Thank you to everyone that entered their photos in our Snow Photo Competition.
It proved to be a mammoth task as we received over 3000 photos of the snow. There were several excellent photos. Unfortunately, it would appear that some people decided to enter the same photos as other people. Even photos of publicised photos were submitted.
But now we can announce the winner. We have also decided to award two winners. One for a landscape photograph and one for a photo with people in it.
We also decided to award a second prize of R250 and a third prize of R150.
Here are the winning two photographs with the 2nd and 3rd placed below.
Joint Winners
Karla RossouwMarjole Fourie
2nd place
Suzette Rust
3rd place
Tersia Drotsky
Here is a link to a collection of photographs that we received. This is only a handful of the photographs and in no way all of them. It only shows the beauty and fun of the day: The Bulletin Snow Competition
Thank you to everyone that participated and shared their experience with us.
7 Alleged Fraudsters were nabbed by Standerton SAPS as they tried to defraud a bank
Nelspruit: 20 July 2023 – The Police in Standerton have arrested seven suspects aged between 37 and 43 on charges of fraud. The suspects were arrested in Standerton today, Thursday 20 July 2023 around 13h00 after allegedly trying to defraud a bank of about R200 000.
One of the suspects is a female and according to the report she went to a certain financial institution today (20 July 2023) in Standerton and then applied for a bank loan of about R200 000. She allegedly produced some fraudulent documents, including a bank statement as a prerequisite for a loan that she was reportedly applying for.
It is further alleged that whilst making this application, she was conniving with other six accomplices. One of the suspects is said to have reportedly confirmed that she was an employee of a certain company during the period bank officials were verifying her details. However one of the officials from the said bank became suspicious and noticed that something was fishy about her application.
It is also said that other suspects that were allegedly working with her reportedly waited outside the bank for her.
The officials from the bank then took a decision to contact the Standerton Police after realizing that something about the female applicant was not adding up.
Upon arrival at the bank, the men and women in Blue conducted their investigations hence all seven suspects were apprehended though they initially attempted to evade the arrest by trying to run away.
During the period the suspects were arrested, nine cell phones as well as about five wallets, two motor vehicles as well as other items like identification documents and some driver’s licences seized for further investigation.
The seven suspects are faced with fraud charges and I expected to appear at the Standerton Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 24 July 2023. According to information from the police, the Standerton area previously had incidents of fraud that were reported and investigators cannot rule out at this stage, the possibility of more charges added against the suspect as the investigation continues.
The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela welcomed the arrest of the suspects and applauded bank officials for the action that they took, to inform the police when they became suspicious.
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.
Photographers showcased their photographs at monthly meeting
The photographers from Sasol Highveld Photography Club hold meetings on the first Friday of every month. These meetings give photographers a chance to mingle and interact with other photographers. Meetings are usually held at the Scrum Inn, Sasol Club.
They also listen to informative lectures and talks about various photography subjects.
The monthly meeting also gives photographers a chance to have their photographs evaluated and judged. Points are given and, depending on their grades, awards are given. Outstanding photographs will receive a “Certificate of Merit” while gold, silver and bronze are also awarded. Not only are these awards given, but “Best Junior”, “Best Senior” and “Best Set Subject” is also given for the month.
The photographs are also entered in various categories such as Monochrome, Landscape and Nature.
The Bulletin always showcase the “Certificate of Merit” and Gold awards as well as the three “Best” photographs.
The following photographs are the Best Senior, Best Junior and Best Set Subject.
Best Senior
The Best Senior is a photograph by Danie Smit. It is called “Spotted Owl”.
Danie Smit – Spotted owl
Best Junior
The best Junior is a photograph by Louis van der Walt called “Garden Castle River V”
Louis van der Walt – Garden Castle River V
Set Subject
The best Subject is a photograph by Leon Pelser called “Ruining the wedding kiss”
Leon Pelser – Ruining the wedding kiss
The following photographs in the various categories all received Certificate of Merit or Gold awards.
