DistriksPos
Police in hot pursuit





Jamey Gordon and Yaseen Gaffar
An alleged foot chase ended tragically when a young man believed to be pursued by police jumped into a reservoir and drowned.
The incident occurred at the Strand Pump Station located on Old Sir Lowry’s Pass Road in Somerset West on Monday morning (4 November).
Authorities, including Somerset West and Metro police, diving units, law enforcement and City of Cape Town officials, responded to the scene, where the body was recovered from the reservoir in the early afternoon.
Revealing the deceased’s identity was withheld until family members had
formally identified him.
According to initial reports the deceased was pursued by police allegedly after stoning vehicles along the route and jumped into the reservoir, presumably to escape being caught.
There was also the possibility that the man was unaware that the reservoir was filled with water on jumping through an opening in the cover.
Suzan Jantjies, spokesperson for the Somerset West police, confirmed police officers were driving in Old Sir Lowry’s Pass Road, around 09:30, when they spotted the 24-year-old behind a trailer throwing stones at passing vehicles.
“The officers stopped their vehicle and instructed the suspect to cease his actions, warning him that his behaviour could cause an accident,” she said.
“The suspect refused to comply and continued hurling stones at the police officers and their vehicle.
“In response, the officers fired a warning shot towards the ground. The suspect fled towards the reservoir, where he disappeared under the water.”
Jantjies further confirmed that police divers were called to the area and retrieved the body at 13:52.
On enquiry, Zahid Badroodien, Mayoral Committee member for Water and Sanitation, said an incident of unauthorised access to the reservoir, following police pursuit of a suspect, was reported at 10:15. Badroodien said water supply from the reservoir was temporarily isolated from the main supply system and was disinfected before reinstated.
Tara and Nicholas Moffitt invite interested individuals to join them and their family in celebrating the life of Lawrence Shaw Moffitt at Hottentots-Holland High School on Saturday 16 November at 10:00. Moffitt died in the presence of his loved ones on Tuesday 8 October, following a valiant battle with colon cancer and exactly a week after his 67th birthday (“Respected legal legend dies,” 16 October).
Prompt arrival will be appreciated as seating is limited. Dress code: Legal professionals and police members wear their respective court attire and/or uniform. Light refreshments and snacks will be provided.
Barend J Williams
More than 50 years after his death, the remains of an apartheid freedom fighter has finally returned home and been laid to rest in Somerset West.
The remains of uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) military veteran Basil February were repatriated from Zimbabwe and reunited with their family at a funeral service last Wednesday (30 October). It was held at All Saints Anglican Cathedral, followed by a burial at the Somerset West Cemetery in Garden Village.
Just eight days after his 24th birthday February heroically died during armed combat with apartheid forces in Rhodesia in August 1967.
His body was buried in an unmarked grave and, as a result of the political turmoil, his family was not granted the opportunity to give him the dignified send-off they felt he rightfully deserved.
But this changed after his remains were found after a decades-long search.
Last week, friends, family and community members paid their last respects to February as his remains were reburied next to his parents, Paul (junior) and Janet February, in the family plot at the local cemetery.
His grandfather, Paul (senior), lies buried on the same plot.
The February family has a rich
and long history in Somerset West. Paul (senior), based in Paardevlei when it was designated a coloured area by the apartheid government in accordance with the Group Areas Act of 1950.
February Street in this residential area is named after the family’s patriarch.
For this reason the February family chose Somerset West as the political activist’s final resting place. “Our family’s origin is in Somerset West,” said younger brother Terence February.
While the family had strong ties to the Helderberg, February was born in Bo-Kaap on 8 August 1943. His family moved to Saldanha Bay seven years later, and its where February spent his formative and early primary-school years.
His later primary-school years were spent at Zonnebloem Boys’ Primary in District Six, before he advanced to Trafalgar High and matriculated in 1960.
It was at this very school that his strong political views were formed.
Terry, 11 years his junior, vividly recalled his brother’s reaction when the younger sibling received a flag and medal on South Africa’s being declared a republic in 1961.
“Basil came over and took the flag and medal from me. He burnt the flag and chucked the medal away.
“I started crying and then he hugged me. He told me to look at him and said I would understand
his actions one day.”
After his matriculation
February enrolled to study medicine at the University of Cape Town, but his political activities drove him to drop out in 1962.
He joined the South African Coloured People’s Congress in 1963, and the following year joined the MK ranks. Said Terry: “Basil used to stay away from home, sometimes disappearing for two or three days at a time.
“I remember the first time he was released from prison, after being detained for 90 days. He looked frail, tired and dirty. Just seeing my brother, who was usually very joyful, in that state devastated me.”
Being part of MK meant February was forced to flee South Africa to undergo the necessary training, while he also did not want to put his family at risk.
His sudden departure meant that he never got a chance to say goodbye to his family.
After his training, February and his fellow MK soldiers were on their way back to SA when they were ambushed by the armed apartheid forces. He was killed on 16 August 1967.
BROKEN-HEARTED
The February family, still residing in Saldanha Bay, received the news of their son’s death through a visit from the police.
“They delivered the message in a vulgar way. Speaking in Afrikaans, they said they’ve killed the ‘pig’, referring to my brother,”
The remains of Basil February, a political activist.
Terry remembered. “There were so many high-pitched discussions in our household afterwards, but nothing made sense to me at the time.”
February’s parents never truly made peace with his brutal death or the fact that they couldn’t hold a proper funeral for their son, Terry said. “My father died a broken man in 1980 and my mother mourned Basil’s death until the day she died in 2004, when on her deathbed she made me promise I would bring Basil back home.”
