George - The South African https://www.thesouthafrican.com/western-cape/george/ South Africa News Sat, 24 Aug 2024 10:46:42 +0000 en-ZA hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6.1 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/cropped-TSA-Logos-TSA-320px-x-320px-02-1-1-32x32.png George - The South African https://www.thesouthafrican.com/western-cape/george/ 32 32 Rabies outbreak warning to beachgoers along the Cape coast https://www.thesouthafrican.com/western-cape/rabies-outbreak-warning-to-beachgoers-along-the-cape-coast/ https://www.thesouthafrican.com/western-cape/rabies-outbreak-warning-to-beachgoers-along-the-cape-coast/#respond Sat, 24 Aug 2024 10:25:28 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=2163151 The number of Cape fur seals that have tested positive for rabies along the Cape coast has increased since the first case was recorded earlier this year. Rabies is fatal to all mammals, including humans.

Agricultural research centre warns beachgoers

The state veterinarian at the Elsenburg Agricultural Research Centre in Stellenbosch, Dr Lesley van Helden, said people visiting beaches along the Cape coast should be careful of Cape fur seals amid the outbreak of rabies, as reported by RSG.

Increase in Cape fur seals with rabies

The number of Cape fur seals that have tested positive along the Cape coast has increased significantly since earlier this year when authorities confirmed the first case.

The population of Cape fur seals ranges between 1,7 and 2,1 million. It spans an approximately 2 800km-long coastline from southern Angola to Plettenberg Bay – a vast stretch of land often inaccessible to researchers, according to Daily Maverick.

The Western Cape government’s Veterinary Services suggest that people should consider rabies endemic in the seal population, meaning the disease is now a regular occurrence in their normal environment. Dr van Helden agrees and said that a long-term management plan is necessary.

How dangerous is rabies for humans?

Rabies is a serious disease that is primarily spread through dog bites. It kills approximately 60 000 people worldwide each year. Direct contact between infected animals transmits the disease. Markedly, rabies is fatal to all mammals, including humans.

The virus moves along the nerves to the brain. It takes anywhere between a week and a year to reach the brain. Once that happens, symptoms of the disease start to show and the affected person dies. There is no treatment for rabies, only prevention.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), early symptoms of a rabies infection can include a fever with pain and unusual or unexplained tingling, pricking, or a burning sensation (paraesthesia) at the wound site. In later stages, the virus spreads to the central nervous system, causing fatal inflammation of the brain and spinal cord.

For more information and answers to possible questions you may have about rabies, click here.

Were you aware of the rabies outbreak among Cape fur seals?

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You can also email info@thesouthafrican.com or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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George flights most likely to be impacted by ATNS restrictions https://www.thesouthafrican.com/western-cape/george/george-flights-most-likely-to-be-impacted-by-atns-restrictions/ Mon, 22 Jul 2024 07:05:14 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=2145794 Passengers flying to George Airport should be aware that flights into that airport are mostly likely to be affected by the latest ATNS flight procedure restrictions.

Air Traffic Navigation Services (ATNS) suspended procedures for all instrument-navigation flight approaches at several airports last Friday.

CONDUCTING MAINTENANCE

ATNS says that it is conducting a maintenance programme for instrument flight procedures at various airports in South Africa.

Flights to smaller airports in the country could be impacted by the suspension of instrument-navigation approaches.

ATNS says it will try its best to complete this maintenance speedily, to reduce effects for airlines and passengers. “To minimise the impact on safety and operational flight delays, we will fast-track activities to ensure speedy upliftment of the suspensions,” it said.

AFFECTED AIRPORTS

BusinessLive says 177 weekly flights are scheduled to land at the airports where instrument approaches have been suspended. 

The airports include George, Kimberley, Polokwane, Mthatha and Richards Bay.   

RESTRICTIONS ON FLIGHT APPROACHES

During cloudy, misty or rainy conditions, or at night, approaches for landing will not be permitted. 

Flightdeck crew may not land aircraft using solely the aircraft’s navigation instruments.  

Under this suspension, pilots are, however, still permitted to perform visual approaches in favourable weather conditions.

DISRUPTION TO GEORGE FLIGHTS

The suspension could indeed have severe effects on scheduled flights landing in destinations where weather conditions are poor.

Of the airports where these types of approaches have been suspended, George Airport is most likely to be impacted due to the frequency of bad weather conditions there.  The airport is operated by Airports Company South Africa (ACSA).

Airports at Kimberley, Polokwane, Mthatha and Richards Bay do not often experience poor weather conditions, so they are likely to be less impacted.

AIRLINES RESPOND TO ATNS APPROACH SUSPENSIONS

Airlines operating scheduled flights into George Airport have expressed concerns about this suspension.

Cemair’s CEO, Miles van der Molen, said that the impact of the ATNS suspensions could be significant.

He said that Cemair’s flights to George were likely to be the most affected since the city frequently experiences poor weather conditions.

FlySafair’s Chief Marketing Officer Kirby Gordon is also concerned about the effect of bad weather on its flights to George. 

“We have some concerns, because this does place a limitation on our ability to land in weather conditions that we would ordinarily be able to land in.” Gordon said. 

OFFER TO HELP ATNS

Airlink, which also operates flights to George Airport, said that the ATNS procedures were taking longer than expected to complete.

The airline’s CEO, Rodger Foster said that Airlink would in fact be willing to help ATNS in securing experts that could help to design the appropriate procedures for these airports.  

“Given the disruption to our services, the inconvenience to our customers and the likely economic harm to business, trade and tourism at those cities, Airlink has offered to assist ATNS in securing the services of international experts in airspace and approach procedure design, so that it can expedite the review and reinstate or implement new, fully-compliant procedures.” Airlink’s CEO Rodger Foster said.

ATNS has provided an update on its maintenance work. It has said that there is likely to be a positive outcome as a result of its efforts.

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George building collapse death toll rises to 34 after worker dies in hospital https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/george-building-collapse-death-toll-rises-to-34-after-worker-dies-in-hospital-update-latest-news/ Mon, 20 May 2024 12:10:17 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=2099128 The death toll in the devastating George building collapse in the Western Cape town has risen to 34 after another person died in hospital over the weekend.

The collapse occurred exactly two weeks ago at 75 Victoria Street.

Twenty-eight people survived the construction site collapse.

George building collapse: Rescue and recovery operations over:

As reported by The South African website last Friday, the Western Cape government has concluded its rescue and recovery operation at the George building collapse site.

In a statement on Friday afternoon, Western Cape Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs, and Development Planning, Anton Bredell confirmed: “Today we concluded the George building collapse rescue and recovery operation.”

Minister Bredell added that this disaster will be remembered for the immense and tragic loss of life, but also for the incredibly brave and selfless work carried out by the more than 1 000 rescue, support, and volunteer workers who were involved since Monday, 6 May, when the incident occurred.

The rescue operation saw more than 6 000 tons of rubble being carefully removed while rescue workers searched for survivors.

The operation lasted 260 hours, with personnel working on a 24-hour basis, with two shifts on rotation.

34 people lost their lives

Western Cape Premier Alan Winde said, “This has been an exceptionally difficult time for us all. But through it all, our disaster management workers and volunteers persevered with the sole aim of saving the lives of as many people as possible. My heartfelt condolences go to the families of the 33 victims. We share your pain and will do everything we can to hold those responsible for this tragedy accountable.”

Minister Bredell confirmed that the numbers of people involved in the collapse were:

62 people were on the building site when the collapse occurred
34 people passed away, including 6 people who were rescued, but sadly succumbed to their injuries in hospital

The Minister said that although there were several revisions to the number of people who were reported to be on site when the collapse happened and during the rescue operation; it is important to understand that rescue personnel had to work under extremely difficult conditions, with the information provided to them at the time based on information received from the contractor on site, the South African Police Service (SAPS) and other emerging external sources.

“I am very happy that we could revise the number of people on site down from 81 to 62, as it means fewer families are grieving today,” he stated.

‘Held to account’

Premier Winde concurred, adding, “Our attention is now focused on the investigation that the Western Cape Government (WCG) launched just hours after the incident. This was a devastating tragedy. We need to understand what happened and what steps need to be taken to ensure that we do whatever we can to hold those who need to be held to account.”

An update on this investigation will be provided in due course.

“This operation saw a rescue rate of 54.8%, which is truly remarkable when compared with international statistics which indicate a rescue rate of only 10% during similar building collapse scenarios. This is testament to the brave and professional work of our rescue workers, and the result of years of investing and training in our provincial disaster capabilities, which are world-class. There were so many tough and difficult moments for our teams on the ground during this operation, and I am so proud of our team for every life saved. I know what it did for all of us when our teams pulled Gabriel from the rubble early on Saturday morning. And I must again recognise all the residents of this province who pulled together and showed immense compassion and support, thank you,” concluded Premier Winde.

The South African website will provide further updates when available and sends its thoughts and prayers to the families of all those affected.

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Western Cape government issues final statement on George building collapse https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/western-cape-government-issues-final-statement-on-george-building-collapse-33-dead-alan-winde/ Fri, 17 May 2024 11:28:10 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=2096932 The Western Cape government has concluded its rescue and recovery operation at the George building collapse site.

In a statement on Friday afternoon, Western Cape Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs, and Development Planning, Anton Bredell confirmed: “Today we concluded the George building collapse rescue and recovery operation.”

Minister Bredell added that this disaster will be remembered for the immense and tragic loss of life, but also for the incredibly brave and selfless work carried out by the more than 1 000 rescue, support, and volunteer workers who were involved since Monday, 6 May, when the incident occurred.

The rescue operation saw more than 6 000 tons of rubble being carefully removed while rescue workers searched for survivors.

The operation lasted 260 hours, with personnel working on a 24-hour basis, with two shifts on rotation.

33 people lost their lives

Western Cape Premier Alan Winde said, “This has been an exceptionally difficult time for us all. But through it all, our disaster management workers and volunteers persevered with the sole aim of saving the lives of as many people as possible. My heartfelt condolences go to the families of the 33 victims. We share your pain and will do everything we can to hold those responsible for this tragedy accountable.”

Minister Bredell confirmed that the numbers of people involved in the collapse were:

62 people were on the building site when the collapse occurred
34 people were successfully rescued
33 people passed away, including 5 people who were rescued, but sadly succumbed to their injuries in hospital
10 people are still in hospital, and 19 people have either been discharged or received on site medical treatment

As reported by The South African website, 27 men and six women lost their lives in the accident.

The Minister said that although there were several revisions to the number of people who were reported to be on site when the collapse happened and during the rescue operation; it is important to understand that rescue personnel had to work under extremely difficult conditions, with the information provided to them at the time based on information received from the contractor on site, the South African Police Service (SAPS) and other emerging external sources.

“I am very happy that we could revise the number of people on site down from 81 to 62, as it means fewer families are grieving today,” he stated.

‘Held to account’

Premier Winde concurred, adding, “Our attention is now focused on the investigation that the Western Cape Government (WCG) launched just hours after the incident. This was a devastating tragedy. We need to understand what happened and what steps need to be taken to ensure that we do whatever we can to hold those who need to be held to account.”

An update on this investigation will be provided in due course.

“This operation saw a rescue rate of 54.8%, which is truly remarkable when compared with international statistics which indicate a rescue rate of only 10% during similar building collapse scenarios. This is testament to the brave and professional work of our rescue workers, and the result of years of investing and training in our provincial disaster capabilities, which are world-class. There were so many tough and difficult moments for our teams on the ground during this operation, and I am so proud of our team for every life saved. I know what it did for all of us when our teams pulled Gabriel from the rubble early on Saturday morning. And I must again recognise all the residents of this province who pulled together and showed immense compassion and support, thank you,” concluded Premier Winde.

The South African website will provide further updates when available and sends its thoughts and prayers to the families of all those affected.

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George building collapse: Government to compensate victims’ families https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/government-to-compensate-george-building-collapse-victims-latest-news/ Fri, 17 May 2024 07:25:27 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=2096436 President Cyril Ramaphosa has confirmed that government will compensate injured workers and assist with the burial of the people who died when a building under construction collapsed in George, Western Cape.

Ramaphosa revealed this following a visit to 75 Victoria Street in George, on Thursday, 16 May, where a five-storey building collapsed on Monday, 6 May.

GOVERNMENT TO COMPENSATE GEORGE BUILDING COLLAPSE VICTIMS 

During the site visit, President Ramaphosa briefed various people involved in the rescue and dealing with all aspects of the disaster. 

These include a number of Ministers and Western Cape Premier Alan Winde, who received an update on the extent of the work done and support that has been provided for the families since the disaster struck.

Ramaphosa also assured that there will be assistance for those in hospital and there will be assistance for those who have to be buried

“Yes, there will also be compensation that will have to go through the various channels of our various institutions because this was a work situation, everything has to be looked at to see the extent to which compensation can be made available [sic],” he said. 

South African labour laws state that if a worker gets injured, contract a disease or die while working, the worker or their dependants can claim from the Compensation Fund.

The fund pays compensation to permanent and casual workers, trainees and apprentices who are injured or contract a disease in the course of their work and lose income as a result.

AVBOB TO ASSIST WITH BURIAL 

During the briefing, the President assured the bereaved families that the government would leave no stone unturned and ensure accountability.

The President also offered his condolences to the bereaved families and wished those in hospital a speedy recovery. 

“We are currently focusing on saving lives, caring for the injured, making sure that the remains of those who have lost their lives, are well put together so that those who need to be repatriated can be repatriated, and those who need to be buried here can also be buried,” he said. 

Meanwhile, Gert Niehaus from AVBOB who was also in George confirmed that they will assist with the burial of the victims. 

Niehaus said families must pay transportation costs if the funeral is held in another province. 

As of Thursday night, the confirmed statistics for the incident in George are:

  • Total estimated individuals on-site when the incident occurred: 81
  • Rescued and recovered: 62
  • Of which deceased: 33 (27 males, six females)
  • Currently hospitalised: 12
  • Unaccounted for: 19
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Family conducts ritual to retrieve spirit of George flood victim https://www.thesouthafrican.com/western-cape/george/family-conducts-ritual-to-retrieve-spirit-of-george-flood-victim/ Thu, 16 May 2024 12:26:46 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=2096219 On Wednesday morning, ten days after the tragic building collapse in George, an Eastern Cape family who lost one of their own among the 33 fatalities conducted a ritual to retrieve the spirit of their loved one. 

Andile Magxwalisa was among the six individuals initially identified by the Victim Identification Centre and Forensic Pathology Service.

Family fetches their loved one’s spirit in dignity

Andile Magxwalisa was among the 81 workers in the building when it collapsed on Victoria Street the previous Monday.

His family conducted a cultural ceremony to retrieve his spirit from the site of the tragedy.

“We are now collecting your soul from where the incident happened,” a family member said out loud. “We want you to be at peace. We want you to come with us to your family, where you will be laid to rest next to your family members who have also departed this world.”

For many black South Africans, retrieving spirits holds great significance. It is believed that for their deceased loved ones to find peace, their spirits must be collected and brought home, where they will be laid to rest.

On Wednesday at 7 am, four of Magxwalisa’s relatives arrived with a hearse containing his coffin. 

