The JB Marks Local Municipality’s Manager, William Kgomotso Kumbe, is set to face serious charges regarding the unlawful disposal of waste, following a court appearance on 24 October 2024. The District Court of North West in Potchefstroom has postponed the case until 30 January 2025, during which time the matter will be transferred to the Regional Court.

The charges stem from allegations that between September 2019 and April 2020, Kumbe permitted the improper disposal of waste near Samuel Avenue in Promosa, a residential area of Potchefstroom. Reports indicate that sewage waste was dumped into the environment and directly into Poortjiesdam, potentially leading to significant environmental pollution.

Senior State Advocate Benny Kalakgosi outlined in court that these actions violate Section 24 of the South African Constitution, which guarantees the right to a healthy environment. He stressed that Kumbe’s negligence in preventing pollution has had a detrimental impact on the local community.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has affirmed its commitment to holding municipalities accountable for environmental offenses, emphasizing the importance of preserving human rights related to a clean and safe environment.