ACCUSED FOUND GUILTY AND SENTENCED TO EIGHT YEARS DIRECT IMPRISONMENT FOR CORRUPTION
MPUMALANGA- Martin Mandla Mlotshwa (61), was found guilty and sentenced by the Bethal Regional Court on Friday, 29 September 2023 for Corruption.
MARTIN MANDLA MLOTSWA (61)
The sentence followed after a lengthy investigation conducted by the Hawks’ Middelburg-based Serious Corruption Investigation Unit.
It is alleged that on 02 July 2017, Mr Mlotswa, employed by Sead Public Clinic in Emzinoni Bethal, demanded gratification from the patient who came to the clinic for termination of pregnancy services.
The male nurse introduced himself as Mr Sithole, and he told the patient that the services that she required would not be possible because the pregnancy was already at 12 weeks.
He then told the patient that if she could pay him R700 gratification, he could assist her.
The arrangement was made for the money to be paid.
The matter was reported to the police and further transferred to the Hawks for further investigation.
An undercover operation was authorized and executed, and the accused was arrested upon receipt of the gratification money.
During further investigation, it was established that the real surname of the nurse was not Sithole but Mlotswa.
Mlotswa appeared in court on several occasions until the matter was finalized.
On Friday, 29 September 2023, the accused was found guilty and sentenced to eight years of direct imprisonment by the Bethal Regional Court.
The Provincial Head of the Hawks applauded the Investigation team for their excellent investigation, which led to the appropriate sentence. He congratulated the prosecution on the proper sentence handed over to the accused. This will send a stern message to government and private citizens to refrain from corruption, no matter how small as it might just land you behind bars for a lengthy time!
In an effort to drive Sasol’s ESG (Environment, Social and Governance) strategic approach, Sasol President and CEO, Fleetwood Grobler, together with his executive leadership team hosted a group of investors, analysts and members of the media at the Sasol Secunda Recreation Club for a two-day interactive session.
The meeting took place on Thursday and Friday.
The objective of this session was to allow these key stakeholders to experience Sasol’s operating environment which included an underground mining tour as well as a site tour of its Secunda’s Operations.
Some of the topics discussed on Day 1 were around Sasol’s:
commitment to ZERO Harm
update on Mining operations
operational resilience through business reset
progress on its 2030 sustainability roadmap
This is in line with Sasol’s ongoing commitment to building open, transparent, and constructive relationships and engaging all key stakeholders in a professional, courteous and timely manner.
WHY YOU SHOULDN’T SUPPORT THE CIRCUS AND WHAT YOU ARE TEACHING YOUR KIDS IF YOU DO.
The circus has long been a source of entertainment for families around the world, promising a magical experience filled with wonder and excitement. However, beneath the colourful facade and dazzling performances lies a troubling reality that has sparked growing concerns over the years. This article aims to shed light on why parents should consider alternatives to traditional circuses, with a particular focus on the ethical issues surrounding the exploitation of animals for human entertainment.
As society becomes increasingly aware of animal welfare issues, public opinion has shifted away from supporting circuses that use animals. Many countries and cities have implemented bans or restrictions on the use of animals in circuses in response to these concerns. By attending such circuses, parents inadvertently support practices that are widely seen as outdated and unethical.
People tend to not think about the “behind the scenes” and the welfare aspect of the animals when they go to enjoy the circus. No matter what the owners tell you and whether you think they are pampered or not, ANIMALS DO NOT BELONG IN THE CIRCUS. I wouldn’t trust anything from someone who thinks it is acceptable to exploit animals anyway. It is what you can’t see that is the problem!
REASONS TO NOT SUPPORT THE CIRCUS!
BORN IN CAPTIVITY & LACK OF OPPORTUNITY FOR NATURAL BEHAVIOUR.
