/03/2024 - 13:54
132 views
1 000 arrested during Operation Shanela in Free State
1 000 arrested during Operation Shanela in Free State
Over 1 000 people were arrested in one week for various crimes in the Free State as part of Operation Shanela.
Operation Shanela consists of regular stop and searches, roadblocks and vehicle checkpoints; high visibility patrols, including foot patrols; the tracing of wanted suspects, with a focus on murder and rape suspects, and compliance inspections at liquor outlets and second-hand good dealers.
“The period starting 25 - 31 December 2023 saw police arrest 1 073 suspects for different crimes throughout the province. This includes detection and tracking operations.
“Operation Shanela is the SAPS [South African Police Service] crime-combating high density operations incepted in May 2023.
“During patrols [in the] last week of the festive season, seven unlicensed illegal liquor premises were closed. Ninety-seven illegal firework traders were closed and their stock was confiscated.
“Through stop and searches, 33 knives were confiscated, while 32 people were arrested for possession of dangerous weapons. Dangerous weapons such as knives and pangas were confiscated,” SAPS said on Tuesday.
Fifty-three motorists were arrested for driving while under the influence of liquor at roadblocks.
The fight against drugs also produced positive results, as 105 suspects were arrested for drug related crimes, which included the possession of drugs such as mandrax, cocaine, crystal meth and methcathinone (CAT).
Progress was also made in the fight against illegal mining.
“The Illicit Mining Task Team is hard on duty in the area of Lejweleputswa and 26 suspects were arrested for illicit mining after others were found in possession of gold dust and illegal mining equipment. With that operation, 46 suspects were also brought to book after they were found to be contravening the Immigration Act.
“A multidisciplinary roadblock also ensured that 32 people [were] issued or received fines, as per traffic related services offences. This also saw police confiscate three unlicensed firearms and ammunition, and three people were arrested as a result thereof. Robberies, murder and attempted murder saw 15 suspects being arrested,” SAPS said.
The public is urged to report any suspicious and criminal activities to Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or use the MySAPS app. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 01/03/2024 - 09:35
91 views
Four bodies recovered in Ladysmith floods
Four bodies recovered in Ladysmith floods
The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Disaster Management Centre has confirmed that search and rescue teams have discovered the remains of four people in Ladysmith.
The search and rescue teams and the South African Police Service (SAPS) are currently in the process of identifying the bodies, together with the families of those that were reported missing.
Heavy rains on Christmas Eve resulted in the Bellspruit River - which runs under the Mbonothu Bridge – bursting its banks, causing water to overflow onto the N11 road near the Limit Hill robots, in Ladysmith Town, resulting in several people losing their lives and others missing.
KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Bongiwe Sithole-Moloi, has extended her deepest condolences to the grieving families. Government has committed to providing support, including counselling and assistance with burial arrangements, to all affected families.
“Efforts to discover the missing people were intensified on Thursday through the deployment of additional resources from neighbouring provinces.
“The search operation continues on the ground. Updates will be promptly shared as soon as they are verified,” said the provincial government in a statement.
The MEC has expressed her gratitude to the dedicated search and rescue team led by the SAPS K9 Unit, working with PSS Medical Rescue, the AL-Imdaad Foundation for Disaster, and the South African Red Cross. – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Fri, 12/29/2023 - 08:24
530 views
Police crackdown on illegal mining operations
Police crackdown on illegal mining operations
More than 90 people suspected of illegal mining have been arrested in various parts of Gauteng.
In a statement on Friday, the SAPS in Gauteng said integrated law enforcement operations against disruptive illegal mining are conducted weekly, focusing on districts such as Johannesburg, Ekurhuleni and the West Rand.
These, it said, continue to yield positive results as “more than 90 undocumented foreign nationals who are suspected to be illegal miners were arrested this week, from Wednesday, 27 December 2023 to date.”
During the operations, police seized illegal mining tools that included generators, gas cylinders, jack hammers, steel balls, gold bearing material, water pump motors and two live ammunition of a rifle.
Illegal mining sites were also disrupted and dismantled.
“The law enforcement agencies will continue with these disruptive operations in the province and members of the community are called on to work together with the police in fighting crime by reporting any criminal activities to Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or anonymously give tip-offs on MySapsApp,” said the police.
Safer Festive Season
Meanwhile, police in the North West, together with other law enforcement agencies, are continuing with the Safer Festive Season Operation Shanela campaign.
The operation resulted in the arrest of 1 250 suspects between Thursday, 21 and Wednesday, 27 December 2023.
