DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE ADMINISTRATION CLERKS ARRESTED FOR FRAUD AND THEFT IN EVANDER
MPUMALANGA – Portia Majola (55), employed by the department of justice in Secunda Magistrate Court as administration clerk and Thokozile Sophie Nofuya (55) also employed by the department of justice at Evander Magistrate Court as administration clerk was arrested by the Hawks` Serious Commercial Crime Investigation team Secunda on Tuesday 21 December 2021, for Fraud and Theft.
It is alleged that during November 2020 the duo colluded and submitted fraudulent claims for witnesses’ transport allowance on behalf of the witnesses who were not even in court on the days written on the documents and the accused also did not attach the prosecutor`s certificates on the forms.
An internal investigation was established and the witnesses were interviewed, and they confirmed that they were not in court on the days mentioned on the submitted documents.
A case was opened and transferred to the Hawks Serious Commercial Crime Investigation Secunda for further investigation. During the investigation, the duo was linked to the crime and the department was found to have suffered a loss amount of R15 000.
The suspects were arrested on a warrant of arrest and taken to Secunda Magistrate Court on Tuesday and released on warning.
The case is postponed to 01 February 2022 for Legal aid application.
THREE AFRICAN MALES SOUGHT FOR KIDNAPPING AND HIJACKING IN KRIEL
NELSPRUIT– Police in Mpumalanga are looking for three suspects who allegedly kidnapped and hijacked a family (father, son and daughter) in Kriel on Wednesday, 22 December 2021. It is alleged that on that day at about 19:00 the victim (husband) went to fetch his wife from work, only to find that she was still busy and returned back home.
After she was done with work she called the husband with no success and decided to walk home. On her arrival, she noticed that things were upside down in the house and there was no one home, including their vehicle. Suddenly her cellphone rang and it was her husband’s number. She then answered the phone however it was not her husband but a strange person on the line. The caller then told her that her husband and two kids are with him. He demanded that she deposit R50 000 to release them. She managed to send R10 000.
Photo for illustration purposes
Today, Thursday, 23 December 2021 at about 06:50 the husband and the children arrived at the police station and told the police that they were kidnapped by three Nigerian nationals who dropped them at Thubelihle location in Kriel and drove off with his vehicle.
Police urge anyone with information that can assist in tracing the suspects to contact Detective Lieutenant Colonel John Malope on 082 441 7591 or they can call the toll free Crime Stop number on 08600 10111. Alternatively, they can send information via MYSAPSAPP which can be downloaded to any smartphone. All information received will be treated with the strictest confidentiality and callers my opt to remain anonymous.
EMBALENHLE POLICE CONSTABLE ARRESTED FOR CORRUPTION AFTER DEMANDING AN R2000 GRATIFICATION
MPUMALANGA – A 29-year-old police constable, Lunga Cornelius Mmola, stationed at Mbalenhle Detective appeared before the Evander Magistrates Court today, 23 December 2021, facing the charge of corruption.
Lunga Cornelius Mmola(29)
His arrest followed after information was received about a police officer who demanded an R2000 gratification from the suspect who was facing a charge of assaulting his wife.
An intelligence-driven undercover operation was conducted by members of the Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation and Serious Commercial Crime Investigation based in Secunda.
The suspect was arrested immediately after receiving the money from the undercover agent. He was charged and detained pending his court appearance.
Police Constable Lunga Cornelius Mmola(29) was released on warning by the Evander Magistrate Court on Thursday, 23 December 2021 for corruption. The case was postponed to 1 February 2022 for further investigation.
ANIMALS 101 – FESTIVITIES DURING THE CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY MAY POSE DIFFERENT DANGERS FOR YOUR PETS.
Christmas is almost here and you can feel the excitement in the air. A Christmas tree is a holiday staple for many homes, but are you aware of the dangers it poses for pets? Below are some tips to consider for the holidays.
PET-PROOF YOUR CHRISMAS TREE (Dr Karen Becker)
DITCH THE TINSEL —Tinsel, with its light-catching abilities, is an attractive toy for cats and dogs, who may swallow it and end up with an obstructed digestive tract. Choose other forms of garland instead, preferably those made from natural materials and wrapped snugly around your tree.
