Kaizer Chiefs Reportedly Considering Move for Thembinkosi Lorch

Mamelodi Sundowns forward Thembinkosi Lorch could make a high-profile move to Kaizer Chiefs before the season ends. According to *Sunday World*, negotiations between Kaizer Chiefs and Sundowns are underway for the former Orlando Pirates star to join the Glamour Boys at Naturena.

The timing of this news is significant as Chiefs prepare for a crucial Soweto Derby clash against their fierce rivals, Orlando Pirates.

### Lorch’s Journey: Pirates to Sundowns
Lorch joined Mamelodi Sundowns from Orlando Pirates at the start of 2024, following a strong push by then-head coach Rulani Mokwena. However, his stint at Chloorkop has been underwhelming, with limited opportunities to shine.

Mokwena’s tenure at Sundowns ended on a sour note after a fallout with sporting director Fleming Berg. One reported source of tension was Mokwena’s insistence on signing Lorch. Since Mokwena’s departure, the 31-year-old forward has struggled for regular game time, featuring in only seven matches across all competitions this season.

### Chiefs’ Struggles and Lorch’s Potential Impact
Should the move materialize, Lorch will be expected to breathe life into Kaizer Chiefs’ Betway Premiership campaign. Despite dominating matches, Nasreddine Nabi’s team has struggled with poor finishing, leading to dropped points in winnable games.

Lorch’s experience and goal-scoring ability could be a solution for Chiefs as they aim to climb the league table. Chiefs are currently fifth after 14 matches, while their rivals, Pirates, sit in second place, six points behind league leaders Sundowns.

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### A Rare Path Between Soweto Rivals
If the deal is completed, Lorch will join an exclusive group of players who have represented both Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs. The list includes notable names such as Marc Batchelor, Jimmy Tau, Marks Maponyane, Pollen Ndlanya, and Jabu Mahlangu.

Such transfers between the Soweto giants are rare and often come with intense scrutiny from fans of both clubs.

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### Kaizer Chiefs’ Ambitions
With the January transfer window in full swing, Kaizer Chiefs appear determined to bolster their squad. The club’s recent performances have highlighted their need for attacking reinforcements, and Lorch’s signing could signal their intent to challenge for silverware this season.

Chiefs’ rivals, Supersport United and Chippa United, are also active in the transfer market, making competition in the Betway Premiership fiercer than ever.

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### Conclusion
Thembinkosi Lorch’s potential move to Kaizer Chiefs could be a game-changer for both the player and the club. As Chiefs look to reignite their season, Lorch might find an opportunity to rediscover his form and cement his legacy in South African football.

With negotiations ongoing, fans eagerly await official confirmation of the deal that could see one of the country’s top talents donning the famous black and gold.

Tragic Loss: SANDF Soldiers Killed in DRC Sparks Calls for Withdrawal

The tragic deaths of nine South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have sparked nationwide debate over the military’s presence in the region. The soldiers lost their lives during intense battles with M23 rebels, who attempted to capture Goma, the capital of Eastern DRC.

#### **Details of the Incident**

According to an official SANDF statement released on January 25, 2025, the soldiers were killed over two days of heavy fighting. The rebels launched a large-scale attack in an effort to gain control of Goma. The SANDF troops, deployed as part of a peacekeeping mission, were able to push back the rebels, halting their progress. However, the cost was high: several soldiers were injured, though the extent of their injuries has yet to be confirmed.

SANDF spokesperson Siphiwe Dlamini praised the bravery of the troops, stating, “The M23’s intention to take Goma met with heavy resistance from our contingent.” Despite their efforts, this loss marks one of the deadliest encounters for SANDF personnel in the DRC.

#### **A Troubled History**

This is not the first time SANDF soldiers have been killed during peacekeeping missions in the DRC. In February 2024, two soldiers died, and three others were injured in a separate attack. Similarly, in June 2024, a mortar attack claimed the lives of two soldiers and injured 20 others. These repeated incidents have intensified scrutiny of South Africa’s involvement in the region.

#### **Public Outcry: “Bring Our Soldiers Home”**

News of the deaths quickly spread on social media, with many South Africans questioning the government’s decision to deploy troops to the DRC. Some citizens argued that the conflict in Eastern DRC has little to do with South Africa’s national interests, while others pointed out that resources could be better utilized addressing domestic challenges, such as security threats in neighboring Mozambique.

BREAKING NEWS

Nine SANDF soldiers killed in DRC.

