DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette - E-Edition - 11 December 2024
DistrictMail
Drowning in Strand
A sombre scene met locals and beachgoers along Strand Beach early on Tuesday morning (10 December), when emergency services responded to a drowning in progress. Despite the rescue and efforts to resuscitate victim, a middle-aged man apparently with a heart condition, he was declared dead on the scene. According to bystanders the man was a regular at Strand Beach, where he often surfed close to the shore at his favourite spot. A crowd of onlookers gathered around the scene and expressed condolences to the family. Strand Beach has become increasingly busy over the past few weeks and is expected to get even busier in weeks ahead.
Photo: Yaseen Gaffar
‘Pasop vir dié ontvoerders’
Jamey Gordon
“Wees altyd waaksaam en bewus van jou kinders se bewegings. Hou ’n oog op hulle en bespreek gereeld die gevare en potensiële bedreigings van die samelewing met hulle.”
So moedig Raymondé Swart van Strand ouers aan nadat haar negejarige seun die afgelope naweek ’n vermeende ontvoering vrygespring het.
Sosialemediaplatforms was aan die gons nadat nuus oor die voorval wyd en syd versprei is om bewustheid te bevorder.
Die 43-jarige ma van vier vertel sy is Saterdag (7 Desember) soos nog nooit tevore nie die skrik op die lyf gejaag deur die voorval wat omstreeks 15:00 afgespeel het toe haar jongste kind glo in Naomistraat, waar hulle woon, na die hoek van Bosch- en Van Rheedestraat gestap het om ’n maatjie af te sien.
“Iemand in ’n silwer motor het uitgeklim en die kind om die lyf gegryp. Net voordat die kind in die motor
Ma vertel hoe mans haar seun gryp
ingedwing is en hulle met hom weg is, het my kind aan sy vriend geskree om te hardloop,” vertel sy.
Volgens die ouer onthou die seun dat die motor met vier manlike insittendes met maskers omgedraai en weer by Boschstraat verbygery het, vermoedelik om sy maatjie op te spoor. Daarna het hulle in die rigting van Gordonsbaai weggery.
Toe hulle naby die vulstasie stilhou, het hy gesien een van die agterdeure was nie gesluit nie en die kans aangegryp om te ontsnap. Hy het een aanvaller met sy elmboog geslaan en die ander agtertoe geskop, waardeur hy daarin geslaag het om verby ’n ander te kom en uit die motor te spring en te vlug. Hy het toe na sy ouma se woonstel in Hibiscusstraat gehardloop, waar ’n sekuriteitsbeampte hom by die hek binnegelaat het.
“Ek was nervous,” deel die seun, wat
verder vertel het die mans het nie veel met hom gepraat nie, maar wel aan hom gesê het “hou jou mond”.
Swart is later deur haar skoonma gebel met die nuus van die gepoogde ontvoering. “Ek kan nie beskryf hoe ek gevoel het en wat deur my gedagtes gejaag het nie,” meen Swart.
Die ouer verduidelik dat hulle die middag by haar suster in Noltestraat deurgebring het, en dat dit is waarheen haar seun sou stap nadat hy die maatjie afgesien het.
“Ek is net dankbaar vir die Here wat ingetree het en dat my kind weggekom het,” het sy vertel.
Volgens Swart is haar “babatjie” oukei, maar sukkel hy om nog deur die nag te slaap. “Hy is baie aktief, maar weens die voorval was hy nog nêrens nie.”
Haar man, Mervyn (48), wat ’n bekende platejoggie en lid van die
Weltevreden-buurtwag is, het gesê hy worstel steeds met hoe anders dinge kon gewees het as hul seun nie daarin geslaag het om van sy ontvoerders te ontsnap nie.
Hy het sy dankbaarheid uitgespreek vir die gewaardeerde ondersteuning van die buurtwag ná die voorval.
Die Strand-polisie het ’n saak van ontvoering geopen vir nadere ondersoek.
.
’n Man vermoedelik in sy dertigs is glo Woensdag 4 Desember in Macassar deur gemeenskapslede aangerand nadat hy daarvan beskuldig is dat hy foto’s van kinders geneem het.
Video’s van die voorval is op talle sosialemediaplatforms versprei. In een van die video’s kon ’n stem gehoor word wat beweer het dat twee mans glo kinders probeer ontvoer het.
Volgens die Wes-Kaapse polisiewoordvoerder, lt.kol. Malcolm Pojie, het die Macassar-polisie omstreeks 14:00 op die toneel gereageer. “Die man is na ’n mediese fasiliteit vervoer nadat hy deur die skare aangerand is,” het Pojie gesê.
‘Muggers’ nabbed
Three suspects linked to at least two early-morning muggings in Strand North were caught as they were about to pounce on their next victim on Monday 9 December, on the corner of Burnard Street and De Beers Road. Vigilant work between members of Gordon’s Bay Security and Strand Neighbourhood Watch led to successful apprehensions, and the suspects were arrested by Strand police and charged. “Police are investigating a possible link to two robberies,” Warrant Officer Nico Beukes of Strand police confirmed on Tuesday morning (10 December). “The suspects remain in police custody.”
Ouma sterf voor motor op snelweg
Jamey Gordon
Die Macassar-polisie ondersoek ’n saak van strafbare manslag nadat ’n vroulike voetganger in ’n padongeluk gesterf het.
Die voorval het verlede Woensdag (4 Desember) op die N2-snelweg naby die Macassarbrug afgespeel en die lewe van ’n geliefde 57-jarige lewensmaat en ouma, Gertrude Jantjies van Macassar, geëis.
