BloemExpress- E-edition 18 February 2026

Non-compliance hamstrings availability

Medicinenowascarcity

TheFreeState DepartmentofHealth hasconfirmed that interventions areinplace to addressmedication availability at severalhealth facilities. This follows complaintsby patients afternot receivingessential medications for chronic treatment at primary healthcarefacilitiesin recent weeks.

They further raised graveconcern, notingsignificant and persistent shortagesinthe supplyofmedications leadingtocritical situations in hospitals and clinics

BloemExpress was floodedwith complaints from patients either being returnedwithout receivingmedi-

cation or receivingonlyaportion of essentialmedication. Thesewere received from patientswithin the Mangaung Metroand as farafieldas Qwaqwa in the Eastern Free State. Numerouswomenlamented their frustration of beingreturnedatclinics without receivingcontraceptivepills for familyplanningatthe Namahadi and Kagisanongclinics in Qwaqwa and Bloemfontein, respectively. Two women, identified as Keabetswe and Reshoketswe, said thefrustration of not receivinganexplanationatthe respectiveclinicscompelledthemto go public and turn to the media.

MondliMvambi, provincial spokesperson for the department, hasconceded medicationavailability remains achallenge across the health sector due to supplier constraints and

deliverydelays, notingprohibition notices owingtonon-compliance with health and safetyregulations in theworkplace further compounded the department’sabilitytosupply medication.

TheDepartmentofLabourinthe Free Statehas issued severalprohibition notices,compellingclosure of essentialvenues,includingthe Medical DepotinBloemfontein owing to non-compliance with health and safetyregulations “Theseprohibition notices constrainedreceipt anddeliveryoforders to facilities.Currently the departmentisinthe processofgettingthe appointedcontractorto fixthe defects in theceiling,”saidMvambi.

He said to mitigatethe negative effects of thesedelays, the health

facilities were enabledtoplace direct orderswith supplierswhen necessary

“Inthis case,emergencyorders were issued,and the clinic’s stockwas delivered to many health facilities across the province to ensure continuityofcare, particularly forpatients on chronic medication

“Thedepartmentalsocontinuously encourages patients on chronicmedicationtoenrol in the CentralChronic Medicines Dispensingand Distribution (CCMDD) programme

“This is adepartmentinitiative aimedatimprovingaccesstochronic medicationfor stable patients,” said Mvambi.

He said through this programme, qualifyingpatients areenrolledto receivetheir chronicmedicines from alternativepick-up points such as

communitypharmacies,designated clinics,orother approved collection sites, rather than hospital facilities

“This helps reduce congestion at health facilities,shortenswaiting times,and ensurescontinuityofcare. Patients areclinically assessed and must meet specificcriteriabefore beingenrolledinthe programme

“Once enrolled, their medication is pre-packaged and delivered to their selected collectionpointonaregular schedule,”said Mvambi

He addedthat health facilities were in directcontact with the Medical Depottoensureearly interventionsto alleviatebottlenecks

“Inaddition, medication distribution hubs arecreated in the five districts to mitigateagainst anyshortages of medication,” said Mvambi

Farm worker in courtafter

TEBOHO SETENA

Afarm worker arrested for allegedly murdering his loverand burying her bodyinashallowgrave is expected to reappearinthe Bloemfontein Magistrates’Court for abail application on Thursday19February.

Motsamai Pieter de Boer (34) appeared last Wednesdayfollowing his arrest on 9February.

Thesuspect’s courtappearance came after the police haddiscovered the bodyinashallowgrave on afarm homesteadinKloofeind,located close to Bloemdal, about20km west of Bloemfontein alongthe N8.

Accordingtothe police,the victim wasa 27-year-old. De Boer hasnot pleadedamidpossible incriminating evidence of allegedlyconcealingthe victim’s body

An intensivepoliceinvestigation ledtothe discovery of the bodyina shallow grave.

Lt Col. ThaboCovane,spokesperson for the police in Bloemfontein, said De Boer faced chargesofmurder and defeatingthe ends of justice

He said the suspecthad reported the victimasmissing since17January.

Subsequently, amissing person file wasopenedon30January.

Covane said an investigationinto the incident establishedthatthe victim hadbeenthe girlfriend of the suspect.

“Thesuspect gave policea false statementatthe ParkwegPolice Station, claimingthatthe deceased hadleft thefarmtovisit herauntin

Pieter Swarts,Bloemspruit

“Meticulouscrime intelligence gathering ledtothe discovery of the body buried in ashallowgrave in thefarmhomesteadKloofeind area

“Thepolice areinvestigatinga case of murder anddefeatingthe ends of justice,” said Covane

He said thedecomposing remains of the victim were exhumedthereafter.

Covane further said that acase dockethad been openedatthe ParkwegPolice Stationfor further investigation.

Killer of former rugby player jailed

TEBOHO SETENA

Ameticulousinvestigationintothe murder of retired magistrateand rugbylegendPieter (Piet) ChristiaanBesterhas culminatedwith theFreeState High Court sentencing the killer,Bangile JanDael, to 22 years’imprisonment

Thecourt handeddownthe sentence on 3February, basedoncompelling evidence after themurder on 11 Januarylastyearonhis smallholding, Wag-’n-Bietjie,inGlen, located20km outside Bloemfontein.

Thevictim,Bester, waswell-known,having played for the Free StateCheetahsand Griquas of the Northern Cape duringhis playingcareer, in addition to servingasa magistrate.Hewas 63 at the time he wasmurdered

Theconvicted killer,Dael, hadone previous conviction for murder.Hehad been employed by the deceased for approximately17years at the time of the incident.

Thecourt acquittedthe second accused, LetisciaAdams,while compelling evidence led to the conviction of Dael.

Both the SAPS and theNational Prosecuting Authority(NPA) of South Africa in theFreeState have welcomedthe sentencingjustoverayear after the incident.

Police detectiveSgt JanGreef of the Serious and ViolentCrime,Murder and Robberyunit, conducted the investigation that ledtosuccessful prosecution by stateprosecutorAdv Marius Straussofthe NPA.

Mojalefa Senokoatsane,spokespersonfor the NPAinthe Free State, said that Adams hadbeen acquitteddue to insufficientevidence linking her to the offence

“She attemptedtointervene,but waspushed away.Dael wassentencedafter he pleaded guiltytothe murder of retired magistrateBester,” he said.

AccordingtoSenokoatsane,evidence presented in courtrevealedthatBesterhad succumbed to severe head injuries sustained duringthe attack.

During the sentencing, the deceased’ssister, Elsabe vanden Berg,testified in aggravationof sentence,describingher brotherasacompassionateand selflessindividualwho consistently placedthe needsofothersbeforehis own– notingthe fact that Bester hadhired and givenDael

asecond chance in life,despitehis previous conviction formurder.

Thepoliceinvestigationdiscoveredthatthe incidentoccurredon11Januaryatabout 20:00. Dael and hiswife visitedBesterathis residence,where alcohol wasconsumed.

Aheatedargumentbroke outbetween Dael and Bester,and it escalatedintoaphysical fight.

Duringthe fight, Dael went to astoreroom, retrievedagardenforkand used it to assault Bester

After the victim collapsedinfront of the garage,Daeland hiswife abandonedthe injured manand returnedtotheir home

Accordingtothe police, when theyreturned the followingmorning, Dael andAdams found Bester deceased,lyinginthe exact spot where he hadfallen the previous night.