Nine South African soldiers have been killed in Eastern DRC while repelling an M23 advance#GiraffeView they remember Julius Malema making clear and decisive warning on SA government

Who cared to listen..may their souls RIP💔 pic.twitter.com/Lc6jHKXND0

— ThabzAfrika🇿🇦🇱🇸🇷🇺 (@ThabzAfrika) January 25, 2025

A social media user, @mzuzups, expressed frustration, saying, “Rubbish. It’s not worth it. Bring our soldiers home.” Another user, @ThaboFresh, questioned the government’s priorities: “What’s your interest in the DRC? Rebels in Mozambique could easily cross into SA, yet there’s no intervention there. Why DRC?”

Others criticized the leadership for putting soldiers in harm’s way without a clear purpose. @visse_ss remarked, “The loss of nine SANDF members in the DRC reflects poorly on leadership’s decisions. Bring back our soldiers before more families are left grieving.”

#### **South Africa’s Role in the DRC**

South Africa’s involvement in the DRC stems from its commitment to regional stability under the Southern African Development Community (SADC). SANDF troops are part of the United Nations peacekeeping mission in the DRC, aimed at restoring peace in the war-torn region. However, critics argue that these missions stretch South Africa’s resources and expose soldiers to unnecessary risks.

#### **Conclusion**

The deaths of the nine SANDF soldiers have reignited debate about South Africa’s role in regional conflicts. While the government defends its commitment to peacekeeping, many citizens are calling for a reassessment of the country’s priorities. The incident highlights the dangers faced by peacekeepers and raises important questions about the cost of regional solidarity.

Social Media Star Paballo Noko Injured in Severe Car Collision

Social media influencer Paballo Noko has been involved in a tragic car accident that has left her wheelchair-bound. The unfortunate incident occurred while she was driving home with a friend after attending an event.

Reports indicate that Noko lost control of her car during the journey, leading to the accident. The circumstances surrounding how she lost control remain unclear at this time, but the aftermath has been devastating for the influencer and those close to her.

Emergency services were dispatched to the scene to provide immediate assistance. Both Noko and her friend were taken to a nearby hospital for medical attention. While her friend sustained minor injuries and was later discharged, Noko’s condition was more severe, leaving her reliant on a wheelchair for mobility.

The accident has sent shockwaves across her fan base and the online community, where she has made a name for herself as a content creator and trendsetter. Many of her followers have expressed their shock and sadness, flooding her social media pages with messages of support and well-wishes for her recovery.

Noko has been an influential figure in the digital space, inspiring countless individuals through her lifestyle, fashion, and motivational posts. Her vibrant personality and engaging content have won her a dedicated following, making this turn of events deeply upsetting for her fans.

As the news spreads, questions are being raised about the circumstances leading up to the accident. Some have speculated whether poor weather conditions or road hazards played a role, while others have discussed the importance of driver safety. Authorities are expected to provide an official report in the coming days, shedding light on what caused the tragic event.

Despite the adversity, Paballo Noko’s loved ones remain optimistic about her recovery. A close friend of the influencer shared that Noko is determined to face her new reality with strength and resilience. “She’s a fighter, and we’re here to support her every step of the way,” the friend stated.

Fans have also started online campaigns to show solidarity with Noko, using hashtags and organizing initiatives to raise awareness about road safety. This accident has served as a sobering reminder for many to exercise caution on the roads, especially during late-night drives.

Noko’s management team has yet to release an official statement but has hinted at updates in the coming days. For now, her supporters continue to hope for positive news and a successful recovery for the beloved influencer.

This incident underscores the unpredictability of life and the importance of cherishing every moment. While the road to recovery may be challenging for Paballo Noko, her story of resilience could serve as an inspiration to many. Fans, friends, and family stand united in their hope and support, wishing her strength during this difficult time.

Man Held After Durbanville Knife Incident That Left Toddler Injured

A 35-year-old man who was disarmed and arrested after police were called out to a play park in Durbanville, Cape Town, is in hospital under police guard after a knife attack on Saturday.

Western Cape police spokesperson W/O Joseph Witbooi said Durbanville police were called out to Ipic Play, an indoor adventure park. The circumstances relating to what had transpired are still under investigation, he said.

At the centre they encountered the man who appeared to be beyond control and was holding a knife which he appeared to have used to injure himself. He threatened to stab police.

“The members took action and disarmed the 35-year-old man. He was transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment. Reports (from witnesses) suggested that a toddler who also sustained injuries was also transported to a hospital for medical treatment,” Witbooi said.

