Thursday, 17 July 2025 Free
Courthearshorrordetail
MARTI WILL
A shocked atmosphere descended over the Welkom Magistrate’s Court during the bail application of the women accused of torturing and viciously assaulting a frail 81-year-old woman at the Silver Village Assisted Living Facility in Welkom
WO Anje Tait, the investigating
officer, took to the stand on Wednesday, 16 July, and told the court of the scenes she had observed in a video that captured the assault
She described severe verbal abuse and scoldings that accused number 1, Lynette Brummer, had directed at the frail victim, who only weighs 40kg
She described how Brummer had bound the victim’s hands with duct tape and how she had wound the tape repeatedly around the victim’s head to quieten her cries and screams
“You can scream, no-one can hear you ”
Tait says the employees at the oldage home were aware of the camera in the victim’s room It was in plain sight
Brummer (accused number 1) knew of the camera and she knew she was being filmed
There are more than 30 videos that have been made available to the court
The four accused were arrested on Wednesday 9 July, and two additional arrests followed on Monday
The accused are: Lynette Brummer (64), Anna Fourie (73), Nomsa Ngcongwane (56) and Prudence Majorobella (35), and also Mofolo Ntswaki (30) and Puseleletso Mola (33)
She described severe verbal abuse and scoldings that accused number 1 had directed at the frail victim, who only weighs 40kg
They stand accused of attempted murder (a schedule 5 crime), kidnapping (a schedule 6 crime), assault GBH (a schedule 5 crime) and charges under the Old Persons Act 13 of 2006 A new charge of torture has been added
Tait told the court that another case implicating the accused has been made at the Welkom Police Station
She also referred to a third case that is
pending
Vista previously reported on vistanews co za about the gruesome acts of cruelty and depravity that have come to light following video camera footage being discovered
The video footage and photographs depict the extreme verbal, mental, and physical abuse the elderly woman was subjected to
Weighing a mere 40kg, she was no match for the attendants at her bedside sometimes up to four women at a time
The elderly woman was physically subdued and restrained withduct tape
Her mouth and hands were bound so that she could not move
The emotional scenes playing off in the video are exacerbated by the photos of extremely bruised hands, bleeding lips from the duct tape and bruises, scratches, and scrapes to the face
■ By the time of Vista going to print, the bail application was still in session
In the dock in the Welkom Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday are,from left,Prudence Majorobella (35),Nomsa Ngcongwane (56),Anna Fourie (73) and Lynette Brummer (64).
Photo: Marti Will
A photograph of the hand of the 81-yearold after the duct tape was removed
Operation disrupts illegal activities, apprehends suspects
A series of intelligence-led operations under the auspices of the multi-disciplinary approach Vala uMgodi resulted in multiple arrests and the seizure of illegal firearms, illicit goods and mining equipment
These operations, focusing on disrupting criminal enterprises, have significantly impacted illegal mining and other unlawful activities
On Sunday, 13 July, the proactive team conducted a disruptive operation in Virginia Acting on intelligence about five potentially armed suspects in a silver Nissan bakkie with Gauteng registration numbers, police officers quickly located and tactically approached the vehicle in town During a search, a 9mm firearm was discovered hidden inside the bakkie's tailgate All five suspects were immediately arrested for possession of an unlicensed firearm
On Saturday, 12 July, a team in Welkom reacted to an intelligence-led operation, leading to the arrest of a foreign national found in possession of illicit cigarettes at his tuckshop in Power Road
On
Later the same day in Thabong, a 27-year-old foreign national was arrested at a house in the 2010 location after being found with 27 crucibles, commonly used to melt precious metals