He waslyingina pool of blood,with multiple severe wounds

Thepolicestatedthatalthoughthe suspects hadinitially soughthelpfromneighboursand reported the deathtothe police, the subsequent investigation revealedthe violent natureof Bester’s death.

■ AccordingtoNews24, Bester,renowned forhis strength on the rugby field, made wavesduring the 1990s while playingfor the Free Stateand Griquas in the Currie Cupcompetition.

Hisremarkable scrummagingskills made him akey figure in thetight five,despitenot being the biggesttighthead prop at the startofhis career

‘Nevermisjudgethe sun’

South Africans areencouraged to be mindful of sunsafety year-round and to undergo regularscreenings following asignificant and concerning trend in the number of skin cancer casesrecorded.

UniversalHealthcare, which administers numerousclosed and open medical schemes, reported a130% increase in members with non-melanoma skincancer over an eight-year period

Thereare three majortypes of skincancer:basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. Non-melanomareferstobasal cell and squamous cell carcinomas, whichcan be moreeasilytreated if diagnosed early.

Melanomaislistedamong the topten mostfrequently diagnosed cancersinSouth Africa, as reported in the 2023 South African Cancer Registry

Theprevalence of melanoma hasremainedrelatively constantinboth theUniversal scheme population and in the South African general population.

It is predicted that the numberofnew melanoma skincancer casesidentified in South Africawill increase by 24% by

2030, and by 62% by 2040.

AccordingtoDrOdwa Mazwai, managing director of UniversalCare, all South African skintonesare at risk of skin cancer

He warnedthatall South Africans shouldtakethe necessary safe sunprecautions

“This upward trendovera relatively shortperiodmay be attributabletoa growing awareness aboutskincancer screeningfollowingvarious forms of member education amongthe schemesweadminister.

“Regularskincancer screeningenablesearly diagnosis and effective treatment, which is positive. However, these figureshighlight alongstandingprobleminour countrythat urgently needstobebrought under control,”said Mazwai.

He pointedout that aproactiveapproach tosun protection and skincancerscreenings could reduce the toll of skin cancer over time,both in terms of human life and healthcare costs.

“Looking at the ageprofile of non-melanomaskincancers, it tellsa clearstory about the repercussions of lifestyle behaviours decades later. Just

Clues sought to solvemurder

TEBOHO SETENA

Thethree womenkilledexecution-style in Bloemfontein earlyinFebruaryare yet to be identified,inadditiontoestablishing their countryoforigin. Thepoliceare continuing their investigation regarding thevictims’ identitiesand arealsopiecing together evidence to link an unlicensed firearm to five undocumentedforeignmale suspects

Sgt. MahlomolaKareli, police spokespersonfor the Free State, hasconfirmed this,and hasprovideddetailsabout the circumstances surroundingthe discoveryofthe victims’bodies, at separate locations,onthe weekendof7and 8 February.

Theinvestigationrevealedall three victims were fatallyshot with an unknown firearm. The policeconfirmed that the victims hadbullet wounds to their bodies andthatthe motivefor the murdersremainedunder investigation. Thebodyofthe firstvictim,estimated to be in her30s,was found beside Meadows Road in Springfieldon7February. Thevictim waswearingblue jeans, ayellowstriped short-sleeved T-shirt, andwhite Fila sneakers

Thebodies of the other twovictims were found in the NamibiaSquareareaon8February at around 01:50. Oneofthe victims waswearing lightblue jeans and agreen hoodie,whilethe other waswearing ablue denim topwith black denim jeans.Both roughlyintheir 20s,theyhad gunshot wounds to the back of the head. Theinvestigation hasidentified aLesotho national,Maliehe Maliehi (34),asthe prime suspectinthe shootingoftwo women. He was arrested on 8Februarytogether with four other undocumentedmen They were travellingina minibus in the Namibiaresidential settlement. Thevehicle is also beinginvestigated. Kareli said the recovered firearmwould be sent forballistic testing, and the report made public if it hadbeen the same oneusedinall three incidents Thepoliceare appealingfor public assistance to helpsolvethe murdersofthe three victims, as well as to identifythem.Anyonewith helpful information is requestedtocontact the investigatingofficer,LtCol. Rankhala David Ramasoala,on082 527 7390, or Sgt. Morena Machalotsa of Provincial Seriousand ViolentCrime (Murder and Robberyunit) on 073 729 1732. Alternatively, information canbesubmittedvia the My SAPS apporbydiallingthe SAPS Crime Stop number:08600 10111.

FREESTATE PREMIER TO DELIVERSECOND SOPA

IncumbentFreeState Premier Maqueen Letsoha-Mathaewill deliverher second Stateofthe ProvinceAddress(Sopa) on Friday20February,atBloemfontein's OldGreys sportsground. This willbeher second Sopa, withthe first deliveredlast year, on 21 February. Thefocus is expectedtobeon developments and achievements for2024-’25 and the2026-’27 priorities, alignedwithher tenure – whichstarted withher inaugu-

raladdresson8August 2024. Delivering herfirst Sopa,her agenda prioritised strategic goals alignedwith national objectives underthe theme "Building a Province United in Progress":

■ Economic growth – driving inclusivegrowth and job creation to addressaprovincial unemployment rate that wasapproximately37,6% at the time

■ Social welfare – reducing poverty and tackling high cost of living.

■ Governance – buildingacapa-

ble, ethical and developmental state.

■ Sector support – emphasisingagricultureasaprimary economic driver and pledging to repair rural road infrastructureto support the sector Shestressedcommitment to improving servicedeliveryand fighting unemployment.Key focus areasincludedrevitalising infrastructure, tackling the high cost of living, and promoting accountability in localgovernment

11,6% of skin cancer patients arebetween theagesof18and 49 years; 41,9% areaged50to 69; and46,5% areolder than 70 years.

“Skincancer canhappenat anyage,but mostpatients are diagnosed onlyafter theage of 50, even though mostofthe sunexposureoccursearlier in life.Sun-safe practices are crucial.”

Mazwai pointedout that South Africa hadanaverage ultraviolet(UV)radiation index of 10, whichisconsidered very high,with particularly high levels in Decemberand January. TheUVradiationindex is an internationalstandard measurementthatreflects the strength of the sun’sradiation. Effectiveprotectionmeasures areessential in areaswhere the averageindex is aboveeight “Thereisanurgentneedto reduce therisks of skin cancers by making adaily habit of protectingyourselffromthe damagingeffects of the sun’s ultravioletA (UVA)rays. UVA rays canpenetratethrough glass, umbrellas andclouds and areresponsible for longterm skin damage,the ageing process, andpotential skin cancers,”Mazwaiexplained.

Utility companycollects

TEBOHO SETENA

Centleciscurrentlyconducting comprehensivemeter audits,physicalasset verification, andinfrastructure servicingacrossits area of supply, particularly in theMangaung Metro.

This initiativeaims to improverevenue collection, curb electricitytheft,and ensurethe sustainabilityofelectricityservices This process affects all Centleccustomers, both in private and public sectors.

