Delving into the past

This week we look back at the Advertiser’s December 12, 2003, edition.
• Mass murder
Nicolene Steyn and her husband woke up to find four of their dogs killed by intruders.
Steyn was awoken at 2.40am by her neighbour’s loud screaming.
When she and her husband rushed outside to investigate, they found their dogs lying on the floor after they had been poisoned.
Steyn watched as her sausage dog lay on the ground in front of her, barely lifting her head, while her Jack Russel and fox terrier were struggling to survive.
Frantically, she gave the Jack Russel milk as he seemed the most likely to survive, but, unfortunately, within minutes all four of the dogs had died.
The police were called and searched the Steyns’ yard for any further clues.
They found a bag containing the remains of Aldicarb, a frequently used poison.

Also read: Delving into the past

• Prison veteran to head up Modderbee
Modderbee Prison’s new area commissioner Hosea ‘George’ Malinga was officially introduced to the media and other stakeholders.
The introduction featured a tour of the prison.
Although he has only been working at the prison for a month, Malingha was already singing its praises.
“The people here are a joy to work with. I like their community and dedication to the job.”
The former Groenpunt Prison (Free State) boss, who has 30 years of experience under his belt, is now in charge of three correctional centres- Modderbee, Nigel and Devon.
Malinga said he wants to see an improved relationship between the inmates and larger society, by having an open-door policy where residents can come in and suggest ideas to better correctional services to the benefit of the inmates.
He is married to Paulinha and believes his achievements are as a result of his belief in hard work.

Also read: Delving into the past

• Happiness on tap
For more than 10 years, the community of Ancor informal settlement went without running water.
However on Friday, three taps were donated and the residents can now enjoy running water.
In the past, residents had to risk their lives crossing the busy N17 highway to get water from the Ancor Purification Works, and many have suffered serious injuries as a result of this.
A connection was obtained from Erwat and and pipes were installed.
Representing the metro’s municipal infrastructure department, councillor Busi Khoza assured that although they have been occupying the land illegally, the council has not forgotten about them.

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