One of the most distressing ethical concerns surrounding animals in circuses is the lack of freedom to exhibit natural behaviours and forcing them to do unnatural tricks. Wild animals, such as elephants, big cats, and bears, have evolved over millennia to thrive in their natural environments, engaging in activities like roaming vast territories, hunting, socializing, and caring for their young. In the circus, these fundamental behaviours are stifled, as animals are downgraded to confined spaces and compelled to perform unnatural tricks. This not only leads to physical and psychological distress but also fundamentally deprives these creatures of the right to be themselves.
Elephants, lions, tigers, and chimpanzees for example, naturally social creatures, suffer in circuses where they’re separated from their mothers at a young age and isolated from their natural behaviours and environment. These performances force them into unnatural acts, like tigers leaping through fire or elephants balancing on their heads. The circus takes these animals far from their natural habitats and disrupts their social structures, resulting in behavioural and health issues stemming from the captivity they endure.
These animals, of which many are inherently wild, deserve to live in their natural habitats, and not be forced to entertain audiences with unnatural behaviour to make money for the owners.
TRAVEL, CHAINED & CAGED WITH LITTLE SPACE
While on the road, circus animals endure harsh conditions, often crammed into filthy, sweltering, and poorly ventilated tractor trailers. In one of these trucks, an elephant named Heather tragically succumbed to heat exhaustion. Outside of training and performances, these animals spend most of their lives confined in chains or small cages. Circus animals, during the average 48-week circus tour, have limited space, just enough to stand and turn around. This starkly contrasts with their wild counterparts, such as elephants that roam up to 195 km per day, underscoring the stark difference between their cruel circus life and their natural habitat.
This constant travel can have severe physical and psychological effects on the animals. They are frequently confined to small cages or trailers for extended periods, leading to muscle atrophy, joint problems, and stress-related health issues. Additionally, the long journeys between performances can disrupt their natural sleep patterns and routines, further exacerbating their stress and discomfort.
For parents concerned about the well-being of animals, recognizing the toll that this nomadic lifestyle takes on them should be an additional reason to avoid circuses that use animals.
MENTAL HEALTH & PHYSICAL LONG-TERM DISABILITIES
Wild animals in circuses endure extreme stress due to the disruptive circus environment, including blaring music, cheering crowds, and disorienting lights. They suffer through transportation, training, and performances in cramped spaces, leading to stress-related illnesses, depression, anxiety, and frustration stemming from unnatural behaviours and social isolation. These prolonged conditions can result in abnormal behaviours like swaying, head-bobbing, and incessant pacing, sometimes even self-harm. Circus animals are denied essential elements of their lives, such as running, playing, and socializing without a schedule to perform. In moments of overwhelming stress, some have been known to go on rampages, causing property damage, injuries, and even deaths, with the animals often paying the ultimate price.
The sensory overload in circus environments, including blaring music, flashing lights, and overwhelming smells, can have a profoundly distressing impact on the animals involved, whether you are used to it or not. These heightened sensory stimuli can induce stress and anxiety. The constant exposure to unnatural scents, such as paint, food, and fuel, can overwhelm their highly sensitive senses, further contributing to their discomfort and disorientation.
For parents concerned about the well-being of animals, the harsh sensory environment of circuses serves as another compelling reason to choose alternative, animal-free entertainment options that prioritize the mental and emotional health of these animals.
In addition to the above, the captive state that these poor animals experience, often leads to shorter lifespans and physical disabilities, due to a lack of any natural exercise and the extreme daily confinement. Joint problems are particularly common among elephants, lions, and tigers as they would naturally roam over distances, something that circus animals never get to experience.
THE DARK SIDE OF TRAINING
Circus animals’ training is often misrepresented, creating a false image that they perform willingly. Behind closed doors, investigators have documented trainers’ use of brutal tools like bullhooks, whips, and electric prods, causing injuries such as bleeding, bruising, and broken bones. Are you so naïve to think that these animals do unnatural tricks because you ask nicely? Some of these circuses often refuse voluntary entry of animals welfare authorities and have had multiple warnings given about the conditions the animals are in. Why would you do this if you have nothing to hide? Why would you need to be told how to take better care of animals, if you are in this industry for so long?
