AUNT AND 13-YEAR-OLD DIE ON A FARM IN THE STANDERTON DISTRICT
On 1 July, an urgent message from a mother, Selmari Rautenbach still resonates as she pleaded for help for her 13-year-old son, Kerneels.
The message was that he fell into the silo on the farm and sunk into the maize.
Neighbours and community members rushed to assist. An endless effort was done in the rescue operation with everyone involved. Unfortunately, Kerneels was pronounced deceased at the scene.
According to information, the aunt, Jackie Rautenbach (33) also rushed to try and save Kerneels but also lost her life. “It is amazing how a community can stand together in a time of need”, André Pienaar of AfriForum said. “Everybody that was there did everything within their power to assist”, he added. “Our deepest condolences to the Rautenbach family”, André concluded.
The school Kerneels attended, Laerskool Standerton posted on their Facebook page: “We greet a special Stannie learner. Our hearts are hurting, our words are few. Kerneels Rautenbach, in your short time with us on earth, you have touched many hearts. You will always be remembered for the beautiful boy with the most beautiful heart. Stannies are going to miss you.”
“Rest in peace Kerneels.”
“Our heartfelt sympathy and condolences to the Rautenbach family”.
To the family of Jackie, the school wrote: “Stannies convey our heartfelt condolences to the Rautenbach family, with the passing of Jackie Rautenbach. “Jackie was a mom to one of our Grade 5 learners.“Rest in peace Jackie.“You were so brave”.
The Ambulance Services were also dispatched to the scene.
The Standerton Police also attended to the incident.
To the family and friends of Kerneels and Jackie, our sincerest condolences in these difficult circumstances.
PARENTS AND GUARDIANS ARE WARNED TO PROTECT CHILDREN AS WEATHER TEMPERATURES DROP
Nelspruit: 29 June 2022 -The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela has warned members of the public to take precautions during this winter period so as to prevent the loss of life. The warning by the General comes in a wake of low weather temperatures which drives members of the public to seek alternatives and ways to get warm whilst in the midst of the load sheading situation experienced in the country.
During winter seasons, accidental deaths due to fire and other causes are sadly experienced where most of the victims are unfortunately children. As temperatures drop, people resort to various options to warm themselves. At times, some of the practices are hazardous, especially when used by children without adult supervision. This could be a recipe for disaster, resulting in fatal accidents. For instance, on 15 June 2022, a two-year-old boy became a victim of such incidents at Daggakraal.
It is alleged that on that fateful day the child pulled a kettle with hot water inside. He was taken to a local clinic thereafter and later transferred to Rob Ferreira Hospital in Nelspruit where he unfortunately succumbed. An inquest case was opened.
The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela has therefore urged members of the public to take a serious consideration whenever they use appliances such as gas stoves, paraffin stoves, heaters, candles, home-made fires (mbhawula) and all other utensils in an effort to get warm during this cold season.
“It is on each parent’s shoulder to be vigilant, more so that the children are on school holidays. We plead with parents as well as guardians to look after their kids, including those children that visited their relatives and family friends. Adults need to care for these young ones. Let us also make sure that they play in safe places and avoid playing near pools, holes, open drains or next to the roads” 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
SUSPECT ARRESTED FOR ALLEGED POSSESSION OF ILLEGAL EXPLOSIVES
Nelspruit: 29 June 2022 – The Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service in Mpumalanga Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela has appreciated the collaborative effort by police at Witbank and CSC Tactical Security Company. This comes after they arrested a 55-year-old man for alleged possession of illegal explosives in the early hours of the morning, today, 29 June 2022.
According to the police report, guards from CSC Tactical Security Company were on duty monitoring CCTV footage at Marelden Estate, when they noticed a group of suspects in balaclavas, believed to be armed passing the premises. They then called the police for backup.