It hasbeenconfirmed that some of the defaultingcustomersare housed in privately ownedproperties and some arebig businesses,while othersare shoppingcenters within Mangaung.

Recently, Centlechas taken legalaction againstsome of the defaultersinaneffortto recoveroverR150 million in debt.Following the rulingbythe courts of lawinCentlec’sfavor,it is in abetterposition to enforceits debt collection againstsome of thesecompanies.

This include the favourable judgment handed down by the High CourtofSouth Africa, Free StateDivision, in Bloemfontein inabitterdispute involvingthe trustees of the MichaelFamily Trust.

Thecourt ruledinfavourofthe electricity distributoron27January, against thetrustees representedbyJosephReynoldsChamley (first applicant), Michael Nicolas Georgiou(second applicant), Andriana Georgiou(thirdapplicant), andLochLogan Waterfront JudgeSomaNaidoo handed down the judgmentafter thematterhad been heardon 27 March2024. Thehighcourt disputeinvolved debt worthR150 million owed by thetrusteesto Centlec, which, owingtonon-paymentofoutstandingaccounts, acted to interrupt the supply of electricitytothe Loch LoganWaterfront. This is not acampaignagainstanyone,but a

continuedefforttorecover revenueand to ensure proper maintenance of network infrastructure and physical verification of infrastructure. Thecreditcontrol processhappens monthlyas perthe approved credit controland debt collectionpolicy.

Themetro alsoannounceda 60 daygeneral amnestyfor consumerswith illegalelectricity connections Theamnesty is forcustomers with illegal, tamperedwith,ormoved meter boxes who voluntarilydisclosetheir status

Theentityannouncedthe amnesty aimedat allowing residentsinthe Mangaung Metroto regularise their accounts without facing immediatepenalties or criminal prosecution.Itstated this followeda resolution takenbythe MangaungMetrocouncil on 29 January, approvingthe proposal submittedbythe powerutility.

TselisoLeba, actingspokespersonfor Centlec, said theinitiativewas effectivefrom30January until the end of April, excludingholidaysand weekends

Economyhas asilverlining

FREDERICKMITCHELL

South Africa’s post-State of theNation Address (Sona) for 2026 outlooksignals cautious optimism:improvedinvestorconfidence, infrastructure reform,and commodity gains offer growth potential. But success hinges on strict fiscal discipline,sustainable debt management,and investment-ledpolicies. With debt near 78% of grossdomestic product(GDP), theupcoming budget must prioritiseprudent spending,effectivetax compliance,and private-sector-driven growth to ensurelongterm economic stability andjob creation.

Againstthe backdropofPres. CyrilRamaphosa’s deliveryofthe Sona on 12 Februaryand lookingahead to the forthcomingbudgetspeech on 25 February, South Africa stands on the threshold of significant economic transformation,accordingtothe presidency Ramaphosa’s Sona celebratedSouth Africa’s removalfromthe grey listingbythe Financial Action Task Force(FATF), and this is heralded as acatalystfor international investment. This development, together with improved fiscal stabilityand encouragingcredit ratings,has fostered amoreoptimistic outlook among foreign investors. Such stabilityiswelcome news, returningconfidence to oureconomic narrative and bolstering the Rand.

Noteworthy is Ramaphosa’s strategic push towardsmodernisinginfrastructurethrough public-private partnerships (PPPs).Operation Vulindlelaaims to transform ourbeleaguered portsand rail systems,and the endofload-sheddingcould pave the wayfor uninterrupted business operations.

WHATISFRAUD?

•Itisanintentional unlawful actwhere aperson/smisrepresenttheir informationfor enrichment and personal benefit.

TYPES OF SOCIALGRANT FRAUD:

•Not providing correct information to SASSA: this applies to all social grants

•Forged/fake ID numbers, birthcertificates,court ordernumbers, residential addresses and medicalreportssubmittedtoSASSAwhen applyingfor asocialgrant.

•Anemployed beneficiary who has notdisclosed his/herand spouse's employmentstatus toSASSA

•Beneficiary receiving: Child Support Grantofa child/childrennot in their care andFosterCare Grant for their own children.

•Beneficiariesreceiving DisabilityGrantbut notmedically assessed by Medical Practitioner

•Withdrawal of social grants after death of abeneficiary without notifying SASSA.

•Changing of beneficiary paymentdetails to adifferent account without their knowledge

•Cross border -accessingofsocial grantsfraudulently by personswho are notcitizens or residing in SA

•Exploitation of beneficiaries by money lenders

•Using SASSA's logo or identity without permission could violate legal guidelines andregulations

HOW TO REPORT SUSPECTED SOCIALGRANTS FRAUD:

•The beneficiary/community member mustreport allegations of fraud/corruption immediately by contacting theirnearest SASSAoffice or theSouthAfrican Police Services(SAPS), to ensure ZeroTolerancetofraud.

•Call the SASSAToll-Free Number:0800601011toreport fraud.

REMEMBER: IT'SYOUR SOCIALGRANT

•Donot share your PIN number withanyone.

For moreinformation, please callSASSAToll-Free on 0800601011oremail: GrantEnquiries@SASSA.gov.za

SASSAServices areFREE! If you are askedtopay for the service, report it!

Howtoreport those missing

TheSAPSinBloemfontein encourages the public to immediatelyreportamissing person at the nearestpolice station– stressingthatthere is no waitingperiodrequired to report amissing person.

Thepolice encouragefamilies,relatives and friends to keep recentphotos of their lovedones

Photographsare essentialinthe search for missing persons becausetheyprovide an accurate,immediatevisualreference that enables the public andlaw enforcement to identify, track andlocateindividuals

“Thepersonwho makessuchareportwill be askedtoprovide aclear recentphotograph of the missing person,”explainedCol Mamiki Moeketsi, provincial policespokesperson.

“Thepolice official attendingtothe reporter will complete aSAPS55(A) formfor twoimportantreasons:tosafeguardthe organisation from hoax reports, andtoindemnify the SAPS to distributethe photograph(s) andthe information of the missing person. ”

Required informationwhenvisitingapolice stationtoreportsomeone missingis:

■ arecentphotograph;

■ afull descriptionwhich details name,age, height,hairand eyecolour,scars or tattoos; and

■ informationonwho theywerelastseenwith

Thepersonreportinga missing person must be able to givea complete description of the missing individual: his or herlastwhereabouts, clothesthattheywerewearing,aswell as any otheradditionalinformation that canassistthe search team.

Acontactable number cangreatly assist in locatingthe missingperson. People aretherefore encouraged to ensurethat family members’ phonesalwayshavethe location settingturned on. They could alsoconsider installingatracking appona phonetoassistinthe eventofadisappearance

Thepersonmakinga report will obtain the investigatingofficer’s contactdetails so that therecan be constant communication on new developmentsinthe search “Whenthe missingpersonisfound or returns voluntarily,the investigatingofficer andthe search teammustbeinformedsothatinternal processescan be concluded,” said Moeketsi.

