SUSPECTS ARRESTED FOR POSSESSION OF UNLICENSED FIREARM AND AMMUNITION WHILE ANOTHER FOR POSSESSION OF AMMUNITION
Bethal: Thursday 18 November, police arrested a 32-year-old man for possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.
The arrest came after police were summoned to a shooting incident next to Sasol CBD in Bethal where it was alleged that he was seen by the community members discharging a firearm in public.
The police responded swiftly to the complaint and while on the way to the scene, they notice a group of community members near a store in the central business district(CBD). The community members then pointed to the police where the group of men with dangerous weapons other than a firearm.
While police were approaching the group of men, they started to run towards Clercq Street and managed to apprehend one male who was pointed out for allegedly discharging a firearm in public. Upon his apprehension, police conducts a search where they found and seized a black 9mm pistol with ammunition.
Furthermore, another suspect was arrested for Possession of ammunition after police officers conducted a search on him where ammunition was found in his pocket.
The acting station commander Captain Anne Steyn thanked the community for reporting the criminal activity and appreciated the members of Bethal Community Policing Forum as well as the police for swift response and apprehending the suspects.
Heinrich Dittrich launch his debut book “A Candle Under the Water” at Die Boek Spens recently.
A small group of people gathered at Die Boek Spens for the launch of Heinrich Dittrich book called “A Candle Under the Water”.
This remarkable young man took 6 years to finish his book. Something that he had to do between everything else in his busy schedule.
Heinrich is truly talented, and he ended his book intro with a piano piece that he composed and performed and recorded. A beautiful piece that was a fitting end to his speech.
Here is a Prologue to “A Candle Under the Water”
While I had still been lying inside my mother’s womb, an extraordinary thing had come to pass after the very first time my heart had ever happened to strike a beat. For immediately after it pulsated again – for the second time – I had already experienced the consciousness of an entire life. And it hadn’t yet come to throb for the third time ever since; for within that interval before it could, I was awaiting great expectations.
Heinrich Dittrich was born in 1993 in Vereeniging and lived in Vanderbijlpark until they moved to Secunda when he was seven years of age. He started primary school in 2001 at Laerskool Goedehoop in Secunda and matriculated in 2012 at Hoërskool Hoogenhout in Bethal.
After high school he took two years off where he did a little bit of everything; playing piano, painting, writing, just to name a few. In 2015 he started his university career at NorthWest University in Potchefstroom, where he completed his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Language and Literature. For three years he studied, English, French and German, and for two years he studied Latin, as well as Spanish for one semester. He was also a conservatorium student where he studied piano. In 2018 he achieved his Honors Degree in French.
In 2018 he travelled to France where he worked as an English assistant teacher until 2019. In this time period, he stayed in Brest. At the end of 2019, he helped out as a temporary teacher at Evander High School in South Africa where I met him for the first time. Unfortunately, he had to go back to France until 2020 when Covid-19 hit, where he lived in Strasburg and commuted to Sélestat every day per train where he worked. At the end of 2020, he came back to Evander High School where he still excels as an Afrikaans teacher.
“Time and Time management was the inspiration for this book,” said Heinrich, “how time can be managed and how time should be managed.”
The book is a little about time travel and little about love. Can we travel to our past and change our future?
Here is a very short excerpt from “A Candle Under the Water”:
But still, I wouldn’t have accused her of this type of suspicion after all that was. That was one of the reasons why I had agreed on therapy. Anything really, to help me retain and learn about my past, and for Miss Precious to rest reassured. And I did. I had learned something within that year. Something vital to the importance of my existence. The disclosure had revealed itself to me one afternoon, following one of my sessions with Miss Precious.
“Good progress,” Miss Precious said as she opened the door leading out of her bureau.
The appearance of an alarmed woman (not much older than Miss Precious) struck us both as we stepped from the room. She was dressed, in an overcoat too big for her, and her black hair looked unkempt.
“Precious?” the woman said tremblingly.
“Yes,” Miss Precious said as she walked over to the woman. “Is everything alright? Can I do something for you?”