The coffin remained in the hearse while family members gathered outside to communicate with Magxwalisa’s spirit.

Afterwards, the family returned to the vehicle and departed from the site.

Their next stop will be Thembalethu in George, where Magxwalisa resided, to conduct a prayer service. 

This will allow friends and community members to bid their final farewells.

Following the prayer service, they will proceed to Middledrift for his burial.

President Cyril Ramaphosa was scheduled to visit the disaster site on Thursday.

Various ministers and deputy ministers from several government departments, including cooperative governance and traditional affairs, employment and labour, health, police, international relations and cooperation, and public works and infrastructure, have already visited the site.

Additionally, the Western Cape Department of Social Development has pledged to offer various services to the affected families for at least six months.


President Cyril Ramaphosa’s visit to George building collapse site

Ramaphosa’s presence at the George Civic Centre was warmly welcomed by enthusiastic public members, who cheered from the sidewalks and surrounding vicinity.

Following his inspection of the disaster site, Ramaphosa proceeded to the City Hall, where he was expected to address the families of the deceased workers.

Ramaphosa is joined by a delegation from the Western Cape Government, which includes Premier Alan Winde and Minister Anton Bredell.

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George building collapse: Body of student, 21, recovered in rubble https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/george-building-collapse-student-21-siphesihle-mehlo-death-toll-latest-news/ Wed, 15 May 2024 12:53:12 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=2094924 Rescuers have recovered the body of a 21-year-old student in the rubble after a building collapsed at 75 Victoria Street in George, Western Cape.

The student was reportedly on-site to complete her apprenticeship when the building under construction collapsed on 6 May.

BODY OF STUDENT RECOVERED IN GEORGE BUILDING COLLAPSE

Siphesihle Mehlo, who was a student at a local college, is among the deceased whose bodies were retrieved on Monday, 13 May, exactly seven days after the incident.

Mehlo’s uncle, Gugulethu Khonono, said she was an electrical apprentice who worked for a company that did electric work in the collapsed building.

Khonono said Mehlo’s father did not sleep for the first two nights after the incident, assisting with rescuing.

In one of the interviews, Khonono said that there were cracks in and around the building, but they were merely covered up with cement instead of being properly addressed.

As previously reported by The South African, the Neo Trend Group has been identified as the property owner, while Liatel Developments is the principal contractor, working alongside six subcontractors.

Building plans were submitted to the George Municipality in December 2022 and approved seven months later. The completion of the 42 apartments was scheduled for July, with plans for handover to their new owners. However, those associated with the now-destroyed block of flats are hesitant to cooperate with investigations into the collapse.

During a visit to the scene where the five-storey building collapsed and has claimed the lives of over 30 people, Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Sihle Zikalala confirmed that Liatel Developments is not registered with the CIDB.

Furthermore, Zikalala revealed that the Engineering Council of South Africa received two complaints against one of the persons involved in the collapsed building.

HERE ARE THE LATEST STATS

As of Wednesday, 15 May, here are the latest statistics:

  • Total estimated individuals on-site when the incident occurred: 81
  • Rescued and recovered: 62
  • Of which deceased: 33 (27 males, six females)
  • Currently hospitalised: 12
  • Unaccounted for: 19
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George building collapse raises concerns for Zikalala https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/george-building-collapse-raises-concerns-for-zikalala/ Tue, 14 May 2024 04:10:00 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=2093698 Initial investigations have raised concerns requiring further scrutiny regarding the building collapse in George, Western Cape.

On Monday, Sihle Zikala, Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, inspected the site.

Zikalala inspects George collapsed building

Addressing the media, Zikalala confirmed that the death toll has increased to 30, with 22 individuals still unaccounted for as rescue operations persist.

At the moment of the collapse, there were a total of 81 individuals present at the site. Among them, 13 are currently hospitalised.

The minister emphasised that the incident required the involvement of his department.

“We are here to understand the circumstances surrounding this incident,” said Zikalala.

“The purpose of our visit is to ascertain the role of professionals who were involved with this project and assess if there was sufficient compliance with all building and environment regulations and to establish if there is no misconduct committed by the professionals leading to this disaster,” Zikalala explained.

He informed the media that the site remained a crime scene, with law enforcement agencies, including the South African Police Service (SAPS), conducting investigations.

“Therefore, [it is] only accessible to the Saps and the disaster management teams. However, there is a preliminary report which present prima facie issues that warrant further examination regarding this disaster.”

According to The Citizen, Zikalala revealed that it had been discovered that the primary contractor needed to be registered with the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB), which oversees the construction sector. 

Interestingly, this registration was optional for private companies.

“In the current legislation, the contractors working in the private sector do not undergo this assessment.”

He emphasised that the CIDB Bill was designed to address this loophole. The public has until May 31st to provide feedback on the proposed legislation.

Additionally, the minister disclosed that authorities had received two complaints regarding an individual associated with the construction project.

Contractors at George site tight-lipped: Minister Cele

Investigators probing the construction tragedy have faced difficulties determining the exact number of individuals present at the site when the five-story structure collapsed one week ago.

Police Minister Bheki Cele stated that subcontractors at the collapsed apartment block in George are not cooperating with the police.

Investigators examining the construction tragedy have been unable to ascertain the precise number of individuals present at the site when the five-story structure collapsed one week ago.

The Neo Trend Group has been identified as the property owner, while Liatel is the principal contractor, working alongside six subcontractors.

According to Eyewitness News,26 fatalities have been confirmed, with an additional 26 individuals believed to be missing.

Building plans were submitted to the municipality in December 2022 and approved seven months later.

The completion of the 42 apartments was scheduled for July, with plans for handover to their new owners.

However, those associated with the now-destroyed block of flats are hesitant to cooperate with investigations into the collapse.

Police Minister Bheki Cele mentioned that information needs to be provided in response to the requested documents.

Further probes, including one by the labour department, can only commence once the police investigation is concluded.


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UPDATE: George building collapse death toll rises to 30 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/update-latest-live-george-building-collapse-death-toll-rises-to-30/ Mon, 13 May 2024 17:58:11 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=2093599 The death toll from the collapse of a building in George has risen to 30, with another 22 people still missing, authorities said on Monday, a week after the structure came crashing down.

Rescuers pulled 10 more bodies from the rubble at the site, city officials said.

Rescue teams have worked tirelessly since the five-storey apartment block, which was under construction, suddenly collapsed last Monday.

Mostly construction workers

Eighty-one people, mostly construction workers, were at the site at the time.

Twenty-nine people have been rescued so far.

They include a man who was pulled out on Saturday after 116 hours under the rubble.

“It is a miracle that we have all been hoping for,” Western Cape provincial premier Alan Winde said on X, formerly Twitter.

Search teams have vowed to comb every cavity among the wrecked building, but the chances of survival are fading.

“Rescue and recovery efforts continue into a week to this day after the incident took place,” the George municipality said.

One minute’s silence was held at 14:09 – the exact time the building collapsed seven days ago.

Authorities said they were implementing a plan to “expedite the identification of the deceased” and requested relatives to come forward.

“We are experiencing difficulties in obtaining accurate names of individuals missing or deceased,” they said.

Some families have expressed frustration over the pace of the identification process.

Crew were foreign nationals

The municipality also called for psychologists fluent in Chewa, Portuguese and Shona – languages spoken in neighbouring Malawi, Mozambique and Zimbabwe – to assist with counselling.

Previously, authorities declined to comment on speculation about whether most of the crew were foreign nationals.

South Africa, the continent’s most industrialised nation, has long attracted migrants, who often come in search of employment without the correct papers.

The reason for the collapse of the building, which was to include 42 apartments and had received planning permission, has not been established and an inquiry is under way.

By Garrin Lambley © Agence France-Presse

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Families plead for access to George building collapse site: Death toll hits 19 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/western-cape/george/families-plead-for-access-to-george-building-collapse-site-death-toll-hits-19/ Sun, 12 May 2024 16:28:06 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=2092486 Police Minister Bheki Cele visited the building collapse site in George on Sunday, assuring the victims’ families that investigations have commenced.

Police Minister urges patience amid building collapse investigations

Police Minister Bheki Cele visited the site of the building collapse in George on Sunday, assuring the families of the victims that investigations have commenced.

However, he was unable to provide them with the specific answers they were eagerly seeking.

“Any kind of pre-empting what happened would be wrong. Maybe other people can talk about that,” he told family members at the George town hall.

However, he could not give them the specific answers they eagerly sought.

“We will ask for space from you. It’s painful, you’re waiting, I know you’re anxious, but we’re asking for some space.

“The first prize now is to deal with those who have suffered,” said Cele. “The second prize is for you to know what happened but, from the side of the South African Police Service, the investigation has started.”

According to The Citizen, the police minister was accompanied by National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola and Deputy National Commissioner for Policing and Special Operations Lt .-General Tebello Mosikili during his visit to the site.

Cele mentioned that the construction company has been tasked with supplying a list containing the names of all the workers employed at the location where the building collapsed.

Relatives of the individuals who are still unaccounted for appealed to the police minister for permission to access the site.

“We have been waiting and waiting. We don’t know anything. Tomorrow it will be a week,” said one woman while crying.

Cele spoke about how rescue workers are barely taking breaks in their efforts to find more people.

“I’m told that some sleep only two hours at a time.”

The number of fatalities has increased to 19

In an interview with Newzroom Afrka Mayor of George local municipality, Leon van Wyk, stated that on Sunday afternoon the death toll has risen to 19.

George Municipality’s fire chief, Neels Barnard, verified that rescue teams had discovered two additional bodies.

“They are currently busy with the recovery of those two victims, but it will take a while,” he said.

Earlier today, George Municipality reported the recovery of three additional bodies. As of 3 PM on Sunday, the municipality stated that 33 individuals remain unaccounted for, while 14 have been hospitalised.

A total of forty-eight people have been rescued or found.

It is estimated that 81 individuals were present at the construction site when the building collapsed.

The incident occurred on Monday at an apartment building on Victoria Street in George, still under construction.

Read more: George building site collapse: 81 present during incident

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WATCH: ‘Miracle’ survivor found 116 hours after George building collapse https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/watch-miracle-survivor-found-116-hours-after-george-building-collapse-video/ Sat, 11 May 2024 16:18:36 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=2091829 Rescuers and onlookers cheered and applauded on Saturday as a survivor was rescued after 116 hours from underneath the rubble of a collapsed building in George, South Africa, with the tragedy having killed at least 13.

“It is a miracle that we have all been hoping for,” provincial premier Alan Winde said on X.

An apartment block under construction in George crumbled on Monday afternoon while a crew of 81 were on site.

“When we went down to the side of the slab we had uncovered, we heard somebody inside, and we stopped all the heavy operations,” Colin Deiner, head of rescue operations, told reporters.

Rescuers then called out to the survivor, and he spoke back, Deiner said.

Rushed to hospital

“He indicated to us that he’s got weight on his legs, and we’re very concerned about that after such a long period of time.”

After several hours, the survivor was extricated and rushed to a hospital.

Rescue teams have been working against time ever since the structure came crashing down.

Twenty-nine people have been rescued alive, while 39 remained unaccounted for.

Construction plans were approved

Winde said a “difficult” identification process was underway and that police were using fingerprints, DNA testing and photographs.

Construction plans for a 42-unit apartment block had been approved by the city last July.

The reasons for the George building collapse are still unknown.

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WATCH | George building collapse: Latest update confirms 12 deaths https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/watch-george-building-collapse-latest-update-at-1300-live-breaking/ Fri, 10 May 2024 13:07:00 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=2091056 Premier of the Western Cape, Alan Winde, on Friday gave an update on the emergency response to the tragic building collapse in George.

Winde and numerous role players provided an update on the emergency response to the building collapse in Victoria Street on Monday.

Follow the update LIVE

Since the incident, more than 600 emergency and disaster management officials have been working tirelessly at the site.

“You are true heroes and we are immensely grateful for all you are doing in this very difficult time”, reiterated Winde on Friday.

The update took place from the Garden Route District Municipality office at 54 York Street in George.

It was broadcast live on Winde’s social media pages:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@premieralanwinde

Facebook: https://facebook.com/windealan

X: https://twitter.com/alanwinde

The building collapse has claimed the lives of at least 12 workers with as many as 41 still unaccounted for, four days later.

‘Cheap labour’

The reasons for the collapse, which occurred at around 14:00 on Monday, are still unknown.

Construction plans for a 42-unit apartment block had been approved by the city last July.

Police said they had been unable to reach the owner of the premises despite visiting the person’s business address.

“We then proceeded to issue a subpoena and up until today there has been no response,” said provincial chief inspector David Esau.

Labour Minister Thulas Nxesi declined to comment on speculation about whether most of the crew were foreign nationals.

“It’s not about foreign nationals… it is about human beings,” he told journalists as he visited the site.

The government was however to get in touch with the diplomatic missions of Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Malawi regarding the incident, he added.

It had also “raised concerns” about employers hiring “desperate” foreigners as “cheap labour”.

DO YOU WANT TO HELP? HERE IS HOW YOU CAN ASSIST

The public should note that the delivery point for donations has been relocated from 79 Victoria Street to the AGS Church Soteria at 27 Victoria Street.

George Municipality provided the following list as a guideline for sustenance donations for the emergency teams as the rescue effort at the site of the collapsed building in Victoria Street continues:

  • drinking water
  • energy drinks
  • wine gums
  • food

Gift of the Givers and Herman Pienaar of LoveGeorge are manning the delivery point and will keep it operational throughout the rescue period.

Please contact Gift of the Givers: Mario Ferreira (082 490 2752) and Herman Pienaar (082 829 6428) in this regard.

They are also in need of the following safety equipment:

  • helmets
  • safety goggles
  • clipboards
  • headlamps
  • construction gloves

These must be delivered to GRDM Fire Station, Pearl Road, Tamsui, Industria.

ARE YOU ABLE TO MAKE A FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTION?

The municipality has also had requests from the public about financial donations.

Please use the banking details below:

  • George Municipality: Relief and Charitable Fund
  • ABSA BANK Cheque Acc: 9149554208
  • Branch Code: 632005
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WRAP: George building collapse death toll rises to 8 as hope dwindles https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/george-building-collapse-death-toll-rises-to-8-hope-dwindles-latest-live-report/ Wed, 08 May 2024 19:48:20 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=2089617 Rescuers raced against time to find more survivors amid the rubble of a deadly building collapse in South Africa on Wednesday, as search operations entered their third day.

Dozens of people were still unaccounted for, more than 50 hours after rescue services started combing through the debris in George.

At least eight people were killed as an under-construction five-storey building collapsed on Monday for reasons that are yet to be determined.

Hopes are quickly fading

Rescue works briefly halted on Wednesday, as rescuers tried to find the source of a “sound or tapping” coming from under the shattered concrete slabs, said George’s mayor Leon Van Wyk.

But hopes were quickly fading, as chances of surviving drop dramatically after 72 hours, he said.

Operations were to enter the “body recovering” phase over the next day “as opposed to rescue”, Van Wyk told national broadcaster SABC.

Twenty-nine of the 75 workers who were at the site when the incident occurred have been pulled out of the rubble alive. Six have life-threatening injuries, and 16 are in critical condition.