Monochrome
Hanno de Beer – Loading at the factoryLeon Pelser – Reflection in monoYolande Pietersen – Sanctuary Elephant Yolande Pietersen – Op die damwal
Nature
Barbara Mitton – Shy LeopardSussa Pelser – A Very Little GeckoDanie Smit – Panthera pardusBarbara Mitton – DominanceDanie Smit – Family timeLeon Pelser – Winter sade
Nature – Birds Only
Danie Smit -African Harrier hawkBarbara Mitton – Lanner Falcon bath timeLouis van der Walt – Flamingo 3
Photojournalism
Hanlie de Beer – Kampioen van die Uil MylHanlie de Beer – Neck on neckLorraine Botha – Cathedral passage
Pictorial
Jeff Mostert – Model Jeff Mostert – Hartenbos surfer Piet Potgieter – Eb and Flow Sussa Pelser – Peeping Over My Sun Glasses Barbara Mitton – One drop Leon Pelser – Inspecting the gearLorraine Botha – How it is and how it could beJames Harris – Fighting fireJamesHarrisYolande Pietersen – Elephant in the darkJeff Mostert – African tiger
Scapes
Yolande Pietersen – Map of Africa Leon Pelser – Sun time square
Set Subject – “Nailed it”
James Harris – Fish gone Sussa Pelser – Get Up Louis van der Walt – Mmm-stage frightYolande Pietersen – Nice feet to mince meet
A total of 34 full tablets of suspected Mandrax, weighing about 59 grams, 32 sachets of suspected Crystal Meth, weighing about 31 grams, 22 Pokes of dagga and loose dagga weighing about 2155 grams as well as R350 were recovered in the premises. The total street value of the suspected drugs recovered is about R20 000.
The man was immediately arrested and charged for dealing in drugs and is expected to appear in the Standerton Magistrate’s Court tomorrow, Thursday 20 July 2023 facing the said charges.
The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela has welcomed the arrest and appreciated the excellent job from both the police and the whistleblower. The General further reiterated on the stunt by the Police regarding drug peddling.
“When it comes to drug trafficking, Police will never tolerate such conduct which creates a lot of challenges and has got a serious negative influence on crime. We have noted with much concern that often those that abuse drugs are somehow involved in the commission of crimes such as theft and housebreaking. By arresting alleged drug peddlers, we believe that we will be addressing the root cause” said the General.
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.
UNEARTHING THE TRUTH ABOUT DOGS AND THEIR DIGGING DEMEANOR
Dogs are some special creatures that we have domesticated for thousands of years. Even though they adapt well to living amongst humans, they still retain natural behaviour and digging is a very common one. It is deeply ingrained in their genetic makeup and it also serves various purposes in the wild. While it may seem frustrating or destructive for their guardians in a domestic setting, understanding the underlying reasons behind this behaviour can help dog guardians better manage and address it. In this article, we will delve deeper into this natural behaviour and explore why these paws are in action!
WHY DO DOGS DIG?
Dogs dig for a variety of reasons, stemming from their ancestral roots and innate instincts. Here are some of the main reasons why dogs exhibit digging behaviour:
Instinctual Behaviour: Digging is a natural instinct for dogs that can be traced back to their wild ancestors. Wolves, from whom domestic dogs descended, dig dens for shelter, protection, and raising their young. This innate behaviour is deeply ingrained in their genetic makeup and can manifest in different ways. Digging may also be part of a nesting instinct, particularly if your dog is pregnant (hopefully she is spayed!).
Seeking Comfort: Dogs may dig to create a comfortable resting spot. By digging and rearranging the ground or bedding, they can create a cool or warm area to lie down in, depending on the weather. It allows them to regulate their body temperature and find a cosy spot to relax.
Hiding or Burying Possessions: Dogs often have a strong desire to bury their valued possessions, such as bones (this can be dangerous), toys, or treats. This behaviour mimics the ancestral behaviour of storing food for future consumption or hiding it from potential competitors. Digging and burying their prized items is an instinctual behaviour to protect and preserve their resources.
Escape or Exploration: Dogs may dig in an attempt to escape from an enclosed area or to explore the world beyond their immediate surroundings. They might be driven by curiosity, the desire for freedom, or even boredom. Digging provides an outlet for their natural curiosity and allows them to investigate scents and sounds that pique their interest.
Anxiety, Stress or Boredom: Some dogs may resort to digging as a coping mechanism for anxiety or stress. It can serve as a way to alleviate pent-up energy, frustration, or restlessness. Digging provides an outlet for their emotional state and can temporarily distract them from their worries.