LET HIS LEGACY LIVE
The dutiful son kept his word, and exactly 20 years after her death, Terry reunited his parents with his brother’s remains.
The remaining family acknowledges February’s contribution to the apartheid struggle, but also hope he will be remembered as someone who loved his family.
Terry said although his brother’s life was short in years, he lived a complete life as a brother and son, who fell in love, enjoyed writing and stood steadfast in his beliefs.
“To the youth of today, ask yourselves how you can contribute to the social justice and the political terrain by speaking truth to power,” he urged.
Gordon’s Bay police have opened an inquest docket after an elderly man was found dead in his home on Tuesday (29 October). The tragic discovery was made around 10:00 when on-duty officers were dispatched to the residence in Berg Street after neighbours alerted authorities to a foul odour emanating from the property. On gaining entry to the house respondents found the 82-year-old homeowner Joshua Marais dead. According to a Gordon’s Bay police spokesperson it is unclear how long Marais, a singleton who apparently had lived alone, had been dead before being discovered. The spokesperson confirmed no foul play was suspected. Sources who spoke to DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette on the scene, and following the incident, said Marais was known to be a “very nice” person and neighbour who used to be seen leaving his home in his Mercedes Benz only on Mondays, to do shopping and to collect his edition of the local newspaper. Photo: Barend J Williams
Yaseen Gaffar
A lost, but friendly penguin waddled along Strand Beach last Tuesday 29 October, running towards people and playing with them, in between bouts of swimming with surfers.
“Mr P” as he has become known by the locals, also captivated the hearts of beachgoers.
“The penguin was chipped and we discovered he had been released back into the ocean in Simon’s Town six months ago on 10 April,” said Lisa Starr of Helderberg Ocean Awareness Movement (Hoam). “It was incredible to see this penguin so comfortable around people.”
Despite its friendly nature, Starr warned against interfering with wildlife. “It’s important to remember that these animals are wild creatures and they are capable of feeding themselves,” she cautioned.
“By trying to feed or touch them we can unintentionally harm them. Unfortunately, some people weren’t as considerate and even dragged the penguin towards the ocean. It was a risky situation.”
The penguin’s appearance on Strand beach raised concerns about its safety. With heavy foot traffic and potential hazards, it was clear that the bird needed to be returned to a more suitable environment.
“We had to work quickly to clear the beach and create a safe space for the penguin,” said Starr, who was assisted
that
by Dorrete Dreyer of Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (Sanccob), who rescued the penguin and the next day it was transported to the Sanccob rehabilitation centre. There it will receive the necessary care and rehabilitation before being released back into its natural habitat.
This incident serves as a reminder to respect wildlife and avoid disturbing their natural behaviours. By understanding and appreciating these creatures, we can help ensure their survival for generations to come.
According to Sanccob the African Penguin faces extinction in the wild by 2035 if more is not done to curb the current rate of population decline. The crisis is driven primarily by their lack of access to prey, for which they must compete with the commercial purseseine fishery which continues to catch sardine and anchovy in the waters surrounding African Penguin breeding colonies. Critically, these colonies are home to an estimated 90% of South Africa’s African Penguins.
Said Starr: “To protect a Critically Endangered species it’s existence has to be paramount. The penguins need to come first before anything else.”
Starr also rescued a juvenile penguin on Sunday 3 November off the Strand dog beach.
The City of Cape Town’s Recreation and Parks Department has announced eight of its beaches, including Bikini Beach in Gordon’s Bay, have been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag status for the 2024-’25 season. This international recognition is given to beaches that meet high standards of environmental management, water quality, safety, services and environmental education. The Blue Flag programme promotes sustainable development at beaches through strict criteria, ensuring the integrity of marine and coastal resources. The Blue Flag season will run from 1 December 2024 to 31 January 2025. In this period beachgoers at Bikini Beach can expect pristine coastal conditions, weekly tested sea-water quality, well-maintained facilities and enhanced safety measures, including lifeguards on duty and prominently displayed safety information. The City will also roll educational initiatives out, such as drowning-prevention campaigns and learn-to-swim programmes, to promote water safety. This recognition highlights the City’s commitment to maintaining safe, clean and accessible coastal spaces, and encourages responsible enjoyment of the beaches.
Officers in blue who dedicated themselves to the initiative (from left) are Sector Commanders, Constable Zhandro Valentine and Portia Jansen, Sergeant Nceba Qwayi (designated police officer of liquor license control for Lwandle and Nomzamo), Thandokazi Nyembezi (Victim Empowerment programme coordinator), Sergeant Thembakazi Maqekeni (Lwandle Police Station’s gender-based violence desk coordinator), local ward councillor Xolani Diniso and Lieutenant Colonel Mlamli Voyiya (Station Commander of Lwandle Police Station). Pictured in the back is Maphelo Nothwane, manager of Khasibe Tavern.
An increase in gender-based violence (GBV) cases in Lwandle has prompted the police to take a different approach to combat the scourge on society’s most vulnerable.
On Saturday 2 November, members of the Lwandle police visited two township taverns to address male patrons on how they can prevent any incident of violence against women and children.
Officers were afforded a listening ear by patrons at Khasibe Tavern in Vulindlela Street, Lwandle, and Mababela Tavern in Tryilani Street, Nomzamo, on Saturday afternoon.
The purpose of the campaign was to get patrons and tavern owners to alert the police to potential GBV actions by their fellow men.
“If we see or hear about GBV and we keep quiet, then we as men also have to take blame for it,” said Ward 86 councillor Xolani Diniso, who
accompanied police to Khasibe Tavern where male patrons were addressed on the matter.