The tally remained unchanged for most of the day on Wednesday, but in the evening authorities said they had retrieved another body bringing the death toll to eight.

Thirty-eight people remained unaccounted for.

“As the rescue effort is ongoing overnight, the emergency response team will now implement more substantive concrete breakers and additional trucks to remove building rubble from the site to free remaining entrapped patients,” the George municipality said in a statement.

Survivor’s account

Moses Malala, a foreman who survived the collapse, told AFP he heard a loud sound before the building came crashing down.

Malala, who was working on the roof, said he felt his feet slipping as the building started to fold on one side.

He watched his colleagues fall one by one. Many are still buried under the rubble.

Malala was injured but escaped with his life and has been helping with rescue efforts.

“I have pain too much… I can’t sleep,” he said.

“Since Monday I was here on the site, we try to remove our relatives, our brothers and sisters.”

More than 200 rescue workers and emergency service personnel divided into three teams searched separate areas on Wednesday.

The building, which collapsed at around 14:00 on Monday, was meant to be a 42-unit apartment block.

On Tuesday night, slight cheers were heard as a survivor was pulled out of the rubble and put onto a stretcher, an AFP correspondent saw.

Another body was retrieved and wrapped in a blanket.

‘Tragic’

“This is tragic, this should never have happened,” said Imtiaz Sooliman, founder of disaster relief NGO Gift of the Givers.

“You can’t blame the municipality, you can’t blame the government. You got to blame the people who were responsible for this construction.”

Religious leaders and social workers were at the scene to assist and comfort distraught families.

Men, women and children sang and prayed at the city hall as they awaited news of their loved ones.

“I’m not feeling well because I did not get any information,” said Alfred Mbono, a relative of a missing worker.

“They just told us that we… need to wait. But we wait from…three days.”

One pastor told AFP they were offering “spiritual support” to those affected by the tragedy.

By Garrin Lambley © Agence France-Presse

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LIVE UPDATE: Hope dwindles 48 hours after deadly George building collapse https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/live-update-hope-dwindles-48-hours-after-deadly-george-building-collapse-latest-news/ Wed, 08 May 2024 11:26:26 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=2089299 Rescuers raced against time to find more survivors amid the rubble of a deadly building collapse in George in South Africa on Wednesday, as search operations were about to enter their third day.

Dozens of people are still unaccounted for almost 48 hours after rescue services started combing through the debris in George.

At least seven people were killed as an under-construction five-storey building collapsed on Monday for reasons that are yet to be determined.

39 workers unaccounted for

Twenty-nine of the 75 workers who were at the site when the incident occurred have been pulled out of the rubble alive, authorities said.

Six have life-threatening injuries, and 16 are in critical condition.

George Municipality on Wednesday confirmed the following status update at 12:00.

36 people retrieved

  • 7 are blue (deceased)
  • 16 are red patients (critical);
  • 6 are yellow patients (life-threatening injuries)
  • 7 are green (minor injuries)

A total of 39 of the initial 75 workers on site remain unaccounted for at present.

Moses Malala, a foreman who survived the collapse, told AFP he heard a loud sound before the building came crashing down.

Malala, who was working on the roof, said he felt his feet slipping as the building started to fold on one side.

He watched his colleagues fall one by one. Many are still buried under the rubble.

Malala was injured but escaped with his life and has been helping with rescue efforts.

“I have pain too much… I can’t sleep” he said.

“Since Monday I was here on the site, we try to remove our relatives, our brothers and sisters”.

Thirty-nine people remain unaccounted for, authorities said.

Chances of surviving drop dramatically

The next few hours are critical to save them, they added. The chances of surviving drop dramatically after 72 hours.

More than 200 rescue workers and emergency service personnel divided into three teams searched separate areas on Wednesday.

The building, which collapsed at around 14:00 on Monday, was meant to be a 42-unit apartment block.

On Tuesday night, slight cheers were heard as a survivor was pulled out of the rubble and put onto a stretcher, an AFP correspondent saw.

Another body was retrieved and wrapped in a blanket.

Religious leaders and social workers were at the scene to assist and comfort distraught families.

Men, women and children sang and prayed at the city hall as they awaited news of their loved ones.

One pastor told AFP they were offering “spiritual support” to those affected by the tragedy.

By Garrin Lambley © Agence France-Presse

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LATEST | George building collapse: Rescuers search for survivors, 7 dead https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/latest-live-report-george-building-collapse-rescuers-search-for-survivors-7-dead-update/ Wed, 08 May 2024 06:23:36 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=2089000 Rescue workers reported on Tuesday making contact with 11 people under the rubble in a race to save dozens still unaccounted for after a building collapsed in George killing at least seven.

Thirty-three people have been pulled out of the debris of the five-storey apartment block, which caved in Monday afternoon while under construction, municipal authorities said.

Seven of those have died, authorities said.

Forty-two people were still unaccounted for, including the 11 with whom contact had been established, the authorities said.

With the second night of rescue work underway, emergency services personnel surrounded a hole where a survivor was pulled out of the rubble and put onto a stretcher, an AFP correspondent saw.

As they emerged, slight cheers of relief were heard.

Another body was retrieved and wrapped in a blanket.

Crowds of onlookers stood behind the barricade tape.

“We are in contact with 11 people” trapped under rubble, Colin Deiner, head of rescue operations, had told reporters.

Life had been detected under three areas of the site.

17 hours work to rescue one survivor

On the sidelines of the site, Deiner told AFP it was a “long, involved operation with so many complexities” and an “extensive search with dogs, with systemic equipment” required.

He added it took rescue personnel 17 hours to bring one of the victims out of the rubble after they were initially located.

Recalling that the international standard for such operations is three days, George mayor Leon van Wyk told a local television station in the early evening that “over the next 40-odd hours we are hoping to rescue as many people” as operations entered a second day.

The main focus is to get everyone out, Deiner said. “Once we have got all the people that we know about out, we are going to start a process called delayering,” he added.

“We would then start lifting the different floors off each other,” he said, adding it would be “tricky” to remove the concrete trapping the building workers.

A construction crew of 75 people was on site at the time of the collapse at around 14:00 on Monday, authorities said.

Three rescue teams were working on three different areas of the collapsed building, which included an underground car park.

The reasons for the collapse were still unknown.

The construction plans for a 42-unit apartment block had been approved by the city in July.

President Cyril Ramaphosa offered his “deep condolences to the relatives and friends” and said his thoughts were with the families of the dead and missing.

He called for an investigation, saying it must “bring closure to the community and prevent a repeat of this disaster”.

George, which has a population of about 160 000, is a picturesque coastal city located on the Garden Route of South Africa’s southern coastline.

Diggers, sniffer dogs

Photos shared by the city council showed a flattened construction site with emergency services on the ground.

The broken roof of the building was still clearly visible atop the pile of rubble.

Rescue operations had continued throughout Monday night with floodlights illuminating the cordoned-off site.

A coordination post was set up to run the operations, which involve numerous emergency services and over 200 personnel.

More diggers and sniffer dogs were dispatched from Cape Town, emergency services said.

Officials said relatives of those trapped had been asked to gather at the city hall near the construction site, where they would be taken care of.

Religious leader and social workers were present to assist and comfort emotional families.

Men, women and children sang and prayed at the city hall as they awaited news on their loved ones, an AFP correspondent saw.

One pastor told AFP they were offering “spiritual support” to those affected by a tragedy.

“Our thoughts are with the families and all those affected, who continue to wait for word of their loved ones,” van Wyk said.

George is run by the Democratic Alliance, the leading opposition party, which also controls the Western Cape province.

By Garrin Lambley © Agence France-Presse

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LIVE UPDATE: George building collapse death toll rises to SIX https://www.thesouthafrican.com/western-cape/george/live-update-george-building-collapse-death-toll-rises-to-six-latest-news/ Tue, 07 May 2024 12:12:49 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=2088499 Rescuers said on Tuesday they had made contact with 11 people as they raced to save dozens still unaccounted for nearly 24 hours after the deadly collapse of a building in George.

Twenty-seven people have been pulled out of the debris of the five-storey building, which collapsed on Monday while under construction, municipal authorities said.

Six of those have died.

Contact has been made with 11 people who are under rubble among 48 still unaccounted for, they said.

“We are in contact with 11 people” trapped under rubble, Colin Deiner, head of rescue operations, told a news conference in Cape Town.

The main focus is to get everyone out, he said.

“Once we have got all the people that we know about out, we are going to start a process called delayering,” Deiner said.

“We would then start lifting the different floors off each other,” he said, adding it would be “tricky” to remove the concrete trapping the workers.

Provincial premier Alan Winde confirmed death toll risen to six

Provincial premier Alan Winde told the same news conference that the death toll had risen from five to six.

A construction crew of 75 people was at the site at the time of the collapse at around 14:00 on Monday, authorities said.

“Three teams of rescue personnel are currently working on three different areas within the site of the collapsed building,” they said.

The reasons for the collapse of the building, which included an underground parking garage, are still unknown.

Construction companies and city authorities have been working to draw up a list of those still unaccounted for, according to the city.

President Cyril Ramaphosa offered his “deep condolences to the relatives and friends” of the victims and said his thoughts were with the families of the dead and missing.

He called for an investigation, saying it must “bring closure to the community and prevent a repeat of this disaster”.

George, which has a population of about 160 000, is a picturesque coastal city located on the Garden Route on South Africa’s southern coastline.

Diggers, sniffer dogs

Photos shared by the city council showed a flattened construction site with emergency services on the ground.

The broken roof of the building was still clearly visible atop the pile of rubble.

Rescue operations continued throughout Monday night with strong floodlights illuminating the cordoned-off site.

A coordination post was set up to run the operations, which involve numerous emergency services and over 110 personnel.

More diggers and sniffer dogs were dispatched from Cape Town, emergency services said.

Officials said relatives of those trapped had been asked to gather at the city hall near the construction site, where they would be taken care of.

“Our thoughts are with the families and all those affected, who continue to wait for word of their loved ones,” Mayor Leon van Wyk said.

But officials urged onlookers and members of the public to stay away from the “dangerous” site.

George is run by the Democratic Alliance, the leading opposition party, which also controls the Western Cape province.

“No stone will be left unturned in making sure that we get to what caused this accident,” Winde vowed.

This article will be updated as soon as more information is received. Refresh the article for the latest updates

By Garrin Lambley © Agence France-Presse

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LIVE UPDATES: George building collapse – 5 dead, sniffer dogs on scene https://www.thesouthafrican.com/western-cape/george/live-updates-george-building-collapse-5-dead-sniffer-dogs-on-scene-trapped-workers-breaking/ Tue, 07 May 2024 06:09:13 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=2087881 The collapse of a multi-storey building under construction in George has killed at least five people and trapped around 50 more, authorities said on Tuesday.

In all, 25 people have been found and pulled from the rubble, five of whom have died, the coastal municipality said in an early morning update, adding that 51 others were still unaccounted for.

A construction crew of 75 people was at the site at the time of the collapse on Monday afternoon, the city said in its statement.

“Three teams of rescue personnel are currently working on three different areas within the site of the collapsed building,” it added.

Rescue workers speaking to trapped people

Mario Ferreira, spokesperson for the charity Gift of the Givers, which is assisting at the site of the incident, earlier told AFP that rescue workers had “communication with some of the people under the rubble”.

The five-storey building, including an underground parking garage, collapsed in the early afternoon for reasons still undetermined.

Photographs shared by the municipality showed a flattened construction site with multiple rescue services present.

The building’s broken roof was still clearly visible atop the pile of rubble as high-powered lights lit up the site.

“There have been people taken out, seriously injured,” said Ferreira.

Rescue operations continued throughout the night with strong floodlights illuminating the cordoned-off site.

A coordination post was set up to run the rescue operations, with numerous emergency services and about 100 personnel working in George.

More digger and sniffer dogs were dispatched from Cape Town, emergency services said.

George is run by the Democratic Alliance

Officials said relatives of those trapped had been asked to gather at the town hall, near the site, where they would be taken care of.

“Our thoughts are with the families and all those affected who continue to wait for word of their loved ones,” Mayor Ald Van Wyk said in a statement.

George, which has a population of about 160 000, lies on the Garden Route along South Africa’s southern coastline.

The town hall is run by the Democratic Alliance, the leading opposition party, which also controls the Western Cape province.

This article will be updated as soon as more information is received. Refresh the article for the latest updates

By Garrin Lambley © Agence France-Presse

https://twitter.com/Newzroom405/status/1787722498559074467
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UPDATE: Building collapses in George, 48 workers trapped https://www.thesouthafrican.com/western-cape/george/update-building-collapses-in-george-48-workers-trapped-breaking-news/ Mon, 06 May 2024 17:17:31 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=2087752 A multi-storey building under construction in George collapsed on Monday, trapping a reported 48 workers in the rubble, the city hall said.

The building was situated in Victoria Street.

George Municipality closed its main offices

Chaos erupted in the immediate area with onlookers trying to get a glimpse of the disaster as rescue vehicles rushed up and down York Street.

Seventy people were on the site at the time of the collapse, of which 22 have been taken to hospital, a city spokeswoman said.

Mario Ferreira, spokesperson for the charity Gift of the Givers, assisting at the site, told AFP that rescue workers had “communication with some of the people under the rubble”.

It was still unclear what caused the building, with an underground parking lot, to fall in the early afternoon.

Photographs shared by the municipality showed a flattened construction site with multiple rescue services present.

“There have been people taken out, seriously injured. At this stage we haven’t got any fatalities yet,” said Ferreira.

According to the George Herald, rescue operations continued into the evening at the site.

The George Municipality issued a notice that its main offices, which are adjacent to the collapsed building, have been closed as a safety precaution.

“For inquiries, please contact the Municipality’s after-hours and emergencies line at 044 801 6300. For disaster-related matters, call the toll-free disaster number at 087 152 9999. For fire emergencies, dial 044 801 6311.

“Your cooperation and understanding during this time are greatly appreciated,” the notice read.

This is a developing story, please refresh for the latest updates. Bookmark this page for the latest news from The South African website.

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FlySafair to launch Cape Town-George route once more https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/flysafair-relaunches-cape-town-george-route-travel-news-latest-29-august-2023/ https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/flysafair-relaunches-cape-town-george-route-travel-news-latest-29-august-2023/#respond Tue, 29 Aug 2023 08:35:35 +0000 https://ilovesouthafrica.com/?p=22499 Key route relaunches

Starting next week, 8 September 2023, FlySafair will once again connect the two largest cities in the Western Cape, Cape Town and George, with three flights per week planned.

Bookings have also already opened on all FlySafair’s platforms, reports Travel News, with fares starting from R930, one way (T&Cs apply). Flights will operate on Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays.

ALSO READ: SA travel: FlySafair now flies direct to Zanzibar

Kirby Gordon, Chief Marketing Officer at FlySafair, said that even though a lot of their recent expansion has been regional, the airline has still kept an eye on local expansion too.

“Having previously operated flights between the two cities, this route has been on our radar for some time. We are excited to now be able to bring our on-time performance and low-cost model back to those travelling between these two beautiful cities.” Gordon said.