Yet, theseambitionsmustbetemperedwith fiscal reality. TheNational Treasury facesthe formidable challenge of funding theseventures without exacerbatingour national debt,currently uncomfortablynear78% of GDP

Thepromiseofinfrastructureinvestment hangsonkey components of sustainable growth,yet financing theseprojects demands careful navigation to avoid fiscal overreach. The R1 trillion infrastructurefund must be meticulously managed, with afocus on reallocation of existingresources rather than expanding expenditure. Markets will scrutinisethe Medium-Term Expenditure Framework(MTEF)for signsof robust public-private partnerships (PPP)frameworksrather than newdeficit-fundedventures. Thepresident’saversion to majortax hikes is commendable,signallingapreference forstabilitytoencourageinvestment. However, the subtle increase in effectivetax ratesthrough enhanced South AfricanRevenue Service (Sars) enforcementand digitisation introduces acomplex dynamic

That said, addressing the tighttax base remainscrucial.Avoidingbracketcreep and expanding the tax pool through jobcreation in keysectors likemanufacturingand renewable energy canhelp spread the burden moreequitablyand sustainably

While commoditywindfalls provide asilver lining, theyshould be utilised strategically to service existingdebt, aligning with the government’s fiscal consolidation efforts This approach is essentialtomaintainingthe credit improvements achievedand lowering debt servicingcosts,whichstrain fiscal resources more than ourmodestGDP growth forecastscan comfortablysupport.

Thepresidentframedthe year ahead with a focusoninclusivegrowth, reducinglivingcosts, and fosteringacapable state. By stimulating privatesectorinvestments through strategic governmentfacilitation,South Africa cancreate afertile environmentfor vibrant economic expansion and employmentgeneration. In conclusion,whilethe Sona sets apromisingtonefor optimism and renewal, the February budget must anchortheseaspirationsinstringent fiscal responsibility.

By focusing on broad-based investment incentives,maintaining fiscal discipline,and fosteringanenablingbusinessenvironment, the governmentcan unlock the true potentialof the recentcommodityboom, propellingSouth Africa towardsaresilientand growth-ledfuture. ■ Mitchell is an economist with 16 years of experience

Illicittradersarrested

LIENTJIE MENTZ

Another endangered ground pangolin wasrescued from being sold in theillegalwildlife tradeafter police in Bloemfontein arrestedthree trafficking suspects. Theofficers of the ParkwegPoliceStation busted thesuspects,fromKuruman in theNorthern Cape,onTuesday 10 February.

SgtSinah Mpakane,provincial spokesperson for theFree Statepolice,said themembers acted on intelligence information regardingaplannedpangolin transaction.

Shesaid the rescue took place at ashop on theN8highway in the city.

Membersfollowedupon information aboutthe suspects at awell-known shop whereatransaction with apotential buyer, a foreign national, wasplanned.

Mpakane said the suspects attemptedtoconduct atransaction, allegedlysellingthe endangered species for R750 000.

Mpakane said members confiscated the species and awhite Toyota Quantumminibus as part of incriminatingevidence in the commission of the crime “Therecovered pangolin was unharmed,”said Mpakane

Shesaid the traffickersface a charge of unlawful possession of an endangeredspecies and carryingout arestricted activity withoutapermit under theNational Environmental Management:

Biodiversity Act(NEMBA).

In November last year,police in Bloemfontein savedapangolin in transit after arrestingtwo Lesotho male nationals.

Thesuspects, aged 32 and 34, were intercepted on theN8.

Police reported the animalwas discovered stuffed in ablue steel tool trunk in the suspects’car’s boot. Thetraffickershavealso been appearinginthe Bloemfontein Magistrates’ Court, facing similarcharges

Previous convictions include:

■ In Pretoria,duringOctober and November 2025, four suspects, includingtwo South African police officers from theSun City Police Station, were arrested during an undercover stingfor attemptingtosella pangolin for R160 000.

■ In PrinceAlbertduring November2025, FlyingSquad members arrested twomen from Cape Town at avehicle checkpoint

after findinga pangolinvaluedat R200 000 in their car.

Accordingtoauthorities, pangolins,specificallythe Temminck’sground pangolin, arethe mosttrafficked mammals in South Africa,with about100 individuals retrievedfromillegal tradeannually, driven by high demandfor their scalesinAsia. They arereportedlytrafficked for their meat becauseitisregarded as adelicacyand for their scales, whichare falselybelievedtohave medicinal properties.Pangolins arebelievedtobethe world’s mosttrafficked mammal.

Penaltiesfor traffickingprotected species in South Africa are severe.First-time offenderscan face fines up to R5 million or five yearsinprison, while subsequent convictions canleadtoR10 million fines or 10 years’ imprisonment. Notable sentences saw individuals receivinguptoeight yearsinprison.

Fake officerfaces charges

TEBOHO SETENA

Ayoung manhas been arrested for impersonating apolice officer in Bluegumbosch, one of the major residential areasinQwaqwa in theEastern Free State. Mpho Mohlakoana (20) is remandedincustody after beingunable to paybail set at R1000. He is scheduledtoreappear in thePhuthaditjhaba Magistrates’Court on Thursday19February, facing multiple charges. Members of the Phuthaditjhaba Crime Intelligence andPublic Order Policearrestedthe suspecton10February.

WO MmakoMophiring, spokesperson for theFree Statepolice in the Thabo Mofutsanyana district, said that during asearchat

the suspect’splace,police members uncoveredincriminatingitems belongingtoor used by police. He said that duringan operation,members of the multidisciplinaryteam received information about asuspect impersonatinga policeofficer and in possession of a firearm.

Mophiringsaid the items includedanappointment certificate,constable insigniaand policetrainingmodules.Additionally, members confiscated the following items:apolicewinterjacket, SAPS field dresstrousers, aholster, ammunition, a firearmreplica, apolice belt and socks. He said the suspectwas tracedatalocal tavern and escorted to his residence,whereasearch wasconducted.Hesaid ac-

cordingtopreliminary findings,the suspectisknown in the communityasapolice officer who is stationed at Harrismith “Thesuspect failed to provide detailsofwherehe wasstationed and failed to accountfor the items He lateradmittedthathe wasnot apoliceofficer, claiminghehad stolen the uniformfromarelativewho is apoliceofficer,leadingto his immediatearrest,”said Mophiring. He said preliminary chargesagainst the suspect includedthe possession of suspectedstolen property; impersonatingapoliceofficer;aswell as the possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition. Mophiringsaid the matter is further investigated

STUDENTSSCAMMED THROUGH FAKE OFFICIAL

TheBloemfontein Hawks’ SeriousCorruption Investigation detectivescallonstudents connedbyayoung male civilian posing as an official at theMangaungMetrotoreport cases. This followed thearrest of asuspect, Vuyani GibsonMpasie (27), in connection with the allegedfakebursaryscheme He reappeared in theBloemfontein Magistrates’Court on Monday16Februaryfor abail application. He briefly appeared on Thursday 12 Februaryfollowing his arrestbymembers of the elitecrimefighting wing. Thearrestwas the culmination of an investigation launchedafter receiving information earlier this month.

Lt Col. ZweliMohobeleli, provincial spokes-

person forthe Hawks, said the Bloemfontein Hawks’ detectives received information about aman posing as an official,allegedly to scam students through afakebursaryscheme

“He reportedly introduced himselfasanofficial of Mangaung Metro, promising to facilitate the approval of bursaryapplications forafee,” said Mohobeleli.

He said Mpasie waschargedwith corruption and extortion. Students seekingbursaries to pursue their academic aspirations arestrongly warnednot to fall prey to scammers. Anyone who might have fallen victimtothe scam shouldcontact a Hawksdetectiveon082 5844043.

