Rea Gazette

20/02/2025

Sebokeng Woman Found Dead on Valentine’s Day, Partner Arrested

SEBOKENG – A chilling discovery on Valentine’s Day has left the Kanana community in shock after the lifeless body of a woman was found in her home.

According to Sebokeng police spokesperson Sergeant Nthabiseng Mokhachane, officers were called to the scene on Friday, 14 February 2025, in the afternoon. Upon arrival, they found the body of an African female with visible injuries, including a raccoon eye (bruising around the eye) and a laceration on her face.

Paramedics later confirmed that the deceased also had strangulation marks on her neck, suggesting possible foul play.

It is alleged that the woman and her partner had been drinking the night before. On the morning of Valentine’s Day, the victim’s son made the heartbreaking discovery when he noticed his mother was still in bed and unresponsive. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) were called to the scene and declared her dead.

Her body was then transported to Sebokeng Forensic Pathology Services for further examination.

The woman's partner has since been arrested and is expected to appear in court soon.

Sergeant Mokhachane urged community members not to tamper with crime scenes before police arrive, as this could interfere with crucial evidence collection.

Authorities are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the woman's death.

20/02/2025

Horror in Sebokeng : Dog Brings Home baby's body.

SEBOKENG – Police in Sebokeng have launched an investigation into a case of concealment of birth after a gruesome discovery was made in Zone 10 Extension 3 on Wednesday, February 19, 2025.

Community members alerted Sebokeng SAPS after a foetus was found lying on the grass in a residential yard. Upon arrival, officers discovered that the foetus had sustained head injuries, and its legs and hands had allegedly been eaten by a nursing dog.

According to reports, the dog had recovered the foetus from an open field, brought it into the yard, and started feeding on it. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) were called to the scene, where they confirmed the foetus to be that of a baby boy and declared him deceased. The remains were later transported to the Forensic Pathology Services for further examination.

Sebokeng police have urged members of the public to assist in identifying the individual responsible for abandoning the foetus. They are appealing to anyone who may have information regarding a person who was recently pregnant in the area but is no longer carrying a child.

Sebokeng police spokesperson Sergeant Nthabiseng Mokhachane has called on the community to come forward with any relevant details. “We urge anyone who may have information that could assist in the investigation to contact Sebokeng SAPS at 082 498 9563 or the Crime Stop hotline at 08600 10111. Alternatively, tips can be reported via 10111, 112, or the MySAPS App,” said Mokhachane.

Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident and are committed to ensuring that those responsible are brought to justice.

19/02/2025

📢 BUDGET SPEECH 2025 POSTPONED 🚨

Speaker of Parliament, Thoko Didiza, has confirmed that the Budget Speech is now scheduled for 12 March 2025 to allow Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana and Treasury to finalise key issues.

19/02/2025

Budget Speech 2025 | Rea Gazette

The Minister of Finance, Mr Enoch Godongwana, will deliver the 2025 Budget Speech in the National Assembly this afternoon, Wednesday, 19 February at 14:00.

19/02/2025

The initiative aimed to educate learners about the consequences of drug abuse, bullying, gangsterism, and lack of discipline.

Sebokeng – 18 February 2025

19/02/2025

The initiative, held on Tuesday morning, aimed to educate residents about the dangers of substance abuse and its far-reaching consequences.

Lakeside Estate – Tuesday, 18 January 2025

19/02/2025

Body of 49-Year-Old Woman Found Lying in the Street | Rea Gazette

The body of a 49-year-old woman was found lying in the street, partially clothed, with an open wound to the head and bruises on her left arm. Members of the Kagisanong Community Service Centre discovered the body after responding to a murder complaint in Caleb Motshabi, Bloemfontein on Monday, February 17, 2025.

It is believed that a blunt instrument was used in the commission of the crime. Preliminary investigations led to the arrest of a 33-year-old male suspect just minutes after the investigation began.

The suspect appeared in the Bloemfontein Magistrate's Court on Tuesday, February 18, 2025.

18/02/2025

MINISTER HLABISA URGES FOR CAUTION AS HEAVY RAINS CONTINUE ACROSS THE COUNTRY

The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), Mr. Velenkosini Hlabisa, urges all South Africans to remain vigilant as heavy rains persist in several parts of the country.

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued warnings of ongoing heavy showers since Sunday, affecting the North West, Gauteng, the northern Free State, the Highveld areas of Mpumalanga, and southwestern Limpopo. Rainfall accumulations of 20 to 50 millimetres (mm) are expected, with cooler daytime temperatures prevailing in these regions.