“Only a quick word.” The woman regarded me in-depth, as Miss Precious stepped between us.
“Of course. Let’s go inside shall we.”
They went inside, and the door that had been left ajar tempted me to eavesdrop on their conversation. The woman was whispering, unlike Miss Precious, who spoke in an authoritative tone.
“Is the boy okay?” the woman asked concerningly.
“Yes. The boy is fine. What had happened to him?” asked Miss Precious.
“There had been a murder and a robbery,” the woman said.
“I cannot speak much of it, please understand, it’s too dreadful to think about it. Except that… I can say-“
“What?”
“A child had died,” the woman said frightfully. “Please tell me, is the boy safe now with you?”
“I can assure you that he is in good hands.”
“Good,” the woman said and swiftly disappeared from the bureau.
And that was it. Miss Precious never articulated anything of its record to me, and I never mentioned my intrusion of that intimate matter to her. And though I didn’t know who it was at that time, it wasn’t the last time I ever saw the woman; although I did not know, what the purpose of their rally was all about, I would soon come to learn more of it. Nevertheless, that conversation was engraved in my mind, and I had not come to let go of it ever since; not for one single moment for the remainder of my entire life.
I turned eighteen soon after that day. Miss Precious had continued to teach me, and I had a therapy session once a week. And although nothing had changed much, I could remember that I had started to experience an abnormal progression of dreams. Images so vivid that they had appeared as memories to my imagination. Visions of my past. Sometimes they were long, though as if I had lived in that dream-world for weeks – other times only hours – yet awakening from them assuming I had the typical seven-to-nine-hour sleep I frequently would have had.
They had seemed related to my younger years, though as if they were distant memories from my past. Almost like I remembered what had happened to me through my dreams. But nothing much had come from it really, except for a few discussions about them with Miss Precious in therapy; when she would ask me where I was, or what I had done.
The book can be purchased on Amazon by following this link
Convicted rapist Walter Jan Mathebula (25-year-old) was handed heavy sentences on Tuesday in Secunda regional court
Walter Jan Mathebula (25-year-old) was found guilty in the Secunda regional court on Tuesday 2 November 2021 on charges of rape and attempted rape.
In August 2017 the accused, convicted rapist Walter Jan Mathebula, entered the room where the victim was sleeping in a family members room while Walter was sleeping in the dining room. Walter is also a cousin of the victim.
During the night (Friday night) the victim heard someone fiddling with her blankets. She turned around only to find her uncle climbing into bed next to her. Before she could speak, he closed her mouth with one hand while using his other hand to fondle her private parts.
He asked her if she was enjoying it, too which she replied that he was hurting her. Walter continued to pull down her pyjama shorts and panty. He then moved on top of her and forced her to spread her legs. He continued to close her mouth with one hand while trying to have sex with her. When she told him again that he was hurting her he pushed her away so that she fell against the wall. Walter then went back to the dining room where he was sleeping before.
In September 2017 on a Saturday night, the victim was alone and watching TV when her uncle, Walter Jan Mathebula, arrived at the house inquiring about the whereabouts of her grandmother. He calls her aunt.
When she told him that her grandmother went to the Pastors house, he picked her up from where she was watching TV and took her to a bedroom. He bodily threw her on the bed and as she tried to get up, he pulled her leg. He pulled down her panty and lifted her dress. He undressed quickly and forced himself on top of her, raping her. She cried and told him to stop and that he was hurting her, but he continued. Once he was done, he dressed and left the house.
On Thursday, November 2nd, the victim went to Walter Jan Mathebula’s home to look for his mother. He told her that his mother was not at home and when she tried to leave Walter pulled her back and took her to a small bedroom where he continued to kiss her and touch her inappropriately. He once again forced himself on top of her and tried to have sexual intercourse with her. She told him that she is having her monthly period whereupon he reprimanded her, asking why she did not tell him earlier? She asked him why should she have told him? He continued kissing her, but she managed to push him away and ran back home.
