Gondeni Man sought by Police for rape of a 16-year-old

Gondeni Man sought by Police for rape of a 16-year-old

Police are searching for a Man who for the rape of a 16-year-old girl at Gondeni la Ha Mabilu in Thohoyandou, Limpopo. The incident allegedly took place on 17 November 2023. But was only reported at Thohoyandou Police Station on Tuesday, 28 November 2023.

ALSO READ: EFF Limpopo march to Hoerskool Ben Vorster in Tzaneen

According to the information received, the victim was on her way home when she met her ex-boyfriend who dragged her to his home and raped her.

The victim never reported the matter to the police until recently. A case of rape was opened which was then transferred to the FCS unit for further investigation.

GONDENI RAPE SUSPECT IN THULAMELA ON THE RUN

Police are still searching for the suspect and appeal to anyone with information that can lead to his apprehension to contact Thohoyandou FCS Unit on 082 729 0202. Crime Stop number on 08600 10111 or the nearest Police Station or use MySAPSapp.

Meanwhile, Police in Thohoyandou have arrested one of their own, a Warrant Officer on Wednesday, 29 November 2023. This is for Negligence loss of firearm, Defeating the ends of justice and Perjury.

It is reported that the suspect lied under oath on Tuesday 07 November 2023. He alleged that he was robbed of his service-issued firearm by unknown suspects while he was driving, stopped on the street. He suddenly grabbed and robbed without being injured.

A case of common robbery was opened and investigations conducted. Finally, it was found that the firearm was negligently lost by the suspect on Wednesday at Venda Plaza.

The suspect willingly made a misinterpretation of the statement under oath and created a fake crime scene. Through intensified investigations conducted, a lost firearm was recovered as a result the suspect was arrested.

The suspect is expected to appear before Thohoyandou Magistrate’s Court on Thursday 30 November 2023. 

EFF Limpopo march to Hoerskool Ben Vorster in Tzaneen

EFF Limpopo march to Hoerskool Ben Vorster in Tzaneen

The EFF in Limpopo on Wednesday marched to the Hoerskool Ben Vorster School in Tzaneen over the recent racist utterances by one of their students Erhard Vorster. In a video circulating on social media Vorster, who is also a Grade 9 learner at the school, can be seen calling a black content creator Sonwabile D by the K*** word.

ALSO READ: Two Bela-Bela learners stab schoolmate to death in bullying incident

Vorster, who was seated alongside a fellow white female person, also burst into laughter immediately. The video has since caused anger amongst concerned South Africans.

The EFF in Limpopo on Wednesday marched to the Hoërskool Ben Vorster School in Tzaneen over the recent racist utterances by one of their students Erhard Vorster.
EFF Limpopo members at Hoerskool Ben Vorster in Tzaneen over racist incident by Erhard Vorster

The EFF led by the Provincial Treasurer Tinyiko Manganyi were also engaged in a meeting with the management at the school.

“It is with deep concern and profound disappointment that the EFF addresses the recent racist incident involving Sonwabile D. A content creator, who fell victim to a hate crime during a live stream on 28th November 2023. This reprehensible act occurred when Sonwabile D was targeted with racial slurs. Including being called a derogatory term by Erhard Vorster.

“The EFF vehemently condemns the actions of Erhard Vorster. We view this incident as a clear manifestation of the deep-rooted racism and hatred that persists in our society,” said EFF in a statement.

The EFF in Limpopo on Wednesday marched to the Hoërskool Ben Vorster School in Tzaneen over the recent racist utterances by one of their students Erhard Vorster.
Hoerskool Ben Vorster

EFF CALLS FOR ACTION AGAINST ERHARD VORSTER OVER RACISM INCIDENT

“It is disheartening that a young individual, considered a “born free,” has exhibited such offensive behavior, indicative of the racial prejudices that have been instilled through societal influences.

“We call for immediate and decisive action to be taken against Erhard Vorster and the school where he is enrolled. Racism has no place in our educational institutions. It is essential that incidents of this nature are addressed swiftly and effectively,” said the organization.

HOERSKOOL BEN VORSTER IN TZANEEN URGED TO ADDRESS RACIST UTTERANCES  

“The impact of such actions extends beyond the immediate victim, affecting the broader community and perpetuating harmful stereotypes. The EFF urges the relevant authorities, including the school administration and local law enforcement, to conduct a thorough investigation into this incident.

“It is crucial that appropriate measures are taken to hold Erhard Vorster accountable for his actions. To also implement educational programs that address and combat racism within the school environment.”

Limpopo forensic pathology overwhelmed by increasing number of unnatural deaths

Limpopo forensic pathology overwhelmed by increasing number of unnatural deaths

The Limpopo Department of Health has made a plea to bereaved families to liaise with the ‘under pressure’ forensic pathology unit first before finalising funeral dates. The department says the unit is under huge pressure due to the increased number of unnatural deaths demanding autopsies to be performed in terms of the Health Act.