The proactive team, collaborating with mine security, also arrested three illegal foreign nationals, aged between 23 and 54 years, near mine premises in Theunissen
On Friday, 11 July, gold-processing equip-
Tment was uncovered at an illegal operation in the Thabong G hostel Members surprised a group of men who fled in different directions upon seeing the police approaching Gas bottles and other processing equipment were seized from the site
These ongoing multi-disciplinary operations have so far led to the arrest of more than 160 illegal foreign nationals in two weeks, involved in
dru
illicit mining activities across various Free State towns, including Thabong, Vierfontein, Theunissen, Virginia, Welkom, Bronville, Odendaalsrus, and Ventersburg
“The police remain committed to combating illegal activities and ensuring the safety and security of all communities,” says Sgt Mahlomola Kareli, spokesperson for the police in the Free State
deal br ght t bo k
A foreign national was arrested after he was found in possession of illicit cigarettes at his tuckshop in Power Road
13 July,members of the South African Police Services (SAPS) conducted a disruptive operation in Virginia. They received information regarding five allegedly armed men in a Nissan bakkie The suspects were located and promptly arrested Photos: SAPS
Impactful life a great loss
MARTI WILL
More than 500 mourners paid their last respect to Serena de Sousa (17) during a ceremony that was charged with raw emotions and gut-wrenching moments
Tears flowed freely and an overbearing air of disbelief filled the St Dominic’s Catholic Church in Welkom on Sunday, 13 July
Serena’s father, Alby (Alberto) de Sousa, was grief-stricken
Throughout the ceremony he was seen shaking his head as grief continuously wracked his body The death of his beloved daughter was impossible to accept
The beautiful eulogies read by Serena’s sister, Kyara, and friends brought tears to the eyes of many a mourner Cherished moments shared were met with smiles and even a small laugh in-between
Serena was known as a child who shone love and compassion to all who met her The joy she permeated is the legacy she leaves behind Serena was born on 10 November 2007 in Mediclinic Welkom She was a 13-week premature baby and from the onset of her short life she was a fighter
In her funeral letter her father wrote: “Serena, you have been taken away from us way too soon We are going to miss that beautiful smile, that crazy laugh of yours and that wonderful impulse of life You had so much to give You were our little Angel, you had so much faith, more than all of us put together
“We were really blessed to have you in our lives and will cherish you but as much as we needed you, God, our Father, needs you now, his missing Angel Please stay close to Kyara – she needs her guardian angels now more than ever “Fofa, we love you so much and miss you dearly I am so proud to have been your father
Till we meet again my Angel With all of my heart and soul, lots of love – Daddy”
Likened to a mustard seed, Serena was described as emotionally beautiful and spiritually powerful by Father Ernest Mwape, who knew her very well
“She was a fighter and fought for what she truly believed in," he said
She had a huge impact on her community in her short time on earth He shared the memory of her bubbling and infectious personality with the mourners He emphasised her deep love for God, and her fellow man “We have come to bid farewell to a blessed saint She is now an angel
in a safer place We honour her memory ” Serena was a learner at the St Dominic's College in Welkom "Serena was a cherished part of our school family - a gentle soul with a bright spirit who brought warmth, kindness, and light to those around her Her presence touched the hearts of her classmates, teachers, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing her " Serena’s death hit the headlines after she was badly burned during a suicide by fire on 18 June in Welkom
Theresa Martins (53) doused herself and her teenage daughter with petrol and then set them both alight The mother died in the flames
More than 500 mourners filled the St Dominic’s Catholic Church in Welkom on 13 July.