“Although Cape Town is among the most common departure destinations for George, up until now options in terms of airline have been limited with only one other airline currently operating on this route,” Gordon added. “By adding additional capacity, customers will have more options, making travel to George and its neighbouring towns more convenient.”

ALSO READ: Best Low-Cost Airline in Africa: FlySafair goes for thirds

FlySafair to fly from Johannesburg to four regional destinations

FlySafair regional routes
Local airline, FlySafair, has just added four new regional routes that will all take off in October this year. Photo: FlySafair / canva

Starting October this year, FlySafair will also welcome four new routes departing Johannesburg, to Harare, Livingstone, Victoria Falls and Maputo. 

The new regional routes will begin from 2 October, when flights between Johannesburg and Harare and Johannesburg and Livingstone take off. Harare flights will occur daily, while Livingstone flights will go out four times a week on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday.

ALSO READ: Oops! Couple banned from FlySafair after they get intimate on board flight

From 3 October, Johannesburg to Victoria Falls flights will begin, operating three times a week.

Then from 5 October, the Johannesburg to Maputo route will take off, operating four times a week.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ARTICLES BY SUNDEEKA MUNGROO

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LOOK: Alleged ‘card scammer’ busted in George https://www.thesouthafrican.com/western-cape/george/george-card-scammer-laptop-thembalethu-41-year-old-breaking-cybercrime-14-january/ Sat, 14 Jan 2023 09:42:23 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1433237 A 41-year-old man was arrested in an intelligence-drive operation in Thembalethu, George earlier this week. He faced charges related to the Cybercrimes Act in the local Magistrate’s Court on Friday, 13 January.

SUSPECT NABBED WITH SEVERAL CARDS IN GEORGE

Members of the George Public Order Police, armed with a search and seizure warrant, raided the suspect’s house in Zone 6, Thembalethu at approximately 18:45 on Wednesday, 11 January.

“A search of the premises ensued and the members found a laptop, card reader and a point of sale device as well as several cards. The occupant of the premises was unable to give proper account for his possession thereof,” said Sergeant Christopher Spies. The 41-year-old was arrested and the items were confiscated.

Image: SAPS.

The suspect appeared in the George Magistrate’s Court on charges of possession of stolen goods under the Cybercrime Act. He was remanded in custody until 25 January when he is expected to make a formal bail application.

The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) is also probing the matter.

In an unrelated incident, a Lieutenant-Colonel in the police service sustained serious injuries when he was assaulted by a group of men in the Knysna CBD on Friday. Two suspects in their early twenties were arrested in connection with the attack.

READ MORE: Knysna cop seriously injured after attack by group of men

ALSO READ:

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Alleged drug dealer nabbed after seven years on the run https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/drug-dealer-renaldo-francois-theron-arrested-breaking-13-october/ Thu, 13 Oct 2022 14:36:41 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1332367 An alleged drug dealer who managed to dodge arrest during a Hawks crackdown in 2015 was traced to Cape Town and finally caught on Wednesday, 12 October.

DRUG DEALER FINALLY ARRESTED

Renaldo Francois Theron, 42, along with other drug peddlers, was being watched by the Directorate for Priority Crimes Investigation (Hawks). The suspects were engaged in dealing cannabis.

The other alleged drug dealers were arrested years ago for possession of drugs worth R243 000 but Theron managed to evade the authorities and was on the run until Wednesday.

“The suspect was arrested by the George Serious Organised Crime Investigation team at a property in Lower Main Road, Observatory near Cape Town,” said Hawks spokesperson Zinzi Hani.

Theron made his first court appearance in the George Magistrate’s Court on Thursday morning, 13 October, and was charged with possession of drugs.

The matter was postponed to 18 October when the accused is expected to make a formal bail application.

In an unrelated incident, a 69-year-old suspect was arrested at OR Tambo International Airport for allegedly attempting to smuggle drugs worth more than R1 million to India. Eight kilograms of pure heroin were found in his luggage.

READ MORE: Man, 69, tried to smuggle ‘pure heroin’ worth R1.2m to India

ALSO READ:

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Firefighters still fighting two big raging fires in George on Wednesday https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/firefighters-still-fighting-two-big-raging-fires-in-george-on-wednesday-breaking-news-latest/ Wed, 18 May 2022 17:58:22 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1176493 Firefighters were still on the scene of two big fires in George on Wednesday evening. 

FIREFIGHTERS WERE STILL BUSY ON THE SCENES

These are the Hansmoeskraal fire and a second fire which includes the Saasveld Road, Kraaibosch Manor, and Groenkloof Road.

“Hansmoeskraal fire remains active, firefighting crews are on the scene. Resources on site are the George Municipal 30 000 litre tanker and a Unimog.

“On the scene at Saasveld Road, Kraaibosch Manor, and Groenkloof Road, firefighting crews were actively fighting the fires with three fire engines on-site and aerial support activated this afternoon at 15:36.”

George Municipality

FIRES STARTED SHORTLY AFTER A LEVEL 10 WEATHER WARNING WAS ISSUED

Furthermore, George Municipality said the residential fire at John Street, Denneoord has been resolved.

Report WILDFIRES to the GRDM Emergency Call Centre on 044 805 5071.

George Municipal Fire and Disaster Services on 044 8016300 for after hours and/or 044 801 6311 for fires ONLY.

It seems like the fire at Hansmoeskraal has been raging since Tuesday 17 May 2022. 

ALSO READ: Level 10 SEVERE weather warning issued for NC and WC on Monday

The public is requested not to start fires in this windy weather as any fire breakage may cause more problems.

This comes as the SA Weather Services (SAWS) issued a level 10 severe weather warning for veld fires for parts of the Western Cape for Monday.

LAST YEAR OVER 3 600 HECTARES OF PLANTATIONS WERE DESTROYED IN FIRES

It warned of veld fire conditions from as early as 08:00 in the morning until late in the evening on Monday.

“Conditions are such that the Fire Danger Index (FDI) is above 75. Under these conditions, fires may develop and spread rapidly, resulting in damage to property and possible loss of human and/or animal life.”

SAWS

Last year over 3 600 hectares of commercial plantation and natural veld were destroyed in fire along the Garden Route. 

According to IOL the fires broke out in the Coldstream and Koomansbos areas and have so far destroyed over 3 600 hectares of commercial plantation and natural veld.

No structures have however been damaged by the blazes, whose cause remains unknown so far.

ALSO READ: Tsitsikamma fires brought under control, highways reopened

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Former Fidelity guard guilty of theft – opts for fine instead of prison https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/johan-venter-george-former-fidelity-guard-guilty-of-theft-opts-for-fine-instead-of-prison-breaking-12-may-2022/ Thu, 12 May 2022 08:39:38 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1169884 A former Fidelity security guard was convicted and sentenced in the George Regional Court on Tuesday, 11 May for stealing from his employer.

FORMER FIDELITY GUARD SENTENCED

Johan Venter, 31, was sentenced to five years imprisonment or the option of a R10 000 fine – he opted for the latter.

Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) spokesperson, Zinzi Hani, said the former Fidelity guard stole a cash bag with R100 000 in November 2021.

“On 20 November 2021, the accused transported 107 bags containing cash from the Fidelity base to SBV depot, on the contrary only 106 bags were booked in at the depot,” said Hani.

An internal investigation was launched and Venter confessed that he stole the money. He took his manager to his personal vehicle and the bag was found.

Venter broke the seal of the bag and took R2230 for himself. After this was established, the matter was reported to the Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation in George.

“Venter opted for a R10 000 fine and was further declared unfit to possess a firearm,” said Hani.

READ:

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ICYMI: Husband kills wife before turning the gun on himself at Voëlklip https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/icymihusband-kills-wife-before-turning-the-gun-on-himself-at-voelklip/ Mon, 04 Apr 2022 04:30:00 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1133439 A husband killed his wife before turning the gun on himself at Voëlklip in George on Sunday afternoon. 

POLICE WERE ALERTED OF THE SHOOTING LATE ON SUNDAY AFTERNOON

Police spokesperson Captain Malcolm Pojie told the media that the shooting happened around 16:30 on Sunday. 

“Police have opened a murder as well as an attempted murder case following a shooting incident at Voëlklip.” 

He said a passerby discovered the body of a man with his wife seated next to him on a bench in a critical condition at around 16:30. 

Both had gunshot wounds to their heads. 

ALSO READ: Missing woman killed in an accident at the notorious Voëlklip cliff

THE COUPLE WAS FOUND SEATED ON A BENCH

Pojie said the wife was rushed to a local hospital in critical condition.

“It is believed that the couple in their mid to late seventies walked from their home in Herold’s Bay to one of the lookout points at Voëlklip. It’s further alleged that the husband first shot his wife and thereafter himself.”

No further information is available at this stage.

Voëlklip has become the pinnacle of tragedies. 

THE PINNACLE OF TRAGEDIES

Last month, a woman who was reported missing was killed when her vehicle recently went over the notorious Voëlklip cliff.

Jessica Hapgood-Strickland, her daughter, confirmed on Wednesday morning to The South African that it is indeed her mother, 57-year-old Jo-Anne Lourens from Delville Park, who went missing on Thursday, 17 March.

“We were notified about the accident on Tuesday. Then the officer took us to the scene. It is my mother,” Hapgood-Strickland said. 

DO YOU NEED HELP?

If you are feeling depressed or suicidal, help is out there. You can speak to the South African Depression and Anxiety group 24 hours a day. Their team of experts will get you the help you need and talk to you when you need them.

Call: 0800 456 789 or for emergencies call 0800 567 567 

ALSO READ: Police investigating the horrific Voëlklip accident [Update]

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Husband kills wife before turning the gun on himself at Voëlklip https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/husband-kills-wife-before-turning-the-gun-on-himself-at-voelklip-breaking/ Sun, 03 Apr 2022 18:40:00 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1133436 A husband killed his wife before turning the gun on himself at Voëlklip in George on Sunday afternoon. 

POLICE WERE ALERTED OF THE SHOOTING LATE ON SUNDAY AFTERNOON

Police spokesperson Captain Malcolm Pojie told the media that the shooting happened around 16:30 on Sunday. 

“Police have opened a murder as well as an attempted murder case following a shooting incident at Voëlklip.” 

He said a passerby discovered the body of a man with his wife seated next to him on a bench in a critical condition at around 16:30. 

Both had gunshot wounds to their heads. 

ALSO READ: Missing woman killed in an accident at the notorious Voëlklip cliff

THE COUPLE WAS FOUND SEATED ON A BENCH

Pojie said the wife was rushed to a local hospital in critical condition.

“It is believed that the couple in their mid to late seventies walked from their home in Herold’s Bay to one of the lookout points at Voëlklip. It’s further alleged that the husband first shot his wife and thereafter himself.”

No further information is available at this stage.

Voëlklip has become the pinnacle of tragedies. 

THE PINNACLE OF TRAGEDIES

Last month, a woman who was reported missing was killed when her vehicle recently went over the notorious Voëlklip cliff.

Jessica Hapgood-Strickland, her daughter, confirmed on Wednesday morning to The South African that it is indeed her mother, 57-year-old Jo-Anne Lourens from Delville Park, who went missing on Thursday, 17 March.

“We were notified about the accident on Tuesday. Then the officer took us to the scene. It is my mother,” Hapgood-Strickland said. 

DO YOU NEED HELP?

If you are feeling depressed or suicidal, help is out there. You can speak to the South African Depression and Anxiety group 24 hours a day. Their team of experts will get you the help you need and talk to you when you need them.

Call: 0800 456 789 or for emergencies call 0800 567 567 

ALSO READ: Police investigating the horrific Voëlklip accident [Update]

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Weather warning for damaging waves issued for Western and North Cape https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/weather-warning-for-damaging-waves-issued-for-western-and-north-cape-breaking/ Tue, 29 Mar 2022 13:51:27 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1129093 The SA Weather Service (SAWS) issued a level 2 weather warning for damaging waves was issued for the Western Cape and the Northern Cape.

WHAT DO WE KNOW ABOUT THE WARNING?

The warning is issued for Wednesday and Thursday.  

SAWS warned about a south-westerly swell with wave heights of 4 and 6 meters between Cape Columbine and Cape Agulhas on Wednesday morning, spreading to Alexander Bay and Plettenberg Bay by the evening and into Thursday (30 and 31 March 2022). 

Weather warning for damaging waves issued for Western and North Cape
More about the warning that was issued. Photo: SAWS

Impact: 

  • Difficulty in navigation for small vessels and personal watercraft may lead to vessels being at risk of taking on water and capsizing.
  •  Localised disruptions of small harbours or ports are possible for short period. 
  • The public is at risk of being swept off coastal rocks due to infrequent large waves.

SAWS furthermore advised Small vessels to seek shelter in harbours, bays, or inlets.

AREAS THAT WILL BE AFFECTED:

  • Kamiesberg
  • Hondeklip Bay
  • Nama Khoi
  • Kleinzee
  • Cederberg
  • Lamberts Bay
  • Swartland
  • Dassen Island
  • Overstrand
  • Hermanus
  • Cape Agulhas
  • Cape Agulhas 2
  • Hessequa
  • Still Bay
  • Mossel Bay
  • Knysna
  • Plettenberg Bay
  • George
Weather warning for damaging waves issued for Western and North Cape
The areas marked with yellow will be affected. Photo: SAWS

KEEP THESE SAFETY TIPS IN MIND:

Top five wave safety tips

  • Selfies; It’s not worth risking your life for ‘that selfie’. Keep off groynes, piers, jetties and harbour walls. Big waves can knock you over in a flash. If you can feel the spray, you’re too close.
  • Wave dodging; playing ‘dares’ with waves is dangerous in the best of weathers. Rocks and walls can be slippery, often there’s nothing to grab hold of if you’re caught off balance and rogue waves and strong currents can sweep you out to sea in seconds.
  • Doggie dont’s; do keep your canine friends close and on leads if you’re out on the cliffs or the coast. You never know when an ‘interesting’ smell or meeting another dog can lead to trouble. If your dog gets stuck or trapped, call the coastguard for help, we have teams out and about at all times, trained for fast response.
  • Cliff crises; avoid a crisis on the cliffs by staying well away from the edges, especially in windy conditions when you and children are at risk of being caught off balance. During and after bad weather, cliff faces are especially unstable and landslides and rock falls are common.
  • Keep in touch; keep a note of tide times so you don’t get trapped and take a fully charged mobile (ideally with a location or ‘find me’ app) so you can call for help if things go wrong. Let someone know where you’re going and when you’ll be back.

ALSO READ: Level 10 SEVERE weather warning issued for parts of South Africa

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George man to be charged for girlfriend’s murder, due in court https://www.thesouthafrican.com/western-cape/george-man-to-be-charged-for-girlfriends-murder-due-in-court/ Sun, 27 Mar 2022 11:01:11 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1127364 A 46-year-old man is expected to make an appearance before the George Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 28 March 2022, in connection with the death of his girlfriend.

According to the South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Western Cape, the man had alerted them about the woman’s “sudden” death, but when they got to his home in Pacaltsdorp, the scene raised some questions than answers. Preliminary evidence led them to believe the man’s girlfriend,  30-year-old Andrisia Alaart, died froma struggle with him.