ALSO READ: Two Bela-Bela learners stab schoolmate to death in bullying incident

The department says they are currently inundated with daily calls from grieving families. They are seeking the release of the remains of their loved ones for burial purposes citing that arrangements have been finalized and the funeral date cannot be changed because of the costs involved.

MEC Dr Phophi Ramathuba has appealed for cooperation and understanding from bereaved families. She emphasized the importance of coordinating with the forensic pathology services unit before confirming burial dates.

The department pleads with bereaved families in Limpopo to consult the forensic pathology unit first
Forensic pathology unit vehicle

CALL FOR BEREAVED FAMILIES IN LIMPOPO TO CONSULT DUE TO OVERWHELMED FORENSIC PATHOLOGY UNIT

“The current unfortunate situation has led to occasional tensions between families and the department,” she said.

“Which we do not want at all, especially given the timing. When people are mourning, ours must be to comfort them. Unnatural deaths are in their nature too traumatic psychologically because they occur suddenly.

“Families are not prepared as compared to when someone is sick for a long time and postmortem delays unfortunately worsen the situation. We understand the emotional strain families experience during this waiting period. By working together, we can navigate these challenges more effectively,” said MEC Ramathuba.

Two Bela-Bela learners stab schoolmate to death in bullying incident

Two Bela-Bela learners stab schoolmate to death in bullying incident

An 18-year-old learner was severely stabbed to death in what has been described as a bullying incident at Maope High School in Bela-Bela, Limpopo. The victim was identified by his family as Photigo Monareng (18).was stabbed in the upper body on Tuesday, 28 November.

ALSO READ: Thugs rob Exact Shop over 100 phones at Lebowakgomo’s Mall @ Lebo

According to reports, two groups of boys had a heated argument, which led to a fight. In the process, the victim was then stabbed and sustained serious injuries.

The victim was immediately transported to the hospital by a community member who witnessed the incident and was declared dead on arrival.

Police were alerted, and they traced the suspects until they arrested them on Tuesday 28 November 2023. During the arrest, police confiscated three knives, one hammer and one axe.

POLICE CONDEMN BULLYING INCIDENT AT BELA-BELA SCHOOL

Commissioner of the South African Police Service in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has condemned all forms of bullying and violence in and around the learning environment in the strongest possible terms.

“We have noted a trend of bullying and embedded culture of violence in schools recently. Bullying and violence should be reported as soon as they occur to the parents, teachers, and police. It is unacceptable and should not be tolerated at all. It is time to hold those responsible for these acts to account,” remarked General Hadebe.

Suspects aged between 18 and 30 are expected to appear before the Belabela Magistrate court on Thursday, 30 November 2023. They are facing murder charges.

Thugs rob Exact Shop over 100 phones at Lebowakgomo’s Mall @ Lebo

Thugs rob Exact Shop over 100 phones at Lebowakgomo’s Mall @ Lebo

Two suspects took more than 100 brand new cellphones and an undisclosed amount of cash following a robbery at Exact Shop in Mall @ Lebo, Lebowakgomo on Tuesday. The incident happened during normal training hours at about 09:15.

ALSO READ: School learner [19] kidnapped and gang raped for three days in Nzhelele

It is alleged that a 34-year-old Cashier was busy helping the customers when one male suspect pretending to be a customer produced a firearm. He threatened to shoot her if she screamed for assistance.

The Cashier was then escorted to the back of the office and found her colleagues with another unknown male suspect. They were then forced to lie on the floor.

EXACT SHOP ROBBERY IN THE MALL @ LEBO SHOCKS ONLOOKERS

The suspects took more than 100 brand new cellphones and an undisclosed amount of cash before fleeing the scene through the backfire escape door.

Thugs rob Exact Shop over 100 phones at Lebowakgomo's Mall at Lebo
Mall @ Lebo

A manhunt for the unknown suspects who committed the crime at Mall @ Lebo in Lebowakgomo is currently underway. Police in Limpopo request anyone with information that can lead to their apprehension is encouraged to contact the Investigating Officer Colonel Mmapitsi Sekotlong on 0825658234. Crime stop number 0860010111 or nearest police station or MySAPSApp.

ANOTHER SHOP ROBBED IN LEBOWAKGOMO ON TUESDAY

Meanwhile, earlier on during the day a 30-year-old Security Officer was conducting guard duties together with his colleague at Mmatjie Shopping Complex, Friendly Frozen Chicken in Zone F Lebowakgomo when they were approached by five unknown male suspects who pointed them with firearms.