He believed by coming to taverns they were stopping incidents of GBV at its root.
“We know that the majority of the GBV perpetrators are men, so we came directly to where they gathered.”
According to Station Commander Lieutenant-Colonel Mlamli Voyiya, most of the grievous-bodily-harm cases related to domestic violence were a direct result of alcohol abuse.
“It all begins with alcohol,” he said.
“We do not see as many of these cases during the week. It is only when Friday, Saturday and Sunday come around that we see a spike in GBV assaults.”
Going forth tavern owners will be leaned on heavily to inform police in order to get the necessary help to the relative parties.
“When owners hear patrons say things such as ‘when I get home I am going to show my wife who is the man of the
house’, they have to contact us,” said Sergeant Mthokozisi Gama, Lwandle police’s social crime prevention coordinator and spokesperson.
He said should the police be called on in such an instance intervention by authorities with assistance of social services will be prioritised.
Maphelo Nlyamakasi, manager of Khabise Tavern, expressed being for action to help curb incidents of GBV, whether or not it adversely affects business.
“This allows men to be more open and talk about their problems instead of taking it out on their partners,” said Nlyamakasi.
According to a patron, Nkoiyodumo Mdibaniso, the initiative helps promote safety in the community. “The police rely on us for information so if we see something we need to say something.”
The police are hoping the campaign lowers GBV cases in Lwandle, whereas Duniso is hoping for an even bigger outcome. “We don’t just want to see GBV minimised, we want to eradicate it,” he said.
) A man (34) from Sir Lowry’s Pass was arrested for the possession of drugs in Sir Lowry’s Pass on Saturday 26 October.
According to Sergeant Suzan Jantjies, spokesperson for the Somerset West police, officers on patrol in the area responded to a tip-off of illegal drugs being sold in Mahantele Street around 20:30.
“A description of the suspect was provided, and the police noticed a man matching the description,” she said. “On searching him, police found 18 small transparent bags of tik in his possession. The man was arrested and detained at Somerset West Police Station. A case of possession of drugs is under investigation.” Station commander Colonel Jacolize Fleischmann commended and thanked the community for their information, which helps with ridding the community of illegal drugs.
) Strand police are investigating a case of attempted murder following a shooting incident in Gustrouw on Sunday 3 November.
“The victim and his two friends walked to William Stewart Street to buy drugs around 02:15,” a police report stated.
“On their way home the suspect and his three friends were standing in the passage [sic] in Hassan Khan Avenue. They asked the victim for his music box. When the victim refused to give it to them the suspect shot him in the left thigh.
“The victim and one of his friends ran home, where they contacted the police and ambulance. The victim was then taken to hospital for treatment.”
) Strand police seized a firearm and ammunition recovered in an operation that took place on Monday 4 November. This after members of a shift were on patrol when they arrested a suspect for possession of property suspected to be stolen. Among the items was a USB drive. This was searched for details, and officers came across information related to Mr PJ van der Merwe, who was contacted and sent pictures of the goods found. He confirmed the property was his. Members then proceeded to the address at 16 Murray Street, Strand, where they found a back door forced open.
The owner contacted the officers and informed them to check for his firearm in the house.
No firearm could be found, and the owner confirmed the firearm was not in a safe but hidden among his clothes.
Informers were then activated, and officers followed up on the information gathered. This eventually led to the arrest of more suspects and the recovery of a chrome Taurus .380 ACP pistol with serial number TQG99798, along with two magazines, each containing 14 live rounds (28 in total).
Dozens of curious passers-by stopped to snap a photo of a police van ditched in a canal along Lancaster Road in Gordon’s Bay last Wednesday morning (30 October), some even inspecting the vehicle to make sure no-one was still trapped inside.
Moments later Gordon’s Bay police confirmed a case of reckless and negligent driving was being investigated, and that the two police officers who were in the vehicle at the time sustained minor injuries and were
taken to hospital for treatment.
“Police responded to the incident around 02:30, and it can be confirmed that it is a Gordon’s Bay police vehicle,” a spokesperson for Gordon’s Bay police stated, without elaborating on the circumstances which led to the accident.
It is believed the vehicle was left in the canal as it couldn’t be removed immediately, but only later in the morning with the assistance of a towing company.
The injured officers have since been discharged from hospital.
Jamey Gordon
Fostering underprivileged children’s holistic growth and development by nurturing their passion for sport is what the recently-established Leading Light Academy sets out to achieve.
The non-profit is driven to uplift youths from adverse backgrounds through sports engagement involving various programmes, including workshops and clinics.
“The ultimate goal is to transform youngsters into wellrounded young adults, especially in disadvantaged parts of our communities,” explained Francois Siljeur, the academy’s activities coordinator. “Our youth need guidance, support and their energy needs to be
channelled positively to build healthy communities and a better future.”
Siljeur is part of the trio behind the academy’s establishment, inspired by their collective passion for sports and first-hand experience of its significantly positive effects. As a testament to this, Siljeur mentioned that the academy’s coach, Jan Pretorius, is a former South African weightlifting champion who now operates a gym from his home in Gordon’s Bay. There he trains and develops young athletes, boosting their confidence. Siljeur also highlighted that since his son, Mac, started training with Pretorius three years ago he had become an excellent discus and shotput athlete and a strong forward player for his school.
Fellow coach Neil Daniels had
developed talents such as Gino Cupido, a rising star from the Sir Lowry’s Pass community and a Western Province u-21 asset. Together, the academy’s coaching duo, Pretorius and Daniels, have been successfully honing rugby and athletics talent for several years.