“… when members responded to the scene at their residence in Llama Street, Dellville Part, Pacaltsdorp, they found the victim on a mattress on the living room floor. She had already succumbed to multiple injuries with signs of blunt trauma and visible bruises on her body and head. Upon further investigation of the scene, police members found blood traces in the hallway as well as in the second bedroom of the house, indicating a possible physical altercation,” said SAPS Western Cape spokesperson Captain Malcolm Pojie.

YOU CAN ALSO READ: Dead body: Man found lifeless in George’s ‘drug’ house

GEORGE WOMAN’S BODY TO UNDERGO AUTOPSY THIS WEEK

Western Cape police say they will conduct an autopsy on Andrisia Alaart to determine the actual cause of death and essentially give more clarity. The boyfriend was subsequently taken in for questioning and is currently detained at the Pacaltsdorp police holding cells on a charge of murder.

“The Western Cape Provincial management has condemned such acts of violence aimed against our vulnerable, especially women, especially during a month where we are supposed to observe the fundamental rights of all and speak out against Gender-based violence and Femicide,” Pojie added.

It was just last month that convicted rapist and murderer, Revticken Patrick Muller, was sentenced to a life term and ten years imprisonment. This was for the rape and murder of Bianca Chantel Matroos, another George woman. Matroos had been last seen in his company, and her body was discovered on 17 November 2019, between two concrete blocks in the unkempt grounds of the George Riding Club. Police arrested Muller on 24 November 2019 at the same club where he met Matroos. 

YOU CAN ALSO READ: Hefty sentence for the rapist and murderer of young George mother

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Watch: How to spot and avoid rip currents at the beach https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/watch-how-to-spot-and-avoid-rip-currents-at-the-beach/ Thu, 24 Mar 2022 09:29:00 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1127992 With the school holidays well underway, many of us will be heading to the beach to bask in the sun and to swim in the sea.

LONG WEEKENDS AND SCHOOL HOLIDAYS UNDERWAY

And while this is a mostly fun and safe way of making the most of the warm weather, there are some potential dangers to be aware of, some of which are more difficult to spot than others.

Amongst these dangers are rip currents, which often go unnoticed by swimmers until it’s too late.

Watch: How to
Photo: NSIR

WHAT IS A RIP CURRENT? 

According to the NSRI rip currents are able to develop where there are breaking waves. Bigger waves produce stronger currents, and these “rivers” of current are produced by water moving from the beach back out to sea. 

ALSO READ: Man found drowned, floating between the waves at Oslo Beach

“They happen all the time at many beaches and are the biggest danger that visitors face in the water. Often rip currents move slowly enough to barely be detected. But given the right circumstances of waves and beach profile, they can develop into currents moving at speeds of up to 2 metres per second – faster than any of us can swim.

“Ranging in width from just a few meters to a hundred meters, they pull to just behind where the waves form and then lose their power. A rip current is not the same as a riptide which is formed as the tide ebbs and flows through a narrow opening such as an estuary. The Knysna Heads is a great example of where you will find extremely dangerous rip tides,” the NSRI said.

HOW TO SPOT A RIP CURRENT: 

  • As with all risks, avoiding rip currents altogether is the safest strategy.
  • To do this, swim at a beach where lifeguards are on duty and swim between their flags. 
  • Although an untrained eye may struggle to see rip currents, stronger rip currents give telltale signs. 
  • With patience and careful observation it is not hard to see that water in a channel or ‘river’ between breaking waves is moving away from the beach. 
  • The current may not flow straight out from the beach. It may flow at an angle or have a bend or two in it before it gets to the backline where waves are forming.
  • This is what you should look out for:
  • Water through a surf zone that is a different color from the surrounding water
  • A change in the incoming pattern of waves (often, the waves are not breaking in a rip channel).
  • seaweed, sand ‘clouds’ or debris moving out to the backline where waves are forming through the surf zone
  • Turbulent or choppy water in the surf zone in a channel or river-like shape flowing away from the beach
  • The best resource to help you avoid rip currents is lifeguards. 
  • Swim only where lifeguards are on duty, and if they are not on duty, do not swim.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE CAUGHT IN RIP CURRENT

  • If you are caught in a rip current the most important thing to remember is: Do not panic
  • Stay calm and force yourself to relax. You are not going to win a fight with the ocean. 
  • Swim slowly and conservatively out of the current or relax and let it carry you out past the breakers until it slacks.
  • Take note from looking at the beach of the direction that the current is pulling you, think of it like a river and remember to get out of a river you would swim to the river bank. This means that in a rip current you should swim at 90 degrees to the direction that you are being pulled and then use the waves to help you get back to the beach. 
  • Rip currents are not an “undertow.’ A rip current will not pull you under the water. So long as you can float, you will be safe until you can escape the current, by swimming to the side (out of it) and then back to the beach. Be sure to maintain a slow and relaxed pace until you reach the shore or assistance arrives. 
  • If you are swimming at a beach where lifeguards are on duty ─ and you should not swim at beaches if lifeguards are not on duty ─ they will be able to help you. Raise your arm and wave for help.

ALSO READ: Woman drowned at Clanwilliam Dam in the Western Cape

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Missing woman killed in an accident at the notorious Voëlklip cliff https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/missing-woman-killed-in-an-accident-at-the-notorious-voelklip-cliff-23-march-2022-breaking/ Wed, 23 Mar 2022 05:22:16 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1124105 A woman who was reported missing was killed when her vehicle recently went over the notorious Voëlklip cliff in George. 

WHAT HAPPENED ON TUESDAY?

Jessica Hapgood-Strickland, her daughter, confirmed on Wednesday morning to The South African that it is indeed her mother, 57-year-old Jo-Anne Lourens from Delville Park, who went missing on Thursday, 17 March.

“We were notified about the accident on Tuesday. Then the officer took us to the scene. It is my mother,” Hapgood-Strickland said. 

While family members have confirmed that it is Lourens, police could not yet be confirmed the identity of the woman killed in the accident. 

At this stage, it is unclear as to when, how, or why the vehicle went down the cliff.

GEORGE CPF DISCOVERED THE VEHICLE ON TUESDAY AFTERNOON

Police spokesperson Capt Malcolm Pojie said a member of the George CPF discovered the vehicle and body of a woman inside between 16-17:00 on Tuesday, 22 March 22. He alerted authorities, who responded rapidly. 

“EMS emergency members retrieved the body of a 57-year old woman from the wreckage of her car after it went over a cliff at Voëlklip near Heralds Bay, George, late on Tuesday evening.”

Pojie said an inquest docket was opened by George Saps for further investigation.  

“The area where the car is located will be assessed today to determine whether and how the wreckage can be recovered.”

LOURENS WAS LAST SEEN ON THURSDAY AS SHE WAS DRIVING AWAY

Lourens (57) left her daughter’s house on the R404 farm road in Geelhoutboom around noon on Thursday and headed towards the airport intersection.

Her daughter Hapgood-Strickland was reportedly sleeping at the time.

ALSO READ: Have you seen this missing George woman?

She said her husband saw her mother driving off in the direction of the airport. Lourens was driving a white Chevrolet Aveo 2006 model. The car has a CAW numberplate with a holographic dragonfly sticker and navy blue cross that says ‘Jesus se karretjie’ on the back. Jo-Anne only had half a tank of fuel when she left the house.

Last month, on Tuesday, 8 February, Conrad Maree (33) was killed when his bakkie went over the deadly cliff.

ALSO READ: Voëlklip: Mother killed, two-year-old still missing after car crashes into ocean

Pojie said Maree did not arrive at work on Tuesday morning, and the employer traced Maree’s bakkie near Voëlklip Heralds Bay George.

SEVERAL FATAL ACCIDENTS AT THE EXACT SPOT:

The deaths of the two 75-year-old women at Voëlklip Cliff in February 2021 was one of many similar incidents that have taken place at the popular Western Cape fishing spot over the years.

In January 2021, a 34-year-old woman was travelling with her daughter, 2, and son, 8, when her vehicle also plunged off the cliff. The son managed to escape before the crash. The toddler’s body was found by a fisherman a month later.

In October 2019, Heidi Scheepers and her two children, Hugo and Cozette – aged 6 and 2 – died after their vehicle fell down the same cliff.

The bodies of Heidi and Hugo were recovered but not of Cozette. 

ALSO READ: Police investigating the horrific Voëlklip accident [Update]

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Hefty sentence for the rapist and murderer of young George mother https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/hefty-sentence-for-the-rapist-and-murderer-of-young-george-mother-george-breaking/ Tue, 22 Mar 2022 14:12:46 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1123575 The man who raped and murdered the young mother of George, Bianca Chantel Matroos, was handed a hefty sentence on Tuesday.

WHAT HAPPENED IN COURT ON TUESDAY?

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Eric Ntabazalila said the convicted rapist and murderer, Revticken Patrick Muller, was sentenced to a life term and ten years imprisonment.

“He was convicted by the Western Cape High Court a month ago, for the crimes he committed on Matroos on 15 November 2019, after a night out at a nightclub in George. 

“Muller was sentenced to life imprisonment for premeditated murder and ten years imprisonment for rape. The two sentences will run concurrently and he is effectively sentenced to life imprisonment,” he said.

The successful conviction and plausible sentence follow an intense investigation by members of the South African Police Service (SAPS).

DEDICATED POLICE OFFICERS CONDUCTED AN INTENSE INVESTIGATION

These dedicated officers followed the movements of the Matroos and Muller, using CCTV footage from the nightclub to where her naked body was found at the George Riding Club.

“During the trial, the prosecutor Advocate Evadne Kortje told the court, Muller met the 37-year-old Matroos at Club Nitro in George, on the evening of 14 November 2019. In the early hours of the next morning, the Muller forced the deceased into a vehicle and drove off with his friends.”

Eric Ntabazalila

Matroos was last seen in his company, and her body was discovered on 17 November 2019, between two concrete blocks in the unkempt grounds of the George Riding Club. 

Police arrested Muller on 24 November 2019 at the same club where he met Matroos. 

ALSO READ: Murder of young George mother set for arguments of sentence

HERE IS WHAT THE JUDGE SAID DURING THE JUDGMENT IN COURT:

Delivering judgment, Judge E Steyn remarked said Matroos was a small, slender, young woman who was viscously and brutally murdered.

“How callous was the accused of returning to the club about a week later even wearing similar clothing.

“I experienced the accused as indifferent, bordering on defiant. The multiple, often incoherent, often contradictory versions of the accused when testifying, and the statements put, or not put to witnesses show that he is a skilled, devious, cunning liar.”

Judge E Steyn

After careful consideration, after reviewing the totality of the evidence, disputed and undisputed facts, and circumstantial evidence, Steyn said that the evidence of the witnesses for the State was credible, probable, and consistent, supported by other evidence and video footage.

“The evidence of all the State witnesses is accepted. I am satisfied that the State has proved beyond reasonable doubt that the accused raped and murdered Bianca Matroos. I find that he had direct intent not only to rape her but also to murder her.”

Judge E Steyn

EFFORTS TO FIGHT GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE ARE BEARING FRUIT

Meanwhile Western Cape Director of Public Prosecutions, Advocate Nicolette Bell welcomed the sentence saying their concerted efforts to fight gender-based violence are bearing fruit as the courts are handing down heavy sentences, which fit the heinous crimes committed by accused persons.

“We know that the wounds of the Matroos family are not yet healed, but we hope that they will find solace knowing that this accused will be in prison for a long time for the crimes he committed on their loved one,” she said.

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Planned power outage for George and surrounding areas https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/planned-power-outage-george-wednesday-23-march-2022-breaking/ Tue, 22 Mar 2022 12:56:53 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1123504 Residents are warned of a planned power outage for Thembalethu, George on Wednesday 23 March from 09:00 to 16:30 to do alterations to the electrical mains.

WHAT STREETS WILL BE AFFECTED ON WEDNESDAY:

The following streets will be affected:

  • France
  • Songololo
  • Tabata
  • Sampies
  • Liwani

The George Municipality warned consumers to treat the installation as being live for the full duration as the supply may be resumed at any time within the notified period.

“Should circumstances prevent the work being carried out during the above-mentioned period; the work will be done on Thursday 24 March from 09:00 to 16:30.” 

ALSO READ: Have you seen this missing George woman?

HANDY TIPS FOR HOW TO PREPARE FOR A POWER OUTAGE:

  • Cordless phones, including NBN phones, won’t operate without mains power, so we recommend an alternative phone.
  • Power fluctuations may occur when power is restored, so it’s helpful to unplug sensitive appliances such as computers and TVs to reduce the risk of damage.
  • Unplug electric heaters or air conditioners, so they are off when power is restored.
  • Adjust your fridge and freezer to the coldest setting.
  • If you have solar panels, check your system is back on after the outage. Not all solar inverters will switch back on automatically after a power outage.
  • If you have automatic garage doors or security gates, make sure you know how to operate them manually or leave your car parked outside.
  • Leave a light on inside your house, so you know when power is restored.
  • Alarm systems, lifts, and escalators may not operate during the power outage or may need to be reprogrammed once power is restored.
  • If you don’t have a backup battery, you may like to consult with your service provider or investigate the use of a generator.
  • You may need to reset reticulation timers after the outage.

ALSO READ: Tragedy strikes again at Voëlklip: Man, 33, dies after bakkie plunges off cliff

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Have you seen this missing George woman? https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/have-you-seen-this-missing-george-woman-latest-20-march-2022/ Sun, 20 Mar 2022 15:26:00 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1122002 A George woman from Delville Park was still on Sunday afternoon missing. 

THE WOMAN WAS LAST SEEN ON THURSDAY

According to report by the George Herald Jo-Anne Lourens (57) left her daughter’s house on the R404 farm road in Geelhoutboom around noon on Thursday, and headed towards the airport intersection.

Jessica Hapgood-Strickland, her daughter, was reportedly sleeping at the time.

She said her husband saw her mother driving off in the direction of the airport. She was driving a white Chevrolet Aveo 2006 model. The car has a CAW numberplate with a holographic dragonfly sticker and navy blue cross that says ‘Jesus se karretjie’ on the back. Jo-Anne only has half a tank of fuel.

“A case has been opened with the George Police. Any help to find my mom is welcome at this stage.” 

Contact Jessica at 060 349 9881.

WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU HAVE A MISSING LOVED ONE:

When a person goes missing, it is of the utmost importance for the SAPS to fulfill our mandate to serve and protect the citizens of South Africa. It is essential to take steps and start the investigation into a missing person’s case immediately. 

ALSO READ: Horrific! Missing five-year-old boy murdered and eyes GOUGED out

You can assist the SAPS when reporting a missing person by following these steps:

  • THERE IS NO WAITING PERIOD TO REPORT A MISSING PERSON!

Report a missing person at your nearest police station immediately.

  • Produce a recent photograph of the missing person, if possible.
  • Give a complete description of the missing person’s last whereabouts, clothes that they were wearing, as well as any information that can assist the investigating officer.
  • Complete and sign a SAPS 55(A) form. This form safeguards the SAPS from hoax reports and indemnifies the SAPS to distribute the photograph and information of the missing person.
  • Obtain the investigating officer’s contact details, and send any additional information that might become available.
  • If a missing person is found or returns voluntarily, inform the investigating officer immediately. A SAPS 92 form must be completed to inform the Bureau of Missing Persons that the missing person’s report can be removed from the circulation system.
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George man shot in the head and left on the pavement https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/george-man-shot-in-the-head-left-on-pavement-20-march-2022-breaking/ Sun, 20 Mar 2022 08:00:00 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1121458 The George police are investigating a murder following the death of a man in Thembalethu on Friday evening.

