Flood Alert Western Cape 28 April 2016

THE WESTERN CAPE DISASTER MANAGEMENT CENTRE

ISSUED FLOOD WEATHER ALERT

FOR THE WESTERN CAPE

Cape Town - The Western Cape Disaster Management Centre (WCDMC) is bracing for impact following alerts of ice cold conditions, rain and possible snow expected to hit the Western Cape south coast from Thursday evening, 28 April.

Hijacking Hotspots Cape Town

Hijacking Hotspots in Cape Town
We urge all Capetonians to be alert when
driving around these areas in Cape Town –
especially at night time. Always be vigilant
and stay focused on the road and your
surroundings while driving.
The following list of places have been noted
as “Hijacking Hotspots” in Cape Town:
Voortrekker Road, Bellville, Parow
Voortrekker Road between Bellville and
Parow.
Military Road, Prince George Drive
The Corner of Military Road and Prince
George Drive.
St Stephens Road
Be alert when driving along St Stephens
Road.
Alice Street, Voortrekker Road
Be alert when driving along Alice Street,
especially near Voortrekker Road.
Station Road
Be alert when travelling along Station
Road.
Klipfontein Road
Be alert when travelling along Klipfontein
Road.
Prestwich Road, Ebenhezer
The corner of Prestwich Road and
Ebenhezer.
Vangaurd Drive
Be alert when travelling along Vangaurd
Drive.
R300, N1
Be aware when travelling on the R300
under the bridges towards the N1
highway.
Information obtained from
www.crimeoutloud.co.za

Shooting Somerset West - Sandvlei Farm Somerset West

Today, at around 09h20 Netcare 911 paramedics raced to the scene of a shooting at Sandvlei farm in Somerset West. Exact detail to the shooting is still speculative and will form part of the police investigation. However, reports indicate that the business owner was in the premises counting money when unknown men barged through the door and started shooting.

The owner of the business had sustained a gunshot wound but in the cross fire  the neighbour son  who was allegedly in the shower sustained a wound in the hand while an adult was hit in the face by shattering glass.

Paramedics treated the injured at the scene before transporting them to a local hospital for the care that they required.

No further details are available at this time.

Helderberg Residents Association

New Helderberg Residents Association

From left Bill Smith, David Bullard, Michelle Theron, Stephen Leppan, Marianne Groenwald, Peter Brand and Geoff Morgan

The first meeting of the newly formed Helderberg Residents Association (HRA) on March 1^st saw the formation of a seven person executive committee chaired by Stephen Leppan. Other committee members are Bill Smith (Vice Chair) Chairperson CPF, Marianne Groenewald (Secretary) , Peter Brand (Treasurer) Chairperson HCW, David Bullard PRO, Michelle Theron Member (Chairperson CID) and Geoff Morgan Member.

The HRA aims to represent all residents, businesses and non government organisations in The Helderberg area and to be a lobby group that will bring important issues to the attention of the relevant authorities. And we have no shortage of issues. Crime, safety and security, poor living conditions, traffic congestion, environmental issues, education and health care are just a small sample of the issues affecting all residents of The Helderberg area, rich and poor.

The HRA (which has no political allegiances) hopes to build an inclusive forum that will act in the best interests of the community and of local business. The intention is to encourage residents of this beautiful part of the Western Cape to help build a better, brighter future for all who live here.

An open meeting is planned shortly at The Somerset West Library Hall and will be announced shortly.

The Helderberg Residents Association contact e.mail is HRA Helderberg helderbergresidents@gmail.com

Electricity Down Gordon's Bay

ELECTRICITY NOTICE GORDON'S BAY
A Eskom wooden pylon caught fire, collapsed and caused a power outage in Gordon's Ba. The delay to restore power could take 12 hours. 

Two Teachers at De Hoop Primary School Die in Tragic Car Accident in Namibia

This weekend family, friends and the Somerset West Community especially pupils of De Hoop Primary School are in shock at the loss of two beautiful teachers of De Hoop Primary School due to a car accident in Keetmanshoop, outside of Windhoek Namibia.