Some argue that animals in entertainment can serve as educational tools, raising awareness about different species and their conservation needs. However, this argument is contentious, as it raises questions about whether animals’ educational value justifies their captivity and potential suffering. A three-year-old can tell you a lot about a dinosaur that they have never seen in real life. I believe that education can be achieved without subjecting animals to stressful or unnatural conditions and that focusing on their conservation in the wild is more effective.
The circus perpetuates harmful stereotypes and misconceptions about these creatures, their behaviour and conservation, reinforcing the idea that animals exist for human amusement and can be used as commodities.
When a school except these free or discounted tickets, I seriously question if they are what is good for shaping my child.
Read more on why you should not support any circus that uses animals for entertainment and why these animals are prisoners for profit in the entertainment industry being exploited for human entertainment.
WHAT ARE YOU TEACHING YOUR CHILDREN WHEN YOU SUPPORT THESE EXPLOITIVE INDUSTRIES?
The decision to support or reject the use of animals for entertainment holds significant implications for the lessons we impart to our children. By choosing to support animal entertainment, we risk reinforcing notions of animals as mere commodities, potentially stifling empathy, and disconnecting them from the natural world. Such a stance can normalize the exploitation of sentient beings for amusement, teaching children that this is an acceptable part of human interaction with animals. It’s important to consider both the intended and unintended lessons they might learn.
Here are some potential lessons that supporting such practices might teach your child:
Animals as Commodities: Supporting animal entertainment can inadvertently teach children that animals are objects to be used for human enjoyment rather than sentient beings with their own needs, emotions, and rights.
Lack of Empathy & Compassion: Children may not develop a strong sense of empathy towards animals if they see them being treated as props or performers rather than beings deserving of respect and care. Parents who take their children to such circuses inadvertently endorse the suppression of natural behaviours, undermining the principles of compassion and respect for all living beings.
Disconnection from Nature: Encouraging entertainment that exploits animals might distance children from the understanding that animals are part of the natural world and ecosystems, contributing to a lack of appreciation for biodiversity and the environment. By opting for animal-free entertainment options that allow animals to live in environments that mimic their natural habitats, parents can demonstrate a commitment to preserving the dignity and inherent rights of these magnificent creatures.
Normalization of Exploitation: Children might come to see the exploitation of animals as a normal and acceptable part of human entertainment, potentially perpetuating a cycle of unethical treatment in the future.
Misunderstanding Animal Behaviour: Entertainment routines often involve animals performing behaviours that are unnatural to them. This can lead to misconceptions about animal behaviour and perpetuate stereotypes that don’t align with the animals’ true nature.
The decision to reject animal entertainment can be an opportunity to teach children about ethical considerations, critical thinking, and making informed choices based on principles and values. Ultimately, the messages you convey to your child about animal entertainment will shape their attitudes and beliefs about animals, their role in the world, and their responsibility toward them. Choosing to support ethical forms of entertainment or activities that prioritize the well-being of animals can help children develop empathy, compassion, and a deep respect for all living beings, their rights, and their dignity. The path we choose reflects our collective responsibility to nurture not only the well-being of animals but also the values we hope to pass down to the generations that follow.
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
Parents who are genuinely interested in educating their children about the importance of caring for animals and wildlife conservation should seek out alternative educational opportunities where what is best for the animals are the top priority. Human interaction with them, is never what is best for them!
There are so many entertaining circuses that don’t exploit animals, but use true human talents. Support them! Join a demonstration and encourage your friends and family members to shun animal circuses by sharing this information. Be an example for your kids.
In conclusion, while the circus may offer a tempting escape into a world of wonder and awe, it’s essential for parents to consider the ethical implications of their choices. The use of animals in circuses raises significant concerns about exploitation, safety, education, and changing societal values. By opting for alternative and ethical forms of entertainment and educational experiences that do not involve animal exploitation, parents can send a powerful message about the importance of compassion, empathy, and ethical responsibility to their children. In doing so, they contribute to a brighter future for both animals and the generations to come.
WATCH this short video on the sad reality of animals in captivity. Do you remember how you felt during lockdown? This is their life.
