GERT SIBANDE DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY CHIEF WHIP, CLLR TREVOR NKOSI, PASSES AWAY.
“It is a sad day today that we wake up to the news of the passing of the member of Council, Cllr Trevor Nkosi who is reported to have passed away in the early hours of 28 May 2022 following a long illness,” read a statement released by the Gert Sibande District Municipality.
Cllr Trevor Nkosi passed away recently
Cllr Nkosi was a councillor of the ANC in Gert Sibande District Municipality, appointed and serving as the Whip of Council.
His career has been characterised by political work in the main with a focus on youth development. While his key role was the management of the majority party’s participation in the Council’s business as the Whip of the Council, he was also trusted with various positions of authority during his political journey.
These include Regional Secretary of the ANC Youth League (ANCYL) in Gert Sibande, Regional Chairperson of the ANCYL in Gert Sibande, ANCYL Mpumalanga Deputy Chairperson and Deputy Secretary of the ANC in Gert Sibande.
Speaking on behalf of the Council, the Speaker Cllr Busisiwe Sekhonde has expressed her shock and condolences to the Nkosi family, the political party he was serving and the entire district of Gert Sibande. “GSDM is proud to have had an individual of his calibre within the institution whose passion for the youth was never downplayed”, said Sekhonde.
The entire GSDM leadership and staff personnel send their messages of support and condolences and pray for strength to the Nkosi family during this time of bereavement.
SECUNDA DRUG TRADER PLEADED GUILTY AFTER PROPELLED FOR REHABILITATION PROCESSES
Secunda: Belinda Swart (53) pleaded guilty in the Secunda Magistrate Court on Thursday, 26 May 2022 for possession of a dangerous dependent producing substance (methamphetamine).
Belinda Margaret Swart
The conviction followed the arrest of the accused on Thursday, 13 January 2022 by the Hawks Serious Organised Crime Investigation based in Secunda together with Crime Intelligence and K9 Unit when they promptly responded to information about a suspect allegedly dealing in drugs around Secunda on Tuesday, 11 January 2022.
A disruptive search and seizure operation was executed on the premises and the suspect was found in possession of drugs (Chrystal meth). Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect was previously arrested by the Hawks in 2018 for contravention of the Drugs and Drugs Trafficking Act. The accused was later in August 2018 found guilty and sentenced to 3 years imprisonment of which 1 year 6 months were suspended for 5 years, with the choice of acknowledgement of guilty of R12 000.00.
The accused was remanded in custody by the Secunda District Court on the first appearance on Thursday, the defence of the accused insisted to proceed with a formal bail application on a schedule 5 hearing. The accused was denied bail and remanded in custody. The case was postponed to 4 April 2022 for further investigation.
On 4 April 2022, the accused appeared in court and the court released her under the strictest court order that she goes through a rehabilitation process. After rehabilitation, she should report to the Hawks offices in Secunda twice a week to be tested for drugs. The accused went through all the processes of rehabilitation and drugs test assisted by the investigating officer until she completed the order.
On Thursday, 26 May 2022 she was sentenced to 14 months imprisonment suspended for 5 years. The state made an application in terms of Sec 297 sub-sec 9aii so that the previous conviction, dealing in drugs be put in operation. The Secunda Hawks also arrested the said accused of dealing drugs in 2019. The accused also pleaded guilty on that occasion and was sentenced for dealing drugs. An additional sentence was posed on the accused for a fine of R9000 on her previous conviction.
The court made it clear to her that this was her final warning, that she should not be found guilty of a similar crime.
The Provincial Head of the Directorate For Priority Crime Investigation Major General Zodwa Mokoena applauded the enormous effort by the investigating officer and further informed the community that arresting the perpetrators is not to punish them. She also appreciated the community for giving information about criminal activities within their midst”.
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 – Gert Wessel van der Westhuizen (60) who is was released on bail by the Secunda Magistrates Court on Tuesday, 24 May 2022 after he was arrested by the Secunda based Hawks Serious Commercial Crime Investigation for fraud of over R2.3 million in Secunda.
Gert Wessel van der Westhuizen (60)
It is alleged that three suspects recruited unsuspecting victims to invest money in return for receiving interest. The complainant in this matter invested R1 200 000-00 on the advice of an accomplice of van der Westhuizen on the 9th October 2017 into Extreme Business Solutions by transferring the money into an FNB bank account.