Wilanre de Klerk Teacher at De Hoop Primary

Lauren Kay Barnard Teacher at De Hoop Primary.

Jacques Barnard also a grade 6 Teacher at De Hoop Primary is in critical condition in a hospital in Windhoek. Richard Barnard was also injured but is not critical.

Our deepest condolences to the family, friends, staff and pupils at De Hoop Primary.

Whale Washed Up Strand Beach Front

Dead Whale Washed Up Strand Beach 

Residents and holiday makers woke up to find this whale washed up on the rocks on the Strand Beach Front. The cause of the whales death is unknown.

This afternoon, chaos hit Strand Beach Road, as thousands of people came out to see the washed up whale. The beach road was closed off by traffic officials and a barrier was put in place along the beach, to prevent the public from coming into contact with the dead whale. A caterpillar attached a rope around the whale's tail and pulled it off the rocks and into the surf, it was later joined by another caterpillars which rolled the whale on the beach to remove the carcass. It is unclear where the dead whale will be dumped and the cause of the death. It is also does not seem to make sense as to dump the whale's carcass on land, when it could be towed to Seal Island for the Great White Sharks to feed off. 

The whale is a baby Right Whale, they come to the Southern Cape Shores, including False Bay to breed and suckle their young, until they return to to the Antarctic in late summer. Last year another dead whale was washed up in Gordon's Bay. 

Africa Bonsai Convention 2015

Bonsai Enthusiasts were spoiled at the Fourth Africa Bonsai Convention 2015  

The 4th African Bonsai Convention was held in The Stellenbosch Town Hall last weekend.  The theme of the convention was Under African Skies

The ABC4 was hosted by the South African Bonsai Association with the Africa Bonsai Association. Over 130 international and delegates from all over the country.

The presenters and exeutive committee of the ABC4 

ABC4 exhibited over 200 prestigious trees from around the country and included a Suiseki display. Numerous workshops took place during the duration of the event, which were presented by South Africa's renown bonsai artists and well as international bonsai masters.  A special guest whom attended was Mr. Hiroshi Takeyama, Director of WBFF for Japan.  He is immediate past Chairman of the Nippon Bonsai Association. Director of World Bonsai Friendship Federation (WBFF) for Japan region and owner of bonsai nursery “FUYO-EN”, Omiya Bonsai Village in Japan. Mr. Hiroshi Takeyama. 

The display was open to the public, and the bonsai trees on display were magnificent. From forests, to the African Style Acacia Trees as well as the usual varieties such as pine, maple and etc. 

Conrad Sidego, the Executive Mayor of Stellenbosch was proud that such an event took place in Stellenboch. 

Wild Olive Forest Display Africa Bonsai Convention by Hannes Fritz

City of Cape Town Put's a Halt to H.C.W Patrols on N2 HELL RUN

City has stopped additional security patrolling on the N2 by NGO.

The City of Cape Town’s Mayco member for Traffic and Law Enforcement, J.P.Smith has due to legalities, stopped the private initiative by the residents of Somerset West to increase the patrolling of the N2. Helderberg Crime Watch (HCW) was approached by the Chairman of the Somerset West Community Police Forum, Mr B.Smith, to patrol the N2 from 4am in the mornings to 7am. They did not hesitate to offer their financial support to this initiative. HCW subsequently appointed Vetus Schola to patrol the N2.