The suspects were amongst others, arrested for rape, murder, malicious damage to property, burglary of residential and business premises, theft of motor vehicles and motorcycles and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Of the 1 250 suspects, 399 were wanted for contact crimes such as murder, attempted murder, rape, assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm, house robbery and business robbery. Furthermore, 169 suspected undocumented persons were taken in for processing.
The arrests were made through the execution of several actions, which included stop and searches, road blocks, vehicle check points, visiting and inspecting of licensed liquor premises, second-hand goods dealers, tracing of wanted suspects and many others.
The operation also resulted in the confiscation of mandrax tablets, crystal meth, five dangerous weapons and six handguns, among others.
Meanwhile, 52 suspects were also arrested during the illegal mining Operation “Vala Umgodi” campaign, between Monday, 18 December and Sunday, 24 December 2023.
The suspects were nabbed during disruptive operations in Stilfontein and Witrandjie in the Dr Kenneth Kaunda and Bojanala Platinum Districts. The suspects include 18 Lesotho, eight Mozambique, two Malawi and two Bangladesh nationals as well as 16 South Africans.
During the arrest, the police seized gold bearing material, a truck, spade and two cell phones, among others.
North West provincial Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena has congratulated the police for their sterling work and dedication they have shown throughout the festive season operations. -SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Fri, 12/29/2023 - 09:07
290 views
90 suspected illegal miners arrested this week
90 suspected illegal miners arrested this week
The South African Police Service (SAPS) have arrested more than 90 undocumented foreign nationals who are suspected to be illegal miners.
The police are conducting integrated operations against illegal mining, focusing on affected districts such as Johannesburg, Ekurhuleni and the West Rand.
These operations continue to yield positive results, the SAPS said.
“During the operations the police seized illegal mining tools that included, pendukas, penduka stands, generators, gas cylinders, jack hammers, steel balls, gold bearing material, a welding machine, water pump motors and two live ammunition of a rifle. Illegal mining sites were also disrupted and dismantled.
“The law enforcement agencies will continue with these operations in the province,” said the police in a statement.
Members of the community are urged to work together with the police in fighting crime by reporting any criminal activities to Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or anonymously give tip offs on MySapsApp. – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Fri, 12/29/2023 - 09:13
138 views
Relief for Ladysmith flood victims
Relief for Ladysmith flood victims
The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government has offered support to the families of the flood victims in Ladysmith.
Heavy rains on Christmas Eve resulted in the Bellspruit River - which runs under the Mbonothu Bridge – bursting its banks, causing water to overflow onto the N11 road near the Limit Hill robots, in Ladysmith Town.
Premier of KwaZulu-Natal Nomusa Dube-Ncube has extended her condolences to the families of the flood victims in the province.
Seven people have lost their lives in the province following heavy rains.
This figure includes six people who died when a riverbank collapsed in Ladysmith, and in a separate incident, the body of an 8-year old child was discovered in Mandeni on Tuesday.
“On behalf of the provincial government, we would like to send our condolences to the families of the victims. The MEC for Cooperative Governance Bongiwe Sithole-Moloi has already been on the ground to assess the damage and meet with the families,” said the Premier.
She visited the scene on Wednesday to oversee the distribution of disaster relief and monitor the ongoing search and rescue operations.
The MEC said provincial government will offer support to the families of the flood victims in Ladysmith.
“We met with the families of the victims and reassured them that government will provide full support during this distressing period,” said Sithole-Moloi.
The search and rescue teams have been intensified and will work tirelessly in their efforts to find the missing victims.
As of Wednesday, the search and rescue teams led by the SAPS K9 Unit, along with IPSS Medical Rescue and the Al-Imdaad Foundation for Disaster Response, intensified their search efforts in the Ladysmith area.
This after the number of missing individuals continues to rise.
Sithole-Moloi paid a visit to the Msimango family in the Rossboom area, a few kilometres from Ladysmith Town. The Msimango family lost six of its members, with three being discovered while the other three remain among those missing.
She further led the delegation of disaster teams that distributed disaster relief, including blankets, mattresses and essential amenities, to those who have lost everything.
"As a department, we have been providing assistance to all the affected families in collaboration with our disaster response partners.
“We are joined by various departments such as Human Settlements and Social Development, with representatives from the National Department also present. We wish to assure the affected families that we will stand by them throughout this difficult period.
“Counselling services will be made available, and preparations for the burials of those who have passed away are underway. Moreover, we want to assure the families that we will exert every effort to locate those who are still missing,” said the MEC.
As standard procedure, the disaster management teams will continue their assessments, working closely with all municipalities in the province.