Images by The Paw Company
Your hour of fun means a lifetime of enslavement for them. Entertainment should not come at the expense of the well-being of animals and people alike. Instead, parents can choose to support circuses and entertainment options that prioritize human talent and creativity over the use and exploitation of animals.
Taking your kids to the circus is not “just for fun or innocent”, it shows a lack of compassion and understanding. When you go home, they go back into a cage and you paid for it. Captivity is not education…..don’t be captured by it.
We will fight, not until cages are comfortable, but until they are empty! Thank you to each responsible, intelligent and compassionate parents who SAY NO TO THE CIRUCS!
Next week we will look at protecting your pets from the heat.
WARD COUNCILLOR AND ANOTHER MAN FATALLY SHOT, THIRD VICTIM INJURED AND POLICE INVESTIGATES
Voice clip by Brigadier Mohlala
Nelspruit: 25 September 2023 – Ward Councillor’s life and that of another were cut short when an armed suspect opened fire, injuring the third person at a place called Tsema-Marhumbu in Calcutta on Saturday night, 23 September 2023 around 20h50.
According to information, Mr Lot Nkuna (55), the Ward Councillor was fatally shot whilst inside a VW Polo together with Mr David Matsane (52) whose lifeless body was found laying on the ground.
The third victim sustained gunshot wounds and was taken to a medical facility where he is receiving medical treatment.
Preliminary investigation by the Police revealed that a male suspect who was wearing a hoody allegedly went past the victims then suddenly returned and started shooting. Seven 9 mm spent cartridges as well as one live round were found on the scene.
The body of the Councillor was found inside the car which suggests that he could have been shot whilst seating on the driver’s seat. It is also suspected that Mr Matsane could have been shot whilst being outside the car.
Police as well as the paramedics were summoned to the scene and upon arrival, the two were unfortunately certified dead. Details on where the third victim that was shot and injured will unfold as the investigation continues.
The motive of the shooting is still unknown at this stage.
No one has been arrested so far and Police urge anyone with information that may assist in apprehending the suspect(s) to call the Crime Stop number at 08600 10111 or send information via MYSAPSAPP. All received information will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous.
The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela has strongly condemned the brutal murder and attempted murder on the other victim. The General has already established a team of experts in the field of investigation to probe this outrageous incident. “We are confident that the assailants will be hunted down and swiftly brought to book. We wish a speedy recovery to the injured victim, ” said the General.
KEEPING YOUR CAT SAFE AND MAINTAINING PEACEFUL RELATIONS WITH YOUR NEIGHBOURS ARE IMPORTANT IN ANY SOCIETY.
While cats bring joy and comfort to our lives, they can sometimes unintentionally venture into behaviours that can be perceived as nuisances by others. From late-night serenades to mischievous garden antics, the challenges can be diverse. However, this bond comes with a responsibility to ensure that our beloved feline friends do not become a source of irritation or disruption to our neighbours.
I recently saw multiple local posts of people complaining about other people’s cats being a nuisance. Cats easily become a nuisance for others as they go into people’s yards or homes. The complaints include that they cause stress for the resident cat and other pets or eat their food, the mating and spraying rituals, pooping in others’ gardens, causing an uproar in the neighbourhood and more.
This article is dedicated to helping cat owners strike a balance between the joy of feline companionship, keeping your cat safe and the need to be considerate neighbours. It is possible to ensure that your cat’s presence is a source of delight for everyone in your community, fostering a harmonious environment where both humans and their furry friends can coexist happily.
Apart from the nuisance, the dangers free roaming poses for your cats are multiple. We live in a cruel, unforgiving and sick world. If you are on social media, follow the news, or just use Google, you should by now have been wholly terrified by the atrocities being committed against animals.
Cat-unsplash Zane Lee
WHY IS IT DANGEROUS FOR YOUR CATS TO ROAM?