He said the man was being detained on an attempted murder charge. Police were appealing for any witnesses to report the matter to Crime Stop on 08600 10111.

Journalist Paddy Harper Passes Away at 58

The family of beloved journalist William Harper, affectionately known as Paddy, confirmed his death on Saturday.

Harper, who worked for various media publications across the country, died at his home on Saturday, surrounded by his loved ones.

He was aged 58. His son Mitchell said he is survived by his wife, Zandile, his mother Winnie, his sister Annabel and his three sons, Lindo, Thomas, and Mitchell.

“It’s with much sadness and heartbreak that the family of William Harper, known to the world as Paddy Harper, announces his passing away. He was beloved by many, a titan of the journalism industry, with a career that spanned decades. Paddy was guided by an unimpeachable moral compass and a deep compassion, which led him to become a champion for those who didn’t have a voice,” Mitchell said.

He said his father’s journalism career began at Independent Media, where he worked for various sister publications while at the company.

Harper also worked for publications such as City Press, The Times (now TimesLIVE) while the last publication he worked for was the Mail & Guardian.

Describing his relationship with his father, Mitchell said: “I had a complex relationship with my father but we had a close relationship. He had a close relationship with all his children. We loved reading and writing and were both shaped by similar political world views.

“I have so many fond memories of my dad. He was guided by his moral compass. We had a shared passion for music, debated politics and we had the same beliefs that brought us closer.”

The Harper family have asked for privacy while they deal with their loss, saying details of the funeral would be released soon.

 

Elephant Attack in Kruger Park Claims Tourist’s Life

A tourist who climbed out of a vehicle was charged at and trampled to death by an elephant in a “tragic accident” in the Kruger National Park on Saturday.

SA National Parks communications official JP Louw appealed to witnesses of the incident not to post pictures or videos or release information relating to the victim due to the sensitivity of the matter.

He said the incident occurred near the Crocodile River at Malelane Gate. Events leading up to what happened, he said, were still under investigation.

Louw said the SANParks board and management extended their condolences to friends and family of the deceased.

South Africa’s national parks attract more than a million visitors each year. Officials consistently warn it is crucial that visitors follow safety precautions, to stay inside their vehicles at all times and to keep a safe distance from wild animals.

Elephant attacks are not uncommon.

In July last year a Spanish tourist was trampled to death by elephants after climbing out of his car to take photographs of an elephant herd in the Pilanesberg National Park.

The unnamed man was with his fiancée and two other people when he spotted the group of three adult elephants and three calves. He was walking towards them to photograph them when the matriarch grew agitated and charged at him.

The rest of the herd trampled him and though he was rescued and taken to hospital he died later of his injuries.

Early last year an 80-year-old American woman was killed by an elephant that charged the safari vehicle she was in in a game park in Zambia.

In 2019 a suspected rhino poacher was trampled by an elephant in the Kruger Park. He was eaten by a pride of lions.

Louw said more information on Saturday’s attack will be made available in due course but nothing more could be released at this stage.

KZN Treasury Takes Action to Prevent Ithala’s Liquidation

The KwaZulu-Natal Treasury is gearing up to help Ithala thwart the provisional liquidation application launched against it.

Last week the Repayment Administrator (RA) acting under the auspices of the Prudential Authority (PA) of the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) filed papers in the Pietermaritzburg high court for the financial entity’s provisional liquidation.

The PA — responsible for the prudential regulation of banks and insurance companies within the South African Reserve Bank — said it believed this action was in the best interests of the about 257,000 depositors in Ithala, as the appointed liquidator will be able to use insolvency legislation to recover and distribute their funds to the extent that it is possible.

However the KwaZulu-Natal Treasury says contrary to the claims of the RA, Johannes Kruger, Ithala does not have a solvency and liquidity problem.

It said as of October 31, Ithala’s total assets amounted to R3.25bn while total liabilities amounted to R2.93bn. This means Ithala’s assets exceeded its liabilities by R316m

The Treasury said further arguments on Ithala’s functionality would be demonstrated in the high court when the matter is heard on Tuesday.

KwaZulu-Natal finance MEC Francois Rodgers, said: “It is KwaZulu-Natal Treasury’s contention Johannes Kruger has not acted in the best interests of Ithala’s depositors, workers, suppliers and clients. In fact, the callous action of Mr Kruger has placed at risk countless Sassa beneficiaries and sets out to worsen the concerning high unemployment and poverty rate in the province.