The victim’s mother noticed a bruise on her neck. When she asked about it the victim said that it was a bug bite as she was afraid to tell her mother the truth.
The victim’s mother learned of the truth on Saturday, November 25th, when her daughter told her that on the day before (Friday, November 24) Walter had called her but she refused to respond fearing what he might do to her. She took another street to her destination.
When her mother asked what did Walter do to her she finally broke the silence and told her mother everything.
Walter Jan Mathebula was sentenced as follow:
Count: 01 Rape 15 years direct imprisonment
Count: 02 Rape 15 years direct imprisonment
Count: 03 Attempted Rape 06 years direct imprisonment
Sgt Palesa Monagane FCS Unit
It took hard investigative work from Investigating Officer PP Monagane from the Secunda FCS unit to build a solid case against Walter Jan Mathebula.
Find your local Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) unit HERE
The children enjoyed the day at the pool and the food that was prepared for them. About 240 children joined in the celebrations. They all eagerly awaited to hear who would be the “player of the tournament” or if their coach was the best.
There were several dignitaries that joined. Wits soccer club joined as well as Alberton. Johan Rosslee welcomed everybody to the event with a short speech.
Parent supporter of the tournament – Kelebogile Zibi from Alberton Albion FC
Referees of the tournament – Lawrence Isaacs, Percy Magxaki and Kyle Lee
Scout of the tournament – Rainer Abrahams from Wits Juniors
The organiser of the tournament – Jacob Mtakwende and Tshepang Mohapi
The rewards for the teams in the different age groups were as follow:
U11
Top Goal Scorer – Jabulo Mabaso, Number 8 from MVP FC
Player of the tournament – Itumeleng Mahlanhu, Number 3 from MVP FC
Coach of the tournament – Sonti Mbhele from Carara Kicks FC
Most disciplined team – Zone 2 FC
1st Place – MVP FC
2nd Place – Carara Kicks FC
3rd Place – Zone 2 FC
U13
Top Goal Scorer – Tumelo Maswili, Number 8 from Florida Albion FC
Player of the tournament – Nkhosinathi Xaba, Number 10 from Zone 2 FC
Coach of the tournament – Azaad Wade from Florida Albion
Most disciplined team – Panorama FC
1st Place – Florida Albion FC
2nd Place – Zone 2 FC
3rd Place – Panorama FC
U15
Top Goal Scorer – Mpho Diago, Number 11 from Juventus FC
Player of the tournament – Tshepo Mhlambi, Number 6 from Juventus FC
Coach of the tournament – Shafique Smith from Florida Albion FC
Most disciplined team – Banana Boys FC
1st Place – Juventus FC
2nd Place – Florida Albion FC
3rd Place – Banana Boys FC
Jabu Mahlagu, Supersport commentator en ex Kaiser Chiefs player gave a motivational speech to the children. He also helped with the medals and congratulations.
Lake Umuzi Soccer Challenge grew from meagre beginnings only a few years ago to a community pillar to help educate the young children
Thank you to Mr Johan Rosslee and Jacob Mtakwende for your efforts, Johan for your support and Jacob for your undying attention to the challenge.
The Lake Umuzi Challenge can only grow in stature and importance in the years to come.
Two suspects appeared in Secunda court today in connection with the Murder of Chris Botha.
Chris Botha was shot and killed during a robbery at his shop Hollow Hog Pizza Outlet on 20 May 2020. Chris Botha (34) was co-owner of Hollow Hog Pizza Outlet with his sister, Ms Louri Botha. They were in the shop busy closing for the day.
Nkosinathi Thabethe and Micheal Masemela were apprehended after a long and thorough investigation by SAPS.
Both accused appeared before the Magistrate today but the case was postponed to the 24th of November.
Nkosinathi Thabethe (34)
Both accused struggled to secure legal representation before appearing today.
Nkosinathi Thabethe complained that he was denied access to a telephone to be able to secure the services of a lawyer.
Both accused were in custody and were again remanded in custody.
While the demeanour of accused no1, Nkosinathi Thabethe, reminded one of anger and defiance accused no2 sat quietly staring to the front. It is ironic that on his arm there was a tattoo visible with the words “God judge me”.