Breed-Specific Traits: Certain dog breeds have a higher predisposition to digging due to their genetic background or specific roles they were bred for. Terriers, for example, were historically bred for hunting vermin, and their digging abilities were crucial in pursuing prey underground.
Maybe they just do it because it is fun!
Understanding the underlying motivations for a dog’s digging behaviour is essential in addressing and managing it effectively.
Image dog digging – Pexels.com
SOME BREEDS WILL DIG MORE THAN OTHERS
While digging behaviour can vary from dog to dog, certain breeds are known to have a higher predisposition to digging due to their genetic background or historical roles. Here are a few breeds that are often associated with a propensity for digging:
Terriers: Terrier breeds, such as Jack Russell Terriers, Dachshunds, and Yorkshire Terriers, have a strong instinct to dig. They were originally bred for hunting small game, and their digging abilities were crucial for pursuing prey into burrows and dens.
Hounds: Some hound breeds, including Beagles and Basset Hounds, have a natural inclination to dig. This behaviour may stem from their history of tracking scents and pursuing game through different terrains.
Dachshunds: As small hunting dogs originally bred for tracking and retrieving game, Dachshunds have a keen sense of smell and an instinct to dig. Their long bodies and strong front paws make them particularly adept at digging and burrowing.
Siberian Huskies: While their digging behaviour is not as pronounced as some other breeds, they may dig when they are bored, attempting to escape, or seeking a cool spot to lie down.
Australian Terriers: Australian Terriers, known for their energetic and adventurous nature, tend to dig. They were initially bred to control vermin in Australian mines, and their digging skills were essential for their work.
Remember that individual dogs within these breeds may exhibit varying degrees of digging behaviour. Additionally, it’s important to note that digging behaviour is not limited to specific breeds and can be observed in dogs of any breed or mixed breed.
HOW CAN I MANAGE DIGGING BEHAVIOUR
Your goal should never be to stop digging completely. It is a natural behaviour and all animals should have the freedom to display natural behaviour. If you’re looking to help your dog with digging behaviour, here are some strategies you can try:
Provide a designated digging area: Create a specific area in your yard where your dog is allowed to dig. This can be a designated sandbox or a specific spot filled with loose soil. Encourage your dog to use this area by burying toys or treats in it. Offer lots of praise when they’ve done so. Read more on sensory gardens for your pets and creating pet-friendly gardens. Remember that certain plants may be toxic to your animals and be very careful if you use any pesticides or chemicals in your yard.
Increase exercise and mental stimulation: Dogs that are bored or have excess energy may resort to digging as a form of entertainment or release. Ensure that your dog is getting enough physical exercise through daily walks, playtime, or engaging in activities like fetch. Additionally, provide mental stimulation through interactive toys, puzzle feeders, or training sessions to keep their minds occupied and reduce boredom.
Supervise and distract: Always intervene calmly. If you catch them digging in an “off-limits” area, call them to you (or go fetch them if they have a selective hearing) and immediately guide (redirect) them to an appropriate activity or engage them in play in the designated area to redirect their energy. Use a distraction technique such as a firm “no” to redirect their attention. Never punish your dog for digging a hole. Even if you bring your dog to the dig site, he won’t be able to associate his digging with the punishment. After a bit of practice, your dog will learn that digging is only permitted in this spot.
Ensure adequate space and enrichment: Dogs may dig out of frustration or a lack of mental stimulation. Make sure your dog has enough space to move around comfortably and explore. Provide them with toys, chew items, and interactive games to keep them engaged and entertained. Rotate toys regularly to maintain their interest.
Positive reinforcement and training: Use positive reinforcement to reward your dog for desired behaviour. When they dig in the designated area or engage in appropriate activities, praise and reward them with treats, verbal cues, or a favourite toy. Consistency is key in reinforcing positive behaviour and helping them understand what is expected of them. The whole family should be consistent in this.
Address underlying anxiety or stress: If your dog’s digging behaviour is driven by anxiety or stress, it’s important to address the underlying cause. Consult with a certified dog behaviourist (there is difference between trainer and behaviourist) or a veterinarian behaviourist to develop a behaviour modification plan. They can help you identify triggers and implement techniques to reduce your dog’s anxiety. Remember that behaviour doesn’t change overnight!