CHOOSE A MEDIUM-SIZED TREE — An unanchored Christmas tree is an accident waiting to happen if you have pets. The taller the tree is, the greater the chance it has of getting knocked over by frisky pets. A medium-sized (1.5 m) tree instead of taller varieties for households with pets, is recommended.
DON’T DECORATE WITH FOOD — It may sound like a great idea to decorate your tree with candy canes and gingerbread cookies, but what you’re really creating is a temptation for your pet – one that could potentially make him sick or cause him to knock over the tree. Even seemingly innocent food items, like popcorn garland, should be avoided, as your pet may ingest the string along with the popcorn.
CHOOSE SHATTER-PROOF ORNAMENTS MADE WITH NATURAL MATERIALS — Glass ornaments are easily breakable by pets, especially if they’re on low-hanging branches. Shatter-proof ornaments should take priority if you have pets, to avoid the risk of scratches and cuts. Look for those made of natural materials, such as wool, silk or wood.
CONSIDER AN ARTIFICIAL TREE — Your dog or cat may be drawn to the pine needles of a real Christmas tree and could get an upset stomach if he ingests too many. Your cat may also be inclined to climb the real tree trunk, even more so than one on an artificial tree, which could cause it to fall over. Wrapping the trunk in foil may help prevent this. Real trees also pose the problem of standing water, which breeds bacteria. If your pet drinks it, he could suffer from nausea or diarrhea. If you do have a real tree, be sure the water basin comes with a cover.
ANCHOR YOUR TREE — The best way to ensure your Christmas tree doesn’t fall over if your pets decide to get busy is to anchor it to a wall or even the ceiling. A strong, sturdy base will also help to prevent mishaps.
ATTACH ORNAMENTS SECURELY TO THE TREE — If you’re using metal hooks, be sure to form them securely around the branches. You may even want to ditch metal hooks entirely (they could be swallowed by your pet) in favour of twine or string that can be fastened to branches.
BE CAREFUL WITH ELECTRICAL CORDS — Long extension cords or other electrical wires pose the risk of electrocution and burns if chewed and may also pose a risk of entanglement. Remove the temptation for your pet to use cords as a plaything by using short extension cords, rolling up any slack, and taping any loose sections down to the floor or wall. There are also extension cords available that will shut off if they’re damaged — a must for pet owners.
PLACE HEIRLOOM ORNAMENTS AT THE TOP — For ornaments that were expensive or those that hold sentimental value, place them out of the reach of your pets.
MAKE YOUR TREE INACCESSIBLE TO PETS — If your pets are particularly persistent when it comes to exploring the Christmas tree, consider making it completely inaccessible to your pets. You may use a baby gate to keep your pet away, put the tree on an elevated stand (which will make it out of the reach of small pets and puppies), or place it in a room where your pet is not allowed.
Image from Dr. Karen Becker
CHRISTMAS FOOD TIPS (Eendedam Animal Clinic)
Don’t feed your pets chocolate or other caffeinated food and drinks that contain the substance theobromine. This is toxic to cats and dogs!
Don’t feed any bones, especially small and cooked ones which can cause obstructions in the esophagus or intestines, cause severe constipation or dental emergencies.
Don’t feed fatty foods which can cause stomach upsets or other severe conditions.
Safe, healthy snacks include fruits like apples, strawberries, watermelon, bananas, and blueberries while veggies like carrots, broccoli, peas, and butternut are safe treats to feed your pets.
Make sure your guests know the food-rules for your pets!
Never leave your pets alone for more than 12 hours without someone checking in on them.
Keep your pets warm when it is cold and cool when it is hot.
Supervise play with toys, especially new toys.
If you are having guests over or young children, remember that it can be overwhelming for your pets. Create a safe pet-only space where your pet can feel secure and tell your kids and guests, not to disturb them in that space.
Save your veterinarian’s emergency number in advance and make sure you know which trusted veterinarians are available and when.
Wrapping paper, bows, and ribbons can cause intestinal blockages if your pets ingest them. This can cause serious illness and death.
If you are traveling with your pets, follow these safety tips. You can also take something familiar (bed or toy) with you to help comfort them.
If you travel and see an animal injured or in distress, please contact your nearest SPCA. You can find your nearest SPCA on www.nspca.co.za.
Prepare for firework festivities if you have a noise-phobic pet.
Remember to not give animals as gifts!