Their physical involvement includes sports training programmes to unlock youngsters’ potential and promote holistic growth through skills development. These programmes and mobile clinics for ages 11 and up offer strength and conditioning coaching for rugby and athletics, focusing on fitness, power, agility, diet, and injury prevention. Life skills development includes selfawareness, teamwork, social awareness, effective listening, managing emotions, and
motivational talks.
The academy aims to build a database to track athletes’ progress and follow up with their coaches. Despite their qualifications, coaches regularly attend workshops to stay updated on the latest sports trends and methodologies.
Pretorius and Daniels’ programmes and coaching skills were showcased during a successful rugby clinic hosted at Sir Lowry’s Pass Primary School on Friday 25 October. The academy worked alongside the school’s rugby coordinator, Leclue Visser, who selected around 20 under-11 and under-13 rugby players to benefit from the opportunity. Basic rugby skills training, made possible through valued sponsorships by Peninsula Beverages, NTS Tracking, The Brand Company,
and Fusion Plumbing Services, was the focus of the morning programme. Avid players enjoyed the camaraderie while engaging in a dynamic warm-up and learning about passing and handling under pressure, keeping the ball alive in contact, ruck/ball placement, communication into contact, bounce and reload from tackle, and defence as units.
The academy hopes to monitor the teams’ progress with followup sessions and assist the school with talent identification.
“We want to reach out to more local schools, especially where there is a lack of rugby, athletics, and life skills coaching. We currently contact schools where we see a need, but we urge more schools to contact us,” implored Siljeur.
Leading Light Academy is working toward obtaining a facility to operate from, instead of relying on the generosity of local schools that offer their premises for use. The academy is calling on the community not only to support their cause but also to assist with donations to acquire equipment.
“Our dream is to have a multipurpose centre where we can cultivate the next generation of rugby World Cup winners and Olympic medallists, coupled with life skills that set them up to be good South African citizens. This is our dream, which we are taking small strides toward.”
For more information, contact Siljeur on 083 220 9081.
Die Milkwood-speelgoed-biblioteek is gereed om vreugde in kinderhartjies terug te bring! Die sentrum se nuwe ruimte is verlede Woensdag (30 Oktober) by die Wild Wild West-speelpark in die Gants-sentrum geopen. Die biblioteek is amptelik in Mei 2023 in Gordonsbaai geopen, maar ’n skenking van omtrent 600 nuwe speelgoed het hulle genoodsaak om na ’n groter perseel te trek. Die stigter, Lize Marais (foto), het gesê die sentrum se nuwe tuiste bied kinders die geleentheid om die speelgoed te geniet terwyl hulle ook die toerusting in die speelpark geniet. Sy vergelyk dít met ’n vuurtjie wat in die hemel vir kinderharte gemaak is. Kinders van die Helderberg kan die speelgoed, wat vir verskillende ouderdomsgroepe ontwerp is, vir tot drie maande huur. Foto’s: Barend J. Williams
Yaseen Gaffar
Nomzamo High School in Strand has received a significant boost thanks to a partnership between Strong Schools Community Collaborative (SSCC) and Capitec Bank. The two organisations have collaborated to establish a much-needed sick bay and counselling room, providing essential services to students for the first time.
The official opening of the facilities was marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony held on Thursday 31 October and was attended by sponsors, guests, staff and learners.
Learners and educators expressed their gratitude with songs of joy and beautiful words to show their thanks.
“This space, addressing the rising need for psycho-social support and well-being among students and teachers, is truly a Godsend and a major milestone for Nomzamo High School,” said Strong Schools in a statement. “It provides a safe, private and comforting environment where learners can be honest about their emotions, confront challenges and receive professional support from trained counsellors.
“Additionally, it will serve as a sick bay, giving unwell learners a peaceful place to rest and recover. SSCC currently
collaborates with two counsellors from our community, Adré Potgieter (therapeutic social worker and neuro-coach), and Abeedah Hendricks-Lalla (child-focused psychologist from Cedar Psychology). Their expertise and dedication to this project have been invaluable.”
Asked to comment on the sponsorship, Capitec Bank responded that their involvement with Nomzamo High School is part of their ongoing work with schools connected to the Strong Schools network, where Capitec employee volunteers have supported multiple initiatives over recent years.
“Last year, we provided funding for a new Counselling Room and Sick Bay to address the importance of psycho-social support in strengthening school communities. Having a dedicated space for health and emotional care is essential, and we’re pleased to see it open and
accessible to students.
Alongside this project, we supported Nomzamo High’s calculator drive to further learners’ resources in maths, which complements the investment made by the Capitec Foundation’s in pure mathematics through its whole school model. We also supported the school with white boards and data projectors to help create a more conducive learning environment. Additionally, earlier this year we piloted a life skills initiative focused on Grades 11 and 12 learners, equipping them with critical skills for navigating life after school. Valuable feedback from learners and teachers has guided us in refining this initiative going forward.
“Through these efforts, we’re committed to investing back into education and the communities we serve, aiming to create a lasting impact on schools like Nomzamo High.”
Jamey Gordon
Services are categorised by grant type and assigned to specific days of the week.
This was highlighted by Shivani Wahab, marketing and communications director for the South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) Western Cape in response to complaints from grant recipients facing significant challenges as result of service delays and inefficiencies to access funds.