When the suspects noticed the security guards they ran into the bushes. It is further reported that a shootout ensued. They (guards) managed to catch one suspect who was found with a bag full of explosives while the others managed to flee. He was then arrested and charged with possession of explosives and police cannot rule out the possibility of adding more charges against him as the investigation continues.
The suspect will appear at the Emalahleni Magistrate’s Court tomorrow, 30 June 2022.
Police request anyone with information that will help locate the remaining suspects to contact Colonel One Thobejane on 0823722195 or call the Crime Stop number on 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.
MINIMUM ENCLOSURE SIZE FOR SOME TYPICAL ANIMALS KEPT AS PETS.
Animals are sentient beings and if we want the privilege to share our lives with them, we need to make sure that all their needs are met, including the correct size enclosures and proper enrichment which all animals need. Just because a pet shop or even a vet sells, for example, a cage as an “African Grey cage”, it doesn’t mean it is the right size for them.
The following are general guidelines for the minimum enclosure size required for certain animals, but you should provide the best possible enclosure, more than the minimum, for your pet.
Image by The Paw Company
DOG – This will be dependent on the breed, energy levels and the amount of time the owner spends on daily exercise or enrichment. We believe a dog should be able to run comfortably in your yard. A smaller yard might work for certain large breeds, but for example, a Jack Russell (small breed) should never be in a small yard.
CAT –1 bedroom per cat rule.
RABBITS – Always use solid non-wire flooring. The minimum size of the enclosure must be at least 4-6 times the size of the rabbit when they are entirely stretched out, but more if confined to this space most of the day. At least 0.7m² of enclosure space combined with at least 2.2m² of exercise space, for 1-2 rabbits. The smallest space should be big enough for the rabbit to hop across three times and stand without their ears touching the top.
HEDGEHOG – Cage size minimum 120 x 50cm for one hedgehog.
RAT – Solid floor cage of 1 m x 80cm x 60cm.
GUINEA PIG – Cage at least 1m X 1m for one or two Guinea pigs with no more than 2 Guinea pigs per square meter.
CHINCHILLA – They need to be housed in a wire cage with openings no larger than 2.5cm x 5cm that is well ventilated. Use solid floor spacing, but if you use wired floor spacing, the spaces should be less than 1.25cm x 1.25cm as their feet could get stuck in wider spacing. A good size cage is 1m x 80cm x 60cm as they need vertical space as well.
HAMSTERS – Always us solid flooring.
SYRIAN/TEDDYBEAR HAMSTERS: 5000-7500 cm².
DWARF HAMSTERS: 4000-5000 cm²
SUGAR GLIDERS – Large and tall aviary-style enclosure with a landing platform and space large enough to glide from one side to another. 80cm wide x 80cm deep x 90cm tall.
PRIMATES
Cage height should be sufficient for all animals to comfortably stand erect and stretch out. Longer-legged or long-tailed species may require more height than other species. For brachiating (swinging) species, the cage height should accommodate and enhance brachiating movement. The minimum height of a cage for smaller species like capuchins, guenons, macaques and even marmosets and tamarins is about 1.8m, for squirrel monkeys the minimum height is about 1.5m.
BIRDS – The bird must be able to fully stretch the wings and flap them without touching the sides of the cage. Correct diameter perches where toes must not fully close around the perch. A general rule of thumb is 2/3 or 3/4 close around perch. Horizontal space is just as important as vertical space. Ideally the cage size must provide enough space to fly from one end to another. Avian welfare expert Dr. Kim Danoff notes, “Depriving birds of flight is mentally and physically stressful.”
BEARDED DRAGON – 0.9m x 0.4m floor space per single adult.
FRILLED LIZARD/FRILLED DRAGON – 1.2m x 0.6m x 1.2m.
GREEN IGUANA – Need vertical climbing space and size to turn. Size: 1.8m x 0.8m x 1.8m with non-wire surfaces. At least 3 x the size of the Iguana.
LEOPARD GECKO – Aquarium type 40-liter tank for one Gecko, 60-liter tank for a pair, or a minimum 75-liter tank for three or four lizards. Never wired cages.