The continued rainfall poses a risk of localized flooding, particularly in low-lying areas, bridges, and roads. Minister Hlabisa emphasizes the importance of caution as disaster response teams remain on high alert, providing emergency assistance where needed.

The National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC) is actively monitoring the situation and coordinating response efforts with provincial and local authorities to ensure a swift and effective response to any emergencies. Community members are encouraged to report emergencies promptly and to assist vulnerable individuals, such as the elderly and children, in taking necessary precautions. Communities are also urged to regularly monitor news broadcasts, radio bulletins, and official social media pages for real-time updates and alerts.

“While our dedicated teams are on high alert, the first line of defence is always preparedness. We urge South Africans to not take risks, avoid flooded roads, stay informed, and follow official warnings. The safety of all South Africans during this time remains a priority,” said Minister Hlabisa.

Additionally, Minister Hlabisa urges all communities to delay their trips to areas with heavy rains if those trips are not urgent and can be delayed for safety purposes.

Stay safe, stay informed, and remain vigilant.

18/02/2025

Lerato Maloka Reinstated as Sedibeng Mayor

Sedibeng –18 February 2025
Lerato Maloka has been reinstated as Sedibeng District Municipality’s Executive Mayor, weeks after being removed through a motion of no confidence.

The ANC-backed decision has sparked controversy, with opposition parties, including the DA and EFF, condemning her return, citing past allegations of financial mismanagement. Meanwhile, Maloka has pledged to focus on service delivery and restoring public trust.

Her reinstatement follows weeks of council disruptions, including teargas incidents, as the ANC worked to regain control. Residents now await whether her leadership will bring progress or more political turmoil.

18/02/2025

Uber Driver Arrested After Churchgoer Fatally Shot and Hijacked in Palm Springs

Palm Springs – A 58-year-old man was fatally shot and hijacked while on his way to church in Palm Springs Section C on Thursday, 23 January 2025.

According to police reports, the victim was driving a white Hyundai Accent (registration number JV66LGGP) when he was intercepted by a black Hyundai, whose registration number remains unknown. Unidentified African males shot him once in the chest before fleeing with his vehicle. He was left on the ground unattended and later transported to Levai Mbatha Clinic, where he was declared dead on arrival due to the gunshot wound.

On Saturday, 25 January 2025, members of the Palm Springs community received information that the black Hyundai involved in the crime was operating as an Uber. Acting on this tip, they managed to track down and apprehend the driver and his associate.

Evaton police, together with K9 Sedibeng and Evaton Crime Prevention units, responded to the scene where the two suspects were being questioned. Upon searching the Uber vehicle, police discovered the key to the hijacked Hyundai Accent. The suspects then revealed the location of the deceased’s car, which was recovered in Lawley Extension 2. One African male was arrested for possession of a hijacked motor vehicle, and a case was registered at Ennerdale Police Station.

During the investigation, the Uber driver disclosed that the man responsible for the fatal shooting is known as Sphiwe Bethuel Ngubane, who is believed to reside in Protea, Orange Farms, or Newcastle.

Evaton Police spokesperson Constable Thulisile Msibi has urged the public to come forward with any information regarding the suspect’s whereabouts.

“We are appealing to anyone who may have information that can lead to the arrest of the suspect to contact the police. Community members can provide information anonymously,” said Msibi.

Anyone with information is encouraged to call the SAPS Crime Stop hotline at 0800 10111 or contact Evaton Police Station at 016 590 9300.

18/02/2025

Parliament on deadline for SASSA beneficiaries to swop cards (20 March 2025)

Extension of SASSA gold cards validity must include improved rollout plan.

The Portfolio Committee on Social Development notes the extension of the deadline for South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) beneficiaries to swop their Gold Cards for the Postbank Black Card from 28 February 2025 to 20 March 2025.

The committee believes that the deadline for the validity of the SASSA Gold Cards should be extended in conjunction with a properly resourced and statistically improved rollout plan for the Postbank Black Cards. Extending the deadline without an improved rollout plan will prolong beneficiaries' frustration and panic.

It calls on SASSA to implement an outreach programme to older persons, people with disabilities homes, and old age homes to ensure that their Black Cards are issued at their places of residence, as SASSA policies provide for.

The committee is inundated with calls and e-mails from beneficiaries and their families, who are frustrated with the lack of sites to issue the Black Cards. Older persons and people with disabilities are stuck in long queues and, at times, are turned away without receiving help. The scenes unfolding at the renewal sites are a violation of human rights. The Departments of Social Development, Communication and Digital Technologies, SASSA and Postbank should ensure that the roll-out process occurs in a manner that protects the dignity of all beneficiaries.