Kyara de Sousa follows her sister Serena’s coffin after the service at the St Dominic’s Catholic Church in Welkom on Sunday,13 July
Alberto de Sousa was consoled by family as his daughter Serena’s coffin was put into the hearse on Sunday 13 July Photos: Marti Will
Beyond fear and law
In every culture across the world people search for meaning, protection, and peace
Many turn to rituals passed down through generations, rules meant to keep order, or fears rooted in the unknown
But there is a love that rises above it all a person who invites every tribe, language, and people into a relationship that brings true freedom: Jesus Christ
Across our diverse communities, we see different expressions of belief Some fear breaking taboos or stirring ancestral spirits Others try to live by strict religious codes, hoping to please God or avoid punishment
In many homes, superstition and fear live side by side with sincere longing for spiritual connection
But Jesus didn’t come to reinforce fear He didn’t come to bind people to rituals or demand perfection through laws He came to set us free
The law may show us what is wrong, and tradition may try to protect us but only Jesus brings
transformation from the inside out
When we truly know Jesus, not just know about Him, we begin to experience something radical: peace in the storm, courage in the face of darkness, and love that embraces every person regardless of race, background, or past
He doesn’t require us to be perfect, or to perform for acceptance
He invites us to trust, walk with Him, and be changed by His grace
Fear loses its grip when we see how much God loves us
There is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear (1 John 4:18)
Superstition fades when we stand in the light of truth And the law no longer condemns, because Jesus fulfilled it and welcomes us into a life of mercy, justice and hope
You are invited into a living, joyful, transforming relationship with the One who said, “Come to Me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28)
Knowing Jesus is not a religion It is a revolution of love and it is for everyone
Diary
18 JULIE
Die Hulde aan die helde-reek sit in die ATKV-boeke-oase o Kunstefees, op die hoofkamp Universiteit van die Vrystaat Lategaan gesels met Corlia F gehuldig word Die gesprek b
25 JULY
The Morning Star Children’s C general meeting is held at th ises in the Kopano Complex i The meeting will start at 18: all interested parties Confirm is important for catering purp be done at Morning Star s re dialling 057 352 5176
Die Afrikaanse sanger Nichol 19:30 op by Urth n Kontantk van 17:30 af beskikbaar Kaar R100 vir hoërskoolleerlinge R jonger as 12 jaar en R230 by d urth co za Net voor sy verton tein word sy nuutste liedjie v Aanhangers kan hom op sos forms volg vir inligting en die
Cuteness overflow at winter market
24 TO 27 JULY
The Goldfields Bridal Expo w
ANIMALS NEED AID
Vista is supporting Blessings Animal Shelter for Mandela Day, 18 June Kind-hearted readers and residents are invited to donate bags or tins of cat and dog food towards this cause
There is an urgent need for food at the shelter Donations can be delivered to Vista, Office 31, The Strip, 314 Stateway Tilda Neethling of Blessings says there is also a farm animal shelter on the premises Donations of lucerne, vegetables, grain and feed for the ducks and hens, as well as food for the goats, sheep and pigs, will therefore be appreciated These donations can be taken to the Blessings premises in Alma Road Enquiries for the farm animal feed can be directed to Neethling on 083 347 9377
The Welkom Publicity Association winter market was a big success,with well over 100 stalls filling the terrain Hundreds of visitors flocked there to see the multitude of handmade articles,leather goods,home bakes and delicious foods The market was held at the Rover’s Squash Club,its new permanent home.Here is Lenique Loggerenberg (9) and her brother Nicko (6) with their French Bulldog puppies,Abraham (10 weeks) and Katinka (16 weeks) Photo: Marti Will
Boedel Wyle: E A Ruiters
GESOEK VIR KONTANT. 063 158 7293
SOEK motors, motorwrakke & onderdele om te koop vir kontant. Enige fabrikaat, enige toestand. 076 493 3029 Lost or destroyed Deed: D e e d o f T r
BOEDELKENNISGEWING In die boedel van wyle: ELIZABETH ANGELINE R U I T E R S ( G E B O R E WATKINS), (ID: 620817 0053 08 9) in lewe 'n weduwee van WELKOM.