This initiative was driven by the horrendous and brutal attack on W/O Holz who lost his life, as well as the attack on Jacque Loots, who was assaulted and stabbed by the same criminals. “I approached HCW to assist in protecting our community, with the understanding that we need to boost our security on the N2, especially, in the areas where there are no Street Lights on the N2” said Mr B. Smith. “Initially we had the full support from all Law Enforcement Agencies and for the past three months we have had a incident free N2”. Then, last Friday at about 5.45am the Security Officer was pulled off the road by a City Ghost Squad Member. He proceeded to confront the security officer and inquired about the flashing lights of the vehicle; the Ghost Squad Member then took the vehicles license off the car and gave the Security Officer a summons. “I immediately contacted J.P. Smith and inquired why this is happening. At first he was perplexed and said it not one of his officers”, said Mr B.Smith. It was eventually discovered that it was indeed one of the Metro Officers. The Metro have been extremely helpful over those 3 months, even inviting the CPF to their Joint Operations Meetings in Goodwood. Over this period of 3 months HCW have assisted over 130 motorists who became stranded on the N2, and the accolades from the residents and community has been overwhelming. “It was our aim to improve the safety to the commuters on the N2, and work closely with both Province and Metro so that we can prevent another Holz incident on the N2” Said Mr B.Smith.

We are all aware that the City and SANRAL are at loggerheads with each other over the Toll Roads proposal, and no additional expenditure will be invested on the N2 until this court case is finalized. The lack of overhead street lightening is the responsibility of SANRAL. “But, their squabble is putting the lives of our commuters at risk on the N2 and I cannot accept that” said Mr B.Smith.  

After numerous telephonic discussions and emails, Mr Richard Bosman, then sent a email requesting that we continue with our patrols, but within the framework of the law.

We cannot continue with our patrols under these conditions, as only official sanctioned vehicles are allowed to patrol the National Roads.

We will not be able to stop to assist motorists, as one is not allowed to stop on the N2, it is only when a vehicle is inoperable that a motorist is allowed to have a stationary vehicle on the N2.

HCW, patrol on the verge of the N2 at 4am in the morning to ensure that there are no Bricks, Concrete or Metal obstructions in the road. This is against the law.

If an obstruction is identified on the N2, the Security Officer may not use flashing lights, it is expected that he use his cars emergency lights, and only have his static light on the roof of the vehicle. Motorist traveling at speeds of 120km/h will hit these obstacles and the result would be self evident.

The CPF is truly concerned about the way the CoCT have approached this initiative, which is community funded and driven at no cost to the City or the Province. “I have tried to reason with the City Officials, but to no avail” Said Mr B.Smith. The stance of the City is putting peoples lives at risk, HCW are prepared to commence with the patrols tomorrow if the City could be more lenient.

Press Release: Bill Smith, Chairperson Somerset West CPF

Bus Petrol Bombed Somerset West

A Luxury Bus, has apparently been petrol bombed in Somerset West tonight...

Please avoid N2 and Broadway 

2 confirmed dead in bus inferno 

Multiple patients. Avoid area. Due to possible protest action in the vicinity. 

Zello App Changing Crime Fighting in South Africa

The Zello App

Is changing the face of crime prevention in South Africa and has been used to update concerned motorists on the N2 Western Cape South Africa. Before people had to rely on What's App, Face Book or other means of obtaining news. Now motorists can drive with out texting and get or give live updated as it happens. The HCW/VETUS N2 Patrol Channel has grown from less than 50 users three weeks ago to nearly one thousand users.

Plane Crash - (Tygerberg, Cape Town) E - Med Morns Death of Plane Crash Victims

E-med Rescue 24 mourns death of crew and patient in aeromedical plane crash

It is with great sadness to hear of the passing away of two pilots, a paramedic, patient and his daughter in a crash involving an E-Med Rescue 24 aeromedical aircraft in the Tygerberg Nature Reserve near Cape Town, South Africa, this morning.

E-med Rescue 24 was in the process of evacuating an 80-year-old male on behalf of ER24 in South Africa from Oranjemund in Namibia. Our aircraft departed Oranjemund Airport shortly after 4am this morning and was expected to land at Cape Town International Airport in South Africa at 7am.

Shortly before 7am contact was lost with the aircraft. Emergency services in Cape Town were activated to conduct a search for the missing aircraft. Emergency services personnel found the wreckage of the aircraft in the Tygerberg Nature Reserve with no survivors.