Recipients from various areas of the Helderberg have reported long journeys, often requiring money for transport to the Sassa office in Eerste River and long queues outside the building. To avoid this and ensure assistance, many have resorted to camping outside the office overnight. One recipient shared that she camped out overnight for consecutive nights on three separate occasions for assistance. What’s more, is that of the hundreds who embrace the queues and endure the harsh nights a few tens out of hundreds of people are helped, with the rest being turned away by agents limited to this number per day.
The middle-aged recipient questioned the possibility for Sassa to open satellite offices or use a hall on certain days closer to home to service Helderberg residents. “Surely
this is feasible, as people are going to extremes such as borrowing money to get to the Sassa branch and sleeping outside the building, putting their dignity on the line and themselves at risk to ensure they are helped,” she said.
“Having to resort to such measures is just not fair, considering that most people are elderly, some disabled and battling health conditions.”
Another recipient expressed dismay at witnessing an elderly woman asking security to get a letter and being told to stand in the trailing queue because the service point is filled to capacity inside. The line is filled with mothers with babies and young children, elderly persons and disabled people who endure the tiring queue with the possibility that they may not be helped and most likely be turned away.
Wahab said that Sassa Eerste River operates on Monday (older-persons grant), Tuesday and Wednesday (disability grant), Thursday (child-support grant), and Friday (social relief of distress grant and appointment bookings). There is a service point in Kraaifontein. Another in Strand has not been operational since August due to renovations. The Eerste River office serves such communities as Sir Lowry’s Pass, Gordon’s Bay, Somerset West, Strand, Lwandle,
Nomzamo, Macassar, Eerste River, Kuils River, Blackheath, Happy Valley, Wesbank and Mfuleni.
“As a result, there is often a high influx of clients and a significant demand for services at this particular contact point,” Wahab said. “Services are segregated per grant type which is then linked to specific days of the week. Older-persons grants are scheduled for a Monday allowing us to prioritise our elderly clients. Our disability grant clients are our focus area on Tuesdays and Wednesdays to ensure that they are treated with dignity and respect. Thursdays are reserved only for childsupport grant clients.”
She mentioned that beneficiary education is conducted on-site where recipients are engaged and advised not to sleep over at any contact point for services.
Ablution facilities, outside the premises, for those who choose to sleep over are not available, and that is beyond Sassa’s control. An appointment system has been implemented to ensure every client who requires Sassa services is duly assisted. For this Fridays are reserved, with the Sassa Eerste River Office confirming appointment bookings for the next three weeks, with over 210 clients booked for each Friday.
Due to the closure of the
Strand service point, there are currently 11 grant administrators at the contact point, with an estimate of 21 clients per official. In the past week the Sassa Eerste River office has attended to approximately 210 to 240 clients on disability grant and child-support grant days. On Tuesdays and Wednesdays the number of clients accessing the office for services exceeds 400 per day.
Wahab also assured that all communication with clients about service availability, waiting times and changes to operations are conducted through beneficiary education in the office waiting room (through posters, TV screens and face-to-face engagement).
Community radio and the existing provincial Sassa stakeholder network are used as reliable platforms for broader beneficiary education in the province. General Sassa information may be accessed via official Sassa social-media platforms and the Sassa website.
Recipients may lodge complaints, enquiries and disputes via the Sassa toll-free number or email. All enquiries, disputes and complaints are logged on the Integrated Customer Care Application System. A reference number is generated and issued to the client upon receipt. If able to resolve immediately, a response will
Services at the
office are categorised by grant type and assigned to specific days of the week, leading to significant challenges and long queues for recipients. These challenges, including recipients camping outside the office for assistance, have prompted calls for additional service points and better management.
be provided to the recipient and the incident will be closed on the Sassa system. If unable to resolve immediately, the matter will be escalated to the relevant Local Office Manager to investigate and respond within three working days. The response will be provided as per the recipient’s preference: telephonically, email, or formal letter. The response and any supporting documents will be uploaded onto the system, and the matter will be closed once a final response is provided.
The City of Cape Town has successfully completed a comprehensive maintenance and upgrade programme in the Macassar community residential units (CRUs). The initiative, which focused on addressing emergency and general repairs, including plumbing and electrical work, is part of the City’s broader commitment to improving the living conditions of residents in affordable housing. With an investment of over R1,2 billion, the City aims to enhance the safety, functionality and overall well-being of residents in its public-housing units across Cape Town.
Councillor Carl Pophaim, Mayco member for human settlements, emphasised the importance of community involvement in preserving public housing. “We encourage residents to report maintenance needs and emergencies,” he said.
“Together, we can combat vandalism and ensure a positive living environment for all.” Pophaim encouraged tenants to reach out to the City for their maintenance needs and emergencies, and asked that residents stand with the City in the fight against public-housing vandalism.
“Anonymous tip-offs are welcome,” he said.
“If you see something, say something and report it to 021 480 7700.”
Initially promulgated in 2007, there have been considerable developments since including but not limited to the expansion of the peace officer powers for law enforcement officers in 2018. The 2021 Amendment By-law addressed certain constitutional aspects and the need to adapt standard operating procedures to align with by-laws generally to ensure efficacy in implementation. This Amendment By-law reflects the inclusive approach by the City providing for a tiered or cascade protocol allowing for additional procedural steps, such as a verbal directive followed by a compliance notice before certain activities become offences and enforceable as such. The Amendment By-law thus distinguishes between more shocking offences and those commonly and more directly associated with homelessness, rough sleepers or similar people who reasonably can be regarded to have aspects of vulnerability and lack of choice in their living circumstances. Essentially, this Amendment By-law also goes further than the previous in addressing constitutionality concerns and reducing adverse regulatory impact
Within the context of the abovementioned, the Amendment By-law deals with adding and contextualising procedural aspects in an inclusive approach that will guide necessary action while maintaining the need for:
• The effective resolution of complaints and situations detracting from the ordinary person’s rights to reasonable peace, enjoyment of public open spaces and facilities and
• Ensuring that risk to the City, individuals and landowners are mitigated in that necessary and ongoing processes/actions are supported by legislation.