Provide a cool area: Some dogs dig until they reach a cool layer of earth in which to rest. For these dogs, make sure they have a cool spot to relax in the warmer months. Reward them for relaxing in this area by associating this area with relaxed eating, grooming and affection.
Remember, patience and consistency are crucial when modifying your dog’s behaviour. It’s important to provide alternative outlets for their natural instincts and reinforce positive behaviour while redirecting them away from inappropriate digging. By understanding their needs and providing appropriate guidance and stimulation, you can help curb excessive digging behaviour in your dog.
SECURE YOUR YARD WELL WITH DIGGERS
If you have diggers, then it is crucial to secure your yard better! It’s not worth the risk of your pet escaping by taking half-measures if your dog has begun digging under your fence. Either prevent your dog from having any unsupervised time in the yard or get serious about a dig-proof barrier. Some advice from Petology.
If they squeeze through or dig underneath your can buy or custom make metal dig-defence barriers with spikes, which goes deep into the ground. If your fence is secure, but not your gate, consider a gate plate.
You can pour a concrete footer along the perimeter of the fence and bury/mount the bottom of the fence into the mixture.
Install an L-Footer/skirt/apron along the bottom of the fence, facing inwards. You can use a wire mesh fence, hardware cloth or a piece of chain-link fence attached to the base of the fence. Bury it so that it is not visible to the eye, or lay it on top of the grass and hold it down with pins/stakes, rocks, gravel, mulch or even planters.
Image from Petology for DIGGERS, CHEWERS & SLIP THROUGH-ERS
In conclusion, digging is a natural behaviour for dogs that can be influenced by a variety of factors, including instinct, comfort-seeking, territorial instincts, curiosity, and anxiety. While it may be frustrating or destructive in a domestic setting, understanding the reasons behind this behaviour can help you address it effectively. By providing appropriate outlets for your dog’s digging instincts, such as designated digging areas, increasing exercise and mental stimulation, supervising and redirecting their behaviour, and addressing any underlying anxiety or stress, you can help manage and reduce excessive digging.
With time, effort, and understanding, you can help your dog find more appropriate ways to satisfy their natural instincts and create a harmonious and happier environment for both you and your canine excavator!
Next week we will look at compassion fatigue in the animal welfare setting.
POLICE ENSURE THAT FOUR MISCHIEVOUS PAROLEES ARE PUT BEHIND BARS
Nelspruit: 18 July 2023 – The Police in Standerton have ensured that four mischievous parolees are back in custody after being nabbed with items suspected to have been stolen during a housebreaking that was committed in one of the shops in Standerton on Saturday, night 15 July 2023.
The Standerton Police in partnership with other stakeholders launched a massive search for the perpetrators and their hard work paid off as information led them to a certain house where the four suspects aged between 32 and 36 were found with suspected stolen items as well as loose dagga.
During further investigation, it transpired that the suspects were released on parole last month (June 2023).
Given the spate of burglary cases reported in the Standerton area, the investigators cannot rule out possibilities that these suspects could have been involved. The probe will not only be limited to housebreaking but also to check whether the arrested parolees were not implicated in other offences.
The suspects are expected to appear in the Standerton Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, 19 July 2023 facing the charges related to house breakings and theft as well as possession of suspected stolen properties.
The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela has welcomed the arrest and the General commended the positive partnership displayed between the Police and other stakeholders in Standerton. “We are working closely with the Department of Justice and Correctional Services so that mischievous parolees are arrested and returned to Correctional facilities whenever they violate their conditions. We have also discovered that some parolees are out then they have got a ticket to commit a crime. That situation can never be allowed and we will not hesitate to deal with such offenders,” warned the General.
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.
POLICE IN PURSUIT OF CASH-IN-TRANSIT ROBBERS, TWO GUARDS SUSTAINED INJURIES
Nelspruit: 18 July 2023 – The police at Kanyamazane are in pursuit of suspects who were involved in a case of Cash-In-Transit (CIT) robbery that occurred in the early hours of Monday, 17 July 2023 at 09h30 am next to Emfuleni Park at Kanyamazane outside Nelspruit.
According to a report, an armoured vehicle transporting cash was travelling along the Legogota Road at Kanyamazane and being driven by security guards. It is reported that a white Mercedes Benz occupied by suspects emerged and collided head-on with the armoured vehicle, forcing it to overturn.