VEILED CHAMELEON – 2.7 m x 2.7 m x 4m (height).
TORTOISES – 10 x maximum shell length per animal for floor space and 3 x maximum shell length for height. A tortoise shelter should be of an appropriate size for the individual tortoise and large enough for the tortoise to turn around in.
AQUATIC TURTLES – As a minimum, they need enough water to be able to swim without touching the sides or bottom of the tank, or breaking the surface of the water. A good-sized tank allows 80 liters of water per 5 cm of shell length.
FISH – 4 liters of water per 2.5cm of fish and 2.5 cm fish needs 80 square cm of water surface. Wide-bodied fish 2.5 cm of fish needs 129 square cms of water surface area.
SNAKES – A snake needs a vivarium that allows it to fully stretch out. Allow at least a third of the snake’s length for the width and height. For example, a 150 cm long corn snake will need a minimum 150 cm long, 50 cm wide and 50 cm deep vivarium. The minimum cage size is ½ square foot of floor space per foot of snake for those up to six feet in length and ¾ square foot of floor space for those six or nine feet long. Increase the suggested minimum cage size by 25% for each additional snake. Snakes can feel afraid if the enclosure is too large.
TARANTULA – 30 cm x 30 cm x 30 cm. Tree spiders will need a taller tank.
EMPEROR SCORPION – A terrarium of between 30 – 45 cm wide.
Remember that you might need a permit to keep some of these animals and requirements may vary between provinces. We do not support the keeping of any animals in cages and especially not wild/exotic animals, but if you have them, make sure you are providing the best care possible with the right size and enclosure set-ups and enrichment.
Next week we will look at a problem we often see in animal welfare and how you can help!
WHEN YOU KNOW BETTER, DO BETTER!
The enclosure size sources come from Critter Rescue, the SPCA and others.
The Sasol Highveld Photography Club is passionate about photography and the quality of the images they shoot. They want the members to enjoy their photography.
The “Incoming storm” captured by Peter Winnan was the Best Senior image for June.
What they do
Their goal is to help our members to learn, grow and expand their photography. Highveld Photography Club wants to make a difference in each photographer’s life, by giving members inspiration to really appreciate their hobby and by recognizing their work. Each individual is unique and your picture is special!
Wenke vir ‘n onvoorspelbare lewe… Die lewe gee baie stampe en stote en ons weet nie wat alles nog moontlik kan gebeur nie, wat maak ons met dit en hoe kan ons dit teenstaan?
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! Wondergenadige Meester (Wonderful Merciful Saviour) D. Rogers and E. Wyse 1989 Dayspring Music LLC Vertaal deur Koos van der Merwe CCLI# 573661
MEC reacted after an outcry in some parts of the province that some of the workers were not paid their salaries by some of the bidders who did not make it for the current three-year security tender.
The current three-year security tender became effective in June 2022. This follows the expiry of the previous three-year security tender for the safeguarding of all provincial government buildings and residences of VIPs.
These companies are reportedly citing non-payment by the department.
“We want to put it on record that the department met with most of the companies who did not make it in the current tender. The aim of the interaction was part of get the companies to honour payments due to the security guards once they receive the last payments. Most of the companies have made the undertaking and that is why payments are being urgently processed by the The department. However, some companies must still co-operate with the department in this regard,” explains the MEC.
The MEC adds that this was done out of sheer consideration of the workers and to also avoid the situation where the companies do not honour their obligations once they receive their last payments.
Shongwe is therefore reassuring the public that the department is doing everything possible to assist the companies in this regard.
The Provincial Commissioner is elated with two life sentences handed down to convicted rapist and murderer
Nelspruit: 22 April 2022 -The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela is elated with a hefty sentence that was handed down to a rapist and murderer. Yesterday, Tuesday 21 June 2022 the Mpumalanga Division of the High Court in Mbombela sentenced 40-year-old, Hendrick Nicholas Hanse van Reinsburg to two life sentences for rape and murder.