Micheal Masemela (35)
Nkosinathi Thabethe was arrested in Siyabushwa while Micheal Masemela was arrested in Limpopo. SAPS did not want to confirm the exact location as the investigation is still ongoing.
Almal van ons wonder oor iets… miskien die lewe, oor onsself of dalk oor God. Wat is dit wat jy oor wonder? En hoe kan jy sekere wonder van jou lewe uitskakel?
2.Gee deur Zapper – vind ons QR code in die diens aankondigings.
Kontak ons gerus op Kruik Gemeente se Facebook Messenger en Whatsapp lyn (072 133 6130) of besoek ons webtuiste by: https://www.kruik.co.za Geniet die diens saam ons!
T.P. STRATTEN PRIMARY SCHOOL hosted a successful golf day.
The event turned out to be a great success with many avid golfers participating.
Congratulations to Mr Gram Cupido who walked out the victor.
The support shown by everyone on the day was heart-warming and much appreciated.
The organisers from TP Stratten wishes to thank Graceland, all their sponsors and the golfers for participating in the golf day.
“Thank you for making our golf day such a huge success. We are truly blessed to be part of such an amazing community. T P Stratten thanks you!” Said Mr Ourique, Headmaster.
MPUMALANGA –Three suspects between the ages of 36-41, an Immigration Officer at Lebombo Port of entry, a Police Officer and a Hawker (a Mozambican National – female), were arrested by members of the Hawks Serious Corruption Investigation Unit and The Department of Home Affairs Anticorruption Unit Head Office led by the Minister of Home Affairs Aaron Motswaledi on Friday 12 November 2021 at Lebombo Port of Entry.
It is alleged that information was received from Crime Intelligent regarding the allegation of Fraud and Corruption by the Immigration Officials attached to Lebombo border post that they were issuing temporary residence permits, work permits and also stamping of passports to extend the stay of the illegal immigrants who are coming from Mozambique, Swaziland, Zimbabwe and Malawi. It is further alleged that the immigrant can send an individual with their passports and bribe money to the immigration Officials at Lebombo port of entry for stamping.
A Hawker, Immigration officers and a Police officer were arrested
The intelligence-driven operation was conducted at the border from December 2019 until its conclusion today. During the operation, the alleged targets were positively identified and spotted while on the action. Information was gathered and an investigation linked the suspects with the crime. Warrant of arrest was obtained and executed on Friday 12 November 2021 whereby the two officials were arrested while on duty in the presence of the Minister and their colleagues. The three were detained at Komartipoort police cells pending their court appearance on Monday,15 November 2021. The operation continues to arrest the outstanding suspects.
The Provincial Head for the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation Mpumalanga Major General Zodwa Mokoena applaud the good work of the team. She further acknowledged the presence of the Minister in the fight against this scourge of corruption.
The Minister in his address he also assured the public that, their presence here today is a testimony of their determination to wage a relentless and ferocious war against corruption at Home Affairs. He assured the public that there is going to be no space for rogue elements in the Department of Home Affairs.
He also reported about the arrests which were made by the Hawks where Home Affairs Officials were involved. In his conclusion, he pleaded with the community to report corruption.
MPUMALANGA – Ronny Germany Ngwenyama (44), Tinyiko Shadrack Golele (44) and the company, Frugasmart CC appeared in the Nelspruit Magistrates’ court on Wednesday, 10 November 2021 after they were arrested by members of the Hawks’ Serious Commercial Crime Investigation team for fraud, theft and money laundering of over R4.5 million.
Ronny Ngwenyama (44)
It is alleged that in September 2018, the accused who was employed by the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform at Mpumalanga Provincial Government as project manager, but now employed in Polokwane at the Department of Agriculture, colluded with Mr Ngwenyama, the sole director of Frugasmart CC company over the land claim of Brown community, Makhatini community and Tlharesamadi community.
