Sunday shorts

SA rape capital of world

South Africa continues to be the “rape capital” of the world, the latest crime statistics reveal. Police Minister Bheki Cele on Friday said the country had recorded a 9% decrease in sexual offences from October to December 2021. However, 11 315 people still fell victim to rape during this period. The Western Cape recorded 155 rape cases and Gauteng 133.

Maape creates new unit

North West Premier Bushy Maape has set up a forensic unit that will assist his government fight malfeasance, corruption and fraud. Maape said in his maiden state of the province address at the provincial legislature that his administration had referred a few corruption and fraud cases to the presidency.

Shoba blames ciggies

Murder accused Ntuthuko Shoba took to the stand this week over his alleged involvement in plotting the murder of his then girlfriend Tshegofatso Pule, who was found hanging from a tree in Durban Deep, Roodepoort, in 2020. Shoba was asked by state prosecutor Faghre Mohamed to explain why he was in contact with convicted killer Muzikayise Malephane. He said he wanted cigarettes as they were not sold in the stores due to hard lockdown restrictions at the time.

Health sued for billions

The health department in Limpopo is facing over R14-billion medical negligence claims, with Vhembe district recording the highest number of cases, at 500. Three hundred and thirty claims totalling more than R2.3-billion are from Capricorn district followed by Mopani with 322 cases amounting to at least R2.6-billion and Sekhukhune district with 305 cases (R3.006-billion).

Pupils stuck at home

More than 700 pupils around the country are idling at home, weeks after schools reopened, the Department of Basic Education has confirmed. Placement challenges are the main reason.