It is said that on 13 October 2019, Andiswa Zitha, who was 20-year-old suffered violence which was perpetrated by the accused. It is further said that the accused raped her using a wooden object (spoon) before he fled the scene, thereby leaving her in a pool of blood at Mjejane near Komatipoort. Zitha was found by neighbours who took her to Tonga Hospital but she was unfortunately certified dead the next day on 14 October 2019.
Police opened a murder case with an additional charge of rape and the matter was investigated by the police at Komatipoort. The members worked tirelessly in their investigation with the hope to find the perpetrator. Their hard work paid off when they arrested the accused at a tavern in Kamhlushwa on 20 October 2021.
The accused was charged and taken to court where he was convicted and sentenced to 1 life sentence for rape as well as another life sentence for murder. The court also ordered for the sentences to run concurrently. The accused was further declared unfit to possess a firearm.
The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela has gladly welcomed the sentence and appreciated the exceptional work done by the good Samaritans who took the victim to the hospital, the investigation team, the Prosecution team, as well as the Judiciary which resulted in the commendable sentence. “It is unfortunate to have lost a life of a young girl in this manner. We also hope that the sentence will serve as a deterrence to others who might consider emulating the actions of the accused” 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
SAFETY TIPS TO CONSIDER FOR YOUR ANIMALS DURING THE HOLIDAYS.
The holiday is just around the corner and many people who go away, either take their animals with them or leave them behind. Either way you need to plan and take safety precautions for all your animals.
Whether at home or with you on holiday, make sure your animals are up-to-date with all vaccinations, deworming, tick and flea treatments. Micro-chip your pet and make sure it is registered on multiple databases and working, before you leave as well as include a collar ID. Make sure your plan for your animals is clearly stated in your will.
LEAVING YOUR PETS AT HOME
Pet sitters can be a good option when you need someone to care for your pet while you’re away. Animals should never be left alone, in my opinion, for more than even 12 hours.
Do your homework on the pet sitter by getting trusted references from people you know. It is important that your pet also gets along with this person. Book in time as pet sitters are booked well in advance for holidays. Look for ones that have completed special training, like behaviour or pet first aid.
It is your responsibility to ensure things go smoothly, so provide detailed instructions regarding feeding, medications, emergency contacts and other important information. Provide easily accessible and sufficient supplies including their food, grooming, toys, leashes, carriers or cleaning supplies in case of an accident.
Always have a backup plan (person) in place. List your pet sitter at your veterinarian, inform your vet you are away and provide a backup person to contact or to make decisions if you can’t be reached.
Properly pet-proof your home and escape-proof your yard because bored and lonely pets may get into more trouble than usual.
TAKING YOUR PET WITH YOU ON HOLIDAY
If you’re planning on taking your pet with you on holiday, it’s important to honestly assess how stressed your dog or cat might be away from home and whether it’s a risk worth taking. Plan the trip well!
Travel safety! You shouldn’t allow your dog to ride unrestrained. A crate or safety harness (not a collar) can be used to restrain your pet in the car, but be sure that it has been crash-test certified for safety.
Never leave your pet unattended in a vehicle!
Plan extra time for pit stops for them to stretch their legs and relieve themselves. Plan to have clean up supplies on hand, along with your dog’s leash and harness, water bowl and fresh water to drink (preferably water from home which they are used to).
Be sure to plan meal times. Ideally, feed your dog in the morning before you leave (some suggest about 3 hours before) and again at night once you’ve settled into your hotel. If you’ll be stopping to eat along the way, plan to do so at a location where your pet can accompany you.
When traveling with your pet, you’ll need to bring all necessities, including items like poop bags and food bowls, water, medication, grooming kit, but don’t forget to also pack some of your dog’s favourite toys, blankets and, depending on size, even his bed to remind him of home.