Volgens ’n woordvoerder van die Macassar-polisie het beamptes omstreeks 19:30 op die ongeluk gereageer. Die slagoffer het glo saam met nog iemand van die hospitaal in Somerset-
Wes af huis toe geloop toe die noodlot tref. “Getuies beweer sy wou die pad oorsteek toe sy deur ’n aankomende voertuig, ’n Volkswagen Golf wat in die rigting van Kaapstad gery het, raakgery is,” het die polisiewoordvoerder gesê. Die ongelukslagoffer, wat vermoedelik ernstige inwendige beserings opgedoen het, is op die toneel deur paramedici dood verklaar. Die ander voetganger het die voorval oorleef.
Jantjies se lewensmaat, Marthinus Davids (69), het met besoek aan hul tuiste by die B-woonstelblok meegedeel dat hy nie te veel wil praat oor die tragedie wat sy geliefde Gertrude geëis het nie, “want anders huil
Naasbestaandes van die 57-jarige Gertrude Jantjies van Macassar is in rou gedompel nadat dié geliefde lewensmaat en grootmoeder verlede Woensdag (4 Desember) in ’n ongeluk op die snelweg gesterf het.
ek sommer”.
Davids, wat die afgelope 19 jaar sy lewe met Jantjies gedeel het, het buite die huis gesit om
die druk van ’n hartverskeurende werklikheid te probeer verlig. “Ons twee het alles gedeel en ook saam die Here gedien,”
het hy voorts vertel. “Sy was net ’n liefdevolle mens vir my. Ek gaan alles mis wat ons saam gedoen het en wat sy vir ons beteken het.”
Davids het gesê hy is in rou gedompel toe hy uitgevind het dat sy in die ongeluk gesterf het en is oorweldig deur hartseer en smart.
Die oudste van Jantjies se kleinkinders, wat sy sedert haar dogter se dood onder haar vlerk geneem en gehelp grootmaak het, het gesê sy ouma se verlies laat ’n groot leemte. “Ons is baie hartseer en mis bo alles haar liefdevolle teenwoordigheid,” het haar 19-jarige kleinseun namens hom en sy twee sibbe van 16 en 12 jaar gesê.
Foto: Luke Gordon
Photo: Yaseen Gaffar
Grieving mother remembers
Jamey Gordon
A township family has been thrust into mourning following the gruesome murder of a young woman whose life was brutally claimed amid the national 16 Days of Activism campaign which aims to combat acts of gender-based violence.
The lifeless body of the deceased whose identity was initially unknown, was discovered in an overgrown canal in Asanda Village on Thursday morning (5 December).
According to Sergeant Mthokozisi Gama, spokesperson for the Lwandle police, the discovery was made by a passerby, who came across the body in a ditch behind Magatya Street around 07:00 and alerted authorities. “Police quickly responded to the scene, where they discovered the nude body lying face down among the reeds in the canal,” he said.
“On closer inspection, officers noticed blood trails indicating that the body had been dragged to its current location.
“Following these traces, they found items approximately 10 metres away: a pink dress, underwear, and two bloodstained bricks, believed to have been used in the crime.”
Gama further said the body was recovered from the canal by the City of Cape Town’s fire and rescue service personnel and the victim officially declared deceased by on-scene paramedics. “The deceased sustained injuries to the face and head, along with a cut on her neck.
“A pathologist was summoned to the crime scene to assist in determining whether a sexual assault had occurred.”
Members of the Lwandle Crime Investigation Department (CID) and Crime Prevention Unit swiftly embarked on the murder investigation and arrested a 31-year-old homeless man in connection with the heinous crime.
He appeared in the Strand Magistrates’ Court on Monday (9 December) and remains in custody until his next scheduled court appearance on Thursday 20 February next year, for formal bail application.
Meanwhile the deceased was formally identified as 24-year-old Thina Masa from Zola. This after her mother, Sindiswa (49) turned to the Lwandle Police Station to report her daughter missing.
She recalled last seeing her eldest of four alive before leaving for work on Wednesday evening. On returning home on Thursday, Masa saw Thina wasn’t there and initially assumed she was with friends owing to the unlocked doors and missing keys. When she didn’t hear anything from Thina and saw alarming
social media reports, the worried mother began a frantic search.
On Saturday, the situation took a tragic turn when she went to the police station and was confronted with a heartwrenching reality. Instead of filing a missing person’s report the parent identified her daughter’s belongings and was told she had been found.
“When they showed me her shoes I knew it was my daughter,” Masa related. “It was just such a shock; I just cried and cried, endlessly.”
Stembele, Thina’s father, expressed being deeply upset and traumatised. Living near Mossel Bay, he cherishes memories of their last visit and “goodbye”, which was filled with happiness.
He further expressed his hopes for justice to take its course and that the perpetrator ultimately remained behind bars for the crime.
The murder investigation was ongoing, with the circumstances surrounding the incident and the motive being the key components of the inquiry.
Authorities on the scene where the lifeless body of 24-year-old Thina Masa was discovered in a canal behind Magatya Street in Asanda Village on Thursday morning (5 December). A murder investigation by the Lwandle police remains ongoing.
Thanks to the commendable efforts of detectives of the Lwandle Crime Investigation Department (CID) and their Crime Prevention Unit counterparts who put shoulder to the wheel with the murder investigation, an arrest was made in connection with the incident. Pictured (back, from left) are Sergeant Wesley Isaacs, Warrant Officer Randall van Schalkwyk, Constable Moeketsi Motsoane; (front) Constable Nzuzu Gwalisa, Sergeant Claudette Kayser, Thandokazi Base, Sergeant Jacques Coetzee and Sergeant Mfundo Soyiya. Photo: Jamey Gordon
The deceased, Thina Masa.