Police raid illicitdealings

TEBOHO SETENA

ThepoliceinBloemfontein’s crackdownonthe drug dealing tradehas culminatedina major recovery of drugs, in addition to arrests made. Therecovered drugswith an estimated valueof R700 000 were confiscated during thearrestoffour suspecteddealers within 24 hours in thepolice’s Anti-Gang unit’s anti-dealer campaigninHeidedal.

Theanti-drug operation was conducted over theweekend of Saturday14Februaryand Sunday 15 February.

SgtMahlomolaKareli, provincial spokesperson for the Free State police,said items confiscated includedcocaine,dagga,khat, crystal meth andMandrax. He said membersofthe provincial police’s Anti-Gangunit in Bloemfontein dealt amassive blowtothe local drug trade and that the teamrecovered drugs following the execution of search warrants at targeted residences in Heidedal.

“Drugs with atotal street value exceedingR715 000 were removed from the streets of Heidedal, resultinginthe arrest of four suspects,” said Kareli. He said at the residence of a 40-year-old man, officersdiscovered cocaine with an estimated street value of R75 000 and an undisclosed amountofcash Kareli said duringthe execution of asearchwarrant at the residence

of a27-year-old suspect, large quantitiesofdagga professionally wrappedinplastic,valuedat approximatelyR60 000, as well as cash,werediscovered. He said persistent search and investigation resulted in the additionalarrestof twosuspected drug dealers.

“Actingonastrategic tip-off regardingtwo suspects,operatorsmoved in on aspecifichouse where, upon spottingthe police, a38-year-old suspectattempted

to evademembers on foot.He wasswiftlyintercepted. Asearch of the school baghewas carrying revealeda cacheofdrugs The investigationled members to a 36-year-old male.Acomprehensive search of the premises uncovereda massivestockpileofvarious drugs such as khat,crystal meth and Mandrax,with acombinedstreet value of R580000, as well as asignificant,undisclosed sumofcash.”

All four suspects face charges

rangingfrompossession to dealing in illicit drugs They areexpectedto appear in theBloemfontein Magistrates’Court laterthis week MajGen. ApaphiaModise, actingprovincial commissioner, haslaudedthe Anti-Gang unit for their quickresponsetocommunity intelligence,notingthatthe seizure of the school bagusedtotransport drugs is particularly concerningas it suggests tactics used to blendinto the community.

Eyeinthe skya first at SA rugby

Asolar-powered airship circled aBloemfontein stadium on Monday nightduringthe opening matchofthe 2026 FNBVarsity Cup, marking the firsttime such an aircraft hasappearedata rugbymatch in South Africa

TheCloudline Sc-240 airship flew abovethe venueasUFS Shimlas played Maties,providing aerialviews forfans and television viewers.

TheSc-240 is the world’s firstcommercially available solar-poweredairship in its class. The aircraft is poweredbysolar-recharged batteries and liftedbyhelium,allowing it to remain airborne formorethan10hours

Theairship cancarry payloads of up to 40kg and operates at alower cost than traditional aerialsystems.Potential applicationsinclude environmental monitoring, disasterresponse and resource surveying.

Theappearance of the airship at Monday’s matchrepresents the firstuse of such technology at arugby eventinthe country.

The flight demonstrated the operational capabilityofthe Sc-240 at alivesportingevent, with the airship circlingthe stadium throughout the match.

Waterput atriskbymishandling

South Africans arebeingurged to understand anew and alarmingglobal reality: waterbankruptcy.Accordingto experts,this scenario is thepointwherewater systems aresooverusedand mismanaged that theycan no longer recover.

AwarningcontainedinaUnitedNations (UN) report just released says the worldhas enteredan“eraofglobal waterbankruptcy,” with seriousconsequences for food security,economies and everyday accesstosafe water. Theconcept is simple.Justashouseholds canoverspend their income and drain their savings, countries andcitiescan usemorewater than nature canreplace Once underground aquifers,riversand wetlands aredepleted or polluted beyond repair,the system is effectively “bankrupt”

ForSouth Africa, this is not adistant or abstract risk Charlotte Metcalf,chief executive officer (CEO)of theSouth African National BottledWater Association (SANBWA), explainedthatwater bankruptcy is not about droughtalone

“This is aboutyears of poorplanning,weakmaintenance,pollutionand over-extraction. Agoodrainy season does not fixa broken system.”

Majorthreats in South Africainclude ageing infrastructure, high waterlosses, polluted rivers and unmanaged groundwater extraction that hasleft many municipalities operatingonborrowedtime.Metcalf noted that in some areas, boreholes aredrilledwithoutproperstudies,aquifersare over-pumpedand once-clean sources become vulnerable to contamination.

Knysnaisone of the clearest real-world examples of waterbankruptcy in South Africa.Despitebeing a high-rainfall, high-income coastal town,the town has facedrepeatedwater emergenciesdrivenlargely by years of poorwater management, delayedinfrastructure upgrades,and increasing demand from population growth and tourism

Often framedasapollution crisis, the Vaal Riversystemalsoincreasingly reflects functionalwater bankruptcy –wherewater still exists,but hasbecome progressively unusable Thereasons waterisunusable or unsafe include sustained mismanagement, chronicsewage pollution, failingwastewaterworks,degradedwetlands, weak enforcementand rising treatmentcosts beyond municipal capacity.

TheUNreportstronglywarnsthatmanywater systems worldwidecan no longerreturn to historic levels,evenif rainfall improves Thedamageispermanent

Thereporthighlights that waterbankruptcy is overwhelminglycausedbyhuman decisions,not nature alone.Mismanagement, lack of monitoring andfailureto protectwater sources arethe common threads

Forconsumers, the implications areserious.Water bankruptcy affects food prices,household waterreliability,public health and economicstability.

“Whena watersystemcollapses, the poorest communities feel it firstand hardest. That is whyresponsible waterstewardship is asocialand economicnecessity.”

Metcalf believesthe UN’s warningshould serveasa wake-up call for South Africa to protectwater resources beforetheyare lostfor good

“Declaring waterbankruptcy is nota call for panic.It is abouthonesty. If we face the reality now, we canstill change course.Ifweignoreit, the cost financially,socially and environmentallywill be farhigher.”

Knowledgeispower

To empowerthemselves, the public must understand wherewater comes from andmakeresponsible choices:

■ Payattentiontowater sources.Whether it is tap, borehole or bottledwater,ask asimple question: Is this water sustainablysourced andproperly managed? Waterthat comesfromunregulated or poorlymanaged sources adds pressure to already “bankrupt”systems

■ Choose to buywater from bottlers that canprove their sources aresustainable and protected. TheSANBWA membershipisa visible marker that independenthydrogeological assessments andongoing monitoringare in place

■ Treat waterasa finiteresource. Waterbankruptcy meansa system canfailevenafter good rainfall. Responsibleuse mattersall the time,not onlyduringdrought restrictions

“For consumers, the firststepinavoidingwater bankruptcy is understandingthatevery waterchoice matters; then, supportingsupplierswho canprove theyare protectingwater sources forthe longterm,”Metcalf said.