The fatal shooting happened at Zone 6, Thembalethu, on Friday, 18 March, at about 21:40.

MAN WAS SHOT AND KILLED ON FRIDAY

Police spokesperson sergeant Christopher Spies said the man was found with a gunshot wound to his head.

ALSO READ: Ashley Oosthuizen could be considered for a royal pardon [Update]

“On arrival, members found the victim on the pavement at Silvertown with a gunshot wound to the head. He was declared dead by paramedics on scene,” Spies said.

He furthermore said the circumstances surrounding the murder is under investigation.

“The motive for the killing is yet to be established and forms part of the ongoing police probe. A post-mortem to determine the cause of death will be conducted during the upcoming week.”

DO YOU HAVE INFORMATION?

The public is urged to come forward with any information which could assist the police in bringing the perpetrator/s to book.

Anyone with information may contact Thembalethu SAPS at 044 802 8900 or Crime Stop at 08600 10111.
 
Meanwhile, a 53-year-old George police officer was arrested for tampering with evidence connected to a business robbery.

THE POLICE OFFICER IS A CAPTAIN

According to Hawks spokesperson Zinzi Hani the officer attached at Thembalethu SAPS was arrested on Friday, 18 March 2022. He was arrested for tampering with evidence in connection to a business robbery at Puma garage in Thembalethu, George, on 31 January 2022.

“This comes after a search and seizure operation that was steered by the  Hawks’ team in the office of the suspect that led to the discovery of empty cartridges that were removed from the crime scene. 

“It is reported that on the day of the business robbery, a shootout ensued between the police and the suspects,” Hani said.

THE ROBBERY HAPPENED EARLIER THIS YEAR

The Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation team arrested the police officer after the team determined that he had removed evidence from the scene.

Hani said the police officer, who is a Captain, is being held in custody.

He is scheduled to make his first appearance in the Thembalethu Magistrate Court on Tuesday, 22 March 2022.

THE POLICE OFFICER REMOVED EVIDENCE FROM THE SCENE

The police officer faces a charge of defeating the ends of justice.  

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George police officer arrested for tampering with evidence https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/george-police-officer-arrested-tampering-with-evidence-20-march-2022-breaking/ Sun, 20 Mar 2022 07:00:00 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1121451 A 53-year-old George police officer was arrested for tampering with evidence connected to a business robbery.

THE POLICE OFFICER IS A CAPTAIN

According to Hawks spokesperson Zinzi Hani the officer attached at Thembalethu SAPS was arrested on Friday, 18 March 2022. He was arrested for tampering with evidence in connection to a business robbery at Puma garage in Thembalethu, George, on 31 January 2022.

“This comes after a search and seizure operation that was steered by the  Hawks’ team in the office of the suspect that led to the discovery of empty cartridges that were removed from the crime scene. 

“It is reported that on the day of the business robbery, a shootout ensued between the police and the suspects,” Hani said.

THE ROBBERY HAPPENED EARLIER THIS YEAR

The Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation team arrested the police officer after the team determined that he had removed evidence from the scene.

Hani said the police officer, who is a Captain, is being held in custody.

He is scheduled to make his first appearance in the Thembalethu Magistrate Court on Tuesday, 22 March 2022.

THE POLICE OFFICER REMOVED EVIDENCE FROM THE SCENE

The police officer faces a charge of defeating the ends of justice.  

Meanwhile, the police in Thembalethu are investigating a murder following the death of a man at Zone 6, Thembalethu on Friday, 18 March at about 21:40.

Police spokesperson sergeant Christopher Spies said the man was found with a gunshot wound to his head.

MAN WAS SHOT AND KILLED ON FRIDAY

“On arrival members found the victim on the pavement at Silvertown with a gunshot wound to the head. He was declared dead by paramedics on scene,” Spies said.

He furthermore said the circumstances surrounding the murder is under investigation.

“The motive for the killing is yet to be established and forms part of the ongoing police probe. A post-mortem to determine the cause of death will be conducted during the upcoming week.”

ALSO READ: Former police officer nabbed for his involvement in George fuel fraud syndicate

DO YOU HAVE INFORMATION?

The public is urged to come forward with any information which could assist the police in bringing the perpetrator/s to book.

Anyone with information may contact Thembalethu SAPS at 044 802 8900 or Crime Stop at 08600 10111.
 

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Watch: How to spot and avoid rip currents at the beach https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/watch-how-to-spot-and-avoid-rip-currents-at-the-beach-18-march-2022/ Fri, 18 Mar 2022 12:16:00 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1122117 With the school holidays well underway, many of us will be heading to the beach to bask in the sun and to swim in the sea.

LONG WEEKENDS AND SCHOOL HOLIDAYS UNDERWAY

And while this is a mostly fun and safe way of making the most of the warm weather, there are some potential dangers to be aware of, some of which are more difficult to spot than others.

Amongst these dangers are rip currents, which often go unnoticed by swimmers until it’s too late.

Watch: How to
Photo: NSIR

WHAT IS A RIP CURRENT? 

According to the NSRI rip currents are able to develop where there are breaking waves. Bigger waves produce stronger currents, and these “rivers” of current are produced by water moving from the beach back out to sea. 

ALSO READ: Man found drowned, floating between the waves at Oslo Beach

“They happen all the time at many beaches and are the biggest danger that visitors face in the water. Often rip currents move slowly enough to barely be detected. But given the right circumstances of waves and beach profile, they can develop into currents moving at speeds of up to 2 metres per second – faster than any of us can swim.

“Ranging in width from just a few meters to a hundred meters, they pull to just behind where the waves form and then lose their power. A rip current is not the same as a riptide which is formed as the tide ebbs and flows through a narrow opening such as an estuary. The Knysna Heads is a great example of where you will find extremely dangerous rip tides,” the NSRI said.

HOW TO SPOT A RIP CURRENT: 

  • As with all risks, avoiding rip currents altogether is the safest strategy.
  • To do this, swim at a beach where lifeguards are on duty and swim between their flags. 
  • Although an untrained eye may struggle to see rip currents, stronger rip currents give telltale signs. 
  • With patience and careful observation it is not hard to see that water in a channel or ‘river’ between breaking waves is moving away from the beach. 
  • The current may not flow straight out from the beach. It may flow at an angle or have a bend or two in it before it gets to the backline where waves are forming.
  • This is what you should look out for:
  • Water through a surf zone that is a different color from the surrounding water
  • A change in the incoming pattern of waves (often, the waves are not breaking in a rip channel).
  • seaweed, sand ‘clouds’ or debris moving out to the backline where waves are forming through the surf zone
  • Turbulent or choppy water in the surf zone in a channel or river-like shape flowing away from the beach
  • The best resource to help you avoid rip currents is lifeguards. 
  • Swim only where lifeguards are on duty, and if they are not on duty, do not swim.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE CAUGHT IN RIP CURRENT

  • If you are caught in a rip current the most important thing to remember is: Do not panic
  • Stay calm and force yourself to relax. You are not going to win a fight with the ocean. 
  • Swim slowly and conservatively out of the current or relax and let it carry you out past the breakers until it slacks.
  • Take note from looking at the beach of the direction that the current is pulling you, think of it like a river and remember to get out of a river you would swim to the river bank. This means that in a rip current you should swim at 90 degrees to the direction that you are being pulled and then use the waves to help you get back to the beach. 
  • Rip currents are not an “undertow.’ A rip current will not pull you under the water. So long as you can float, you will be safe until you can escape the current, by swimming to the side (out of it) and then back to the beach. Be sure to maintain a slow and relaxed pace until you reach the shore or assistance arrives. 
  • If you are swimming at a beach where lifeguards are on duty ─ and you should not swim at beaches if lifeguards are not on duty ─ they will be able to help you. Raise your arm and wave for help.

ALSO READ: Woman drowned at Clanwilliam Dam in the Western Cape

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George woman arrested after hiding drugs in Jungle Oats boxes https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/george-woman-arrested-n9-drugs-jungle-oats-boxes/ Thu, 17 Mar 2022 13:23:57 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1120180 A George woman has been arrested on the N9 after police confiscated drugs worth R120 000 that were concealed in oats boxes on Wednesday, 16 March. 

Rural Flying Squad members were conducting a vehicle check point between George and Oudtshoorn.

GEORGE WOMAN ARRESTED FOR DEALING IN DRUGS

Police spokesperson Sergeant Christopher Spies said a minibus taxi was stopped.

They pulled over the taxi and proceeded with a search of the vehicle when a member of the group detected that the Jungle Oats instant porridge boxes were tampered with. When they opened these boxes, members discovered the mandrax tablets and tik stashed inside it. 

“The find was linked to a passenger on board who was immediately arrested on a charge of dealing in drugs. Police confiscated the 304 mandrax tablets, 300 gram tik as well as an undisclosed amount of cash, believed to be proceeds of the illicit drug trade. 

“The 27-year-old suspect remains in police custody. She is expected to appear in the George Magistrates’ court on Friday, 18 March 2022 on the mentioned charge.”

Sergeant Christopher Spies

Spies said Western Cape police management lauded the Rural Flying Squad members for their actions which ensured that those who threaten the safety of society are brought to book. 

“Their strategic deployment since the reintroduction of the team is yielding excellent results, especially along highways in the region.”

HAWKS BUST FUEL FRAUD SYNDICATE

Recently, a disgraced former police officer and his partner in crime recently appeared before the George Magistrates Court for their involvement in a fuel fraud syndicate.

The 29-year-old Khuezi Gift Tshuku and 25-year-old Zixolisile Skade, were taken into custody by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks). The Hawks’ Serious Commercial Crime Investigation team partnered with George SAPS Crime Prevention Unit.

According to Western Cape Hawks spokesperson, Zinzi Hani, Tshuku and Skade were busted with 15×25 litre containers of petrol. They were also found in possession of Western Cape Government cloned cards with fleet card information. It was on the magnetic strip.

ALSO READ: Former police officer nabbed for his involvement in George fuel fraud syndicate

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Attention all parents! 2023 school admission applications to open Monday https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/attention-all-parents-2023-school-admission-applications-to-open-monday-13-march-2022/ Sun, 13 Mar 2022 10:13:00 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1117455 Parents and caregivers were urged to apply for placement for prospective Grade 1 and 8 learners in a timeous fashion.

ADMISSIONS WILL BE OPEN FROM MONDAY

The 2023 school admissions process will be open from Monday until 15 April 2022. 

The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) opens applications well in advance in an effort to prevent unplaced learners. 

Deidré Baartman, MPP, Democratic Alliance, said this is critical for learner placements to be confirmed before the start of the new academic year.

THIS IS TO PREVENT UNPLACED LEARNERS

“However, every year, we see a continual problem of late applications. For this school year alone, the WCED received more than 70 000 late applications,” Baartman said. 

While late applications remain a concern, the Department has already implemented various measures to mitigate this:

  • In addition to the 129 mobile classrooms delivered in the current financial year, 173 more are in the process of being delivered.
  • A total of 28 replacement school projects had been listed over the next three years.
  • Another 97 vacant classrooms have been identified and repairs will continue to accommodate more than 4 600 learners.
  • A further 11 Learner Transport Routes (LTS) routes, serving more than 6000 learners, were approved for January 2022.

“I appeal to all parents and guardians to register their children for Grade 1 and 8 via the WCED’s website. All children in South Africa are dependent on their parents or guardians in order to be placed in schools.

“We realise that this is a daunting process to many, which is why all WCED District Offices are available for assistance in this regard,” Baartman said.

DO YOU NEED ASSISTANCE?

. Further help can be sought at the following pop-up stands between 09:00 and 15:00:

19 and 20 March 2022 

  • Airport Shopping Centre in Belhar/Delft
  • Cape Gate Shopping Centre in Kuilsriver

26 and 27 March 2022

  • Gugulethu Mall
  • Khayelitsha Mall

2 and 3 April 2022

  • Parow Centre
  • N1 City Mall

The online process is quick and should not take longer than 15 minutes to apply. 

It must also be emphasised that the website is also zero-rated, which means that it is free for everyone to use. 

“Let us all work together in ensuring that every child is placed and receives the quality education the Western Cape has to offer.”

Parents and guardians can apply here.

ALSO READ: Full-scale bomb scare exercise in George

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Unexpected power outage in George and surrounding areas https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/unexpected-power-outage-in-george-13-march-2022/ Sun, 13 Mar 2022 05:01:00 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1117284 Wilderness and surrounds are currently experiencing an unexpected power outage due to a fault on an Eskom power line. 

WHAT DO WE KNOW ABOUT THE POWER OUTAGES?

Eskom has confirmed in a statement that its 66KV transformer has a fault. 

The other areas that are affected are Hoekwil, Kleinkrans, Pinedew, Langvlei and surrounds. 

The power utility said the problem is being attended to.

Rain and thunderstorms in the area have caused power outages in parts of George.

Electricians have been up and about restoring the power supply.

WHERE HAS THE POWER BEEN RESTORED?

  • Modderivier restored
  • Sandkraal line restored
  • Lavalia restored
  • Victoria Bay restored

ALSO READ: 

HANDY TIPS FOR HOW TO PREPARE FOR A POWER OUTAGE:

  • Cordless phones, including NBN phones, won’t operate without mains power, so we recommend an alternative phone.
  • Power fluctuations may occur when power is restored, so it’s helpful to unplug sensitive appliances such as computers and TVs to reduce the risk of damage.
  • Unplug electric heaters or air conditioners, so they are off when power is restored.
  • Adjust your fridge and freezer to the coldest setting.
  • If you have solar panels, check your system is back on after the outage. Not all solar inverters will switch back on automatically after a power outage.
  • If you have automatic garage doors or security gates, make sure you know how to operate them manually or leave your car parked outside.
  • Leave a light on inside your house, so you know when power is restored.
  • Alarm systems, lifts, and escalators may not operate during the power outage or may need to be reprogrammed once power is restored.
  • If you don’t have a backup battery, you may like to consult with your service provider or investigate the use of a generator.
  • You may need to reset reticulation timers after the outage.

ALSO READ: Tragedy strikes again at Voëlklip: Man, 33, dies after bakkie plunges off cliff

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Former police officer nabbed for his involvement in George fuel fraud syndicate https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/former-police-officer-nabbed-for-his-involvement-in-george-fuel-fraud-syndicate-latest/ https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/former-police-officer-nabbed-for-his-involvement-in-george-fuel-fraud-syndicate-latest/#respond Wed, 09 Mar 2022 13:02:42 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1113828 A disgraced former police officer and his partner in crime recently appeared before the George Magistrates Court for their involvement in a fuel fraud syndicate.

Hawks bust fuel fraud syndicate

The 29-year-old Khuezi Gift Tshuku and 25-year-old Zixolisile Skade, were taken into custody by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks). The Hawks’ Serious Commercial Crime Investigation team partnered with George SAPS Crime Prevention Unit.