Crime | Misdaad
) Strand police arrested a man from Dark City informal settlement in Gordon’s Bay for the possession of stolen goods on Gous Street, Van Ryneveld, on Tuesday 3 December. Officers on patrol noticed the man carrying backpacks over his shoulders. Upon searching the bags, they discovered power tools valued at about R4 000. The suspect was immediately arrested and taken into custody.
) Two men, aged 26 and 30, were arrested in Lwandle on Friday 5 December after being found with an unlicensed firearm and suspected stolen property. During a search of the property, police recovered a 9mm firearm, a firearm magazine, six live rounds of ammunition, handcuffs, and a white pepper spray canister. The items are believed to be linked to a robbery. The suspects are currently being detained at Lwandle Police Station and are expected to appear in the Strand Magistrates’ Court.
) Lwandle police are investigating the murder of a 29-year-old man who was shot and killed in Nomzamo on Sunday 1 December. Police were called to the Masakhane informal settlement around 11:50, where they found the man’s body in a shack, lying in a pool of blood with a gunshot wound to the head. Upon further examination, forensic experts discovered his throat had been slit with a sharp object. The suspects are described as two males, one armed with a firearm and the other with a panga. Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Sergeant Arnold Woodward on 021 845 2060, Crime Stop on 08600 10111, or use the MySAPS app.
Werksbakkie gesteel
Die Lwandle-polisie ondersoek ’n klagte van motorvoertuigdiefstal nadat ’n 32-jarige man se werksbakkie Maandag (2 Desember) in die vroeë oggendure by ’n vulstasie in Broadwaylaan gesteel is.
Volgens Riyaad Thomas is hy tydens ’n kuier by ’n vriend in Rusthof, Strand, deur iemand wat aan hom bekend is, genader. Dié persoon het hom vir brandstofgeld gevra.
Thomas sê hy het omstreeks 02:00 na die vulstasie gegaan en by die geriefswinkel ingegaan om kleingeld te vra. Hy sê ’n rooi voertuig met die kennis se vriende het intussen langs sy bakkie gestop. Een van die mans het glo in sy voertuig geklim en daarmee weggejaag.
Die Lwandle-polisie sê egter die voorval het omstreeks 03:20 plaasgevind en bevestig vyf mans en ’n vrou is die verdagtes in die voorval.
“Niemand is nog in hegtenis geneem nie, en niemand is tot dusver aangekla nie,” sê sersant Mthokozisi Gama, die polisiewoordvoerder.
Enigiemand met inligting oor die voorval word versoek om die Lwandlepolisie by 021 845 2060 te skakel.
Thomas, ’n pa van drie, sê die voorval het sy onderneming op die knieë gedwing.
Riyaad Thomas (32) se werksbakkie is Maandag 2 Desember in die vroeë oggendure by ’n vulstasie in Broadway-laan gesteel Foto: Riyaad Thomas
“Ek het in 2020 met niks begin – net ’n ou CitiGolf waarvan ek die agtersitplekke uitgehaal het sodat ek my toerusting kon vervoer. Ek het elke sent gespaar om daardie bakkie te koop. Dit was my trots en ’n bewys van hoe hard ek gewerk het,” sê hy.
Met die feestyd om die draai voel hy verslae.
“Dis my besigste tyd van die jaar. Ek het altyd trots gevoel dat ek vir my drie kinders kon voorsien, maar nou moet ek sonder my werksvoertuig klaarkom,” sê Thomas.
Pavilion burglary
Barend J Williams
Strand police are investigating a case of business burglary after three suspects broke-in and looted equipment valued at an estimated R500 000 from a drone store located at the Strand Pavilion in Beach Road on Monday 3 December.
Video footage shows the male suspects forcing open the door of We Buy Drone SA at about 04:30. Once inside, they ransacked the store, filling a cooler bag with the stolen items.
The store’s owner, David Hourend (39), said he locked up the previous evening, believing the location offered added security. “I chose the Pavilion because of their 24-hour security, thinking it would provide peace of mind,” he said.
Hourend was alerted to the break-in in the early hours of Monday morning.
He said the suspects were believed to have used a white Volkswagen Polo to flee the scene.
The store, which specialises in buying, selling and repairing drones and other flying robotics, has suffered a significant loss.
Strand Pavilion management confirmed the break-in and acknowledged that the venue does have 24-hour security.
Warrant Officer Nico Beukes, spokesperson for the Strand police, confirmed that a case of business burglary has been opened.
Police are urging anyone with information to contact Strand police station at 021 854 9100.
Barend J. Williams
Strand-GPF maak planne teen misdaad
Barend J. Williams
Die Strand-gemeenskapspolisiëringsforum (GPF) het verlede Woensdag (4 Desember) sy eerste maandelikse vergadering onder die nuwe uitvoerende komitee gehou.
“Hierdie nuwe era in die Strand-GPF sal met deursigtigheid gelei word,” het Niklaas Thysen, die voorsitter van die GPF, gesê.
Die vergadering is in Strand-buurtwag se gemeenskapsaal op die hoek van Kleinbos- en Masoniclaan in Strand gehou. Die vergadering het begin met die uitvoerende lede wat die afwesigheid van sekere rolspelers erken het. Die belangrikstes was die wyksraadslede, verkeersbeamptes en korrektiewe dienste.
“Ons sal moet werk aan die herstel van verhoudings met dié belanghebbendes, want dit is noodsaaklik dat almal hierdie vergaderings vir die verbetering van ons gemeenskap bywoon,” het Brendyn Alloys, die sekretaris van die GPF, gesê.
Die volgende item op die sakelys was misdaad in Strand. Kaptein Lionel Farmer, die bevelvoerder van die speurtak, het die teenwoordiges ingelig oor skuldigbevindings, waaronder ’n 30jaar-vonnis vir huisroof. Hy het ook aangekondig dat die polisie DNS van gevangenes op parool gaan versamel.