After investigation, it was discovered that the account holder is Extreme Business Solutions (PTY) Ltd and that Gert Wessel van der Westhuizen was appointed as the authorised representative primary user for FNB online banking dated 06 June 2014 as the only signatory as per the affidavit in terms of section 236 of Act 51 of 1977 from FNB Bank.
Van der Westhuizen’s accomplice again advised the complainant to invest in another company called (UGI) Unique Global investments (PTY) LTD because it allegedly had better returns compared to Extreme Business solutions. On that advice, the complainant transferred R500 000-00 into an FNB account on 13th November 2018 to convert into bitcoins.
The ensuing investigation revealed that the account belonged to COINBR SA (PTY) LTD and that a second accomplice was appointed as the authorized representative primary user for FNB Online Banking dated 28 April 2015 as authorised signatory according to an affidavit in terms of section 236 of Act 51 of 1977 from FNB bank.
As per her investments, the victim was promised a monthly payment of R40 000. The payment was received for 11 months and thereafter they stopped. The complainant made some enquiries with Hester Marx as to why their payments have stopped. The complainant was given a barrage of excuses but eventually, the complainant was promised that the outstanding monies would be paid. The complainant’s money was used to purchase bitcoins in an account allegedly managed by Extreme Business Solutions. The total amount with interest for the investments is approximately R2.3 million.
Gert van der Westhuizen was granted R5 000.00 bail. The case was postponed to 10 June 2022 for the other two suspects whose warrants have been issued to be arrested and be joined with the accused in his next appearance. Investigation continues.
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
SKUKUZA COURT HANDS DOWN A COMBINED 63 YEARS SENTENCE TO POACHERS
South African National Parks today, 25 May 2022 welcomed yet another heavy sentence handed down to three rhino poachers by the Skukuza Regional Court on Tuesday, 24 May 2022.
Isaac Zitha 41, Oscar Ndlovu 38, Richard Mkhombo 39, all South African were convicted by the court on twelve charges related to rhino poaching. They were all sentenced to a total of 63 years.
The three were convicted of the first incident which took place in the Stolznek Section of the Kruger National Park (KNP) after rangers followed up after hearing gunshots near where they were patrolling. Oscar Ndlovu was found hiding in the area and was promptly arrested. The rangers called in their K9 colleague who led them to a backpack and two other suspects, namely Isaac Zitha and Given Zitha. The backpack contained a pair of rhino horns and a rifle which were linked to a carcass found nearby. The incident took place in 2017 and the accused were granted bail. Given Zitha absconded and is still being sought by the police to face trial.
In 2018, Rangers found human tracks in the Kingfisherspruit section of the KNP which led them to the boundary of the Manyeleti Game Reserve where Oscar Ndlovu was arrested. The K9 unit was called in and led the team to Isaac Zitha and Richard Mkhombo and later a backpack containing a pair of rhino horns and a rifle, linking the three to a carcass found nearby.
The Managing executive of the KNP, Gareth Coleman said the sentence is further evidence that collaborative work on criminal matters between different units is bearing fruits and sending a strong message to criminals. “The members of the SAPS, the prosecution and the Rangers Corp have been diligent in handling these cases and presented foolproof evidence to the courts. The prosecution has also made a compelling argument on our behalf for harsh sentences and we are delighted at the outcomes and hope the remaining suspect will be apprehended and face trial” said Coleman.
Gereth Coleman
All Three Accused: Richard Mkhombo, Isaac Zitha and Oscar Ndlovu were sentenced as follows for the 2017 incident:
Count 1. Trespass All 3 Accused sentenced to 3 years
Count 2. Possession of an illegal firearm with the serial number filed off – 6 Years
Count 3. Illegal Possession of Ammunition – 2 years
Count 4. The killing of an endangered species – 10 Years
Count 5. Possession of an Axe – 1 year
Some of the sentences run concurrently.
Two Accused: Isaac Zitha and Oscar Ndlovu were sentenced as follows for the 2018 incident:
2018 Kingfisherspruit case
Count 6. Trespass – 6 years
Count 7. Possession of firearm – 6 years
Count 8. Possession of firearm to commit a crime – 5 years
Count 9. Possession of a firearm with serial numbers filed off – 5 years
Count 10. Possession of ammunition – 2 years
Count 11. The killing of an endangered species (rhino) – 10 years
Count 12. The killing of rhino – 10 years
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
ANIMALS 101 – SOME QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER WHEN YOU ARE LOOKING FOR OR VISITING A VET.