The guards then came under attack from a group of about 15 armed suspects who then started shooting randomly at the armed vehicle whilst instructing them to open the door. The guards were reportedly robbed of their firearms, a rifle as well as a pistol.
It is further alleged that explosives were detonated by the suspects and got hold of cash from the armoured vehicle.
The suspects are said to have then fled the scene with the stolen items, including an undisclosed amount of cash, using two white Ford Rangers in an unknown direction.
The Mercedes Benz used to derail the cash van was reportedly torched by the suspects before they fled.
The police at Kanyamazane were informed about the incident and attended the scene with other roleplayers within the service whereby a case was opened accordingly. Two security guards reportedly sustained some injuries after their vehicle overturned and they are currently receiving medical treatment in hospital. No one has been arrested so far and the Police call on anyone with information that may assist in apprehending the perpetrators 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 indicated that the investigation team will work tirelessly to ensure that perpetrators thereof are soon brought to book.
Witbank started with pressure on the home team and scored an early try. For the first 30-odd minutes Secunda trailed by 8-0. It might have been a slow start in some of the spectator’s opinion but one thing is certain. Secunda will not just relax.
Secunda started to settle down and play their usual steady game. They wrestled the control of the scrums and Lineouts back from Witbank to slowly increase their dominance in the game.
It was clear that Witbank had a different gameplan and one or two key Secunda players were targeted. Although it could have been very disruptive for the home team it did not really work and only served to unite the home boys more.
The lineouts were good, and the throw-ins were on target. This created a good platform for the backline to attack from.
Secunda started to dominate in all aspects of the game. The forwards used it to great advantage when they mauled their way forward putting Witbank on the back foot.
One such maul had the Witbank team panicking as Secunda gained a lot of ground in their opposites quarter area.
Secunda’s backline really turned on the pressure and Witbank struggled to keep the gaps from forming. The Secunda attack penetrated the Witbank regularly with Witbank having to muster all their players to stop Secunda.
Unfortunately, continual pressure sometimes makes the tempers flare up and such was the case with the visiting team. The referee quickly took matters in hand and unfortunately, one of Secunda’s players had to visit the “Cool Off Box” for 10 minutes. But such is the nature of these games. Tempers will always flare up. It is how you handle it that counts. Secunda did it perfectly in the end.
By halftime, Secunda was already leading by 19 points to 8. This gap would be increased in the second half with good solid play from Sasol Secunda Grip and Rip.
Although Witbank managed to score another try, they never really got a grip on controlling the game after the first initial 30 minutes.
Sasol Secunda Grip and Rip Rugby will now play Whiteriver on Saturday the 29th on their home turf in the semifinal. This game might be seen as a repeat of the 2022 final. Witbank will play Baberton in the other semifinal.
Baberton beat Whiteriver 19-12 to be crowned the Lowveld champions.
FOREIGN NATIONAL TO APPEAR IN COURT FOR R75 MILLION HEROIN, HAWKS
PRETORIA – The Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime team remains committed to disrupting the proliferation of illegal drugs and ensuring those involved in smuggling them face the full might of the law.
This is evident in the multi-disciplinary operation that was conducted in Mpumalanga on Sunday, 16 July 2023 wherein a 49-year-old foreign national was apprehended. It is reported that the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation’s South African Narcotic Bureau received information from Witrivier K9 on a truck that could possibly be ferrying illegal drugs. Hawks’ Secunda SANEB with the assistance of Elukwatini Local Criminal Record Centre, Elukwatini Fire Department and SAPS Badplaas pulled the identified truck over and it was escorted back to the station.
The fire department assisted with the opening of the concealed compartment where 250 x 1kg heroin bricks with an estimated street value of R75 million were discovered.
“The drug bust was as a result of Trilateral Planning Cell (TPC) which is a team established by the ministries responsible for policing of the Republics of South Africa, Mozambique and Tanzania, to counter heroin trafficking through the Southern Route” said the DPCI Head, Lieutenant General Godfrey Lebeya.
The drugs which were destined for the international market were coming from Mozambique.
The 49-year-old suspect will appear in the Carolina Magistrates’ Court on 19 July 2023 on charges of possession of illegal drugs with intent to distribute.
An investigation is also underway to determine how the truck managed to enter South Africa without being thoroughly checked at the border.
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.