’n Versoek van die gehoor was dat die vrylating van gevangenes vir die feestyd uitgestel word, maar die polisie kon nie die versoek toestaan nie, aangesien dit buite sy jurisdiksie val.
Nog ’n vraag was oor die vrylating van ’n bekende oortreder op parool en wat buurtwagte kan doen om seker te maak dat paroolvoorwaardes nagekom word.
Dus is buurtwagte ingelig dit sal afhang van die parool-voorwaardes.
Pastoor Johannes Pick het gesê die program sal deur vrywilliges verbonde aan die eenheid vir spirituele misdaadvoorkoming uitgebrei word. Die groep, wat misdaadvoorkoming met ’n geestelike aanslag aanpak, sal die polisie help om misdadigers vas te vat, maar het gemaan kerke word nie deur die polisie bestuur nie.
Charles Matsepe is as die nuwe buurtwag-koördineerder bekendgestel en het die struktuurplanne vir die feestydpatrollies uitgelê.
Terugvoer is ook gegee oor ’n optrede waaroor in ’n vorige uitgawe van DistrikPos & Helderberg Gazette berig is (“Strand spaza shops inspected”, 20 November). Spaza-winkels is deur die GPF en die polisie geïnspekteer. Kol. Khunjulwa Khanyile, stasiebevelvoerder, het gesê toekomstige inspeksies sal deur die Stad Kaapstad gelei word. Die eerste optrede ingevolge die nuwe struktuur het Dinsdag 2 Desember plaasgevind, waar verstreke produkte gevind is en drie ongedokumenteerde mense in hegtenis geneem is. “Die idee om die winkels te inspekteer, was goed, maar dalk is die regte protokol nie gevolg nie.”
Die probleem met dwelmhuise en die beskikbaarheid van K-9-eenhede is ook bespreek. Kaptein Crispian Meyer het gesê K-9-eenhede is dikwels besig en nie altyd beskikbaar nie.
Ten slotte het Khanyile verskoning aangebied vir die stadige reaksietyd van die polisie weens probleme met landlyntelefoonlyne.
“Ons sal werk om hierdie situasie te verbeter,” het Khanyile gesê.
Housing scandal in the spotlight
The City of Cape Town is investigating allegations of fraudulent housing sales in the Lourensia Park Housing Project in Somerset West. Residents and property listings have raised concerns about the sale of homes within the project, which has led to the City launching a probe into the matter.
“The City is aware of instances where Breaking New Ground (BNG) homes at City housing projects have been illegally sold and investigates these cases when they occur,” said a City spokesperson. “We urge residents to report these illegal property sales to us as soon as possible.”
The City has emphasised the importance of adhering to strict regulations regarding the sale of BNG homes.
“A recipient of a BNG house must keep the house for at least eight years before it can be sold,” the spokesperson explained. “During the first eight years, permission to sell must be requested from the Western Cape Government Department of Human Settlements.”
The City has warned that illegal housing sales can have serious consequences for both buyers and sellers. If a beneficiary sells their home before the eight-year period without proper authorisation, they may face legal action.
“The sales would not be legal if it is within the restrictive period of eight years, and this negatively impacts the
‘Fraudsters’
seller and the buyer,” the spokesperson said.
In the event of a beneficiary’s passing, their heirs can inherit the property. However, the eight-year restriction still applies. The City encourages beneficiaries to include their properties in their wills to safeguard the interests of their loved ones.
“The beneficiary is the owner and must ensure the security of their asset for their loved ones by including it in their will,” the spokesperson advised.
released on bail
A pair of tour organisers who were arrested for allegedly defrauding many locals out of thousands of rands invested in an overseas trip that never materialised have been released on bail.
The female suspects, aged 59 and 53, appeared in the Somerset West Magistrates’ Court again last Wednesday (4 December) and are presumably facing charges of fraud, theft and money laundering.
This after being apprehended on Friday 22 November for allegedly conning around 80 people, including many Helderbergers, out of their hardearned savings forked out for a once-ina-lifetime tour of Thailand.
Police reported that two suspects were arrested by the provincial Commercial Crime Investigation Unit for a fraud case involving approximately R1,9 million. Between 1 June 2022 and 30
July 2024 80 victims responded to a social media advertisement for a trip to Thailand, each paying R26 000 for travel and accommodation. When the trip never occurred victims across several provinces reported the apparent scam to police stations. After centralising the cases in the Western Cape, investigators found the suspects could not account for the funds, leading to their arrest in Strand.
The suspects’ first court appearance was on Monday 25 November. They remained in custody until last Wednesday, when their formal bail applications were granted. They were released on R10 000 and R5 000 bail respectively, and required to hand in their passports.
The case has been postponed until Tuesday 18 February.
– Jamey Gordon
A screenshot of a home in Lourensia Park being advertised for sale.
Yaseen Gaffar
Locals object to flats
A recent decision by the Municipal Planning Tribunal (MPT) has given the green light to a significant development project on Erf 7669 at 5 Goldman Road in Somerset West, also known as Somerset Lodge.
The approval, granted during a meeting on Tuesday 26 November, includes the deletion of a previous condition limiting the property’s use to a guest house, a relaxation of building height and floor-area restrictions, and the approval of a detailed site development plan.
The development application was fiercely objected to by hundreds of residents earlier this year (“Proposed complex for Somerset West CBD slammed,” DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette 28 February) and a petition was also launched. Since then, residents have expressed further frustration and disappointment, with many feeling that their voices were just dismissed.