When you go to a veterinarian and pay for a service to treat your animals, it is your right to ask questions! Here are a few general questions then followed by what we call our “accountability” questions. Although the general questions can be answered by Google, it is best to ask the vet who has physically examined your animals. These are not the only questions.
GENERAL QUESTIONS
Is my animal at a healthy weight?
Is my pet up to date on vaccinations?
Is this (add odd behaviour) normal for this animal?
How is my pet’s dental health?
Could I be providing more appropriate food?
What tick/flea treatment would you recommend?
What are these lumps or bumps?
Is my pets’ nails/claws the right length?
Would my pet benefit from more grooming?
At what age is my pet considered a senior?
Any preventative care I can provide for my pet?
Image by The Paw Company
ACCOUNTABILITY QUESTIONS
Can you explain my bill? Always ask for your bill, receipt and full statement. This could help in case you need to take the pet to another vet or open a case against the vet or just for the record.
Can you explain the procedure to me? Understanding the procedure can help you better prepare for when your pet comes home. We have had cases where a vet said they operated “wrongly”, more than once. They should have checked and prepared for your pets’ procedure.
Who will be doing the procedure? Most people assume the vet will. Ask anyway! If they do not do it themselves then ask for the qualification of the person who will and whether the vet will supervise them. We can share horror stories on this.
Does my pet need pain medication? Which one on the statement is pain meds? If no pain medication is given ask why not, especially when you suspect your pet is in pain? We have found a vet that rarely gives pain medication. Any animal who comes in (apart from a general visit) will probably need pain meds. Rather ask!
How many consultations/operations do you do on average a day? This is very important. Some vets brag about how many they do, or claim that that makes them more qualified than others. For us as pet owners and welfare organizations, we would not want to go to a vet who brag about how busy they are. You do the maths. How much quality time will they spend on your pet? How easily can mistakes slip in if they are so busy?
Are you the only vet in this practice? If yes, our follow-up question would be when do they rest, or are they on call 24/7, especially if they do so many procedures. Being a vet is certainly a high-stress job if you care about the sentient beings you treat. If you add a lack of proper sleep, mistakes can easily occur and it could be lethal to your pets. Are you willing to take that risk with your pet?
How do they sterilize? Do they only remove ovaries or uterus or both? Do they only tie the tubes? We have had pets who fall pregnant after sterilization and that is impossible if it was done correctly!
What are their prices? This is a very debatable topic. How does it compare to other local vets? Do your homework on this! Ask whether it includes medicatioin after the procedure, the follow-up or the removal of stitches for example.
FINDING AN EXOTIC PET VET
Not all vets are qualified or experienced to treat exotic pets. Even if they say they can, it is your responsibility to ask the right questions. We had a case with a vet where they didn’t know the rabbit should actually eat before the operation, unlike other animals. Here are some screening questions to help you find the right vet for your rabbits/exotic pets.
HOLDING VETS ACCOUNTABLE
Apart from your right to get explanations for questions, you also have the right to get a second or even third opinion! Do not allow bullying from a vet or their staff when you do this. Please report them for unethical behaviour at the SAVC. Never just blindly trust a vet and do your homework. Reviews on social media and google can be manipulated so it is not our go-to measure. Take note of how often the staff changes in terms of quitting or being fired from the practice. That is usually a good indication of the boss and work culture.
If you are unsure about the treatment you received, please contact The Paw Company. You can also check out our accountability post if you are considering opening a case at the Veterinary Council. It doesn’t cost you money. Your case might seem isolated to you, but it is worth preventing another pet from having to go through what yours did!
YOUR PET IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY and making the right choice of vet for them is on you! Next week we will look at what you should consider if you want to own (be a guardian) of a bird.
PROVINCIAL COMMISSIONER APPRECIATES THE SENTENCING OF A POACHER
Nelspruit: 24 May 2022-The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela has acknowledged with much appreciation, the effort made by various stakeholders in the justice system in dealing with poaching. The expression by the General follows a hefty sentence that was handed down by the Skukuza Regional Court on Friday, 20 May 2022 upon a poacher. Sam Khoza, aged 47 received a well-deserved sentence of 9 years imprisonment for poaching.