This is a difficult time of the year for any animal welfare organization. The work is more with surrendered, stray, and abandoned animals, and the funds are low. Please consider donating to a reputable and financially transparent organization. Don’t forget about the rescuers and staff doing the work!
Keep your pets safe and have a blessed festive season!
Constable Thomas Mogadime, the communications and social crime prevention officer for Bethal Police, sends the festive wishes to the community of Bethal.
As 2021 draws to an end, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the stakeholders including Community Policing Forum, Youth Crime prevention, Bethal Taxi Associations, Bethal Business forum, Business Against Crime, Faith-Based Organization, Non-profit organizations, Security companies (Roman alarm, Bethal Security Service, Makjus) and the community at large for the continued partnership and support as well the assistance in the fight against crime.
To all the police officers stationed at Bethal Precinct, as well as the members of the other SAPS units and the other Law Enforcement Agencies that have assisted us during 2021, thank you for your hard work and dedication in squeezing crime in our precinct.
Constable Thomas Mogadime, the communications and social crime prevention at Bethal SAPS.
To all the residents who are travelling during the festive season, drive safely and please make arrangements for someone to take care of your house and ensure that all the necessary precautions have been taken so that your home does not look deserted.
Furthermore, as the holiday season is on our doorstep; people will be making arrangements to go away for the holiday and will be buying gifts.
For those of you, who are staying at home, do not become complacent because of the holidays. Ensure that you are still vigilant and that all security measures are in place.
During this busy time, Bethal police appeal to the community to make proper arrangements to secure their property while they are away. But most of all, police appeals to the public not to create a market for criminals by buying stolen goods.
Second-hand goods dealers are urged to report all suspicious transactions to the police when they suspect that the seller of goods is providing false information about it or where the goods are suspected to be stolen or tampered with.
Bethal SAPS Wishes you and your family a wonderful and peaceful and safer festive season. Remember, Covid-19 still exists and we encourage people to follow all Covid-19 regulations at all times.
To report any form of crime to the police, contact Bethal police on 060 802 2876 or 017 647 9941.
WIFE OF LATE POLICE OFFICER AND HER ACCOMPLICE REMANDED IN CUSTODY FOR MURDER
Capt Dineo Lucy Sekgotodi, Spokesperson for the Hawks Mpumalanga
MPUMALANGA: Patracia Mabojane Kutu (28), wife of the late Sergeant Joseph Christopher Kutu, also a Magistrate Court Interpreter and her accomplice Vincent Bongonkosi (39), arrested on Wednesday 14 December and Friday 16 December 2021 respectfully, for the murder of the late Sergeant Joseph Christopher Kutu of Witbank Tactical Response Team, who was fatally shot in his house in July 2021 were remanded in custody by the Emalahleni Magistrate Court on Tuesday 21 December 2021.
Patracia Mabojane Kutu (28) wife of the late Sergeant Joseph Christopher Kutu
On Tuesday 14 December 2021, a piece of intelligence-driven information was received about the whereabouts of the suspect who was wanted for a house robbery and murder of the police officer. The operation was conducted at a house in Siyabuswa A. The suspect was found and arrested in the back room of the house where he was renting. The suspect was arrested and detained for further investigation.
During further investigation, the wife of the late police officer was linked and arrested on Thursday 16 December 2021. The case was remanded to 28 December 2021 for further bail application. Both the suspects remain in custody. The Investigation continues.
SIX SUSPECTS ARRESTED FOR FRAUD, CORRUPTION AND MONEY LAUNDERING
Capt Dineo Lucy Sekgotodi, Spokesperson for the Hawks Mpumalanga
MPUMALANGA – On Monday 20 December 2021, the Hawks’ Serious Commercial Crime Investigation team arrested six(6) suspects, i.e
Nomthandazo Delsie Khoza (41)
Error Mosibudi Makutu (45)
Patrick Ngobeni (40)
Themba Confidence Khoza (42)
Musa Brandon Mathebula (43)
Portia Khoza (44), on warrants of arrests for 117 counts of fraud, corruption and money laundering.
It is alleged that between May 2019 and November 2020, Nomthandazo who is the main suspect, in this case, was employed as an accounting clerk at the Department of Education in Bushbuckridge, Bohlabelo Region, responsible for payments of ex-employees and deceased beneficiaries.