ANDCOMMENT AS AN INTERESTEDAND AFFECTEDPARTY ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT:PUBLICPARTICIPATION PROCESS

AMENDMENTOFENVIRONMENTALAUTHORISATIONS FOR THERESPECTIVE 100MWKLIPFONTEINSOLARPV(PHOTOVOLTAIC)FACILITY

75 MW KLIPFONTEIN 2SOLAR PV FACILITY

100 MW LELIEHOEK SOLARPVFACILITY

DFFEReference:14/12/16/3/3/2/722

DFFE Reference: 14/12/16/3/3/2/726

DFFE Reference: 14/12/16/3/3/2/728

NEAR DEALESVILLE, TOKOLOGO LOCAL MUNICIPALITY, FREE STATEPROVINCE

The holder of the Environmental Authorisations (EAs)for the respective projects is applying for non-substantiveamendments to the EAs it receivedon06June 2016. Theamendment processrequiresthe verification of the site conditions and previous report findingsbythe relevantspecialistand Environmental AssessmentPractitioner(EAP).This informationwillbecaptured in adraft Motivation Report which willbemade available to Interested and Affected Parties (I&APs) for a30-day comment period. Comments received willbecaptured in aComments and Responses Report (CRR) and included withthe Final Motivation Report submittedtothe Department of Forestry,Fisheriesand the Environment(DFFE)ascompetent authority to decide whether to grant the amendments applied for

Legal Framework: Application for amendment of the respective EAsisinterms of the National Environmental ManagementAct, 1998 (Act No.107 of 1998) as amended, andthe Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)Regulations,2014 (as amended) Specifically,Chapter 5, Regulation 29 (Part1,non-substantive amendment) andRegulation 30 (amendment processdescribed). Noticeishereby givenofa Public Partic pationProcess as definedinthe EIARegulations,2014 (as amended),which arerelevant to this application. All three projects areentirely withinRenewable EnergyDevelopment Zone (REDZ5 Kimberley)asper GovernmentNotice114.

OpportunitytoParticipate: To registerasanI&APpleasesendyourname and contact details (e.g., E-mail address)and an indicationofany direct business, financial,personal,orother interest whichyou have in the application to the undermentioned EAP.Note, personalinformation willbeprocessedinterms of the ProtectionofPersonalInformationAct 4of2013.All information submitted by I&APs will become public informationunless indicated otherwise.The closing date for submitting your comment is 23 March 2026. Thehard copy reportscan be viewed at the Dealesville Public Library in Tshwaraganang (Potlaki Street) and electroniccopiesofthereportsareavailableonrequestfromtheEAP.

AllfuturecorrespondencerelatingtotheEnvironmentalProcesswillbedistributedtoallregisteredI&APs RegisteredI&APswillbenotifiedoftheoutcomeoftheamendmentprocess.

AnyadditionalinformationcanbeobtainedfromtheEAP.

EAP:DirkPretorius(EnviroAgri)

Email:dirk@enviroagri.com

Post:P.O.Box3731,TygerValley,7536

Phone+27271002712

Models sought forfashion show

TEBOHO SETENA

Young models within theMangaung Metroare calledupontoaudition for this year’s Bloem FashionShow, whichwillfeature during theannual Bloem Show scheduledtotakeplace from 23 April to 2May

This year’s theme is “Beach Party” , promising avibrant atmospherewith a mix of agriculture, entertainment, and commercial exhibitions.

Castingfor interested modelswill be conducted on 28 FebruaryinBloemfontein. Thoseselected will showcase creativedesigns by differententerprisinglocal designers on the runway duringthe Fashion Show scheduled to be held on 26 April. Theorganising agency, Ms WorldPlus pageant, is castingyoung male and female talentfor the fashion show. This eventdebuted last year as anew additiontothe eventful BloemShow. Thefashionshowaims to provide young designers with achance to showcase their creativebrands,access the market,and inspireentrepreneurship.Local designers made their mark at last year’s edition,showcasing collections that ranged from streetwear to modern Africangarments.Designers included SherleyMagqaza (ShirQreates PtyLtd), KgalaletsoLetsoalo (K-Compass), Sivu Guda (DezzannaTranx), andAudrey Tladi (ASL). Creations includethe Basotho royalfabric,

topand bottom – one of thecreations by SherleyMagqaza.

shweshwe,and stylish summer attire such as akimono-stylegarmentworn with abikiniswimsuit

TheBloem Fashion Show ties in with WorldDesignDay,observedannually on 27 April. Theglobal eventhighlights the role of pioneersindesignand innovation in jobcreation and economic development.

Modelsinterestedinthe castingcan contact Chief Leeuw on 072 950 0032.

MANGAUNG METROPOLITAN MUNICIPALITY

SPATIAL PLANNINGAND LAND USE MANAGEMENT ACT,2013 (ACT NO. 16 OF 2013)

The application, relevantplans, documentsand information will be available forinspection during ofce hours(08h00 –15h00) at the ofce of the Town and Regional Planning Sub-directorateofthe Mangaung MetropolitanMunicipality,Room 802, 8thFloor, Bram Fischer Building,Corner Nelson MandelaDrive and MarkgraafStreet, Bloemfontein foraperiod of 30 days from thedateof publication hereof, namely Wednesday 18 February 2026.

Any person whohas an interest in the matter or who wishes to object to thegranting of theapplication or who desires to be heard, or wants to make representations concerning thematter, must communicateinwriting with the Town and RegionalPlanningSubdirectorate of theMangaungMetropolitan Municipalityatthe above-mentioned address, or e-mail: george.masuabi@mangaung.co.za, or post to P.O. Box 3704, Bloemfontein, 9300 withinaperiod of 30 days from thedateof publication hereof, namely 18 February 2026 –20March 2026, quotingyour name, address, contact details,interest in the application and reasons for your comments. The Municipality mayrefuse to accept commentsreceived after theclosingdate. Any person whocannot write willbeassisted by aMunicipal ofcial by transcribing theircomments.

NOTICE

It is hereby notied for generalinformationinterms of theprovisions of Section 50 of theMangaung Metro Municipality Municipal Land UsePlanning By-laws (2021) that applications have been submittedbythe applicant Makecha Development Associates, trading as MDA pertaining to thepropertiesbelow for:

Consent Useinterms of Section21(2)(b)(iv)

(1) Erf12769,BloemfonteinExtension 76, Universitas (27 BoersmaStreet) (Consent Use- Commune). Property owner: Pieter Adrian Bothma, ID No. 820511 5059 088

RemovalofRestrictiveConditionsofTitleandaConsentUseintermsofSection21(a)(iii)&(vii)

(2) Erf8438,BloemfonteinExtension 55, Universitas (22 SandklipStreet) (Removal of RestrictiveConditions B(a) and B(b) on page 2&3 of T11179/2015 and Consent Use- Commune). Property owner: Key Properties CC

(3) Erf8274, Bloemfontein Extension55, Universitas (8 Horwitz Street) (Removal of RestrictiveConditions B(a) and B(b) on page 3ofT4533/2021 and Consent Use- Commune). Property owner: FezileNgubane, ID No.841019 5696 086 and Kayakazi Khanyiswa Mabutyana, ID No.830609 0534 085

(4) Erf3728, Bloemfontein Extension 12, Parkwes (5 CalvynCrescent)(Removal of RestrictiveConditions 1(a) and 1(b) on page 2 of T15682/2022 and Consent Use- Commune).Property owner: Dr RobertByegeka PtyLtd,Reg No. 2017/318665/07

(5) Erf3729, BloemfonteinExtension 12, Parkwes (7 CalvynCrescent)(Removal of RestrictiveConditions (a) and (b) on page 2of T15674/2022 and Consent Use- Commune).Property owner: Dr RobertByegeka PtyLtd,Reg

President’scommitmenttoaid gets athumbsup

TheDGMurray Trust(DGMT)has welcomed Pres.Cyril Ramaphosa’scommitmentto tackling stuntinginSouth Africa,aspart of concerted efforts to endstunting by 2030. He made this undertaking while delivering his Stateofthe NationAddress (Sona) on Thursday12February.