STERFDATUM: 31 JULIE 2022 B O E D E L N O M M E R : 4601/2025
Estate Late: M M Phale E s t a t e N u m b e r : 3889/2025
NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN DECEASED ESTATES All persons having claims against the under-mentioned estate must lodge it with the Executor concerned within 30 days (or as indicated) from date of publication hereof. Province: FREE STATE
Estate late: W J Pienaar E s t a t e N u m b e r : 004751/2024
LEPULE HOPE : viving
ADVERTISEMENT TO C R E D I T O R S A N D DEBTORS In the estate of the late W I L L E M J A C O B U S PIENAAR, Identity Number 340820 5006 08 5, Estate Number 004751/2024, with last known address 77 Rosalind Street, Bedelia, Welkom, Free State and who died on 8 June 2024. Creditors and Debtors are hereby requested to submit their claims and pay debts within a period of THIRTY (30) DAYS from the date of p u b l i c a t i o n o f t h i s advertisement. SCHOEMAN KELLERMAN & KOTZE INC. P.O. BOX 419 WELKOM 9460 TEL: 057-3527241 (REF: NHAB/mm/25F4339)
Boedel Wyle: M J Maishoane B o e d e l n o m m e r : 1730/2019 L I K W I D A S I E - & DISTRIBUSIEREKENING IN BESTORWE BOEDEL WAT TER INSAE LÊ INGEVOLGE ART 35 (5) VAN WET 66 VAN 1965 WORD HIERBY KENNIS gegee dat duplikate van die Eerste- en Finale Likwidasie en Distribusierekening in die ondervermelde boedel, in die kantore van die Meester te Bloemfontein / Landdros te Theunissen ter insae sal lê v 'n tydperk van 21 dae vanaf d a t u m v a n h i
te tity 0, t m, 8 are
Estate Late: E J Mc Cook
E s t a t e N u m b e r : 5579/2024
LIQUIDATION AND D I S T R I B U T I O N ACCOUNTS IN DECEASED ESTATES LYING FOR INSPECTION
In terms of section 35(5) of the Administration of Estates Act, No. 66 of 1965 notice is hereby given that copies of the liquidation and distribution accounts (first and final, unless otherwise stated) in the estates specified below will be open for the inspection of all persons with an interest therein for a period of 21 days (or shorter or longer if specially stated) from the date specified or from the date of publication hereof, whichever may be the later, and at the offices of the Masters of the High Court and Magistrates as stated Should no objection thereto be lodged with the Masters concerned during the specified period, the Executors will proceed to m a k e p a y m e n t s i n accordance with the accounts.
Province: FREE STATE Estate Number: 5579/2024
Surname: MC COOK First Names: ELIZABETH JACOMINA
South African ID Number: 2912220037083
Last Address: MC DONALD STREET, HENNENMAN
Description of Account if other than First and Final: First and Final
ADVERTISER NAME: BADENHORST
AND D
DECEASED ESTATES
LYING FOR INSPECTION
In terms of section 35 (5) of the Administration of Estates Act, No 66 of 1965, notice is hereby given that copies of the liquidation and distribution accounts (first and final, unless otherwise stated) in the estates specified below will be open for the inspection of all persons with an interest therein for a period of 21 days (or shorter or longer if specially stated) from the date specified or from the date of publication hereof, whichever may be the later, and at the offices of the Masters of the High Court and Magistrates as stated.
Should no objection thereto be lodged with the Masters concerned during the specified period the executors will proceed to m
accordance with the accounts.