The duo were tied with cable ties before being taken to the nearby bushes. They were kept under guard while the other group of two unknown suspects went to the shop. They planted explosives at the two cash safes that were inside.

The suspects managed to blow up the two safes with explosives and took a substantial amount of cash with cigarettes and items worth thousands of rands. Afterwards, the suspects fled the scene with unknown motor vehicles that were hidden in the bushes during the robbery.

The Security Guards were rescued by a passerby in the morning without any injuries. Police were immediately summoned to the scene.

Upon their arrival, the police found the doors of the shop wide open. The cash office completely destroyed by the impact of the explosion.

School learner [19] kidnapped and gang raped for three days in Nzhelele

School learner [19] kidnapped and gang raped for three days in Nzhelele

Police have launched a manhunt for suspects after a 19-year-old learner was kidnapped and gang raped for three days in Nzhelele, Limpopo.

It is alleged that the victim who is staying at a rented house was on her way to Makhado Town to buy groceries when a grey VW Polo with four male occupants suddenly stopped next to her.

ALSO READ: Man accused of stealing a cellphone killed in Mob Justice in Vuwani 

The driver then grabbed the victim, covered her mouth, and forced her into the vehicle. The driver then dropped off the other occupants and remained with the victim. He proceeded to a certain place where he locked the victim inside a room and raped her.

The following day the suspect drove with the victim to another house where she was raped by another man. She was kept at the place until the following day[third day]. The third suspect who is an elderly man arrived and also raped her after he threatened her with a knife.

After the three-day ordeal, the suspects dropped the victim at the local sports ground and fled the scene.

NZHELELE LEARNER GANG RAPED BY SUSPECTS WHO ARE WANTED BY POLICE

The police have since opened three counts of rape and kidnapping. The case has been transferred to the Makhado Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit for further investigation.

School leaner [19] kidnapped and gang raped for three days in Nzhelele
Crime Scene

Commissioner of police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe has issued a stern warning to the perpetrators. She has ordered the police to be relentless in tracing all those involved.

“It is extremely sad and concerning that such a heinous and violent crime takes place right at the start of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children,” said Lieutenant General Hadebe.

“We as a society have a responsibility to protect our most vulnerable members of society from all forms of abuse. The time has come to rid our societies of toxic masculinities that endanger women and children. The investigating team must leave no stone unturned until the perpetrators are apprehended to face the full might of the law,” she said.

Members of the community can provide information relating to the incident by contacting the Makhado FCS Unit on 0823199650 at 015 519 4300. Crime Stop hotline number 08600 10111.

LTA celebrates 2023 annual Yellow Arum Lily Festival

LTA celebrates 2023 annual Yellow Arum Lily Festival

Limpopo Tourism Agency [LTA] together with stakeholders celebrated the 2023 edition of the annual Yellow Arum Lily Festival at the small town of Roossenekal, Sekhukhune District. The festival is in collaboration with Limpopo Economic Development, Environment and Tourism (LEDET), Elias Motsoaledi Municipality, Sekhukhune District Municipality, Small Economic Development Agency (SEDA), Limpopo Economic Development Agency (LEDA), Sekhukhune Development Agency, and Sekhukhune District Tourism Association.

ALSO READ: Two foreign nationals caught selling drugs in the streets of Makhado

The 2023 Yellow Arum Lily Festival was graced with the presence of the Queen of the Bapadi nation, Queen Leganabatho II Thulare (Hlapogadi A Phaahle). The MEC of LEDET Rodgers Monama was also in attendance supported by LTA Board Chairperson, Andrew Dipela, Deputy Chairperson, Ms. Grace Sibara, Chairperson of the Marketing Committee, Mr. Moses Tseli and CEO of LTA, Mr. Moses Ngobeni.

LTA celebrates 2023 annual Yellow Arum Lily Festival in Roossenekal
MEC Rodgers Monama and Queen Leganabatho II Thulare

Yellow Arum Lily Festival is a celebration of a unique flower that grows only in the Sekhukhune region in the Leolo Mountain ranges and the rocky areas of Roossenekal after the summer rains in November. The flowers are protected as endangered species for which LTA with stakeholders and the community of Roossenekal are joining hands to promote and celebrate.

EXCITEMENT AS ROOSSENEKAL COMMUNITY CELEBRATES 2023 YELLOW ARUM LILY FESTIVAL

The Bapedi Ancestral Flower bears much history on the Bapedi interface with fauna and flora. In their heritage and appreciation of the geography of their development. This is evident in the poetry of the Bapedi nation about Mohlake, where the Bapedi nation settled around 1651 on the summit of Leolo Mountains, where this flower is also found in abundance. The botanical name of this lily found in the Leolo Mountains is Zantedeschia jucunda.