Theannouncementcomes just twomonths after his cabinet approved the National Strategy to AccelerateActionfor Children(NSAAC), whichsets 10 national prioritiestoimprove the lives of children and teenagers.

Ramaphosasaid hisgovernmentwould focus on interventionsinthe first1000 days of life: from conception to achild’s second birthday,

acritical period for child growth anddevelopment.

“Evidence showsthatthe risk of stunting increaseswhenbabies areborn with alow birthweight(under 2,5kg) andnever catchup becausetheir mothersweremalnourished or drank alcohol while pregnant. So,itisencouragingthatthe presidentwants to implement targetedinterventions,” said Corné Kritzinger, communications managerfor the DGMT Ramaphosastatedfundingfor government’s stuntingeradicationplanwould be allocatedin the Medium Term Budget PolicyStatement

“Wewanttosee adequate fundingfor evidence-basedstrategies that will have the greatest impact andreturn on investment,” said Kritzinger.

However, he noted the challenge of South Africa’s high rate of fetalalcohol syndrome (FES), andthatoverthe past decade about800 000 babies were born underweight andbrain-damaged due to alcohol exposureinthe womb

“Toaddressthisproblem and the harms caused by heavydrinking, we urge the governmenttointroduce minimum unit pricing. We alsowanttosee follow-through on the president’scall on provinces to tightenregulations around liquor trading hoursand limitingthe densityofliquoroutlets,” said Kritzinger.

Thefollowing interventions aredeemedkey:

■ Introducingmultiple micronutrientsupplementation (MMS) for pregnantwomen –a single tablet replacingironand folate with a moreeffectivecombinationof15vitamins and

minerals, shown to reduce lowbirthweight, pretermbirth and earlyinfantmortality. MMS is apractical,scalableintervention delivered through existinghealth platforms.

■ ImplementingaMaternal Supportgrant (MSG), startinginthe second trimesterof pregnancyand transitioningseamlesslytothe Child Supportgrant after birth.Income support duringpregnancyimprovesmaternal nutrition, increasesclinic attendance and reduces the risk of lowbirthweight.

■ Providingtargetednutrition supporttopregnant women at risk of havingalow-birth-weight baby and newmothersoflow-birth-weight babies This must be complementedbymoreintensivehealth care supportthrough community health workersand regularclinic monitoring.

Gallants saynomore, fornow

TEBOHO SETENA

Silence is golden for theMarumo Gallants FC in aHighCourt matter with Moroka Swallowsoverthe latterclub’s sale of its Premier Soccer League franchise just over ayear ago. TheGallants confirmed they received court documents relating to a matter from SwallowsonaFridayin February.

However, the Dr AbramSello-led teamwould not commentfurtheron this debacle, citingthat the matter was beforethe court.

“Theclub will not be making any furtherpublic comments, nor will it be participatinginmedia interviews regardingthe issue.

“TheMarumo Gallants FC respects the legalprocessand will allowthe mattertoproceed through the appropriate judicial channels

“Theclub would liketoassureits supporters,partnersand stakeholders that operations continue as normal. Management, technical staff andplayersremain fullyfocused on preparations and ongoingcommitments for the remainder of theseason,”said Sello Nduna, Gallants spokesperson in a mediastatementissuedonMonday 16 Februaryfollowing wide reportage of the legalbattle with Swallows He said further communication would be issued when appropriate Accordingtoreports published by variousmedia houses,aggrieved Swallows arecitingunpaid debts and allegedbreaches of contract as the chief reason to have cancelled the 2024 deal that sawthe Gallants take

over their top-flight status

TheSowetosidereportedlytook the matter to the High Courtasa last resort,seeking acourt order to reclaim their placeinSouth Africa’s topdivision.

Following the completion of the sale deal earlierin2024, the Gallants relocatedtoBloemfontein as their permanent home and managedto retain their top-flight status in the recently concluded2024-’25season.

As things stand in the PSL, the Gallantsfacerelegation following their winlessstreakgoingintothe critical finalstretch of the season. Theclub is stuckon15 points and hasmanaged to record just three wins andsix draws thus far Thedraws were againstgiants Kaizer Chiefs,Mamelodi Sundowns,

Orbit College,MagesiFC, Polokwane Cityand Sekhukhune United.All three wins –againstOrlandoPirates, ChippaUnited andRichardsBay –came with 2– 1scorelines. TheBahlabanebaNtwaare on a four-game losingstreakinthe Betway

Premiership following a3 –0 defeat to PirateslastSaturday. Theteamhas failedtosecurealeaguevictorysince Octoberlastyear. TheGallants have descendedto 14th position on the league table following their dismal rununderthe

youthful French-born coachLafitte. Lafitte’stargetistoensurethe club qualifies forthe topeight. Theclub’s mostnotableachievementunderhis charge is reachingthe finalofthe CarlingCup –but theylost 1– 0toPirates

ProteasplayinBfn

South Africa’sProteas women cricket team is returning to Bloemfontein for ahighstakes One-Day International (ODI) matchagainstPakistan.

Theteams will battle it outat the Mangaung Oval on Sunday 22 February.

This highly-anticipated fixturefollows aprevious, separate,and historictest match againstEngland that wasplayedatthe same venue in December2024. This upcominginternational match is significant as amajor event for localfans to supportthe national teaminthe Free State, with calls to turn the stadium

into a“seaofgreen and gold”. TheProteaswomen’scricket team haswon 23 ODImatches againstPakistan and will be lookingtomaintain their dominancecome Sunday Thevisitorshavemanaged just sixvictories in all 31 competitivematches played thus far.Followingthe conclusion of their Twenty20 International (T20I) series on Monday 16 February, which the South African teamwon 2– 1, victory for the hostinthe Free State capital on Sunday will extend their domination.

During Monday’s fixture, the Proteaswomenperformed belowthe parand managedto falltoaheavy 53-run defeat in the thirdand finalT20 Interna-

tional againstPakistan. It wasa consolationwin forthe visitors,after they lost the openingtwo games in Potchefstroomand Benoni last week,but it will lift Pakistan ahead of the ODIseries starting. Inspired by the win, the visitingteamwould strive to pull amajor upsetagainstthe arch-rivals,tolevel theseries Theabilityofthe Proteastorecoverspeedilyfromthe defeat will be fundamental to redeem themselves.

Tickets areavailable,with aValentine’s Daypromotion runningfor ticketcombos (R100 for apair), while standard adult tickets areR100 and tickets for kids,students and pensionersare R50.