According to Western Cape Hawks spokesperson, Zinzi Hani, Tshuku and Skade were busted with 15×25 litre containers of petrol. They were also found in possession of Western Cape Government cloned cards with fleet card information. It was on the magnetic strip.

A thorough probe into the pair’s illicit activities at a George-based petrol station at the start of the weekend.

High-level police work

Hani said the Hawks collaborated with the George SAPS.

“The Hawks’ team in conjunction with local police were able to bust the alleged fraudsters operating with cloned fuel cards,” said Hani in a statement.

Fuel fraud syndicate caught with litres of petrol in possession

Hani said the duo is expected to reappear in court on 14 March to deliver bail information but more arrests were expected.

Meanwhile, in Mpumalanga, the Hawks busted a man for being in possession of a cloned credit card that had been used over 265 times.

Cloned credit card used over 265 times results in arrest by Hawks

Luis Raimundo Matola was arrested by the Hawks’ supported forensic investigators. This was in collaboration with First National Bank and Absa. Matola was arrested for being in possession of a cloned credit card.


The 43-year-old’s latest credit card usage, where he swiped to enter and pass the N4 toll plaza in Kaapmuiden, Mpumalanga, resulted in the arrest.
The Mozambican national was reportedly driving a truck that commercially transports goods. He was charged with the contravention of the provisions of Section 86(3) of the Electronic Communications and Transactions Act.

The SAPS revealed, in a statement, that the continuous usage of the card resulted in an actual loss of a massive R133 525. The accused reportedly used the cloned credit card over 260 times. Captain Dineo Lucy Setodi, the spokesperson for the Hawks in Mpumalanga, stated that the arrest came after an investigation was established. Read more here.

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Power outages planned in these areas in George this week https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/power-outages-planned-in-these-areas-in-george-this-week-breaking/ Sun, 06 Mar 2022 07:45:00 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1111697 A power outage is planned for this week, and these are the areas that will be affected. 

WHAT AREAS OR STREETS WILL BE AFFECTED: 

The George Municipality said the following areas/streets would be affected: 

  • Akasia, 
  • Mann, 
  • De Mist, 
  • Mimosa, 
  • Boekenhout, 
  • Janssen, 
  • Fifth,
  • Park 

“Notice is hereby given that the electricity supply will be interrupted on Tuesday, 8 March 2022 from 9:00 to 16:30.” 

POWER OUTAGE IS FOR ALTERATIONS TO BE DONE

The municipality said the power outage is to do alterations to the electrical mains. 

“Consumers are warned to treat the installation as being live for the full duration as the supply may be resumed at any time within the notified period.

“Should circumstances prevent the work being carried out during the abovementioned period; the work will be done on Wednesday 9 March 2022 from 9:00 to 16:30.” 

ALSO READ: Planned power outage for portions of Denneoord

HANDY TIPS FOR HOW TO PREPARE FOR A POWER OUTAGE:

  • Cordless phones, including NBN phones, won’t operate without mains power, so we recommend an alternative phone.
  • Power fluctuations may occur when power is restored, so it’s helpful to unplug sensitive appliances such as computers and TVs to reduce the risk of damage.
  • Unplug electric heaters or air conditioners, so they are off when power is restored.
  • Adjust your fridge and freezer to the coldest setting.
  • If you have solar panels, check your system is back on after the outage. Not all solar inverters will switch back on automatically after a power outage.
  • If you have automatic garage doors or security gates, make sure you know how to operate them manually or leave your car parked outside.
  • Leave a light on inside your house, so you know when power is restored.
  • Alarm systems, lifts, and escalators may not operate during the power outage or may need to be reprogrammed once power is restored.
  • If you don’t have a backup battery, you may like to consult with your service provider or investigate the use of a generator.
  • You may need to reset reticulation timers after the outage.

ALSO READ: Tragedy strikes again at Voëlklip: Man, 33, dies after bakkie plunges off cliff

]]>
George Municipality busy remedial steps after damning report by Public Protector https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/george-municipality-acknowledges-findings-on-pp-irregular-investment-breaking/ Wed, 02 Mar 2022 09:24:41 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1108054 George Municipality acknowledged the findings of the Public Protector report released on Monday.

A TOTAL OF R350 MILLION INVESTED

The report by the Public Protector found that there was an irregular investment of public funds with Old Mutual Limited to the tune of R 350 million.

It focused on an investigation into allegations of improper conduct and maladministration by George Municipality related to the alleged irregular investment of public funds with Old Mutual Limited.

In 2019, GOOD Party leader Patrica de Lille blew the whistle and asked the Public Protector to investigate what she described as a “kick-back” scheme. 

Dr Michele Gratz, current Acting Municipal Manager, confirmed that as per the Public Protector report municipal funds were irregularly invested by a senior municipal official.

Gratz said this was done during 2017/2018 in terms of the processes followed, which did not follow legislative requirements as set out by the Municipal Finance Management Act of 2000 and the Municipal Investment Regulations regarding the investment of funds.  

ALSO READ: GBV perpetrators given life sentences

“The Council and administration of George Municipality has done everything in its power to prevent a recurrence of this very unfortunate incident which took place four years ago under the previous Municipal Manager and previous Mayor.” 

WHAT REMEDIAL STEPS WILL BE TAKEN?

“Remedial steps commenced in 2019 and were completed in 2021 which were most in line with those indicated by the Public Protector.”

Executive Mayor, Ald Leon van Wyk has confirmed that the Audit Committee has been reconstituted and is operating efficiently. 

None of the current members of the Audit Committee served during 2017/2018 when the incident took place. 

The chairperson of Council also investigated the matter, and the Council sanctioned the Councillor concerned.

R350 MILLION INVESTMENT RECOUPED 

Gratz emphasised that all officials involved in this irregular investment process in 2017 were disciplined and the then Chief Financial Officer was dismissed. 

A second official is no longer working at the George Municipality. 

ALSO READ: One killed, another critical in N1 crash

The Municipal Manager at the time is also no longer in service. 

The full sum of R 350 million invested, was retrieved with no loss of interest income to the George Municipality. A report on any additional remedial matters will be included in a report to the Council in May 2022.

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Ashley Oosthuizen could be considered for a royal pardon [Update] https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/ashley-oosthuizen-could-be-considered-for-a-royal-pardon-update-breaking-news/ Tue, 01 Mar 2022 07:59:33 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1106997 Ashley Oosthuizen from George in the Western Cape, who was arrested by Thai police in October 2020, is eligible to be considered for a royal pardon, which would be granted on important occasions.

WHAT IS A ROYAL PARDON?

According to the legal dictionary, a royal pardon is the forgiveness of a crime or offence by the Crown. It remains as an institution in the UK as in many other monarchies such as Saudi Arabia, Morocco, Cambodia and Thailand.

In former times a pardon might be a free pardon with no other sentence or a conditional pardon where transportation might be substituted for hanging. In the UK it remains an exercise of the royal prerogative but is considered part of the justice system.

According to a report by the Bangkok Post, Oosthuizen was being treated properly in prison, in line with internationally-accepted human rights principles.

OOSTHUIZEN IS TEACHING YOGA IN PRISON

Thawatchai Chaiyawat, deputy director-general of the Department of Corrections, told the publication that she has already received three shots of the Covid-19 vaccine and is now teaching yoga to other inmates.

“Oosthuizen remains in good spirits and gets along well with other inmates, many of whom are foreigners,” he said.

She was originally sentenced to death, but this has since been commuted to life imprisonment for drug smuggling.

In May last year, the court handed Oosthuizen the death penalty that was then commuted to a life sentence, which she is currently serving at Nakhon Si Thammarat Central Prison.


She is in the process of appealing her sentence, a process that could go on for months.

WHERE DID IT ALL START?

After matriculating in 2017, Oosthuizen moved to Thailand in March 2018 to do a Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) course.

Ashley Oosthuizen’s mom, Lynn Blignaut, earlier said the family said they believe their daughter is innocent, and their representatives are doing everything they can to prove it.

Ashley’s appeal has been filed with the Court of Appeals.

Oosthuizen lost her job during the pandemic and her American boyfriend,35, offered her a job at his restaurant.

While working at the restaurant, she had accepted and signed for a package containing the drug MDMA.

ALSO READ: ‘A difficult time for the family’: Ashley Oosthuizen’s mom opens up

She was subsequently reportedly arrested on October 8, 2020, by Thailand police.

The 35-year-old has since come forward to say that the drugs Oosthuizen was arrested in connection with belonged to him.4

THE DRUGS ALLEGEDLY BELONGED TO HER BOYFRIEND

In a lengthy statement, he detailed how he ran a drug operation on the island without her knowledge.

A website, which detailed Oosthuizen’s ordeal, appeared and it is believed that the boyfriend set it up. The website seemingly meant to raise awareness about Oosthuizen’s arrest and raise funds for her legal battles.

Oosthuizen’s family cautioned the public against donating to the website.

ALSO READ: Ashley Oosthuizen: Family distances itself from crowdfunding website set up by boyfriend

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Full-scale bomb scare exercise in George https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/full-scale-bomb-scare-exercise-in-george-latest/ Sat, 26 Feb 2022 05:00:00 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1105278 The response of the emergency services in George was tested with a full-scale bomb scare exercise on Friday.

THE AREA WAS BUZZING ON FRIDAY

What was initially thought to be a false bomb scare turned out to be a planned exercise in collaboration with the South African Police Service (SAPS) and Metro EMS Services.

According to the George municipal liaison officer Ntobeko Mangqwengqwe, it was intended to assess the evacuation procedure and emergency services response towards such an event.

‘LESSONS LEARNED WILL BE IMPLEMENTED’

“The exercise was a success, according to the George Disaster Management, and lessons learned during the exercise will be implemented in the updating of the emergency response plan for the Municipality and emergency services,” Mangqwengqwe.

He also thanked the municipal personnel for their cooperation and all role-players that were involved in this exercise.

Bomb threats are most commonly received via phone but are also made in person, via email, written notes, or other means.

Every bomb threat is unique and should be handled in the context of the facility or environment in which it occurs.

WHAT TO DO IN A BOMB THREAT?

Facility supervisors and law enforcement will be in the best position to determine the threat’s credibility. Follow these procedures:

  • Remain calm.
  • Notify authorities immediately:
  • Notify your facility supervisor, such as a manager, operator, or administrator, or follow your facility’s standard operating procedure
  • Call your local law enforcement if no facility supervisor is available.
  • Refer to the DHS Bomb Threat Checklist for guidance, if available.
  • For threats made via phone:
  • Keep the caller on the line as long as possible. Be polite and show interest to keep them talking.
  • DO NOT HANG UP, even if the caller does.
  • If possible, signal or pass a note to other staff to listen and help notify authorities.
  • Write down as much information as possible—caller ID number, the exact wording of threat, type of voice or behavior, etc.—that will aid investigators.
  • Record the call, if possible.

ALSO READ: Nationwide truck strike: These routes will be affected this weekend [Reminder]

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‘A difficult time for the family’: Ashley Oosthuizen’s mom opens up https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/breaking-ashley-oosthuizen-sa-woman-arrested-in-thailand-drug-smuggling-latest-news/ Sat, 26 Feb 2022 04:45:00 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1105272 Ashley Oosthuizen’s mother, Lynn Blignaut has opened up about how her 22-year-old daughter’s arrest in Thailand has affected her family. 

Ashley Oosthuizen from George in the Western Cape was arrested by Thai police in October 2020. She was sentenced to death, this has since been commuted to life imprisonment for drug smuggling. 

ASHLEY OOSTHUIZEN’S MOM SPEAKS UP

After matriculating in 2017, Oosthuizen moved to Thailand in March 2018 to do a Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) course.

Lynn Blignaut told the Cape Times that it has been a difficult time for the family.

Blignaut said they trust the Lord, He is sustaining her and also providing for her. She added that the family is doing what they can everyday.

“I really do miss her, terribly. It just became even more real now, since there is so much coverage on her. It still feels sometimes that it’s not my daughter having to go through this. It is hard to accept it.”

Ashley Oosthuizen’s mom, Lynn Blignaut

The family said they believe their daughter is innocent and their representatives are doing everything they can to prove it.

Ashley’s appeal has been filed with the Court of Appeals.

ALSO READ: Ashley Oosthuizen: Family distances itself from crowdfunding website set up by boyfriend

OOSTHUIZEN FAMILY URGES PUBLIC NOT TO DONATE TO WEBSITE

Oosthuizen lost her job during the pandemic and her American boyfriend ,35, offered her a job at his restaurant.

While working at the restaurant she had accepted and signed for a package containing the drug MDMA.

She was subsequently reportedly arrested on October 8, 2020, by Thailand police.

The 35-year-old has since come forward to say that the drugs Oosthuizen was arrested in connection with belonged to him.

In a lengthy statement, he detailed how he ran a drug operation on the island without her knowledge.

A website, which detailed Oosthuizen’s ordeal, appeared and it is believed that the boyfriend set it up. The website seemingly meant to raise awareness about Oosthuizen’s arrest and raise funds for her legal battles.

Oosthuizen’s family cautioned the public against donating to the website.

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Nationwide truck strike: These routes will be affected this weekend [Reminder] https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/nationwide-truck-strike-these-routes-will-be-affected-this-weekend-reminder-26-february-2022-latest/ Sat, 26 Feb 2022 04:04:24 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1105273 Motorists are reminded that several national and provincial routes are expected to be affected by the Truck Drivers Forum and Allied South African (ATDF-ASA) that is embarking on a nationwide truck strike on Saturday and Sunday.

YES, IT SEEMS LIKE THEY WILL BE BLOCKING ROUTES AGAIN

Police spokesperson Colonel Thembeka Mbele said police will be ready to deal with the strike.

“Police treats all threats as serious and accordingly will deploy police officers and necessary resources to curb such threat.”

In a video currently making rounds on social media, the ATDF-ASA called for a nationwide shutdown.

They also raised several demands, including that all foreign national truck drivers be removed immediately from the freight industry.

The movement also wants a 15% salary increase for all local truck drivers, workers without permits to be removed from trucks, and all trucks registered in South Africa to be driven by South Africans.

THE NATIONWIDE TRUCK STRIKE WILL AFFECT MAJOR ROUTES

Watch video:

https://twitter.com/rsa_trucker/status/1496847682949767171

Road Freight Association chief executive officer Gavin Kelly told the Witness that they are aware of the shutdown expected.

The Road Freight Association represents the truck owners.

Kelly said law enforcement agencies have also been alerted about the shutdown and areas they need to focus on.

CALL MADE TO POLICE TO ENSURE TRUCK OPERATORS ARE SAFE

He furthermore told the media that they made a call to the police to ensure that the truck operators and the trucks are kept safe, and the ATDF members should not be allowed to perpetrate any scene of violence.

“Whenever there is such a shutdown, trucks end up being damaged and torched. Members are very concerned and we are tired of this thing dragging on for so long as the government seems to be failing to resolve this,” he said.

He said continued violence in the industry could lead to investors, importers, and exporters opting to use routes in neighbouring countries.

WHAT CAN BE EXPECTED THIS WEEKEND?

Meanwhile, Transnet also warned that disruptive action is expected.