Unfortunately, living outdoors comes with a pretty serious set of risks for our small, furry friends. Dangers like, vehicle traffic, predators (both animal and human), attacks by dogs and poisons are all common encounters that cats face outdoors. By keeping your cat safe inside your yard, you extend their life span, save on vet bills, have peace of mind and are not responsible for a neighbourhood nuisance.
The fact is cats are getting lost or stolen or injured or killed and the most common causes of premature death are preventable! They are your responsibility. If you think the streets are not safe for your kids, why would you let your pets roam the streets? Most people will not poison or shoot your kids, but many have no problem doing it to cats or other animals.
When your cat becomes a nuisance to others, it can lead to various issues and potential dangers, both for your cat and your relationships with neighbours. Here are some of the dangers and consequences:
Potential for Harm to Your Cat:
Cats that roam freely outdoors may encounter dangers like traffic, other animals, and malicious individuals.
Cats are territorial and they can get into fights with other animals, become injured, and injure other animals.
Cats face the risk of theft or poisoning whether through intentional or unintentional products.
Cruel people shoot the cats illegally with pellet guns too. The bullets rarely if ever, kill them immediately or directly, so they are paralyzed when lodged in the spine or they can bleed to death, or die of hunger and dehydration because they can’t move etc.
Cats get caught in snares set in fields by cattle herders and others to catch animals for food.
Cats, not just black cats, are being used as offerings in witchcraft. Yes, we have had local cases and witches are living among us.
Cats can be stolen and used as bait animals in dog fights.
When cats are frightened or during heavy or cold weather, they sometimes find shelter in car engines and you do not want to hear the horrible stories we can share on this. Cats won’t get trapped in other people’s sheds and garages or car engines or jump into vehicles.
Stress and Anxiety for Other Animals: People who own birds and possible prey for cats have to worry about keeping their animals safe in their own yard because someone wasn’t a responsible owner. Imagine your predator walking around your cage. Our dogs and those in our street go crazy when these cats taunt them and this anxiety created by this issue is not good for the other animals.
Safety Hazards: Cats that wander onto roads can cause traffic accidents and pose a risk to both drivers and themselves. Cats have not attended traffic school and are not familiar with cars as people assume, especially feral cats. You may think that your kitty is street-savvy but be assured they can just as easily be a victim. They can also be distracted, chase something or be chased, and then get hit by a car. There are frequent “hit by a car” situations we see as we drive around. Even if they do survive the Vet bills can be high and the recovery or suffering can be hard and long.
Health Hazards: If your cat is not properly vaccinated, they may pose a health risk to other pets in the neighbourhood. Diseases like feline leukaemia virus (FeLV), feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) can be transmitted to other cats through fighting, close contact or contact with feces. Parasites, such as worms, fleas, and ticks are another danger outdoor cats are exposed to. They also bring them home and expose your family or other animals to these parasites.
Strained Neighbour Relations: Continuous disturbances caused by your cat, such as incessant meowing, digging in gardens, or pooping in neighbour’s yards, can strain relationships with your neighbours. This can lead to conflicts, disputes, and an overall unpleasant living environment.
Legal Issues: In some areas, local ordinances or bylaws may regulate pet ownership and behaviour. If your cat repeatedly causes disturbances, you could face legal consequences or fines from local authorities. We are pushing for local bylaws too because asking people nicely to keep their animals safe doesn’t work. Cats with destructive behaviour, such as scratching furniture or digging in gardens, can cause damage to neighbours’ property, leading to repair costs and further tension.
Overpopulation Crisis: Unfortunately, many cats who are allowed to roam are not sterilized. Cats can have 3 litters of 4-6 kittens a year from as young as 4 months. You do the maths. Unsterilised and roaming cats add to the massive overpopulation crisis we face. You will either end up with kittens or cause others to have kittens because your cat was not sterilized.
To prevent these dangers, it’s essential to take responsible measures as a cat owner, such as keeping your cat indoors, supervising outdoor activities, addressing behavioural issues, and maintaining open communication with your neighbours. This way, you can ensure both your cat’s safety and positive relations with those around you.