Home Affairs and Social Development Department have been called in to provide support where some families have lost personal documents. – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Thu, 12/28/2023 - 12:48
97 views
Five nabbed for illegal mining in Limpopo
Five nabbed for illegal mining in Limpopo
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has urged members of the public to report illegal mining activities after five undocumented foreign nationals were arrested in Limpopo.
The police arrested the five suspects, aged between 19 and 34 years, on 24 December at Selwane Village (under the Lulekani policing area) for illegal mining.
Members of the Mopani Illegal Mining Task Team arrived at the old mining shaft in Selwane and found a group of people in the act of illegal mining.
“As the police were approaching the suspects, one of them opened fire on the police as he returned underground. Police managed to arrest the four suspects and started searching for the one who went underground. He was eventually arrested but the firearm could not be found,” said SAPS in a statement.
The suspects were found in possession of picks, spades, an iron digging bar, shovels and torches. One bag containing suspected precious minerals was also confiscated.
In addition, members of the Mopani Illegal Mining Task Team have recovered and seized various abandoned mining equipment, groceries, and cooking utensils in the area, which indicated there are other illegal miners in the area.
The Limpopo Commissioner of Police, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has welcomed the arrest and hailed the team's endless efforts.
On Sunday, police said the arrested suspects are expected to appear before the Lulekani Magistrate's Court in due course, facing charges of illegal mining, attempted murder and contravention of the Immigration Act.
Members of the community can report illegal mining activities to Crime Stop on 08600 10111, their nearest police station or use the My SAPS App. – SAnews.gov.za
Matona
Wed, 12/27/2023 - 10:14
524 views
NERSA welcomes imprisonment of criminals damaging Transnet infrastructure
NERSA welcomes imprisonment of criminals damaging Transnet infrastructure
The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) has welcomed the arrest and successful prosecution of criminals tampering with the Transnet pipeline to steal petrol and diesel.
In two separate matters, a thief was sentenced to 10 years imprisonment for damaging essential infrastructure, while in another, two men were sentenced to 10 and 15 years, respectively, for theft of fuel.
Regulator Member Primarily Responsible for Petroleum Pipelines Regulation at NERSA, Muzi Mkhize, said: “We commend the law enforcement agencies for the successful prosecution and incarceration of criminals set to commit acts of economic sabotage in the country. We further plead with municipalities and landowners, on which critical infrastructure traverses, to cooperate with law enforcement agencies to earnestly protect both public and private infrastructure against acts of criminality and vandalism, as this results in dire consequences for the country.”
In a question and answer session in October, President Cyril Ramaphosa said government is committed to combatting infrastructure damage.
He revealed that some 20 Economic Infrastructure Task Teams have been formed through the South African Police Service.
“A total of 946 personnel have been allocated to the 20 Economic Infrastructure Task Teams from existing structures within each province, district and station. They are experienced and knowledgeable personnel within their respective functional environments.
“The Task Teams integrate processes, resources and intelligence across all of the operational environments of the SAPS under a single command. This is to enable them to successfully combat essential infrastructure crimes, illicit mining and extortion within the construction sector.
“The Task Teams incorporate personnel from SAPS divisions such as Crime Intelligence, Visible Policing and Operations, and Detective and Forensic Services, as well as the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 12/20/2023 - 11:24
495 views
Anti-corruption forum welcomes SAPS progress against construction mafia
Anti-corruption forum welcomes SAPS progress against construction mafia
The Infrastructure Built Anti-Corruption Forum (IBACF) has welcomed the progress made by the South African Police Service (SAPS) and other law enforcement agencies on the progress made to crackdown on the construction mafia.
The IBACF was formed in 2020 and is aimed at monitoring infrastructure projects and putting systems in place to detect and prevent corruption.
The forum comprises civil society, representatives from the built environment and various arms of government, including the Special Investigating Unit (SIU).
SIU spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago said hundreds of arrests have been made relating to illegal practices in construction.
“There are ongoing investigations in the sector by various law enforcement agencies that have led to consequence management such as asset recovery, disciplinary action, and criminal prosecution.
“It is against this background that the IBACF welcomes and congratulates the SAPS on their progress in addressing the construction sector mafia in South Africa. The SAPS has confirmed that the 712 cases referred for investigation have resulted in 722 arrests and 52 convictions so far,” Kganyago said.
According to Kganyago, at a recent meeting of the IBACF, the National Priority Committee on Extortion and Violence at Economic Sites reported that “the fight against fraud, corruption, and maladministration in the construction sector is gaining significant ground”.