It is understood from the Airports Company of South Africa (ACSA) that all aircraft approaching Cape Town International Airport at the time were placed in a holding pattern due to a technical fault with their radars. The E-med Rescue 24 aircraft was also in the holding pattern at the time. We lost contact with the aircraft approximately seven miles outside of the airport.

We have since been in contact with the family and notified them of the incident. The patient’s family was on route from Oranjemund via road to Mediclinic Panorama. ER24’s ambulance was at the airport to collect the patient and his daughter to complete the last leg of the evacuation to Mediclinic Panorama.

Although there is a lot of speculation regarding the exact cause of the crash, we are aware that the South African Civil Aviation Authority are on scene and will conduct a thorough investigation into the matter.

ER24 made trauma counsellors available to the family and friends.

Our condolences go out to the family and friends of our patient as well as crew on board.

*******
Pilot: Steven Naude, 53 / Daughter: Charmaine Koortzen, 49 / Co-pilot: Amore Espag, 23 / Paramedic: Alfred John Ward, 24

Shoot Out Somerset Mall - Saturday, 8th August

This Morning a Shoot Out took place near Somerset Mall, Somerset West

According to Bill Smith (Chairperson SW CPF), in a report published. He stated that an "incident" happened at the Somerset West Mall. SAPS began pursuing the four suspects in a get away vehicle, headed towards the Somerset Mall. The four suspects jumped out of the Vehicle and began shooting at the police. The police returned fire and fatally wounded one of the suspects and managed to arrest another suspect. However, two managed to escape. Bill Smith states, the police are currently investigating and appeal to anybody who has additional information on the whereabouts of the suspects who escaped the scene. People with any information are asked to please contact the Somerset West Police station.

Reporter: James Arthur Higgins 

Unconfirmed Reports - Shots Fired at Somerset Mall

Social Media Groups, are reporting that there was a burglary, or an attempted hijacking at Somerset Mall this morning, people on Social Media groups are saying a suspect was shot dead by SAPS and there were 3 arrests. At this point we are waiting for an official SAPS press statement.  

N2 Hell Run - Community Turn to Zello App

N2 Commuters, have now turned to Zello "Push to Talk App" 

A few days into the community drive to make the N2 safer for commuters, the community has turned to Zello. Since the launch of the Channel HCW/VETUS N2 PATROL, this weekend the channel has attracted over 480 regular N2 travelers. 

The app is a handy tool, as it works like a two way radio. Members update important news about what is happening on the N2, as it happens. Members of the channel give updates, as to any disruptions or emergencies that take place.

You, can join the channel by downloading the Zello App on your cell phone, through your app store on your Smart Phone.

Zello walkie-talkie app

Zello is a free push-to-talk application for smartphones, tablets, and PCs. It's lightweight, easy to use and extremely fast. Better yet, it's free and will remain free for personal use.

Over 65 million. That's how many times users have downloaded Zello. Try it on your Android, iPhone, Windows Phone,BlackBerry, PC or a mix!

N2 Hell Run - Somerset West Residents Take Action

This morning a group of Somerset Residents met to discuss initiatives with representatives of the Western Cape Government. The delegates included the Minister of Safety, Dan Plato. The group who called the meeting were individuals who had formed various What's Up groups for N2 travelers. Before the meeting's official time, the individuals had formed an executive, armed with stickers "N2 Convoy Members." Their plan is to sell stickers and make N2 travelers register with personal details to obtain a sticker for around R35.

The Minister and his representatives heard the various ideas, and welcomed the fact that the community was trying to do something. The Minister advised around twenty individuals to organize themselves and to act within the frame work of government. He suggested that they send two representatives to a meeting which will be held on Monday, about safety measures on the N2.

Plato made it clear, that the attacks along the N2 are orchestrated by thugs who place objects in the road in order to cause accidents with the intention of robbing the victims of their belongings. Plato, also stated that SANRAL is responsible for keeping the N2 safe and maintaining safety barriers such as fencing and lighting on the freeway. He said that provisional traffic and SAPS are stretched for resources as there would need to be officers every 500 m along the N2.