Cat- pexels-eliza-lensa
STRATEGIES TO PREVENT YOUR CAT FROM BECOMING A NUISANCE
Now that we have looked at the “why”, let us look at the “how” when we will explore some practical ideas to cat-proof your property, and keep your cat safe.
Indoor Living: Consider keeping your cat indoors. Indoor cats are less likely to roam, get into altercations with other animals, or disturb neighbours. If you’re concerned about their mental and physical stimulation, provide plenty of toys, scratching posts, and interactive play.
Supervised Outdoor Time: If you’d like your cat to enjoy the outdoors, create a secure outdoor enclosure or use a leash and harness for supervised outdoor excursions. This allows them to experience the outdoors safely without bothering neighbours or endangering wildlife. Invest in a good quality cat harness and acclimatise your cat to the harness from a young age. With patience and persistence, older cats will also get used to it.
Litter Box Maintenance: Ensure your cat’s litter box is kept clean and odour-free. Regularly scoop and clean the box to prevent unpleasant odours from drifting into neighbouring areas.
Proper Identification: Make sure your cat wears a collar with an ID tag containing your contact information. Consider microchipping your cat as an extra layer of identification and make sure your microchip is registered, with the right contact details, on multiple platforms. Non-breakaway collars cause cats to get stuck in dangerous situations, so please choose breakaway collars with tags.
Avoiding Nocturnal Disruptions: Cats are crepuscular and are most active at dusk and dawn anyway. Most cats will adapt to living indoors. If your cat has difficulty adjusting, start by gradually increasing the time they spend indoors. Start with a part of the evening, gradually increasing the time. To prevent late-night meowing or roaming, engage your cat in interactive play sessions during the day to tire them out before bedtime and make sure they are inside by nightfall.
Neutering/Spaying: Ensure your cat is neutered or spayed. This can reduce territorial and mating-related behaviours that might lead to conflicts with other animals and nuisance behaviours. You female that is not spayed will attract males of owners who do not keep their cats safe either. Males will travel kilometers after females in heat.
Communicate with Neighbours: Maintain open communication with your neighbours. Let them know that you’re aware of your cat’s actions and that you’re taking steps to address any concerns they may have.
Provide Distractions: Offer your cat engaging activities, such as puzzle feeders, treat-dispensing toys, and window perches, to keep them occupied and reduce boredom-related behaviours. Read more on enrichment for your cat here. Using catnip is another option.
Training and Socialization: Early socialization and basic training can help your cat become more well-behaved and responsive to commands, reducing potential nuisances.
Seek Professional Help: If your cat’s behaviour continues to be a nuisance despite your efforts, consult with a veterinarian or animal behaviourist for personalized guidance and solutions.
Fencing and Barriers: If your cat tends to wander, consider installing cat-proof fencing or barriers in your yard to keep them contained. Building an enclosure or securing your garden will protect your cat from the many dangers associated with roaming. Let’s elaborate on this……
Keeping your cat safe in your yard – The Paw Company
HOW TO PREVENT YOUR CAT FROM LEAVING THE YARD.
FENCE YOUR YARD
Yes, it can be done. I have found some very practical ideas on Google and Pet Safety Solutions, to demonstrate this point. Even if you start with just a portion of your yard cordoned off, for the cats, it will be better than letting them roam freely. Ideas range from:
High walls (above 6ft), with pet-safe electric fencing on top. If needed, raise your fence.
Attach rotating pipes, gutter pipes, or spinning paddles to existing walls.
Angled fencing on top of an existing wall, is just as effective and can also be done by yourself.
Trees can be trimmed regularly and wrapped with plastic or PVC “dividers” so that they cannot be climbed and still allow cats access to the outside.
BUILD A CATIO
A catio can be made of metal, wood, or any other durable material. Just make sure the materials used are non-toxic and free from sharp edges. It can be attached to your house, with access through a window or cat flap, or a separate enclosure on the property. A Catio can be a simple window box, a large enclosure, with, or without grass, or a small box with grass. Wheatgrass purchased in the veggie department of your local supermarket, makes a safe alternative to grass, for cats to nibble on. You can put cat furniture, litterboxes and other items in the catio, to keep it interesting for your cat.