In terms of section 17 of the Local Government: Municipal Systems Act, Act 32 of 2000, the public and interested parties or groups are given the opportunity to submit comments, recommendations or input on the Amendment By-law to the municipality from 1 November to 30 November 2024.
Comments, input or recommendations may be submitted by:
• Email: Streetspublicplaces.Bylaw@capetown.gov.za
• Written submission: Leon Wentzel, Law Enforcement Department, City of Cape Town, 1st Floor, Omniforum Building, 94 Van Riebeeck Street, Kuilsrivier 7590 between 08:00 and 16:00 Monday – Friday
• Internet: www.capetown.gov.za/haveyoursay
• Hand: Nearest subcouncil
The City’s Public Participation Unit will assist people who cannot read or write, people living with disabilities and people from disadvantaged groups who are unable to submit written comments, to have their comments or input recorded and submitted to the City Contact Anathi Dywili on 021 400 9825 or anathi.dywili@capetown.gov.za.
The draft Streets, Public Place and the Prevention of Noise Nuisances Amendment By-law 2024 is available for viewing at www.capetown.gov.za/haveyoursay subcouncil offices, City libraries and district planning offices.
Contact Leon Wentzel on 021 444 4259 or Streetspublicplaces.Bylaw@capetown.gov za for further information on the Streets, Public Places and Prevention of Noise Nuisances Amendment By-law, 2024.
LUNGELO MBANDAZAYO CITY MANAGER
CTA135/2024
Barend J. Williams
Die toewyding, veerkragtigheid en deernis van personeellede van die Sir Lowry’s Pass-gemeenskapsdagsentrum aan inwoners wat deur die oorstromings in September verlede jaar geraak is, het aan dié sentrum ’n prys besorg.
Die plaaslike gemeenskapsbron is onlangs by die jaarlikse prysuitdeling van die Stad Kaapstad se gesondheidsdepartement vereer. Die kliniek is by die departement se prysuitdelingseremonie as naaswenner vir uitstaande diens aan die gemeenskap vereer. Die sertifikaat was ter erkenning van die gesondheidsfasiliteit se besonderse ondersteuning aan die gemeenskap tydens September 2023 se oorstromings wat verwoesting in verskeie hoekies van die Sir Lowry’s Passomgewing gesaai het. DistriksPos & Helderberg Gazette het destyds berig oor ’n betoging wat weens die natuurlike ramp ontstaan het (“ ‘Re-house us!’ ”, 25 Oktober 2023). Slagoffers wat weens die oorstromings dakloos, sonder heenkome en verplaas gelaat is, het op Donderdag 19 Oktober verlede jaar die strate uit woede ingevaar om beswaar te maak. Die ontstoke groep, waaronder 21 families, het hoofroetes in die gemeenskap met brandende voorwerpe afgesper, wat tot polisie-reaksie gelei het.
Benewens gemeenskapslede wat deur ’n behuisingsprobleem in die gesig gestaar is, is die kliniek gedwing om sy deure weens erge oorstromings te sluit omdat
Die Sir Lowry’s Pass-gemeenskapsdagsentrum is die naaswenner van die prys vir Uitstaande Diens aan die Gemeenskap. Foto’s: Barend J. Williams
toegang onmoontlik was.
Nadat die kliniek se vorige bestuurder gesien het hoe pasiënte steeds vir hul chroniese medikasie buite staan, al was die water kniehoog, het haar hart gebreek. Sy het toe die besluit geneem om die fasiliteit te heropen en kwesbares, insluitend bejaardes en verswaktes, geprioritiseer.
“Ten spyte van die fisieke hindernisse het die personeel deur vloedwater geloop om die kliniek te bereik, vasbeslote om sorg aan behoeftiges te verskaf,” het die raadslid Patricia van der Ross, die burgemeesterskomiteelid vir gemeenskapsdienste en gesondheid, gesê.
“Die CDC-span het verder as hul normale pligte gegaan en uitsonderlike toewyding, veerkragtigheid en deernis tydens een van die mees uitdagende tye wat die gemeenskap beleef het, getoon.”
Die prysuitdelingseremonie het op Vrydag 11 Oktober in die Sareptagemeenskapsentrum plaasgevind en die Sir Lowry’s Pass-gemeenskapsorgsentrum het die hele Helderberg-kom se gesondheidsorg verteenwoordig.
“Hierdie toekenning verhoog die span se moraal en herinner elke lid dat hul toewyding om volgehoue deernisvolle sorg te lewer, gesien en waardeer word,” het Van der Ross bygevoeg.
Sy het voorts gesê sy hoop die gemeenskap van Sir Lowry’s Pass is trots op die kliniek se erkenning, want dit is gerusstellend dat hul plaaslike gesondheidsorgfasiliteit nie net toegerus is om hoëgehalte sorg te verskaf nie, maar ook bereid is om in tye van krisis by hulle te staan.
Wallace du Plessis
This past Saturday (2 November) clients and potential buyers visited Helderberg Suzuki for a boerie braai and close-up look at the new Swift.
The local award-winning Suzuki Elite dealership in the Helderberg basin received more than a dozen new Swifts for their local launch.