The accused was sentenced following an incident in which three armed intruders entered the Kruger National Park through the section on 11 November 2020 however, they were spotted by the field Ranger who was on duty that day. It is said that when the three men noticed the field rangers, a shooting ensued. Two of the suspects evaded the arrests but Khoza, who sustained some injuries during the shooting was captured.
The police at Skukuza was notified about the incident and upon their arrival, the accused was arrested and charged accordingly. During his arrest, he was found in possession of a rifle, some ammunition as well as a silencer.
After he recovered from his injuries, he was presented before Skukuza Regional Court, facing the charge of being in possession of a prohibited firearm, possession of illegal ammunition as well as possession of a dangerous weapon. The case was handed over to the Skukuza Stock Theft Unit, experts in the field of probing matters which are related to illegal poaching.
The team worked tirelessly to ensure that the accused got convicted and sentenced as a poacher. During the tour of their investigation, they discovered that the accused was born in the country of Mozambique and was in South Africa illegally hence the charge of contravention of the Immigration Act of South Africa was added against him.
The team presented their case before the court, with overwhelming evidence which was indisputable and has then led the accused with no choice but to surrender hence on Friday, 20 May 2022, he pleaded guilty to all the charges. Khoza was therefore sentenced accordingly.
The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela has further commended the collaborative effort displayed by the team of field rangers, the investigation team, the Prosecution Team, and the Judiciary which culminated in the sentencing of the accused. “We hope that this sentence will serve as a deterrence to those you might think of emulating the actions of the accused. We hope by now people have learnt that one can be severely punished for the unauthorized killing of wild animals” 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
MPUMALANGA – Nhlanhla Mathebula (39), Mohamed Ali (36), Gabriel Samuel Van der Merwe (32), Christopher Marillier (38), Sfiso Kheswa (30), were arrested by the Hawks Serious Corruption Investigation team based in Nelspruit on Thursday,19 May 2022 at Eldorado Park in Gauteng and White River for fraud, Corruption and Contravention of Immigration Act.
Nhlanhla Mathebula (Home Affairs official)
Investigation revealed that on 13 October 2021 Mathebula colluded with the alleged kingpin, Ali from Pakistan who recruited South African citizens to offer their personal details in order for foreigners to get RSA passports using them in exchange for payment.
South African citizens would use their particulars and prints to apply for the said passports but when it comes to capturing the photo, foreign nationals will be the ones captured. Home Affairs officials reportedly facilitated this after hours. The SA citizens were allegedly paid R500 00 each for the utilisation of their particulars by foreign nationals.
The five appeared before the White River Magistrate’s Court on Friday, 20 May 2022 and the case was postponed to 25 May 2022, for a formal bail application. The suspects were remanded in custody and more arrests are expected as the investigation continues.
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 anonym
COMPANY DIRECTORS WARNED TO RETURN TO COURT FOR FRAUD.
MPUMALANGA – Hartman Industrial Equipment (PTY) Ltd, Charles Sydney Hendry Hartman (63) and Eulene Hartman (61) appeared before the Evander Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, 17 May 2022 on fraud charges.
Allegations were reported anonymously to Sasol via Sasol Ethics Line that Hartmans Industrial Equipment (PTY) Ltd supplied Sasol (PTY) Ltd with less expensive actuators sourced from Omal Automation (PTY) Ltd instead of actuators sourced from Festo (PTY) Ltd as requested by Sasol. They allegedly supplied these actuators in Festo-branded packaging.
The Hartmans allegedly defrauded Sasol by supplying Omal actuators instead of agreed Festo actuators, charging the same price. Based on the outcome of an audit conducted by Sasol, it was discovered that the Hartmans have been supplying the actuators to Sasol from 2011 to 2017.
They had supplied 182 in the period mentioned and 88 of them were Omal actuators instead of Festo actuators. The Hartmans are the directors of the company, Hartman Industrial Equipment (PTY) Ltd. The accused have already paid back Sasol as per agreement.
They were summoned on 6 May 2022 to appear in court. On 17 May 2022, they appeared and the matter was postponed to 8 June 2022 for further investigation.