“We are further aggrieved to learn that Mr Kruger does not want the entity to pay the February salaries of Ithala staff members. This demonstrates a lack of care for people’s livelihoods.

“Ithala is a relevant institution in the mission of the government of provincial unity (GPU) to build a capable, ethical and developmental state. The entity offers essential financial and non-financial support to many small and informal businesses that provide jobs particularly in rural and other communities that are not typically supported by commercial financial institutions. The GPU is, therefore, determined to ensure that the entity receives the necessary support for its survival.”

Stolen Gauteng Truck Found During Brits Police Operation

Three suspects have been arrested and a hijacked truck and trailer loaded with goods worth more than R2m recovered in a co-ordinated effort by the Brits trio task team, the Operational Co-ordination Centre (OCC) and crime intelligence division.

Police spokesperson Col Adéle Myburgh said the breakthrough came after crime intelligence in the Bojanala District followed up on information received regarding activities of a group suspected of truck hijackings.

The team carried out surveillance at a storage facility in Rietfontein, close to Hartbeespoort Dam, for several days. Last Thursday afternoon they spotted a truck pulling a trailer enter the premises, escorted by a Toyota bakkie.

Myburgh said the team kept the premises under observation and eventually apprehended three men using a forklift to offload the goods in the trailer. The men were found to be in possession of a signal jammer.

Investigators tracked the owner of the truck, trailer and goods and established the truck had been hijacked in Olievenhoutbosch in Gauteng earlier this month.

The suspects, aged 20, 24 and 36, are scheduled to appear in the Brits magistrate’s court on Monday on charges of possession of suspected stolen goods.

Acting North West police commissioner Maj-Gen Patrick Asaneng congratulated the team for their continued collaborative efforts and their success in fighting crime in the province.

Heartbreak as South African Soldiers Lose Lives in DRC

NINE soldiers were killed and several other injured in the eastern DRC.

The incident happened on Friday, 24 January.

Siphiwe Dlamini, spokesman for the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), said: “The soldiers fell after M23 hostile forces had launched a full-scale attack on our soldiers with the intention of taking over Goma.”

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He said due to the heroic resistance by SANDF, M23 were unable to advance and take over the village.

“In the course of this gallant resistance against M23, nine of our soldiers lost their lives,” said Dlamini.

Dlamini said the process of informing their relatives is underway.

Defence and Military Veterans Minister Angie Motshekga sent her condolences to the affected families.

Pilanesberg Park Faces Backlash Over Deteriorating Conditions

AS a passionate wildlife photographer in my spare time, I decided to drag my fellow shooter and friend, Heaven Modise, for a day visit to the Pilanesberg National Park.

It was on 3 January when we took our kids for the adventure to Rustenburg in the North West.

While the plants, birds, and animals didn’t disappoint, the state in which we found this facility was appalling, to say the least.

Some of the tar roads within the park have rapidly declined, and parts of the asphalt have been washed away.

The condition of the toilets at the Batlhako Dam photographic hide was shocking.

There was human waste in the toilet bowls because of a lack of water.

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Politicians and government officials often sing the tune of how tourism can drive job creation and economic growth.

When launching Tourism Month in September 2024, North West MEC for the Department of Economic Development, Environment Conservation, and Tourism (DEDECT), Bitsa Lenkopane, was quoted as saying:

“This month is not just a celebration, it is a powerful reminder of the richness that lies in our diverse landscapes, our vibrant wildlife, biodiversity, cultures, and our warm, welcoming people.”
“From the golden savannas of the Pilanesberg to the beautiful Magaliesberg, and the tranquil waters of the Hartbeespoort Dam, from the historical significance of the Taung World Heritage Site to the vibrant rhythm of our local communities, to the hunting area of the province, North West is a province that tells a story like no other,”

Is the MEC aware that she invited global visitors to a national park that is in a sorry state, with the possibility that after some tourists experience the unhygienic facilities, they might not visit the park or the country again?

The MEC was further quoted saying: “As we launch this month of celebration, I urge every one of us to become ambassadors of this beautiful province,”

How will members of the public like me be ambassadors of facilities that are in a sorry state?

 

Does the MEC expect me and other citizens of this country to invite people from outside the country to visit a park where human waste is the first thing that greets you when you walk into a public toilet?

Does anyone understand and appreciate the long hours that park visitors take before they can have a comfort break?

Does the government factor this in when planning and trying to maintain the park’s facilities?

As someone who once visited the park many years ago while in primary school, I was embarrassed to see it in this state of decline.