Their problem is that demand is outstripping supply resulting in low stocks days after the launch, but it is a nice problem to have and fortunately for them their preowned showroom has good stocks of one-year-old Swifts.
Helderberg Suzuki opened 10 years ago, but moved to its present premises five years ago. It has grown massively, necessitating the lease of an additional two storeys of parking, one for its new cars and the other for the service department, so it feels very much at home, able to handle the high service and sales volumes.
More than 1 200 hours are spent per month by the service department, keeping Helderberg Suzuki owners happy and so needing the additional space. The used-car showroom is just
across the road and is as busy as the new-car showroom.
The dealership sponsors the Strand High School First rugby team as part of its expanded
social-welfare activity and is very much part of the local community. Expect a full review of the new Suzuki Swift soon.
du
The Elgin Grabouw Sports Club grounds are once again the venue for the Outdoor and Adventure Expo.
More than just a caravan and camping festival with a bit of sports, food and something to drink on the side, the expo is about lifestyle and going into nature and being outside.
The expo takes place from 11:00 on Friday 8 November through to Sunday at 15:00.
On the weekend the expo opens at 08:00 and closes on Saturday at 18:00.
SUVs, 4X4s and caravans will be featured, but the expo will also have outdoor activity and related equipment on display.
From mountain biking, trail running, rowing to diving, hiking and photography will all have exhibiters.
Exhibiters include, from the
Helderberg, the Isuzu dealer to Hermanus VW and Boland Conqueror, to mention just a few.
A number of items will be premiered at the expo, from caravans to the latest kit.
There are two driving opportunities. Bring your own 4x4 and try the Grabouw route or take an electric kart for a spin at the Greenworks display. They will also have 4x4 EVs. Twenty camping spots are also available. There will be activities for children too.
Costs are R50 for adults on Friday, R100 on Saturday and Sunday.
Children under seven are free. Dogs on leashes are welcome. Parking is free. For bookings, visit ticketpro.co.za. . For more information, visit https://lrclassic.com/outdooradventure-expo-grabouw-westerncape-2024/
Thousands of South African men donned purple speedos and took to the streets on Friday 1 November, including at Gordon’s Bay, for the annual Hollard Daredevil Run, raising awareness about prostate and testicular cancer. Well over 30 participants gathered at Krystal Beach Hotel for their contribution and awareness efforts. The event, which has been running for 15 years, encourages early detection and health responsibility among men, with Hollard urging public support through donations and emphasising the importance of insurance for financial protection against serious illnesses.
highlighted why they remain a formidable force in sevens rugby.
The vibrant rugby community witnessed an exhilarating start to the Western Province Club Sevens as 35 teams clashed on the lush fields of Brookside, Cape Town, this past weekend.
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This prestigious tournament, known for showcasing top-tier talent and fostering regional rivalries, saw impressive participation, including four determined teams from the Helderberg region: St George’s RFC, Macassar, Strand United and Strand Rugby Club.
St George’s RFC, affectionately known as the “LuluBoys”, made waves by ending round 1 at the top of their log, winning three out of four games. The Lulu Boys’ performance was marked by their relentless pace, sharp tactical play and unwavering team spirit. The squad’s cohesion and agility
The Helderberg’s representation didn’t stop there. Macassar (played 2, won 2), Strand United (played 3, lost 3) and Strand Rugby Club (played 2, won 1) also made their presence known with spirited performances. Each team exhibited flashes of brilliance and resilience, determined to bring glory back to their communities. Their participation underscored the strong rugby culture that thrives within the Helderberg region and their commitment to excellence on the field.
As the tournament progresses, excitement builds for round 2, set to be hosted again at Brookside this weekend.
Fans from all over the region will cheer their local heroes on, hoping for a repeat of St George’s topclass display, and to see whether other Helderberg teams score great victories.
S E R R S y n e r g y , ‘ n N a s i o n a l e Maatskappy, het posisies beskikbaar vir Agente in ons Somerset Wes kantoor, om ‘n Arbeidsregsdiens aan besighede enboeretebemark.
Ondervinding is nie ‘n vereiste nie aangesien opleiding verskaf sal word. Onderhoude sal gevoer word by ons SomersetWeskantoor
Belangstellendes kan hul CV’s stuur na reception-sw@serr.co.za, en sal gekontak word vir ‘n onderhoud. Hoë 5 syferinkomsteskanverdienword.
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Ons is ‘n Nasionale Maatskappy wat as gevolg van ‘n fenomenale groei ons bemarkingspan in Somerset Wes uitbrei. Ons is opsoek na nuwe talent om telefoniese afsprake met besighede en boere te maak vir ons bemarkings konsultante teneinde ons diens te bemark.
Ondervinding is nie ‘n vereiste nie aangesien behoorlike in-huis opleiding verskafword.
Belangstellendes kan hul CV’s stuur na reception-sw@serr co.za
Jysalgekontakwordvir‘nonderhoud.
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Strand United RFC are proud to be giving local artists, young and old, an opportunity to showcase their talents at an event simply called “Kinders van die Strand”.
These local rough diamonds mixed with a few more experienced stage performers are set to captivate the audience with their musical, dance and comedic charm at this family friendly event that promises to entertain both young and old.
MC “Annie” will attend, along with Riverside Jr and Sr, Usual Suspects Dance, Bad Boy Chucky, Singers Nathan, Fabian, Leslie-Ann Harker and Shahieda de Louw, to name a few.
The local rugby club’s chairman, Shamiel Ismail, said: “As a rugby club firmly entrenched in the Strand we were looking at ways to connect with our community out of the rugby season, and what better way than by giving young talent an opportunity to express themselves on a stage in front of a massive audience?”