Province: FREE STATE
Estate Number: 1145/2025
Surname: DE WET
First Names: ELIZABETH MARIA South African ID Number: 2609260067083
Last Address: HOUSE
MARANATHA, 23 VAN ZYL STREET, BOTHAVILLE M
ADVERTISER E-MAIL: info@vanschalk.co.za
ADVERTISER TELEPHONE: 051 4478061
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Spirit squad make their mark
The Welkom-Gimnasium’s cheerleading squad danced their way into the spotlight at the Federation of Dance Drill, Cheerleading and Majorette Sport South Africa (FDDCMSA) competition that was held in Germiston on 5 July
The team, under the guidance of coach Zonnika Fourie, won first place for open dance performance cheer, third place for all girl level 2 stunts, and fifth for group stunt Fourie says she started cheerleading at the school to cater for the learners who did not have a sport to take part in, but who enjoyed dancing
In 2024, the FDDCMSA approached Fourie to enter her girls in competitions
This is a national body that offers dance drill, colour guard, marching bands, majorette sport, baton and cheerleading to all youths in South Africa
It is a fully recognised member of the International Association of Majorette-Sport (IAM)
“They approached me to do level 1 cheerleading, and that is where it began We started taking part in competitions and competing on a national level”
The Welkom-Gimnasium’s cheerleading team attained top honours at the recent cheerleading championships From the left are,front: Tholoana Rakoato (captain),Nonhlanhla Nhlapo,Frieda Hosiassohn,Naledi Chabeli and Lira Shophie; back: Santana Pelser,Tshiamo Mogoera,Relebohile Letlasa, Zonnika Fourie (coach),Zanele Marumo,Boitomelo Mojaki and Maruné Buys
UPCOMING EVENTS TO PUT TALENTS TO THE TEST
The Meloding High Schools Sports Tournament and Talent Contest has been scheduled for 30 August
Spyce Concepts is hosting its first annual tournament, in which Meloding high schools will compete for a prize of R1 500 for the winners, and R1 000 for second place in the soccer, netball and basketball events
Wys haar slag
’n Leerling aan die Primêre Skool Naudeville,Ronah Mpofu (o 9), het ’n negende plek behaal in die Lejweleputswa- interprovinsiale landloopliga,wat op 28 Junie in Parys beslis is
Then tournament will be held at the Meloding Sports Centre between 08:30 and 17:00 The entrance fee is R30
There will also be a dance
Part of A team
Kayla de Jongh of the Orion School of Skills has been selected for the Lejweleputswa Senior A team that will participate in the national Spar Netball Championships in Pretoria from 3 to 7 December
Two Welkom-Gimnasium cross country athletes participated in the Inter-Region Cross Country Championship League that was held just outside Parys at Koedoeslaagte on 28 June The event was presented by AFS Fezile Dabi Cross Country,under the auspices of the Parys Multisport Club,and attracted some 1 000 athletes Dian Erasmus achieved a fifth place in his U14 age group,and Karabo Kondile (photo) finished second in the U17 age group. Photo: Supplied
Kampioen wil inspireer
LIZA-MAY PIETERS
Verlede jaar se Vrystaatse Sportster van die Jaar, Louzanne Coetzee, het glad nie verwag om met dié gesogte titel weg te stap nie.
Vanjaar keer sy egter terug, nie as ’ n deelnemer nie, maar as gasspreker op dieselfde spoggeleentheid Coetzee, Bloemfontein se geliefde paralimpiese atleet, is in 2024 dubbeld vereer toe sy die Sportvrou van die Jaar- én die algehele Sportster van die Jaar-eerbewys ontvang het
Die gasvrou vir vanjaar se geleentheid is die voormalige Protea-netbalspeler Vanes-Mari du Toit Sy sal saam met Rethabile Moshounyane, ’ n plaaslike radio-aanbieder en student aan die Universiteit van die Vrystaat (UV), die verrigtinge lei “Ek het verlede jaar glad nie my eerbewyse verwag nie Ek het buite met iemand gesels toe ek hoor my naam word aangekondig,” vertel Coetzee “Dit was vir my ’ n groot verrassing” Coetzee, wat gesiggestremd is, het reeds wêreldwyd bekendheid verwerf Sy het ’ n silwermedalje in die T11-afdeling van die 1 500m-wedloop en ’ n bronsmedalje in die T12-marathon op die 2020 Paralimpiese Spele in Tokio gewen
In 2024 het sy haar sukses voortgesit met nog ’ n bronsmedalje in die 1 500m op die Paralimpiese Spele in Parys
Sy is nou hard aan die oefen vir die
Louzanne Coetzee en haar man,Jeandré Badenhorst,op verlede jaar se Vrystaatse
Sportsterre-toekenningsaand Vanjaar is sy die gasspreker Foto:Mlungisi Louw
Berlyn-marathon, wat in September plaasvind
Coetzee sê sy sien baie uit na die Sportsterre-aand, dié keer as inspirasie vir ander