During the meeting, community activist urged the importance of supporting the HCW/Vetus N2 Patrol. This HCW / Vetus N2 Patrol is a public / private partnership between Helderberg Crime Watch (a registered section 21 company) and Vetus Scola. Armed response vehicles and stand by riot control vehicles have been put in place and have been actively patrolling the N2 from Somerset West to Spine Road. Hugh Roe, the Chairperson of HCW reported that the N2 HCW/ Vetus Patrol Team, has appointed a Tactical Control Team Manager for the project. The patrol has already assisted distressed travelers on the N2 during the past few days.

Leppan stated that a protest convoy, is planned for Saturday 8th August from Somerset West to Baden Powell turnoff, providing the permit is issued. The convoy's sole purpose is to raise awareness for the N2 Patrole and to put public pressure on SANRAL to improve the safety of the N2.

Reporter: James Arthur Higgins

Hawks Policeman Killed On N2 Hell Run

Hawks Policeman Warrant Officer Holz, fell victim to the N2 Hell Run this morning. Apparently, he was on his way to work, when he struck an object on the N2 which punctured his Tyre. He had pulled over to change the flat, when he was attacked and stabbed. He died on the scene.  Provincial Traffic Chief Kenny Africa said the officer was in his personal unmarked vehicle when he was stabbed by two men. The N2 was blocked off as law enforcement searched for the suspects.

A few weeks ago, a young man was also attacked and stabbed on the N2, there have many reports of narrow escapes on various social media groups. 

The Somerset West Community Police Forum, Chairperson Bill Smith met with both the victims families this week. Smith, states the ultimate responsibility for ensuring the safety of the N2 lies with the Provisional Traffic Officials and SANRAL. He, also urged the community to be vigilant when traveling on the N2 and to contact SAPS and the emergency numbers to report any incidences or suspicious activity along the N2. 

Stephen Leppan, a Somerset West community activist has suggested that the stretch of N2 between Somerset West and Mascassar, should be patrolled by Helderberg Crime Watch and the community of Somerset West, especially those travelling on the N2 could subscribe to HCW N2 Patrol. Currently discussions are underway to achieve this vision. He, also suggests that the community try travel in groups and suggested that members find travel mates on the Group Somerset 1. Furthermore, in the event of a situation Leppan urges people to have the following numbers stored in their phones: 

Airport Police: 021 927 2900

N2 Helpline: 021 812 4581

Cell Phone: 112 

Many N2 travelers, according social network posts are speaking about arming themselves as they feel terrified traveling on the N2.  

Update: 

Cape Town - Five people have been taken in for questioning following the death of a top police officer on Wednesday morning.Warrant Officer Petrus Holz, 50, was stabbed to death on the N2 near the Makhaza turn-off, Hawks spokesperson Brigadier Hangwani Mulaudzi said on Wednesday.

Reporter: James Arthur Higgins 

An Amazing Story at West Work Out

Couch rings a Bell:

By Hanle Barnard

When you meet Siean Bell – you quickly learn not to judge a book by its cover. He has magnetic eyes that hold an inner smile and lights up a room. Don’t expect to meet a conventional man with an ordinary story - it is an unusual tale that needs to be told - about hope and faith – perseverance and strength.

The challenges Siean faces daily may be foreign to us – but he is a fighter and always up for a task.  His flashing blue eyes will get you smiling in no time and soon you will learn a thing or two from this charismatic individual.

It is no coincidence that Seain shares his surname with a musical instrument – music is one of his passions – that and cars. He is convinced that a vehicle is going to be designed especially for him – but in the meantime he is looking for a tricycle to build his strength. As we sit at Fred & Max in Somerset West, we talk about Seain’s vision and philosophy of life. An avid believer in God and his mysterious ways, Seain knows that nothing happens without a reason, and where people fail - God won’t. There is not an ounce of bitterness in his voice – though perhaps a touch of sadness.