18/02/2025

69-Year-Old Male Suspect Arrested For Attempted Murder | Rea Gazette

A 69-year-old man has been arrested for attempted murder of 64-year-old man at Simpson Village on Saturday, 15 February 2025 by the police at Maleboho in Capricorn District.

The victim was attending a funeral service at Simpson Village on Saturday, 15 February 2025, when he asked to preach, but the community members refused, then he left. Reports suggest that while leaving the place, he was followed by an unknown man who chased him away.

Suddenly, the victim was shot on the right leg, and another shot fired on the sky. The victim tried to run, but fell down due to his injury. The suspect continued to assault the victim.

The police and emergency medical services personnel were summoned, and the victim was transported to the hospital for medical attention.

The suspect was identified and the relentless efforts by the detectives led to them effecting the arrest in the early hours of Sunday, 16 February 2025, at approximately 02:45.

He will appear before Maleboho Periodical court soon on charges of attempted murder

The licensed firearm of the suspect was confiscated as part of investigation.

Police investigation continues.

17/02/2025

Family Desperate to Find Missing Polokong Man, Mpho Ndweni

SEBOKENG – The family of 42-year-old Mpho Koos Ndweni from Polokong, Sebokeng, is desperately searching for him after he went missing on December 29, 2024.

According to his uncle, Lefu Ndweni, Mpho, who is mentally disturbed, was last seen wearing a grey Hemisphere t-shirt, grey trousers, and may have been barefoot. Since his disappearance, the family has been unable to locate him and is pleading for public assistance.

Sebokeng SAPS spokesperson, Sergeant Nthabiseng Mokhachane, confirmed that police are investigating the case. “We urge anyone with information about Mpho’s whereabouts to come forward. Any details, no matter how small, could assist in reuniting him with his family,” she said.

Anyone who may have seen Mpho or knows of his whereabouts is urged to contact Detective Captain Van Der Merwe at 082 822 7629, Lefu Ndweni at 078 624 4313, or Sebokeng SAPS at 082 498 9563. Alternatively, they can call 112, 10111, or SAPS Crime Stop at 08600 10111.

17/02/2025

SEBOKENG POLICE SEARCH FOR MISSING MAN, PETER MAPHASA

SEBOKENG – The Sebokeng SAPS is appealing to the public for assistance in locating Peter Vuyisile Sonnyboy Maphasa (31), who has been missing since December 23, 2024.

According to reports, Maphasa was last seen leaving his home in Extension 15, Sebokeng. He did not inform anyone of his destination, and his family is now deeply concerned for his safety.

Sebokeng police spokesperson Sergeant Nthabiseng Mokhachane urged community members to come forward with any information.

"The police are working tirelessly to locate Mr. Maphasa, and we appeal to the public for assistance. Any information, no matter how small, could be crucial in finding him," said Mokhachane.

Anyone with information on Maphasa’s whereabouts is urged to contact Detective Captain Van Der Merwe at 082 822 7629, Peter’s sister Jessica at 073 126 9766, Sebokeng SAPS at 082 498 9563, or call 112, 08600 10111, or 10111.

17/02/2025

Furious Boitumelo Mob Kills Murder Suspect Before Police Can Intervene

Boitumelo, Sebokeng – A tragic case of mob justice unfolded in Boitumelo, Sebokeng, on the evening of Saturday, February 1, 2025, when an alleged murder suspect was brutally assaulted and killed by community members.

According to Sebokeng police spokesperson Sergeant Nthabiseng Mokhachane, officers from Sebokeng SAPS were already at a crime scene in Boitumelo investigating the murder of a woman when they received reports of a violent attack on the suspected perpetrator.

"Upon arrival, officers found a large crowd assaulting and stoning an African male accused of stabbing and killing a woman earlier that day. Despite multiple attempts, police were unable to stop the mob, which refused to let law enforcement intervene," said Mokhachane.

Emergency medical personnel were also barred from accessing the scene, delaying any potential medical assistance for the alleged suspect.

After persistent efforts, police were eventually able to de-escalate the situation and regain control. Paramedics were then allowed to examine the suspect, but he was declared dead at the scene, having suffered multiple stab wounds and severe injuries.

Sebokeng SAPS Station Commander Brigadier Thembekile Kubone strongly condemned the act of vigilantism, warning that such actions are criminal and punishable by law.

"Mob justice is a serious crime, and those involved will face legal consequences. We urge the community to work with the police and allow the justice system to take its course. Community policing is crucial in preventing such incidents and ensuring the safety of all residents," said Brigadier Kubone.