The event will be held at the Dr GJ Joubert school hall on Friday 29 November and entry tickets are R100 p/p. For more information and booking, contact club secretary Alie Fanie on 072 971 3463 or club treasurer, Justin Petersen, on 072 980 4647.
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Hottentots-Holland Cricket Club (HHCC) celebrated a second consecutive victory in First Division A in which they outplayed Avendale CC in an awayfixture on Saturday 2 November.
HHCC won the toss and again decided to have a bowl first. The opening pair of Curtley Klaasen and Guillaume Jansen yet again showed their skills as upfront bowlers, having the opponents 18/4 after 7 overs.
Avendale CC tried to stabilise their efforts against an intense bowling attack being 60/6 by drinks (17 overs), however Marwaan Wanza came through and showed his experience and wrapped up the tail of the opponents. Avendale ended their innings on 85/10 batting only 23.2 overs. Pick of the bowlers were Klaasen 3/25 and Wanza 3/11.
With a low total of only 85, HHCC went out with patient approach due to the wicket becoming difficult to bat on later in the day.
After 25 overs HHCC reached the target and won by 5 wickets, taking the bonus point win and making it back-toback victories. Pick of the batsmen was Fuad Behardien with a score of 30 not out. HHCC will be playing home this weekend against Tygerberg CC.
In First Division B, Somerset West Cricket Club (SWCC) fell a painful 15 runs short of victory when they were
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beaten by Cravenby CC.
SWCC won the toss and opted to bowl first, and they bowled well throughout the innings to restricted the Cravenby batsman to 180/8 in their alloted overs.
The best bowlers for the club were Jason Lee Josephs (4/39) and the evergreen Ghaulied van Schalkwyk (1/21).
At the change of innings SWCC got off to a slow start because of very disciplined bowling from the hosts but were always in the game. Some rash decisions in the latter part of the innings cost SWCC the game as they lost by 15 runs after being bowled out for 165. The best batsmen were Larry Morkel (39) and Gert Basson (23).
SWCC will need to regroup ahead of their next fixture, when they host Kuils River CC on this Saturday at the Alan Olsen Oval (Radloff Park).
In First Division D, Strand CC hosted South Peninsula CC at Gustrouw where they won the toss and elected to bowl first in overcast conditions.
Gesant Moller (1/31) and Adeeb Bailey (3/22) opened the bowling and shared a 15 over spell as they rattled the top order of South Peninsula who were at that stage 39/5. They were supported by Shelton Christiaans (3/22) as South Peninsula were all bowled out for 107 in the 30th over.
Notice is hereby given in terms of regulation 68 of the Deeds RegistriesAct,1937,oftheintentiontoapplyfortheissueofa certified copy of Deed of Transfer T 5710/1997 passed by PROVINCE OF THE WESTERN CAPE in favour of FIKILE EMMANUELBLOMIdentityNumber6003125574085and TOBEKA THERESA BLOM Identity Number 650726 5012039 married in community of property to each other in respect of ERF 36050 KHAYELITSHA, IN THE CITY OF CAPE TOWN, CAPE DIVISION, PROVINCE OF THE WESTERN CAPE IN EXTENT 180 (ONE HUNDRED AND EIGHTY) SQUARE METRES HELD BY DEED OF TRANSFERT5710/1997whichhasbeenlostordestroyed.
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Strand lost two early wickets during the run–chase and were 29/2 after 6 overs. But Strand soon stabilised their innings with two good partnerships as they secured a bonus point win in the 20th over with their score on 110/3.
Top scorers were Sharwaan Naidoo (44), Lesley Taylor 28* and Logan Savory 24*. Strand will play against Sherwood Manenberg CC this weekend at Gustrouw.
Also in First Division D, Helderberg CC lost to Sherwood Manenberg by a tight margin in their encounter on Saturday.
Helderberg CC won the toss and elected to field first. Bowlers Evan van Boom (4/41) and Aidan Salie (2/36) were the pick of the bowlers as they bowled out the opponents for 163 in 48 overs.
In the batting department Helderberg CC made good inroads towards the target but lost wickets at crucial intervals and succumbed at 144 all out in 46.5 overs.
Top scorers were Dexter Hindley (31) and Jody Sylvester (22).
Helderberg will face Mitchell’s Plain at Helderzicht Sports Grounds this weekend.
In the Second Division, Macassar CC walked away with all the points as Langa failed to pitch. Macassar will face Delft CC at home this weekend.
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The Helderberg Pirates Major Reserve League team suffered defeat on Saturday 2 November at their home in Somerset West, losing by a wide margin of 1-13 to the Varsity Old Boys (VOB) Macaws.
The game quickly turned into a onesided affair as the VOB Macaws batsmen dominated the Pirates’ pitching staff.
The Pirates struggled to contain the
opponent’s offence, allowing numerous hits and walks that led to a series of big innings.
While the Pirates managed to score a single run, their efforts were not enough to stem the tide. The team’s batsmen were unable to generate any sustained offensive threat, striking out
frequently and grounding into double plays.
“It was a tough day against VOB, but all the games were played in great spirits and the Pirates did put up a good fight,” said Brett Leah, Helderberg Pirates chairperson.
“It is always great to host VOB as
they bring a lot of team dynamics and Pirates really enjoyed the day. The VOB coaches are always willing to share tips, tricks and other coaching advice that makes the baseball community a caring and nurturing environment for our young players to grow into great adults”.
Pirates will need to regroup and refocus as they prepare for their next game against the Thistles on Saturday 9 November.