It is further alleged that the above-mentioned communities submitted applications for the land claim and it was approved by the minister but instead of the communities being informed about the approval, Golele colluded with Ngwenyama to submit fraudulent invoices on behalf of the communities as if he rendered services for them, whereas the services were never rendered.
Shadrack Golele (44) Department of Agriculture employee
After submission of invoices, the department paid Frugasmart CC causing an actual loss of R 4.5 million. Upon receiving the said money, it was allegedly shared between Ngwenyama and Golele and they further distributed it to their families who are yet to be arrested.
The accused were released on R5000 bail each and the case was postponed to 4 February 2022 for tracing of outstanding accused and instructions. The investigation is continuing.
This simply means that this municipality should be co-governed by a Coalition Government comprised of 2 or more political parties.
If the option of a Coalition Government does not materialize, parties risk going the route of election reruns which will be extremely costly and politically suicidal, to say the least.
Whilst political parties are still busy engaging in intellectual gymnastics and manoeuvrings, there is a serious danger lurking with regard to service delivery.
As we speak, municipalities do not have Councils and are singlehandedly run by Municipal Managers.
The prevailing situation demands of political parties to refrain from politicking and politricks.
Politicking and Politricks will delay and derail any efforts aimed at expediting the process of peaceful co-existence in co-governance.
These shenanigans will have a debilitating effect on the provision of quality service delivery to communities.
These political processes will show us the element of power-mongering by these people called politicians.
The jostling for positions is characterized by ruthlessness and heartlessness typical of vicious animals in the Animal Kingdom annihilating one another to claim physical superiority.
The issue of the monetization of politics comes into play.
It has been widely reported that big monies exchange hands during this period after Elections wherein people want certain lucrative positions by all means necessary.
Political parties must be cautioned against fielding candidates who are not fit for the purpose of the position of Executive Mayor.
GMM is a big and strategic municipality that must be led by a competent and politically astute person in the capacity of the Executive Mayor.
We don’t want a Political Tabula Rasa to be parachuted into the position of the Executive Mayor for purposes of nepotism, cronyism, patronage and the politics of javelinism.
GMM is supposed to be an investment destination for powerful companies and businesses operating in other parts of the country.
The very fact that Sasol and other mining companies are situated within the jurisdiction of this municipality is an attestation to its strategic nature.
First and foremost, the GMM Executive Mayor does not own the Mayoral car because there’s nothing called Mayoral car.
The GMM Executive Mayor uses the Council vehicle to execute the duties and functions assigned to the Executive Mayor as a Political Head of the municipality.
The GMM Executive Mayor comes to the municipality not to loot and pilfer the resources, but to work tirelessly to revive its economic development and prosperity.
The GMM Executive Mayor must be someone who is above reproach.
The GMM Executive Mayor must be someone who is able to read and write.
The GMM Executive Mayor must be someone who has a cognitive and conceptual understanding of socio-economic and political dynamics.
The GMM Executive Mayor must be someone who can easily articulate ideas and positions and more importantly, be able to engage in sober discussions with community members without resorting to barbarism and insults.
The GMM Executive Mayor must lead all the people from the front irrespective of their different political affiliations.
The GMM Executive Mayor must lead with absolute humility and respect towards the people.
The GMM Executive Mayor must not sit in the office idly while people are struggling to get basic services.
The GMM Executive Mayor must always be on the ground with MMCs performing oversight on service delivery.
The GMM Executive Mayor must be driven by the desire to change people’s lives for the better, not by egocentric tendencies of tender manipulation for self-enrichment.
These attributes to the GMM Executive Mayor must also be applicable to the Speaker, Chief Whip, all MMCs and Councillors across the spectrum.
The Govan Mbeki Municipality is named after Isithwalandwe, Treason Trialist, Robben Islander, Intellectual and Scholar of note Dr Govan Mbeki whose name enjoys the reverence of the struggle for national liberation.
His great name must never be besmirched by political charlatans masquerading as political leaders.
The people of the Govan Mbeki municipality must demand the best crop of political leaders to lead this municipality.
Benzi Ka-Soko is an Independent Political Consultant and Researcher