Being judged is not a foreign concept to this man who caught Meningitis at four months. It affected the left side of his brain – and the right side of his body, “as you can clearly see.” He believes that people shouldn’t judge a book by its cover. That good old cliché does ring a bell as I notice a couple staring him. Seain explains that he often hears people talk about him in whispers but that does not get him down. “If they have questions they can ask me.” His gentle nature keeps you captivated and as he offers to pay for my cappuccino I think to myself in Hamlet’s words:

There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio,
Than are dreamt of in your philosophy.
- Hamlet (1.5.167-8), Hamlet to Horatio

 Seain tells me how he was looking at becoming fit and strengthening his body. He searched the Helderberg and joined an upmarket gym that cost him R250 per hour for  private session. The personal trainers didn’t give him much attention and they often sat sipping coffee while he would struggle along.  Seain’s teacher suggested a man that owned a gym that was not the fanciest, but where committed trainers met and received personal attention. So it was that two heroes met – perhaps quite opposite physically – Couch Howard was 2012 Mr. Natural Universe who competes in local and international power lifting and bodybuilding circuits.  When I met Couch Howard at West Workout discussing Siean’s goals I noticed they share the same flashing blue eyes. Couch Howard was previously the president of power lifting Western Cape association and a no- nonsense- guy. He calls his West Workout members ‘Wolves’ who like any family opened their hearts to Siean. (I can’t help but think that this lone wolf  - as Seain put it - found his pack.)

 Even in a short amount of time Siean has improved. His hand is slowly starting work better and his walk is improving. Couch Howard is passionate about fitness and health and noticed that Seain is an inspiration to the pack – Howard believes in goal cards and discusses every member’s training with them personally. Seain sees him as a mentor – as many do. It is uplifting and a relief to know that Howard’s professional attitude and compassion allows Seian to strengthen from day to day and a message to us all – life is precious – and with hard work - miracles happen. Seian says that joining West Workout is one of the best decisions of his life and as we walk out – Howard reminds him about his upgrade later that afternoon. Here is a man with integrity – physically Seain and Howard may be opposite – but they share a similar vision – and they believe in the same cleché – don’t judge a book by its cover  - especially a good book in their case. 

Somerset West CPF Announces New Radio Network

A statement made by Bill Smith the Chairperson of the Somerset West CPF, said the CPF will be investing in a new Radio System. It is unclear if the Radio Network will replace the NW radio system or if this will be made available to new NW groups, particular in poorer communities. A follow up will be made shortly.

Shocking Van Breda Family Murder in Stellenboch South Africa

The news of the Van Breda Family in the exclusive estate De Zalze, Golf Estate has rocked the community and was headline news across South Africa. Martin Van Breda was a prominent business man in South Africa and the family was well known in the community. The Van Breda family relocated from Perth, Australia last year.

Speculation, hit social media platforms especially Facebook groups as many unconfirmed reports were posted. Speculation is still rife. An emergency response person reported yesterday that the victims were clearly not shot. Other speculative posts report that the murder weapon was an axe. Two of the children apparently attended an exclusive private school in Somerset West http://somersetcollege.org/. Today, apparently the school cancelled some of the activities due to the murders. 

The bodies of Martin Van Breda, his wife Teresa and their eldest son Rudi were found in their home. Their sixteen year old daughter Marli Van Breda is in a critical state with severer head injuries. This contrary to reports on various facebook groups last night speculating that she had passed away.

Above: Marli Van Breda

Rudi Van Breda's the oldest son was found dead on the scene. 

Above: Rudi Van Breda (center) 

It is still uncertain to details of the family murder. Friends and family report that the family was very close and appeared to be a "model family". The South African Police Service reported last night that a person was held for questioning, but no arrests have been made.

The upmarket security golf estate reported yesterday, that there was no breech in their security perimeters. This is an extremely strange murder and has lead to a lot of speculation. 

The Australian High Commission in Pretoria said it was aware of the murders, but was refusing to comment further.

It was not clear if the family were Australian citizens or residents.