“The SAPS has advised that disruptive action is expected from ATDF (All truck Driver Forum) and affiliates on national and provincial roads this weekend, 26 and 27 Feb, which will be focused on halting truck movements.

“The blockade of national roads and highways, most likely using hijacked trucks, will likely take place in order to intensify the pressure on the government to address their grievance with the use of foreign truck drivers by South African trucking companies,” Transnet said in a statement.

WHAT ROADS IS EXPECTED TO BE AFFECTED:

The N3 and N2 are historically targeted, and there may also be disruptive actions at the Durban and Richards Bay ports.

KZN’s Mooi River Toll Plaza on the N3 has been a major hotspot in the county, with many trucks set alight in the area.

According to Transnet, contingency measures have been implemented by the various security clusters.

This includes continuous vehicle patrols and high visibility on the roads by law enforcement officers.

ALSO READ: Trucks torched in Cape Town and KZN as strike continues

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Murder of young George mother set for arguments of sentence https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/murder-of-young-george-mother-set-for-arguments-of-starting-how-to-avoid/ Wed, 23 Feb 2022 05:00:00 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1102483 The man from George convicted for the rape and murder of a young mother, Bianca Chantel Matroos is expected back in court on Wednesday.

THE MAN WAS CONVICTED BUT STILL NEEDS TO BE SENTENCED

According to National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Eric Ntabazalila, the Western Cape High Court has convicted Revticken Patrick Muller, for the rape and murder of Bianca Chantel Matroos on 15 November 2019, after a night out at a nightclub in George. 

“The case has been postponed to Wednesday 23 February 2022, for arguments in aggravation and mitigation of sentence. The accused will remain in custody.

“The successful conviction follows an intense investigation by members of the South African Police Service (SAPS), who followed the movements of the deceased and the accused, using CCTV footage from the nightclub to where her naked body was found at the George Riding Club,” Ntabazalila said.

During the trial, the prosecutor Adv. Evadne Kortje told the court that Muller met the 37-year-old Matroos at Club Nitro in George on 14 November 2019.

IT IS BELIEVED HE FORCED HER INTO HIS VEHICLE

“In the early hours of the following day, the Muller forced Matroos into a vehicle and drove off with his friends.

“She was last seen in his company and her body was discovered on 17 November 2019, between two concrete blocks in the open cross-country field of the George Riding Club,” Ntabazalila said.

On 24 November 2019, Muller was arrested by members of the SAPS at the same club where he met Matroos. 

Acting Western Cape Director of Public Prosecutions, Adv. Nicolette Bell welcomed the outcome saying it was a first step in ensuring justice for the deceased

ALSO READ: At least 60 hospitalised after suspected gas leak at JHB student residence

THE OUTCOME OF THE CASE WAS WELCOMED

She added that fight against gender-based violence and femicide was one of the top three priorities for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA).

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Police combat and eradicate violent crime in Garden Route District https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/police-clampdown-in-garden-route-district-to-combat-and-eradicate-violent-crime-breaking/ Sun, 20 Feb 2022 14:08:00 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1100643 Police arrested several people recently when they clamped down in the Garden Route District to combat and eradicate violent crime.

VARIOUS PEOPLE WERE ARRESTED IN THE GARDEN ROUTE

According to police spokesperson Captain Malcolm Pojie, various suspects were arrested in connection with the possession of dangerous weapons and the policing and closing of illegal liquor outlets in the region.

“Armed with a search and seizure warrant, George CPU pounced on a house in Gideon Street Blanco on Friday, 18 February 2022 and arrested the middle-aged man for illegally dealing in liquor.

“This follows information received from members of the community about the illegal shebeen. Members confiscated a large amount (see attached photos) of liquor, and the sound system used to pollute the air and invite guests,” he said.

THE ARRESTED MEN WILL APPEAR IN COURT ON MONDAY

Pojie furthermore added the man is currently in custody and scheduled to appear in the George Magistrates’ Court once charged.

Oudtshoorn police also successfully executed a search warrant when members of the Crime Prevention Unit pounced on a residence in Bridgton.

Police caught a middle-aged man in the act and arrested him for Dealing in Liquor illegally.

POLICE CONFISCATED MORE THAN 142 LITRE OF LIQUOR

“Members confiscated more than 142litre of liquor that was found on the premises. The suspect was later released on a warning to appear in the Oudtshoorn Magistrates’ court soon.”

Pojie said the police in Pacaltsdorp intensified their quest to address GBV&F through hi-density patrols and the confiscation of dangerous weapons such as Okapi knives and other sharp objects that can potentially inflict life-threatening injuries.

DANGEROUS WEAPONS WERE CONFISCATED

“For the last few months, they have already arrested and seized more than 41-people for carrying dangerous weapons and since December 2021, they have already disposed of hundreds of dangerous weapons that were seized during crime combatting operations.”

Western Cape Provincial management has lauded all the members involved for their diligence and commitment to bring these suspects to book.

“Their illicit acts and greed contribute to the endangerment of all road users and pedestrians alike.”

ALSO READ: BUSTED! Five alleged George drug dealers released on bail

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Ashley Oosthuizen: Family distances itself from crowdfunding website set up by boyfriend https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/breaking-ashley-oosthuizen-family-distances-itself-from-crowdfunding-website-set-up-by-boyfriend-19-february-2022/ Sat, 19 Feb 2022 09:13:59 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1099639 Ashley Oosthuizen, 22, from George in the Western Cape was arrested by Thai police in October 2020 and sentenced to death, which has since been commuted to life imprisonment for drug smuggling. Her family and friends believe she is innocent.

OOSTHUIZEN FAMILY URGES PUBLIC NOT TO DONATE TO WEBSITE

Her American boyfriend, 35, has come forward to say that the drugs Oosthuizen was arrested in connection with belonged to him.

In a lengthy statement, he detailed how he ran a drug operation on the island without her knowledge.

A website, which details Oosthuizen’s ordeal, has appeared and it is believed that the boyfriend set it up.

The website is seemingly meant to raise awareness about Oosthuizen’s arrest and raise funds for her legal battles.

At the foot of the site, readers are petitioned to consider donating to a fund set up by Oosthuizen’s mother, Lynn Blignaut; buying a book; and “becoming a subscribing member to Ashley Capital & DeFi, a crypto consulting and wealth management company that is being started in her name and honor.”

Earlier this week, the website claimed Ashley’s legal fund is being set up and run by her father, Andre Oosthuizen. This has since changed and it now reads, “Donate to Ashley’s legal fund soon, it is being set up and run by her mother, Lynette Blignaut.”

According to the George Herald, Oosthuizen’s parents have discouraged the public from donating to the crowdfunding platforms on the website because they cannot guarantee it will be used for the right purpose.

“We cannot guarantee that the funds paid into these accounts will in actual fact be used to help Ashley in any way,” said Blignaut.

However, the family is in the process of setting up its own trust fund for donations that will be used to cover legal and repatriation costs as they battle to bring their daughter home.

Ashley’s father told the publication that he told the boyfriend he wants nothing to do with the website and asked him to erase his name from it.

READ: George woman, 22, faces life imprisonment in Thailand for boyfriend’s crime

DIRCO HANDS TIED

The Department of International Relations and Cooperative Affairs (DIRCO) has confirmed that Oosthuizen was indeed arrested in Thailand.

Spokesperson Clayson Monyela said the department and its embassy in Bangkok is providing Ashley’s family with consular assistance but said the Department is not in a position to intervene in the affairs of a sovereign country.

Oosthuizen is expected to appeal her life sentence but there is uncertainty about when this will take place – it could take up to 18 months.

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Ashley Oosthuizen: George woman, 22, faces life imprisonment in Thailand for boyfriend’s crime https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/breaking-freeashley-ashley-oosthuizen-george-22-thailand-life-imprisonment-18-february-2022/ Fri, 18 Feb 2022 12:19:05 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1099180 Ashley Oosthuizen was reportedly arrested on 8 October 2020 after a sting operation – of sorts – by Thailand police. She was charged with drug-related charges and initially sentenced to death but upon appeal, the sentence was commuted to life imprisonment.

ASHLEY OOSTHUIZEN FACES LIFE IMPRISONMENT

Oosthuizen has been imprisoned since her arrest and her family last made contact with her in December 2021. The former Outeniqua High School learner flew to Thailand in March 2018, shortly after finishing school.

The 22-year-old has maintained her innocence throughout the ordeal. Her family has done the same and now a man purporting to be her boyfriend has stepped forward and said that Oosthuizen was arrested because of his alleged drug deals.

The boyfriend reached out to the George Herald via Facebook and released a lengthy statement in which he details the events that led to Oosthuizen’s arrest and imprisonment. It also reads like a vain autobiography at times.

When a journalist from the George Herald asked the boyfriend why he did not go back to Thailand – he is believed to be in the United States – and surrender himself to the authorities and admit his guilt, he replied:

“Because accepting a life sentence for importing harmless MDMA for consenting adults after governments just forcibly vaccinated [millions] against their will with experimental cocktails would be bowing to tyrants. I do not bow to tyrants, I kill them.

“Why dont you ask Koh Samui police why they are keeping an innocent woman locked up regardless you [dumb] b*tch?”

The boyfriend indicated that he felt he could not raise awareness about Oosthuizen’s wrongful imprisonment until he had his affairs in order.

“Had I come sooner, no one would listen. Now that I have websites, a business, a book, and more – now Ashley can no longer be ignored. Ashley’s only crime was being my girlfriend,” he said.

DRUG DEALER BOYFRIEND

The website – https://www.freeashley.org/ – tells the tale of Oosthuizen’s arrest.

She met the boyfriend – who would later be revealed as an “international dark web drug dealer” – for the first time at a Halloween party in 2019. She was 19 and he was 32.

Unbeknownst to Oosthuizen, the boyfriend’s drug dealing business was centred on the school he worked for. He allegedly arranged for the drugs to be mailed to the school’s main office and would pick it up before the day ended.

When they met, Oosthuizen was working as a kindergarten teacher at one of the schools on the island but she eventually lost the job.

“After Ashley was laid off she tried working many odd jobs around the island as a nanny, tutor, and even as an aerial yoga instructor.

“However none of these positions afforded Ashley a work permit and without a work permit, she would eventually have to return back to South Africa,” reads the website.

The boyfriend offered her a job as a manager of a new restaurant that he wanted to open, which would enable her to get a new work permit and continue to live on the island.

The logo of the restaurant was reportedly designed by Oosthuizen. Photo: freeashley.org

OOSTHUIZEN FAMILY FIGHTING TO BRING HER HOME

While Oosthuizen was working at the restaurant, the boyfriend was reportedly attending medical school in Ukraine and wanted to restart his drug operation.

Since he no longer worked at the school, he needed a new address to ship the drugs to and he began using the restaurant without her knowledge.

Six weeks after the boyfriend started shipping the drugs to the restaurant Ashleigh was arrested. She had no idea what was happening.

On the day of her arrest, she accepted a package from a delivery man on behalf of one of the boyfriend’s friends and 10 minutes later the police arrived and arrested her. The package allegedly contained 250g of MDMA.

According to the website, since her arrest, Ashleigh has been shafted by her lawyers and been subjected to an unreasonable legal system and diplomatic assistance has been all but non-existent.

Her next appeal against the life imprisonment sentence is expected to be heard sometime this year.

Oosthuizen’s mother, Lynn Blignaut, told the George Herald that the family is doing everything in its power to bring her back to South Africa.

“Ashley is in excellent health because He [God] sustains her in all ways and provides for her. We would not have been able to stand so strong every day if it wasn’t for mercy and grace from God. We can now only wait for her next appeal,” said Blignaut.

DIRCO AWARE OF ASHLEIGH’S ORDEAL

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) said it is aware of Oosthuizen’s imprisonment.

One of the department’s spokespersons, Clayson Monyela, said the department and the country’s embassy in Bangkok are assisting Oosthuizen and her family, to SABC News.

Another spokesperson, Lunga Ngqengelele, told the Cape Times the department can only communicate with the detainee and a designated family member due to the sensitivity of the matter.

Monyela also said DIRCO cannot interfere in legal matters, hearings or the judicial process of a foreign country.

The boyfriend’s 12-page statement can be found here: https://cms.groupeditors.com//Documents/FroalaFiles/0d3b5135-2fe1-4b80-a549-b1049edf247d.pdf

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BUSTED! Five alleged George drug dealers released on bail https://www.thesouthafrican.com/news/busted-five-alleged-george-drug-dealers-released-on-bail-breaking/ Wed, 16 Feb 2022 07:00:00 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1096977 A group of five alleged drug dealers has all been released out on bail after they appeared in the George Magistrate Court.

THE FIVE ARE BELIEVED TO BE PART OF AN ORGANISED CRIME GROUP

According to Hawks spokesperson Zinzi Hani, the five were released on bail on Tuesday, respectively, with conditions.

Hani said the organised crime group is alleged to have been involved in securing cannabis from several cultivators based in the rural villages of the Eastern Cape.

“Once the required quantity of cannabis was secured, it would be moved to the Southern Cape.”

POLICE ARRESTED THE FIVE EARLIER THIS MONTH

This follows a multidisciplinary operation executed last month by the Hawks Serious Organised Crime team from George and Ggeberha, George  K9 unit, POPS Southern Cap, and Oudtshoorn and Motherwell Crime Intelligence.

ALSO READ: Dead body: Man found lifeless in George’s ‘drug’ house

The operation resulted in numerous properties being searched and the arrest of five people.

WHO ARE THEY, AND WHAT CHARGES DO THEY FACE?

Lindelani Lofani, Hlalanathi Lofani, Bongani Kenny Mgqetse, Mzimasi Lofani and Somleze Nkawule all face charges of of dealing in illicit drugs as well contravening the Prevention of Organised Crime Act (POCA) 121 of 1998.

The matter has been remanded to 28 March 2022 for further investigation.

Meanwhile, plants and dry dagga to the street value of R600​ 000 were confiscated earlier this month. An R4 million worth of structure that is reported to be used in the processing of the plants was also identified.

ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL BUST

Captain Yolisa Mgolo­dela said two men, aged 35 and 65-year-old were arre­sted.

“The operation was conducted by the East Lon­don based Serious Or­ganised Crime Invest­igation (SOCI) team of the Hawks, Crime Intelligence, K9 uni­t, Local Criminal Re­cord Centre (LCRC) in Aliwal North and Lady Grey respectively on charges of op­erating a dagga plan­tation and numerous counts of dealing in drugs on 7 February 2022.

“Heeding a call about a farm that was ope­rating as a dagga pl­antation, a number of purchases were suc­cessfully done and surveillance conduc­ted at the farm,” Mgolo­dela said.

THE MAIN PURPOSE OF THE FARM IS TO PLANT AND CULTIVATE DAGGA

The team proc­eeded to the farm where they found the 35-year-old man, who is supposedly the consultant of the owner of the dagga farm.

The ma­in purpose of the fa­rm is to plant, cult­ivate, dry, and sell dagga.

The in­vestigation led the team to Aliwal North where a 65-year-old man was arrested for numerous charges of dealing in dagga. ​

ALSO READ: Police investigating the horrific Voëlklip accident [Update]

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