LTA celebrates 2023 annual Yellow Arum Lily Festival in Roossenekal
Yellow Arum Lily Flower

The festival has this year expanded the appreciation of both endemic lilies to the communities of Leolo and Roossenekal by arranging a special tour on 23 November 2023. Over forty (40) community members from Roossenekal toured Leolo Mountain side to experience the natural habitat of the ‘cousin yellow arum lily’ on the Leolo Mountain. There was also a lot of excitement among the Members of the community. 

Two foreign nationals caught selling drugs in the streets of Makhado

Two foreign nationals caught selling drugs in the streets of Makhado

Police have arrested two foreign nationals on Monday, 27 November 2023 for selling drugs on the streets of Makhado Town, Limpopo.  An intelligence-driven operation by the investigating team received valuable information about two suspects selling drugs.

ALSO READ: Suspects arrested in connection with Mecklenburg Cash-in-transit robbery 

They proceeded to the place, and on arrival, the first suspect was searched. He was found in possession of 75 sachets of crystal meth drugs with an estimated street value of R 7000. The second suspect was found in possession of crystal meth, mandrax and Kat drugs. It had an estimated street value of R15 000.

FOREIGNERS NABBED FOR DEALING WITH DRUGS IN MAKHADO  

The suspects were immediately arrested and detained. They will appear in the Makhado Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday 28 November 2023. They are facing charges of possession and dealing in drugs.

Commissioner of police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe has hailed the collaborative efforts and commitment of the team in the fight against drug trafficking.

Suspects arrested in connection with Mecklenburg Cash-in-transit robbery 

Suspects arrested in connection with Mecklenburg Cash-in-transit robbery 

Members of the SAPS Limpopo Provincial Tracking Team arrested three suspects in connection with the Cash-in-transit robbery that happened in Mecklenburg, Sekhukhune on Saturday. The suspects aged between 34 and 40 committed the crime along R37.

ALSO READ: Man [26] stabs his 17-year-old girlfriend to death in Burgersfort

It is alleged that a group of suspects bombed a security company vehicle transporting money. In the process, a security guard was fatally wounded while the suspects made off with an undisclosed amount of money. Members of the Provincial Tracking Team received information and operationalised instantly, they then traced the suspects.

On the morning of Sunday, 26 November 2023, the described vehicle a white Hyundai Creta driven by the suspects, was spotted on the R40 outside Hazyview in Mpumalanga. Police tried to stop the vehicle but it sped off.

Suspects arrested in connection with Mecklenburg Cash-in-transit robbery in Limpopo.
Cash-in-transit robbery in Mecklenburg

They chased the vehicle until the driver stopped about 5 km outside Hazyview. Two suspects were searched and found in possession of used cartridges of an AK47 firearm and an undisclosed amount of cash. The suspects were immediately arrested.

Following more leads, the team proceeded to Limpopo at Burgersfort in Mashifane Park, wherein, the third suspect linked to the same case was also arrested. He was driving in, one of the vehicles utilized during the cash-in-transit robbery.

Police recovered an undisclosed amount of money and expensive clothes worth close to R50 000. Preliminary information indicates that the suspects were on bail for a similar case, that occurred during 2018 in Sekhukhune District.

MECKLENBURG CASH-IN-TRANSIT ROBBERY THUGS NABBED BY LIMPOPO POLICE

The three suspects were arrested for robbery with aggravating circumstances and murder. More arrests are expected at this stage.

Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe has hailed the team for their concerted efforts as they continue to make the province a safe and secure space, this festive season.

They will appear before Moroke Magistrate court on 24 January 2024. They are facing charges of robbery with aggravating circumstances and murder.

Man [26] stabs his 17-year-old girlfriend to death in Burgersfort

Man [26] stabs his 17-year-old girlfriend to death in Burgersfort

Police in Tubatse have arrested a 26-year-old suspect for allegedly killing his 17-year-old girlfriend in Burgersfort. The incident took place at Bothashoek village outside Burgersfort in Sekhukhune District on Sunday, 26 November 2023.

ALSO READ: Patient dies after security denies him entrance at Northam Clinic

The Police received a complaint of murder on the morning of Sunday 26 November at about 06:00 from the Grandmother of the deceased.

Man [26] stabs his 17-year-old girlfriend to death in Burgersfort
Crime Scene

It is alleged that upon arrival of the Police at the scene of crime, they were approached by an elderly woman who pointed out to the Police the lifeless body of a 17-year-old female person lying on the ground in a pool of blood with a stabbed wound on the throat. The victim was certified dead at the scene by the Paramedics.

BURGERSFORT MAN KILLS GIRLFRIEND

The Police received information about the possible suspect. They followed the information gathered, subsequently, the suspect was arrested at his hiding place within Sekhukhune District.

The suspect is expected to appear before Praktiseer Magistrate’s Court soon to face a charge of murder.