The identities of those responsible for the suspect’s killing remain unknown, and police are calling on anyone with information to come forward.

Members of the public with any relevant details are urged to contact Sebokeng SAPS at 082 498 9563, or use emergency hotlines 112, 08600 10111, or 10111.

16/02/2025

Six Bodies Discovered in Diepkloof Mine Shaft

Diepkloof, Soweto – A grim discovery was made at an abandoned mine shaft in Diepkloof, Soweto, when a security guard stumbled upon the decomposed bodies of six men, all with their hands tied behind their backs and fatal gunshot wounds to the head.

Gauteng police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo confirmed that the bodies were found at Shaft 17, an enclosed mining area, on Friday, February 14, 2025. The discovery was initially made by a man collecting firewood, who spotted a human skull and alerted a security guard. The authorities were immediately notified, leading to a police investigation.

Paramedics and the police’s K9 Unit arrived at the scene, where they discovered the bodies stacked on top of each other inside a mine quarry. Witnesses suggest that the victims had been there for a significant period, given the advanced state of decomposition.

Authorities suspect the deceased were illegal miners, also known as zama zamas, who operate in abandoned mines. However, the exact motive behind the killings remains unclear.

"We have opened a case of murder and are investigating all possible leads. At this stage, the victims have not been identified, and we urge anyone with missing relatives to come forward," said Masondo.

Diepkloof residents expressed shock and concern over the killings, highlighting the ongoing dangers associated with illegal mining in the area. Community leaders have called on law enforcement to intensify efforts to curb violent crime linked to these mining activities.

Police investigations are ongoing, and forensic teams are working to identify the victims. Anyone with information regarding the incident is urged to contact their nearest police station or Crime Stop at 08600 10111.

16/02/2025

Vaal School Shoe Drive Makes a Difference | Rea Gazette

Mosa Hlophe, founder of the Vaal School Shoe Drive, reflected on the initiative's beginnings. It all started in 2021, with the first handover taking place at Mqiniswa Primary School in Bophelong in April of that year. Since then, the organization has been donating school shoes twice a year.

On Tuesday, February 4, 2025, the Vaal School Shoe Drive made its seventh donation in the Vaal area. Hlophe shared the emotional story behind the drive's inception. She was teaching in Vereeniging and using taxis, she then witnessed schoolchildren walking barefoot in the cold winter weather, while she was wearing boots but still cold. This heart-wrenching scene stayed with her, and she confided in her mother and friends about her desire to provide school shoes for these children.

The first person to support Hlophe's initiative was Lefaso Hlahane, who helped collect and donate school shoes. The drive gained momentum, with friends from social media platforms like Twitter and TikTok contributing to the cause. Notable supporters include Mavuso, Nkateko Mabaso, and Thabiso "Stha," who donated and assisted with deliveries.

On February 4, 2025, approximately 60 school shoes were donated. This was their second visit to the school, having first visited in 2023. To ensure the right sizes were provided, the teacher supplied a list of learners in need of school shoes, complete with their shoe sizes. The shoes were then purchased accordingly.

16/02/2025

Hae Tuke Kasi Economy NPC Gives Back to Bophelong Community | Rea Gazette

The Hae Tuke Kasi Economy NPC has taken a significant step in giving back to the Bophelong community. According to Khabane Blessing Motaung, treasurer of the NPC, the initiative began with the goal of reclaiming the local economy from foreign operators who had been running businesses illegally in the area.

After successfully taking back control of 168 shops, which are now run by local residents, the NPC decided to focus on giving back to the community. As part of this effort, they delivered school shoes to primary schools in Bophelong.

The NPC, which has been operating for 15 or 16 months, collected 30 pairs of school shoes for each school, thanks to contributions from local businesses and supporters like Mr. Thami Manzi from Ola's Market, Dr. Nkabinde, Sicelo, Mr. Senki Lehoko, Uniq Lifestyle and the VTA taxi association.

Motaung explained that the NPC chose to focus on school shoes because they understand the struggles faced by local children. "When kids go to school, they struggle to concentrate if they are not warm," he said.

The NPC's long-term goal is to produce entrepreneurs, engineers, and other professionals from local schools. They have a one-year plan in place, which began with primary schools and will soon expand to high schools.

Future initiatives include reviving school tournaments, which Motaung believes will help bring the community together. He hopes to see significant positive change in Bophelong within the next 3 to 5 years.

As Motaung emphasized, "Charity begins at home," and the Hae Tuke Kasi Economy NPC is committed to making a difference in their own community.