Hou Novus Media se gemeenskapskoerante in die Vrystaat – BloemNuus, BloemExpress, Vista en VrystaatKroon – dop vir meer inligting oor vanjaar se benoemings
Die geleentheid word op Donderdag 9 Oktober aangebied en begin om 18:00 vir 18:30
Kaartjies kos R480 per persoon en R4 800 vir ’ n tafel van tien
Om bywoning te bespreek of meer inligting te kry kontak Ainslee Oosthuyen by 074 120 4450 of stuur e-pos na ainslee@spottedapple co za
Future problem solvers mentored
The Eskom Expo for Young Scientists will soon host a series of Regional Science Fairs in 35 regions across South Africa, where school learners will have the opportunity to showcase their innovative ideas, scientific research, and problem-solving skills on a competitive platform
This year ’ s participants have been pre-selected after taking part in various exhibition activities, including workshops designed to elevate scientific skills, as well as mandatory district expos where young scientists received expert guidance and insights into conducting impactful research investigations
This year ' s participants have been selected from school and district expos where more than17 500 learners presented their research projects
Impacting the future
The acting chief executive officer (CEO) of the Eskom Development Foundation, Mologadi Motshele, said Eskom perceives the importance of science, technology, engineering, mathematics and innovation (Stemi) as a strategic enabler of South Africa's growth, innovation capacity, and long-term sustainability
“By cultivating interest and excellence in Stemi from an early age, the Eskom Expo not only develops individual potential but also contributes to the broader goals of economic growth, innovation, and social equity
“These young scientists are the future problem-solvers who will address the challenges of energy, climate change, healthcare, food security, and digital transformation
“Our ongoing support of the Eskom Expo reflects our belief that investing in young minds today ensures a sustainable, skills-driven South Africa tomorrow,” said Motshele
Participants at the regional science fairs will have the opportunity to engage with fellow learners, educators, and professionals from various Stemi fields These interactions are designed to build their critical thinking and research skills while enhancing their communication and presentation abilities
In addition to showcasing their research, young scientists will stand a chance to win a range of prestigious awards, including prizes for the Best Female Project, Best Innovation Project, Best Energy Project, and Best Development Project The Eskom Expo’s executive director, Parthy Chetty, said: “The Eskom Expo is South Africa’s only national initiative that aims to grow future scientists and engineers for our country
“These regional science fairs are the first step to our young scientists engaging with professionals in a
meaningful way, which will further develop their research ideas and innovations We wish them well in the judging process and urge them to continue refining their projects” With more than 6 000 projects set to be showcased across the country this year, young scientists will compete for the highly coveted opportunity to represent their regions and provinces at the prestigious Eskom Expo International Science Fair (ISF) at the Emperors Palace Conference Centre in Kempton Park, from 6 to 10 October
The ISF participants will compete for a multitude of prizes, bursaries, opportunities, and a chance to be selected to showcase their projects at international science fairs in America, Asia, Europe, and the rest of Africa
Prospective judges are encouraged to apply to judge at an upcoming regional science fair to gain experience in evaluating research projects at the Eskom Expo ISF Professionals such as engineers, doctors, veterinarians, teachers, lecturers, researchers, scientists, and information techonolgy (IT) professionals are being sought
Teachers can earn South African Council for Educators (SACE) Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points, while scientists registered with the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP) can earn Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points
Other professionals can obtain credit through their respective professional bodies Visit exposcience co za to apply
The Welkom rgional expo will be held on 6 August at the Central University Of Technology (CUT), Welkom, New Hall
Juana Kok,a teacher at St Andrew’s School in Welkom,and a young entrant during the 2024 regionals. Photo: Supplied