During the meeting held two weeks ago the MPT approved the removal of a condition that previously restricted the property to guest-house use, and portion of Block A was allowed to reach a height of 15,935 metres, exceeding the standard 15-metre limit.
“The MPT’s decision was based on a comprehensive assessment of the development proposal, considering factors such as traffic impact, infrastructure capacity and compliance with zoning regulations.
“While some objections were raised, the MPT determined that the project would not significantly exacerbate existing traffic congestion and would meet the broader development principles outlined in relevant legislation,” it was stated.
To ensure the successful implementation of the project, the MPT imposed a number of conditions, including inspection of services, Wastewater Treatment Plant approval and that the developer should maintain open communication with the local community, addressing any concerns and providing regular updates on the project’s progress.
According to local resident Tiffany Schultz, who also launched an online petition that has already garnered more than 600 signatures, there are many residents rallying against the MPT decisions as the project involves the conversion of the historic Somerset Lodge into a mixed-use building, and had sparked widespread outrage and disbelief within the community.
More than 50 residents, including Schultz, a vocal opponent of the development,
submitted formal objections expressing deep concerns about the project’s potential impact on the heritage significance of the building, increased density and traffic congestion.
“It’s a complete disregard for our community’s concerns. We’ve fought hard to preserve the character of our town, and this decision undermines our efforts.”
She also emphasised the heritage significance of Somerset Lodge and the surrounding area.
“This building is a part of our history,” she said. “It’s not just a building; it’s a piece of our heritage.”
Residents are now exploring legal avenues to challenge the MPT’s decision. They believe that the tribunal’s decision was flawed and that the development does not align with the principles of sustainable urban development.
“We won’t give up,” Schultz vowed. “The decision to approve this development is disheartening. The community’s concerns, which were clearly articulated in numerous written objections and verbal submissions, have been largely disregarded. This development will have a negative impact on the quality of life for residents and the overall aesthetic appeal of the area.”
She also urged the tribunal to reconsider its decision and prioritise the interests of the local community.
. For more details on the petition, visit https://www.change.org/p/ opposition-to-the-developmentproposal-for-a-block-of-flatssurrounding-the-somerset-lodge
An artist’s impression of the proposed four-storey residential development.
Arrest for work harassment Sentencing
Jamey Gordon
A manager of the Somerset West branch of a popular restaurant found himself in the dock on sexual assault charges brought against him by two subordinates.
According to provincial police spokesperson Lt-Col Malcolm Pojie, the Khayelitsha Family Violence, Child
NoticeisherebygivenintermsofSection34(1)ofthe Insolvency Act, Act 24 of 1936, as amended, to all interestedpartiesandcreditorsofWimpyStrand,Shop 1, Strand Square, Fagan street, Strand, operating under Three Diamonds Trading 483 Pty Ltd (2006/033915/07) that it is the intention of the shareholders/directors of the business to sell full ownership of the business including the goodwill and assets to K20023160090 South Africa Pty Ltd (2023/160090/07), represented by Morne Christiaan duToit,dulyauthorizedthereto
Take notice further that the effective date of the sale and transfer will be within a period of not less than 30 (thirty)daysandnotmorethan60(sixty)daysfromthe date of publication of the last of the advertisements in terms of Section 34(1) of the InsolvencyAct,Act 24 of 1936,asamended.
Burger Business Brokers, 12 Ursula street, Pringle Bay, 7196, tel 0824523329, email ian@burgerbusinessbrokers.com, (5) K20023160090 SouthAfrica Pty Ltd (2023/160090/07) represented by Morne Christiaan duToit, (6) Wimpy Strand, Shop1, Strand Square, Fagan street, Strand, (7)Three DiamondsTrading 483 Pty Ltd (2006/033915/07) represented by Johannes Zacharias Viljoen
X1YC2PJA-DP111224
Protection and Sexual Offences Unit is investigating two counts of sexual assault against the accused after the alleged victims registered cases on Friday 15 November pertaining to incidents that allegedly took place on Tuesday 30 July and Sunday 29 October, respectively. “The accused was arrested and brought before the Somerset West Magistrates’ Court on the mentioned charges on Friday 29 November,” said Pojie.
Both the alleged victims detailed multiple incidents of inappropriate behaviour and harassment by the male superior at the workplace, and despite apparently reporting the alleged misconduct to senior management, the issues persisted in a situation where they had no choice but to work, leading to much emotional distress.
A young mother to a three-year-old girl reported the accused would inappropriately touch her despite being asked to stop. She felt uncomfortable and violated, leading to thoughts of leaving, despite needing to work. After reporting the behaviour the situation only worsened, the accused apparently making matters more difficult.
A 32-year-old mother of two alleged similar inappropriate touching and comments from the accused. Despite reporting an apparent pattern of misconduct, the behaviour allegedly continued without appropriate action from the company, causing significant distress and discomfort.
“He just could not keep his hands to himself,” she said. “He always knew when and where to make contact where the cameras couldn’t catch him.”
According to the victims they were both suspended, while the accused continued working until his arrest. They said a hearing was held, but they claimed to have felt like the offenders, with no
accountability or resolution in the end.
On enquiry, a media statement from the restaurant management read: “As this is an ongoing matter we are limited in what we can disclose at this time to avoid jeopardising the integrity of the process and the personal reputations of those involved. We take all allegations of misconduct very seriously and are committed to ensuring a safe and respectful workplace for all employees.”
Management confirmed the victims had made allegations of inappropriate conduct on 3 and 10 November.
Investigations were promptly initiated, including a review of CCTV footage, which did not corroborate the allegations.
“Due to the seriousness of the allegations and the findings of the initial investigations, both employees were suspended with full pay pending independent disciplinary hearings, to ensure a fair and impartial evaluation of all facts. The complainants were informed of their rights and the grounds for their suspension.