Nomthandazo Khoza(main suspect) employee of Department of Education as an accounting clerkConfidence Khoza
She allegedly colluded with Mosibudi who is employed as an accounting clerk at the same Department and created fraudulent beneficiaries of late employees, then channelled payments thereof to themselves and their relatives’ personal bank accounts, causing an actual loss to the amount of R 3 010 475.44 to the Department.
Portia KhozaPatrick Ngobeni
Four vehicles were seized for further investigation and the business closed.
The accused were charged and taken to Bushbuckridge Magistrate Court for first appearance and bail for accused number one Nomthandazo Khoza was set at R15 000.
Kinders geniet die kersliggie fees by Marietjie van Niekerk skoolsaal terdeë.
Bethal – “Die kersliggie fees wat onlangs by Marietjie van Niekerk skool gehou was, was ‘n reuse sukses,” so sê Michelle Rademeyer, een van die organiseerders van die Kersliggie fees.
Mense het van oral in die dorp saamgedrom om hierdie fees by te woon. Sommige het sommer net gekom om vir Manie Jackson te kom luister
Die aand is afgeskop met ‘n lekker bord kos vir elkeen. Vroër is hoender gebraai vir al die mense. Daar was meer as 400 mense wat kos gekry het. Die Bulletin het met een van die braaiers gepraat, “ek voel nou soos ‘n hoender,” het hy gesê, “ek het die hele middag hoender gebraai. Eks nou moeg gebraai.”
Die weer en die toestand van die paaie het veroorsaak dat Manie effe laat was maar dit het nie die gees van enigeen gedemp nie. Dit was nie lank nie of “Cupcakes” word uitgedeel.
Die aand is op gepaste wyse met ‘n gebed en ‘n kort boodskap geopen waarna Manie begin sing het.
Gedurende die vertoning het die Kersvaders opgedaag en die kinders was baie opgewonde. Hulle het hulle by die parkeer terrein die optog ingewag die afwagting was hoog.
Die Bulletin het met Michelle gesêls oor die liggiefees. “Meeste van die kinders gaan nie ‘n vrolike kersfees hê nie,” het sy geantwoord, ” party van die kinders het by die fees vir die eerste keer geeët vir die dag. Die armoede is baie hoog.”
‘n Groot gedeelte van die dag is moontlik gemaak deur Midnight Engen Vulstasie in Bethal se betrokkenheid.
Die fees was gratis aangebied en die organiseerders het baie staatgemaak op skenkings. Dankie aan elkeen wat ‘n bydrae gemaak het.
Die kinders kon nie wag om elkeen ‘n klein geskenkie te kry nie. Die gesing het vir hulle bietjie lank geword maar uiteindelik kon hulle elkeen ‘n geskenkie kry.
Advent nooi ons uit na drie groot bewegings in ons lewe… hoe kan ons opnuut hierdie bewegings aanspreek en hoe kan ons anders na hierdie kerstyd kyk? ‘n Tyd van goeie nuus en van groot blydskap vir almal!
SAPS eMbalenhle needs your help in solving murders.
On Friday night 17 December (18:25), EMbalenhle Police were called to a suspected murder scene next to stand 2064/123 in Extention 25.
Upon arrival, the officer on duty found the lifeless body of an African male. The body showed signs that were consistent with being assaulted with stones. The body had not yet been identified and is estimated to be approximately 23 years old.
No suspects have been identified yet and the investigation is continuing
EMbalenhle SAPS were called to a second scene on Friday night (02H00 Saturday morning).
A lifeless body was found at Stand 14477 Extension 15, Embalenhle with three stab wounds in his chest.
The body was later identified as that of Simphiwe Mahlangu who was 21 years old. No suspects have been identified yet and the investigation is continuing
In yet another incident on Friday night (01:40 Saturday morning) a suspect had been arrested on charges of attempted murder.
The incident occurred next to the Megabus Depot on the Old Provincial road.
In an apparent road rage incident, two vehicles collided. The suspect shot the victim in the leg. Both were drivers of the two vehicles.
The suspect has been arrested on Drunken driving charges as well as charges of attempted murder.
If anyone has any information regarding these incidents they can contact Captain Nathi Sondlane on +27 82 970 5767 or they can phone eMbalenhle Police station at 017 685 2363