“A notable recent arrest has been that of alleged 28s gang boss Ralph Stanfield and his wife, Nicole Johnson. Several Cape Town construction contractors had to abandon government housing construction sites following alleged acts of intimidation and violence.
“Thereafter, the Western Cape government’s Human Settlements Department awarded Johnson's company, Glomix House Brokers, the contracts for completing these abandoned projects,” the SIU said.
Kganyago explained that the construction mafia refers to groups of extortionists who attempt to forcefully extract protection fees from local construction companies and contractors or extort a portion of the cost of an infrastructure project, including specific individuals affiliated with the mafia being recruited to work on the site.
“The construction sector is one of the most important job-creating sectors in the country. Investment in the sector not only benefits the country through improved infrastructure but creates hundreds of thousands of jobs on construction sites and throughout the construction sector value chain.
“Research documents published during the last two years have revealed the impact of construction sector mafia on construction projects and investment in the sector. In the period leading up to 2022, up to R63 billion worth of projects were reported, and delayed or cancelled as a result of the extortion tactics and disruptions posed by construction mafia,” Kganyago said.
Community involvement
The SIU called on community members to report any illegality on construction sites.
“The IBACF encourages proactive community engagement to inform residents of the projects underway in their areas; of possible opportunities for legitimate sub-contractors and workers, and encourages all South Africans, who are aware of any criminal actions such as threats of violence or extortion that may lead to the loss of such projects and work opportunities, to report these crimes,” the SIU said.
Crimes of this nature can be reported to:
- Any South African Police Service (SAPS) station;
- The toll-free National Anti-Corruption Hotline on 0800 701 701;
- The Presidential Hotline on 17737 or email president@po.gov.za, and
- The SIU Hotline on 0800 037 774.
“As the SAPS report back on arrests and convictions, we warn the public that there are consequences for people who engage in illegal activities within the construction sector. The IBACF thanks the whistleblowers and law enforcement agencies for their bravery and tremendous efforts in tackling these criminal matters,” Kganyago said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 12/19/2023 - 09:55
477 views
Police commence Festive Season Inspection Roadshow in Gauteng
Police commence Festive Season Inspection Roadshow in Gauteng
The Ministry of Police and South African Police Service (SAPS) management will today kick off the annual countrywide Festive Season Inspection Roadshow.
The roadshow, according to a statement, forms part of efforts by the SAPS to channel resources to areas where they are most needed.
“The festive season policing interventions, running parallel with the high-density Operation Shanela, are enabling the police to decisively deal with crime and any security threats this holiday season and beyond,” said the police.
This year’s theme focuses on combating crime through decisive police action and robust community involvement.
“The Ministry, together with the SAPS management led by National Commissioner General Fannie Masemola, will assess the effectiveness of the SAPS’ safer festive season operational plans put in place to ensure the wellbeing and safety of all residents and holidaymakers in the country during the holiday period.”
The first stop of the annual roadshow will commence in Gauteng on Tuesday, 19 December and end in KwaZulu-Natal on 2 January 2024.
The exercise will include visits to centres of entertainment leisure and business, transport hubs taxi ranks, multi-disciplinary roadblocks and targeted operations in high crime areas. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 12/19/2023 - 10:09
507 views
N West Premier condemns fatal shooting of nine people in Rustenburg
N West Premier condemns fatal shooting of nine people in Rustenburg
North West Premier Kaobitsa Bushy Maape has condemned the fatal shooting of nine people on Saturday at Popo Molefe informal settlement, near Rustenburg, in the North West.
According to police, a group of individuals were sitting at the house of one of the injured people when a group of assailants opened fire on them.
Eight people died instantly, while the ninth victim was certified dead upon arrival at the hospital.
Meanwhile, the attack left eight people injured.
“We are extremely shocked and outraged at the mass killing of nine people at Popo Molefe informal settlement. We condemn the shooting of these people and send our condolences to the families, relatives and friends of victims of this hideous crime. I would also like to take this opportunity to wish those injured a speedy recovery,” said Maape.
Maape has since applauded the police for moving with speed in assembling a team of experienced and skilled officers to investigate the matter.
“I have all the confidence that the SAPS, under the stewardship of General Sello Kwena, will do everything in their power to follow all leads in investigating this matter. The perpetrators of these repugnant acts must be brought to book,” the Premier said.
Kwena has assured that justice will be served.
“The Provincial Commissioner strongly condemned this horrific and pointless incident and indicated that the police will work around the clock to ensure that justice is served. He also urged the community to remain calm and allow the police to do the investigations,” said provincial police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 12/18/2023 - 09:42
627 views