“During the disciplinary hearing on Friday 15 November the victims were shown footage that did not support their allegations. On the contrary, the footage revealed inappropriate behaviour by [one of the victims] towards the manager in view of customers and was charged accordingly. [This victim] was evasive, did not answer questions directly, and left before the hearing was concluded. She has since ignored requests to return to work. Neither of these employees have been dismissed.
“...We confirm that the alleged accused was arrested and has since been released on bail.”
They also stated they are cooperating with police while the law takes its course, and maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards harassment and misconduct.
Jamey Gordon
A former Lwandle policeman convicted of raping a pregnant young woman in an incident first reported six years ago will be brought to book this week. Jerome Coetzee was expected to be sentenced in the Wynberg Regional Court on Friday 29 November (“Rape accused awaits sentencing,” DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette, 23 October). However, he took ill and the case was postponed to Thursday 12 December. The former police constable was convicted of the charge brought against him following the sexual assault back in 2018.
DistrictMail previously reported on the crime, which occurred on Wednesday 4 July 2018, when the then 18-year-old expectant victim was supposedly taken into police custody by three police officers, including Coetzee, who raided the one-room flat she had shared with her then-boyfriend (“Local cop accused of heinous deed”, 12 July 2018).
Speaking anonymously, the victim recalled being around six weeks pregnant and home alone when her attacker, one of a trio, appeared on her doorstep around 20:00, after an alleged drug tip-off. Moments later she was apparently informed three small bags containing drugs were found and she was put into a police vehicle bound for Strand Police Station. They continued driving around, with one officer, Coetzee, eventually stopping at Strand Police Station briefly. He then allegedly took her to a secluded area where he raped her in the vehicle. The woman reported the incident the next day to Lwandle police, but officers initially refused to take her case. Following legal advice, she informed Strand police, who made a case and notified the Independent Police Investigative Directorate. Coetzee was identified and charged. After being in service for a while he was dismissed in March last year after disciplinary action.
Letters from our readers
A birthday kiss
Yolandré de Beer submitted this “cute” photo of her daughter Mieke during a visit to the Two Oceans Aquarium at The V&A Waterfront in Cape Town on her 10th birthday, Sunday 17 November. She wrote: “I noticed a very big mussel cracker noticing her. And then I captured it looking as if it is kissing her. A birthday kiss.” DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette invites readers to send their photos of precious ‘Kodak moments’ or scenes in and around the basin for possible publication. Photos must be at least 500 KB and sent by email to editor@districtmail.com by Monday 14:00.
Is Vineyard Centre sold?
A few months ago the Vineyard Centre in Somerset West started upgrading its premises with a fresh coat of paint and renovations to problem areas in its variety of stores. The public responded with excitement at the prospect of having a clean and decent “face”, because the Vineyard of late had started looking rundown and unkept.
The centre is an integral part of the shopping experience for a huge number of clients in the Helderberg, as the public transport interchange taxi rank ferries customers to and from it.
But amid this excitement a rumour started doing the rounds that the Vineyard had
been sold and had new owners.
The centre’s manager was approached and asked if the rumours were true, but they were denied.
The Somerset West central business district has been experiencing a decline in business interest for some time.
What’s more, the prospect of having a vibrant and market-related shopping centre in its midst has been marred by this uncertainty about the status of the Vineyard Centre.
Some residents asked, “Why do we want to know if the Vineyard Centre has new owners?”
Maybe the answer lies in whether it is uplifting to know that there is positive improvement in
your town, because if we stop caring it can lead to further decay and uncertainty. Should this “rumour” be treated as a guarded secret, or should the Vineyard Centre take its patrons into their confidence and explain the situation?
Emmy Holliday, SOMERSET WEST
DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette presented these enquiries to the Vineyard Centre’s property manager, Ivan Swanepoel, and particularly the change-ofownership claims being churned out by the rumour mill. In response, he said: “We have no idea where this generated from, so we have no response to this.”
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Patron details ‘racially motivated attack’
On Saturday 26 October, I visited Peter Falke Wine Farm with my Caucasian girlfriend. As we walked, an unknown man directed racial comments at us, repeatedly referring to us as “top deck.”
This term likens a mixed-race relationship to a chocolate that is both brown and white, highlighting the fact that I am coloured.
Feeling deeply insulted, I stopped to ask him what he meant. At this point the individual verbally insulted me with profanity. I calmly replied, “It takes one to know one,” and then chose to ignore him. I subsequently reported the incident to the manager of the establishment. The man later approached me again at the front of the restaurant. He accused me of having a hearing problem and threatened me, stating that he was going to “moer me.”
At this juncture the restaurant staff intervened. However, instead of addressing the offensive behaviour, they asked me to leave the premises while continuing to serve the individual who had hurled these racist and offensive comments at me. During the encounter, I did not provoke nor act aggressively in any way. I am formally reporting this incident, as I believe I was subjected to discrimination and verbal abuse, and the establishment failed to address the situation fairly. I am seeking justice for this unacceptable and demeaning experience.
Despite reporting the incident of racial harassment, Peter Falke Wine Farm’s response has been minimal. Management has provided limited support and transparency.