TheNorth-West UniversityEaglesforwardswerein amoodtodestroy in the second half of their clash with the Ixias of the Central UniversityofTechnology(CUT),Free State. PHOTO:AsemEngage – HannesNaude

Eagles fly high with blitzovergutsy rivals

TheEagles of theNorth-WestUniversity (NWU) turneda17-pointdeficit into acomprehensive 59 – 42 triumph as TherlowPrins’sensational hat-trickheadlineda breathtakingsecond-half comeback at apackedCUT Park,home ground for the CentralUniversity of Technology (CUT), Free State, rugbyteaminBloemfontein.

Onehundred and onepoints.Fifteen tries Andasecond-half surgethat will have therestof the competition takingnotice Thetwo-time champions on Monday 16 Februaryannouncedtheir title intentions in spectacular fashion, weatheringanearly storm beforeunleashinganattacking masterclass that left the home faithful stunned

While the Eagles pack providedthe grunt work up frontwith some serioushardgraft in thetrenches,itwas winger Prins whograbbed the headlines with ascintillatinghat-trick.Every time the speedstertouched the leather, somethingmagical seemedtohappen. That is the kind of X-factor that wins championships Theopening40minutes deliveredabsolute chaos in the best possible way. End-to-end rugbyhad supporters on the edge of their seats as both sides threw everythingateachotherina frenetic openingstanza that setthe tone for the try-festtocome

ThevisitorsfromPotchefstroomdrew first blood through hooker Jordan McLoughlin, who poweredoverfromadrivingmaultoget the scoreboard ticking. Butthe Ixiaswerenot about to be intimidated on home turf.Jade Muller crashedoveralmostimmediately,withKehan Myburghaddingthe extras to levelproceedings andignitethe CUTParkfaithful.

From there,itbecame an absoluteshootout. Prins crossedfor the Eagles,showcasingthe blistering pace that would tormentthe CUTdefence allevening. Winton Abrahams respondedwith abrilliantlyexecutedpointoforigin tryfor the Bloemfontein outfit, keepingthe momentum swingingbackand forth likeapendulum Thenthe CUTsquad hit the accelerator Raydon Swartblooi dotteddownbeforeMalcolm

Lamontgrabbed apowerplay scorethatsaw the Ixiassurge into acommanding31 – 14 advantage Thehome crowdwas in raptures Theupset looked on.

TheNWU Eagles refused to panic.Luyolo Doyi hauledthembackintothe contestbefore captainStephan Krugel ledfromthe front, crashingoverduringa powerplay to keep the visitorswithin striking distance

AMyburgh penaltyensured CUTcarried a 34 – 24 cushion into the sheds,but the gapfelt vulnerable.

Thesecond half told acompletelydifferent story.

TheEaglesemergedfromthe breakwith renewedpurposeand clinical intent. McLoughlin completed his bracetospark the fightback, and suddenlythe momentumhad shifted decisively. Thevisitorsstrucktwice in quicksuccession to edge ahead for the firsttime since the early exchanges, silencingthe previously raucous home support.

Emlyhn Jacobs kept CUTinthe fightwith a crucialtry,refusingtolet theIxias go quietly into the Bloemfontein night. Butthe two-time champions from Potch were just gettingstarted They hadfound their rhythm,and therewas no stopping the juggernautnow GuhanduBoiscrossed as the Eagles tightened their stranglehold on proceedings,before HanroVenterapplied the exclamationmarkto seal an impressive victorythatshowcased the depth and qualityinthe NWUarsenal.

The finalscoreline of 59 – 42 reflectedthe attacking brilliance on display,but alsoexposed defensive frailties on both sides that rivalcoaches will be eagerlyexploitinginthe weeksahead

Theopeninground of the 2026 Varsity Cup hasdelivered in spectacularfashion.Four matches, 311 combinedpoints, andenough attacking rugbyto fill multiple highlightreels

Thepowerplay innovation hasaddedtactical intrigue and high-stakesdecision-makingtoan alreadyexplosiveformat. – DustinWetdewich

1820

T17379/2028 LOST OR DESTROYED DEED

Notice is herebygiven in terms of regulation 68 of the Deeds Registries Act, 1937, of the intention to apply for the issueofa certified copy of Deed of Transfer T17379/2028 passed by

T13482/1999 LOST OR DESTROYED DEED

Notice is herebygiven in terms of regulation 68 of the DeedsRegistriesAct,

In the estateofthe late Jane Disebo Phara, Identityno: 580525 0972 087 of 940 Dichabe Street, Selosesha, ThabaNchu. Date of death: 25 JUNE 2024. Estate number5852 /2024

Notice is herebygiven that the Firstand Final

ESTATES: LIQUIDATION& DISTRIBUTION 4205 LOST DOCUMENTS 4040

ESTATENOTICES

BOEDELS: KREDITEURE EN DEBITEURE 4201

Wednesday, 18 February2026

ShimlasstunMaties in curtain-raiser

DUSTIN WETDEWICH

Bloemfontein wasina stateasUFS

Shimlas stormed to a50 – 39 bonus-pointtriumphoverMaties in apowerplay-packed2026 Varsity Cupcurtain-raiser that hadShimla Park absolutelyrocking.

Theopeningsalvoofthe 2026

Varsity Cupdelivered everythingthe tournamentpromised:bone-rattling collisions,breathtakingtries,and ahistoricmilestone as powerplay tries made their competitivedebut Butwhen the finalwhistle pierced through the Bloemfontein eveningair, it wasthe home faithfulcelebrating thevictory.

UFSShimlas announcedtheir intentions with brutal efficiency, attacking the five-time champions with a21-pointblitzkrieginthe opening quarter. TheMaties defence looked shell-shockedaswingerKirwindu Preezcarvedthrough the firstgap,be-

of

forecentreWynand Bothaand hooker Jaco Bezuidenhout addedtheir names to the scoresheetwithin 25 breathless minutes

Shimla Park wasbouncing.

TheFreeStatershad laid down the

in Monday’sVarsityCup

gauntlet.

Butchampionship pedigree runs deep in Stellenbosch veins.Justwhen the contest threatenedtobecome aprocession, the visitors from the Cape Winelands clawed their way

back into the contestwith amoment destinedfor the history books. After dottingdownfor their second tryjust before the break, Maties eschewed the conventional conversion attemptand backedthemselves with the quick tap powerplay option

CJ Marx crashedovertoscore the tournament’smaiden powerplay try, ignitingthe Maties fightbackand slashing the deficit to just four points at 21–17.

Thesecondstanza delivered edgeof-your-seat drama. Christiaan van Heerden Smith and Armand Combrinckcrossed forMaties to swingthe momentum firmly onto the visitors shoulders. Thepressuregauge was climbingdangerously

EnterMaynard Kleynhans Theimposing lock showedpace that would make mostwingers jealous, beating defendersdownthe touchlinewith surprisinggas before divingoverin the corner.Itwas the sparkShimlas desperately needed Liam Shamburg then producedthe performance of the evening, earning player of the matchhonours with a commandingdisplay capped by acrucial trythatstretched the home side’s advantage

Captain Bradley Giddydemonstratedice-cold composurewhen it mattered most, bisectingthe uprights twice from longrange to seemingly putthe result beyond doubt