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R350 Million Platinum Case Rolls On As Five Accussed Remain Before Court

Philani Mzila — Sat, 14 Feb 2026 21:00:31 +0000

Five accused linked to the alleged theft of suspected platinum group material worth an estimated R350 million remain before the courts as the matter continues.

The case follows information received by law enforcement prior to 7 August 2024 regarding the alleged theft from a mine in Rustenburg.

According to reports from a local newspaper, the material was classified as suspected platinum group metals pending forensic and metallurgical analysis to confirm its exact composition.

On 7 August 2024, seven suspects were arrested in Rustenburg and Brits during a coordinated operation by the North West Hawks, assisted by the KwaZulu-Natal Hawks, DPCI Tactical Operations Management Section, SAPS Airwing and the Digital Forensic Laboratory.

Two suspects were later released after preliminary investigations found no link to the alleged crime.

The remaining five, Claudette du Plessis (36), George Sambo (37), Michael du Plessis (40), Alphigio Tavavinga (42) and Hendrick Viljoen (67) appeared in the Tlhabane Magistrates’ Court in the North West facing charges of illegal dealing in unwrought precious metals, theft, and illegal possession of unwrought precious metals.

Four accused were granted bail of R20,000 each.

Tavavinga was denied bail after the state successfully opposed his application on the basis that he is an undocumented foreign national.

According to Hawks spokesperson lieutenant colonel Tinyiko Mathebula, all five accused remain in the dock, and the matter has been postponed to 29 April 2026 for further proceedings.

Authorities have reiterated that unwrought precious metals raw minerals that have not yet been processed or refined are strictly regulated in South Africa to combat illegal mining, theft and smuggling.

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Dj Muzzle will be part of the line-up at Nomaqala Home of Hope

Philani Mzila — Sat, 29 Nov 2025 14:57:13 +0000

All is set for the annual Nomaqala Home of Hope which is a community event dedicated to drugs affected youth.

This year’s event is called “Healing Through Music”.

Nomaqala Home of Hope, is a community organisation based in Maboleka in Brits in the North West.

The founder of the event and businessman Dr Robert “Mugabe”Ngwenya said that this year end function will be held on 24 December.

Speaking to MDN News, Ngwenya said that this initiative aims to bring the community together through music, inspiration, and awareness while shining a spotlight on the challenges faced by drug-affected youth.

“Healing Through Music was created as part of Nomaqala Home of Hope’s commitment to offering support, guidance and safe spaces for young people battling substance abuse. Working daily with youth in recovery, the organisation recognises the need for initiatives that bring hope, unity, and emotional upliftment. Music provides a powerful therapeutic platform that helps,” he said.

Ngwenya further said that music encourage emotional healing and self-expression, strengthen community connections and reduce stigma around addiction.

“Music promote positive alternatives to risky environments. It’s empower young people with confidence, visibility and belonging,” he said.

Ngwenya said that the event will feature live musical performances from a diverse lineup of talented artists, motivational talks and real-life testimonies from individuals affected by drugs.

“It will feature awareness discussions focusing on addiction prevention, recovery, and mental well-being, interactive community sessions designed to strengthen unity and support. It will feature food, entertainment and family-friendly activities. This is a strictly regulated, family-oriented event.

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