Initial promises to review security footage fell through when it was revealed its cameras were not operational. This lack of action has left those affected feeling dismissed and unsupported, raising concerns about the farm’s accountability and commitment to providing a safe, inclusive
environment for all patrons. Reid Simons, EMAIL Eddie Pienaar of Peter Falke Wines responds: “We take all matters related to the well-being and safety of our patrons very seriously, and we regret that the complainant had an unpleasant experience during his time with us. Firstly, we would like to address the allegation of racist comments having been directed at the complainant by another patron. We unequivocally do not tolerate any form of discrimination or offensive and unacceptable behaviour at our establishment. We take all reports of inappropriate conduct seriously and, after thoroughly investigating the matter, we can confirm that our staff on duty intervened when the altercation between the complainant and another patron occurred. It is important to note that our staff did not ask the complainant to leave the premises, nor was the other patron requested to do so. Employee interviews following the incident confirmed that, after the other patron had also approached the reception desk, our staff stepped in between the two parties to prevent the situation from escalating. Thereafter, the complainant chose to leave of his own accord, and was most certainly not requested to do so by our staff. Unfortunately, video surveillance footage from the time of the incident is not available due to technical issues. We are, however, committed to improving our monitoring systems to ensure incidents such as this can be thoroughly reviewed, moving forward. We regret if the actions of our duty staff fell short of the complainant’s expectations. We are actively reviewing and updating our procedures and protocols to ensure our staff are trained and equipped to ensure that such incidents are dealt with in a sensitive and appropriate manner, and to ensure that all patrons are treated with respect and dignity.”
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Photo: Yolandré de Beer
Samsung Somerset Mall back with a bang!
The Samsung store in Somerset Mall has reopened following a three-week renovation. The relaunch event took place on Monday 2 December, inviting guests to marvel at the new layout, which showcases the store’s range of products. Pictured during the ceremonial ribbon-cutting are Michael Van Lier (Samsung South Africa’s vice-president for Consumer Electronics), Werner Volschenk (general manager of Audiovision Holdings Group), and Japie Greeff (director of Audiovision Holdings Group). Photos: Barend J Williams
Riaan Du Plessis, a salesperson at the newly revamped Samsung store, demonstrated one of the store’s premier products during its relaunch last Monday.
for Consumer
Showing gratitude for school’s sponsors, supporters
Somerset West Primary School hosted its annual Sponsors Function at their Sports and Culture Centre last Wednesday (4 December) to thank local businesses for their contributions throughout 2024. Principal Jacobus van Schalkwyk personally thanked representatives of sponsors, including BUCO Hardware and Buildware Somerset West, Jacobs Transport and Daisy Business Solutions Somerset West for their donations and support. Guests received personalised goodie bags as tokens of Summies’ appreciation. The evening, themed around Christmas, featured lively socialising and highlighted the school’s gratitude for the businesses’ role in sustaining various projects. Pictured (back, from left) are Kelly-Ann van Coller (R Skills and Development Rugby), Jehane Viljoen and Marco Ortelee (Daisy Business Solutions Somerset West), Christo Victor (De Jagers) and Johann Bosman. Front: Garth le Roux (ACDC Express), Candice Carstens (Somerset West Stationers), Wendy Martinez (Jacobs Transport), Charmaine Poole (Jacobs Transport) and Bertus Malan (BUCO Hardware and Buildware). Photos: Barend J Williams
Friendly Froggies have family fun
can nibble for quite some time on their lovely Forage and Feast hamper. With them are Danita du Plessis (principal) and uncle JayJay Pereira.
In the raffle for children, a very delighted AidenBjörn van Wyk, son of mommy Nicolene and dad Schagne took home the Friendly blue bag. All these lovely gifts are available from Checkers in Somerset West in the well-stocked “aisle of Forage and Feast temptations”. This is the shop where The Friendly Frog School has done their weekly shopping for the past 14 years. Du Plessis said she wished it was hers to take home because it consisted of the most divine selections. Well done, children, and thank you, Checkers, for donating these lovely prizes.
Michael Van Lier (Samsung South Africa’s vice-president
Electronics), Vincent Koekemoer (Brand Stores key account manager at Samsung Electronics), Werner Volschenk (general manager of Audiovision Holdings Group), and Japie Greeff (director of Audiovision Holdings Group) stand proudly as they welcome customers to the newly renovated Samsung store
At the end of The Friendly Frog School’s concert, on Saturday 16 November, the winners of the lovely sponsored Checkers hampers were announced. Tiffany Vasconselos and her little niece Czarina Williams
Teacher Danita with Checkers children’s raffle winner Aiden Björn Van Wyk.
The Summies team who organised the successful Sponsors Function. They are (back, from left) Jacobus van Schalkwyk (principal), Kerwin Felton, Dean Williams and Herman Poole (deputy principal). Front: Aletta Meyer, Bea Gilliomee, and Caleigh and Erika Haydricks.
Marco Ortelee of Daisy Business Solutions Somerset West receives an appreciation goodie bag from Somerset West Primary School secretary Erika Haydricks.
Somerset West Primary School principal Jacobus van Schalkwyk mingling with sponsors Bertus Malan (BUCO Hardware and Buildware) and Jehane Viljoen (Daisy Business Solutions Somerset West).
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All interested persons having objection to the issue of such copy are herebyrequiredtolodgethesameinwritingwiththeRegistrarofDeeds at Cape Town, Room 1216, 12th Floor, 90 Plein Street, Cape Town, withintwoweeksfromthedateofthepublicationofthisnotice.