OTHER METHODS
Together with fences, you can plant certain species of plants that cats dislike, however, you need to make sure it is not poisonous to them. Some cats seem to dislike the smell of rue, lavender, pennyroyal, coleus Canina and lemon thyme. Cats also seem to not like (safer options) strong citrus scents, cinnamon, and fresh, unbrewed coffee grounds and some sources suggest human hair smell as well. This might not apply to all cats.
If you really cannot apply any of the above, try creating a routine for your cat. For example, a lick of wet food in the morning to make sure they check in and again in the evening. Once they are in for the evening, close them in until the morning. Yes, you can do it and your cat will not be harmed.
Less cats are microchipped and people take much longer before they start searching for their missing cat. Most people assume the roaming cat lives nearby and then these cats are not reported. Read more on finding a missing cat.
In conclusion, responsible cat ownership entails much more than simply providing food, water, and shelter. It involves a commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of your feline friend and being considerate of your neighbours and the environment.
ALWAYS REMEMBER THAT AN ANIMAL WHO APPEARS TO BE A NUISANCE……SOMEWHERE HAS A HUMAN WHO FAILED THEM. BLAME THE HUMAN, NOT THE ANIMAL.
The same way you keep your cats in, you can keep other cats out if you don’t want them in your yard. Please report cruelty to cats which includes any poisoning or shootings. For assistance with cat-proofing your yard, you can contact Pet Safety Solutions. We have not worked with them directly and it is not a paid endorsement, but frequently see their posts and creative ideas.
By now you will realise the point is that cats do not need to roam outdoors to be happy. Provide for their basic needs at home, and they can live longer and healthier lives when safely confined to your yard or home. You do not need to spend lots of money to keep your cat safe, but can you put a price on safety anyway?
Next week we will look why you should not support the circus!
At the Annual General Meeting of the Merino Landsheep Society, a new Council was appointed.
Erna Hattingh (Office Manager, Parys), Jan du Toit (Mortimer), Hardus Vermaak (Stoffberg), Wim Barendrecht (President, Secunda), Ben du Plessis (Koppies) and Colin Moolman (Vice-president, Cradock)
Some information on the breed:
The Merino Landsheep is a medium to large sheep with an oval to long polled head with a typical fringe, wide and slightly drooping ears. With its exceptional length and depth and long strong legs, the Merino Landsheep produces a heavy carcass at an early age. It is a sheep with a large but firm frame, good walking ability, and good grazing capacity, well adapted under both extensive conditions with a high fertility rate, good reproduction, high milk production and good wool.
On its large frame, the Merino Landsheep produces medium-strong white wool of Merino characteristics with a length of 75 mm plus at 12 months. The Merino Landsheep is known to produce three lamb crops every two years. The breed produces small lambs for easy births, making it ideal for crossbreeding programmes. Because the Merino Landsheep is known for its larger frame, ability to produce a carcass with relatively little fat, evenly spread over the carcass, the breed is one of the more popular breeds in a fat lamb production system.
The outstanding characteristics of the Merino Landsheep are the breed’s temperament, superb carcass quality, top performance in feedlots, and excellent pure white wool that can easily be crossed with any other wool breed.
FUGITIVE DENIED BAIL AND WAS SENT TO JAIL FOR R14.7 MILLION ESKOM FRAUD, THEFT AND MONEY LAUNDERING
MPUMALANGA- Patric Patrese Jones (55) who was sought by the Hawks and published in the media as wanted for fraud, theft, and money laundering was arrested by the Hawks counterparts in Western Cape on 07 September 2023 at his hiding place in Gordons Bay. It is alleged that in April 2013, Jones colluded with Thandeka Innocentia Nkosi (42), who was working for Eskom as a Senior Buyer. During the investigation, it was established that the family of Jones and his girlfriend were involved in the defrauding as follows: Godfrey Jason Jones(46)( brother) was a signatory to Angel Frost Investment PTY LTD business account held at Standard Bank. Rabela Sarah Jones (71) (mother) was the sole director of Angel Frost Investment PTY LTD and Angel Frost Investment PTY LTD.