You should also make sure your dog is wearing a collar with a current ID tag at all times and pack a pet first aid kit in the event of an emergency. A recent photo on your phone or printed out is also recommended, in the event you become separated. Write down the numbers of emergency vet services along your route for in case.
Remember the vaccination cards!
Image by Zoe Gammon from Pixabay
KEEPING YOUR PETS SAFE AROUND THE POOL, LAKES & THE BEACH
Always supervise swims as not all pets are good swimmers.
Invest in a pet life jacket.
Rinse them off with clean water post-swim, removing chlorine, salt or bacteria.
Avoid wet collars to prevent hot-spots.
Ears should be cleaned and dried after a swim.
Look out for the signs of heat stroke and provide cool shade areas as well as cool, fresh drinking water at all times.
Use animal-safe sunscreen for breeds who are prone to sunburn.
Learn pet CPR for an emergency.
Other dangers around water may include: Parasites and bacteria, water intoxication, salt water, seaweed, sand impaction, hot surfaces, picnic foods & foreign bodies, fishing hooks etc.
If you intend to bring your dog on the boat with you, remember a life jacket, sunscreen, fresh drinking water, providing shade, a leash, proper identification, have potty breaks, have a first aid kit and pay attention!
TAKING YOUR PET ON A HIKE OR CAMPING?
Make sure your dog has an up-to-date ID tag or collar. The fastest way for someone who finds your dog to get her back to you is to call the number on her ID tag.
Your dog will need frequent water breaks along the trail, so be prepared with a lightweight, collapsible travel bowl or a simple plastic container and plenty of fresh water. Stop often to offer her a drink, and especially if she’s panting a lot. Keeping her well-hydrated will also prevent her from drinking from a stagnant water source, which can harbor all kinds of pathogenic bacteria and parasites.
You’ll want to pack a few healthy snacks to feed her along the way as well, and don’t forget dog poop bags, especially if you’ll be hiking on heavily travelled trails.
Remember a first aid kit with essential emergency items like gauze, scissors, or tape.
Don’t forget your cell phone.
An emergency dog sling can be helpful when in remote areas.
Don’t let your pet chase wildlife as both can get injured.
If you are camping, make sure they are not cold, but also safe from camping hazards like fire.
Image by Helge Ely from Pixabay
READ MORE on why you should not be clipping a bird’s wings.
Whether your pet is joining you on your holiday or you leave them home with supervision, it remains your responsibility to make sure they are ok!
Next week we will look at enclosure sizes for different pets.
Bethal – A fugitive and alleged drug ring leader appeared in court
MPUMALANGA – Mbuso Janvier Kikaranga (35) a Congolese citizen was arrested by the Secunda HAWKSon 2022/06/19 in Embalenhle and appeared in the Bethal Magistrate Court for charges of dealing in drugs on Monday, 20 June 2022. This follows his arrest Wednesday, 15 June 2022 in Embalenhle for Possession of a stolen vehicle
Mbuso Janvier Kikaranga (35)
Kikaranga was additionally charged for his alleged involvement in a drug criminal group in the Bethal area in Mpumalanga, to which he was dubbed the main suspect and ring leader. He had been on the run since 28 June 2021, during the takedown operation of “Dream On”, a project-driven investigation that led to the arrest of eleven (11) suspects involved in the criminal group that worked in a tandem arrangement that is distributing drugs to the community in the Bethal area.
Consequently, a warrant of arrest was issued against him for three (3) counts of dealing in drugs which were added to a charge of possession of a stolen vehicle upon his arrest and a subsequent first court appearance in Evander court for the Possession of stolen vehicle and in Bethal Magistrate court on his warrant of arrest for dealing in drugs on Project Dream On. The case against the suspect was postponed to 04 July 2022 for a formal bail application.
Meanwhile, his accomplices are expected to appear on the same day at Bethal Regional court and Kikaranga will at the later stage appear along with his alleged accomplices.
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