DatedatSomersetWestonthis2ndDECEMBER2024
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IntheEstateLateSHIRLEYJOANWEBB
Tel: 021-8515155 Email:kulenkam@iafrica.com Ref:
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Dateofbirth:1951-05-09 IdentityNumber:5105090060080 Last residential address: 12 TUSCANA CLOSE, HERITAGE PARK, SOMERSETWEST Dateofdeath:2024-10-02
Die BT Blizzards, ’n raakrugby-klub van Firgrove, het Saterdag (30 November) nuwe truie ontvang ter voorbereiding vir die nuwe seisoen. Die span se kaptein, Samuel Jantjies, beskryf dit as ’n welverdiende beloning vir die span se harde werk in die vorige seisoen. Volgens hul bestuurder, Arnold “Major” Arendse, is die truie spesiaal ontwerp met insette van die spelers en weerspieël dit hul identiteit sowel as Firgrove se trots. Die BT Blizzards, wat in 2018 gestig is, neem in hul derde agtereenvolgende jaar aan die Hot Summer of Touch-strandrugbyreeks se Uitdagerreeks deel. Die span se afrigter, Reduwaan Scheepers, is vol selfvertroue en glo hierdie seisoen kan die span se opgang na die Proreeks verseker Agter (van links) is Arnold Arendse (bestuurder), Nathan Botha, Ethan Adams, Roberto Adams en Reduwaan Scheepers (afrigter). Voor: Emmanuel Williams, Derantic Chassels, Samuel Jantjies (kaptein), Miguel Swartland en Latenio Anthony. Foto: Barend J. Williams
Mixed bag of results for local clubs
A perfect cricketing weekend for the local teams saw wins and losses as some wrapped up their fixtures until next year, while others play their final matches for December this weekend.
In First Division A, Hottentots-Holland Cricket Club (HHCC) won the toss and decided to bowl first against the log leaders, Victoria CC, on Saturday 7 December.
The HHCC bowlers began with a strong performance, maintaining disciplined bowling lines that effectively limited the opposition’s run rate. By the time they reached the drinks break at the 14-over mark, Victoria had scored 56/2.
After drinks, Vics came out with a positive approach, built substantial partnerships throughout their innings and
were all bowled out for 242 in the 50th over.
The pick of the bowlers were Achmat Smith (2/55) and Shakoer Baderoen (2/41).
HHCC started their batting campaign cautiously with the opponents putting up a proper challenge for the local boys. By the 15th over, HHCC managed a total of 44/2. The opponents applied further pressure and the locals unfortunately stumbled by losing wickets at regular intervals and failing to build partnerships. HHCC were all bowled out for 122 in the 37th over. The pick of the batsmen was Naeem Rhoda (38) and Shakoer Baderoen (17).
HHCC will play home this Saturday 14 December against Primroses CC at the Naval College, as well as Monday (16 December) against Rylands CC.
In First Division B, Somerset
West Cricket Club (SWCC) went down to a narrow six-run loss against Bishop Lavis CC.
SWCC won the toss and opted to bowl first in perfect conditions. The opening bowlers maintained tight lines, but the Bishop Lavis batsmen displayed patience and skillful play, gradually reaching a total of 144/8 in their allotted 40 overs.
The pick of the bowlers for SWCC were Gouws Koen (3/36) and Varun Cherian (2/24).
After the change of innings, SWCC suffered an early collapse, putting them on the back foot for the remainder of the game. Despite some valiant efforts to recover, they ultimately fell short, being bowled out for 138 in the 40th over. The top performing batsmen were George Hlazo (36) and Jason Lee Josephs (26). SWCC’s next game will be in
the new year. In First Division D, Helderberg CC celebrated a win against Fish Hoek CC.
Fish Hoek won the toss and elected to bowl first, but Helderberg were on song and this worked to their advantage.
Gary-Jon Sylvester led the charge as he amassed 80* and was supported by Declan Fredericks with a knock of 33, as Helderberg set a total of 212/6 in 41 overs. At the change of innings Fish Hoek were never really in the game as Helderberg outplayed them in all aspects of the match. Fish Hoek were bowled out for 46 to give the local lads an impressive 166-run win.
Sylvester starred with the ball (4/15) and Aidan Salie with figures of 3/11. They take on Seacrest CC this weekend.
Also in First Division D,
Strand CC clinched victory in an entertaining match-up against Belville South CC.
Strand lost the toss and were put in to bat on a damp wicket. Despite the challenging conditions, they managed to build a slow but steady innings, reaching 154 all out in 40 overs. The top scorer was Lesley Taylor with 51 runs. At the change of innings, Bellville South was leading as they restricted Strand to 94/1 after 22 overs. However, Strand’s team showed resilience and determination, eventually bowling out Bellville South for 149/10 in the 38th over, turning the tables in their favor. The pick of the bowlers were Gesant Moller (4/17) and Adeeb Bailey (2/22).
Strand’s next fixture will be against Fishoek CC away this weekend.
Touchies Touchies takeover takeover
Macassar Beach was the setting for the second leg of the 2024 edition of the Hot Summer of Touch Series on Sunday 8 December.
A pristine beach paired with pleasant weather greeted the 45 teams that entered the tournament to stake their claim as Macassar champions.
The windless conditions in the early part of the day created the platform for some exhilarating touch action, which drew gasps and applause from the big crowd that turned up for the thrilling encounters.
There were very few easy wins, and
each victory was cherished as a stepping stone to the ultimate goal.
The Pro Series final was contested between old foes, the Score Living Legends and the MBN Warriors who over the years have fought many battles on the beach circuit.
Credit must be given to the two finalists who kept their focus on the game when the tournament was delayed by an attempted “sit in demonstration” on the main field after a team refused to accept a referee’s decision.
Not detracting from this, the Warriors and the Legends threw everything at each other in a fresh south-easterly wind which made quality touch rugby
even more difficult to produce.
The final outcome saw the Score Forward Legends taking the title by a margin of 3-2.
The Challenger Series final was won by the Last Kings over the BT Blizzards 1-0 and the Open Tournament was won by the Maori Kings over the Roosters (2-0).
. The sizzling touchies action moves to Kleinmond on Saturday (14 December) and then to Strand Beach on Monday (16 December).
RIGHT: SA’s touch bok, Shermon Manuel, in red, shows off his skills for the Barbarian Roosters Photos: Peter Bee