Maria Cantelo (53) a foreign national (Jones`s girlfriend) facilitated the tender processes on behalf of Angel Frost Investment PTY LTD and benefited from the proceeds of the crime. She was arrested and added as accused number five by the Hawks Middelburg-based Serious Commercial Crime Investigation for Eskom R14.7 million theft, fraud and money laundering on Friday, 5 April 2023.
The accused was joined by four other accused, Thandeka Innocntia Nkosi (42), Godfrey Jason Jones (46), Rabela Sarah Jones (71) and Angel Frost Investment PTY LTD. The accused were arrested and released on R100 000.00 bail each, excluding Rabela Sarah Jones, who was released on R30 000.00 bail due to her health conditions by the Hendrina Specialized Commercial Crimes Court.
Jones appeared in transit in (Western Cape), Strand Magistrates’ Court on 08 September 2023. He was transferred to Mpumalanga where he appeared at Hendrina Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 11 September 2023. He was remanded in custody and the case was postponed to Wednesday, 13 September 2023, he was joined by his co-accused and made a formal bail application. He was remanded in custody on 18 September 2023 for bail judgement.
The accused appeared in court on 18 September 2023 and the judgement was in favour of the state he was remanded in custody until 4 December 2023 at Middelburg Specialised Commercial Crime Court.
The Provincial Head of the Hawks Major General Gerber applauded the Western Cape multi-disciplinary team for the breakthrough in arresting the fugitive who has been hiding for almost ten years. The General also applauded the investigating officer for his determination and good standing in court to oppose bail.
Police urge anyone with any information on Crime to call the Crime Stop number at 08600 10111. Alternatively, members of the public can send information via MYSAPSAPP. All received information will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous.
MPUMALANGA REGIONAL COURT INTERPRETER ARRESTED FOR CORRUPTION
MPUMALANGA: Timothy Sibuyi (47), Mhala Regional Court interpreter was arrested and appeared in court on 18 September 2023.
The appearance of Sibuyi followed after he was arrested on a warrant of arrest by the Hawks Nelspruit-based Serious Corruption Investigation team.
Timothy Sibuyi (46)
It is alleged that on 17 November 2022, Sibuyi approached the brother of an accused person who was arrested for a rape case. He invited him to his office at Mhala Magistrates’ Court. He told him that since the Legal Aid Attorney did not legally represent his brother, he could arrange a representative, but he had to pay gratification.
“When the complainant offered him R1000, he refused, stating that the money was too little and demanded R2500.00. The money was raised by the family, and R2500 was deposited into his Capitec bank account.” said the Spokesperson for the Hawks, Captain Dineo Lucy Sekgotodi
“The complainant reported the matter to the police and the case was transferred to Nelspruit Serious Corruption Investigation for further probe,” she continued
After the accused heard that a corruption case was opened, he approached the mother of the complainant, paid R2000 back, and promised to settle the outstanding amount later.
After a thorough investigation by the Hawks, a warrant for his arrest was authorized. The accused was released on R5000 bail, and the case was postponed to 16 October 2023.
The Provincial Head of the Hawks applauded the team for the speedy finalization of the case. He further urged the community to come forward if they had similar experiences with the interpreter.
“That this is not an isolated incident. Corruption will not stop if we as citizens do not report and say enough is enough”!
During April 2021, a Calcutta Court Interpreter Zizwe Zitha (40) was also arrested for the same crime and modus operandi. His case was transferred to Nelspruit Regional Court on 19 November 2023.
The General concluded by warning all officials to serve the country with integrity. You are employed to serve your community and not to enrich yourself by exploiting people’s vulnerabilities.
Police urge anyone with any information on Crime to call the Crime Stop number at 08600 10111. Alternatively, members of the public can send information via MYSAPSAPP. All received information will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous.
