Inquest into deaths of PEBCO Three to begin in Gqeberha

October 13, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

By REGINALD KANYANE

13 October 2026 – A joint inquest into the deaths of anti-apartheid activists Sipho Samuel Hashe, Qaqawuli Godolozi and Twasile Champion Galela, collectively known as the PEBCO Three, has began at the Eastern Cape Division of the High Court in Gqeberha on 12 October 2026. The inquest aims to establish the facts surrounding the abduction and deaths of the three leaders of the Port Elizabeth Black Civic Organisation (PEBCO), which was affiliated with the United Democratic Front (UDF).

National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Eastern Cape regional spokesperson Luxolo Tyali said the decision to hold the inquest followed a request by the National Director of Public Prosecutions to the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, based on recommendations from the Eastern Cape Director of Public Prosecutions.

“The inquest is expected to run for five days. Witness testimony will be preceded by inspections in loco at Post Chalmers, near Cradock, and at Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport,” Tyali said.

Hashe, Godolozi and Galela disappeared on 8 May 1985 after leaving their homes to meet a prospective donor at what was then known as Hendrik Verwoerd Airport, now Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport.

Their fate remained unknown until November 1997, when former Security Branch police officer Colonel Gideon Nieuwoudt applied for amnesty before the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) and confessed to participating in their abduction, robbery and murder.

According to the NPA, Nieuwoudt revealed that he had paid a police informant to pose as a British Embassy official and lure the three activists to a meeting under the pretext of discussing a possible donation to PEBCO.

Upon their arrival at the airport, Security Branch members allegedly abducted the three men and took them to an abandoned police station near Cradock known as Post Chalmers.

There, they were interrogated, stripped, beaten, repeatedly suffocated, drugged and strangled. Their bodies were reportedly burnt on a pyre soaked in diesel, while some of their remains were thrown into the nearby Fish River.

Tyali said 10 other Security Branch members, including askaris, also applied for amnesty in connection with the deaths.

Amnesty was granted to two applicants for conspiracy to commit murder, abduction and assault. Both have since died.

Following the TRC hearings, the Gqeberha High Court indicted Nieuwoudt, Johannes Martin “Sakkie” van Zyl and Johannes Koole. However, the matter could not proceed because of interlocutory applications and the subsequent deaths of all three accused.

Tyali said no formal inquest had previously been held into the deaths of the PEBCO Three, making the forthcoming proceedings necessary to establish the facts and examine the available evidence.

“No formal inquest has been held into the deaths of the PEBCO Three. It is therefore imperative that the facts and evidence be fully ventilated before an Inquest Court, which can then make any appropriate findings,” Tyali said.

The NPA said it would continue working with its partners to address atrocities committed during apartheid and support the victims’ families in their pursuit of answers and closure.

The inquest represents a renewed effort to formally examine the circumstances surrounding the disappearance and deaths of the three activists more than four decades ago.

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IDAC confirms resignation of Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions Adv Santhos Manilall

October 13, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

By STAFF REPORTER

October 2026 – The Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) has confirmed the resignation of Advocate Santhos Manilall, who serves as Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions at the directorate.

National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Henry Mamothame said Manilall had formally tendered his resignation and would leave the organisation at the end of October.

“The IDAC has noted media reports speculating on the resignation of Adv Santhos Manilall, who is designated as the Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions at IDAC. We can confirm that Adv Manilall has tendered his resignation and his last work day will be on 31 October 2026,” Mamothame said.

He said all cases previously handled by Manilall would be reassigned to prosecutors to ensure continuity in the directorate’s work.

“All the cases he was responsible for will be assigned to fully capable prosecutors to ensure continuity as the IDAC discharges its mandate of investigating and prosecuting on cases of corruption,” Mamothame said.

The NPA and IDAC wished Manilall well in his future endeavours.

The resignation comes as IDAC continues its work investigating and prosecuting corruption-related cases.

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Mosenogi o eleletsa baithuti ba marematlou masego le matlhogonolo

October 13, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

*^{Setshwantsho: Mokhuduthamaga wa nakwana wa Lefapha la Thuto mono Bokone Bophirima, Kenetswe Mosenogi}*

^{Ka OBAKENG MAJE}

^{13 Diphalane 2026 – Lefapha la Thuto mo Bokone Bophirima le itumeletse go itsise gore letsatsi la ntlha la ditlhatlhobo tsa Setifikeiti sa Bosetšhaba sa Marematlou (NSC) le tsamaile sentle mo porofenseng yotlhe go se na dikgwetlho dipe tse dikgolo tse di begilweng. Lefapha la re dikolo go ralala porofense di simolotse ka go kwala pampiri ya ntlha ya thuto ya Computer Applications Technology (CAT).}

^{Mokhuduthamaga wa nakwana wa Lefapha la Thuto mono Bokone Bophirima, Kenetswe Mosenogi are o etetse sekolo se segolwane sa Malatse Motsepe kwa Mmakau, se se kwa tlase ga Kantoro ya Thuto ya Selegae ya Madibeng, kwa a bontshitseng kgotsofalo ya gagwe ka go simolola sentle ga ditlhatlhobo tsa NSC tsa 2026. Mosenogi are o kopane le setlhopha sa botsamaisi jwa sekolo, lekgotlha-taolo la sekolo (SGB), mokhanselara wa lefelo le baeteledipele ba setso pele ditlhatlhobo di simolola.}

^{“Gompieno, ke kopane le setlhopha sa botsamaisi jwa sekolo, Lekgotla le le Laolang Sekolo, mokhanselara wa lefelo le baeteledipele ba setso pele ditlhatlhobo di simolola.}

^{“Botlhe ba mpoleletse gore baithuti ba ipaakanyeditse go kwala ditlhatlhobo tsa bone tsa bofelo, mme ba na le tshepo ya gore tsotlhe tse di tlhokegang di baakantswe,” Mosenogi wa tlhalosa.}

^{Are o kgotsofaditswe ke ipakanyo ya baithuti mabapi le ditlhatlhobo tseno tse di botlhokwa ebile e le tsa bofelo. Mosenogi are botlhe ba mo netefaleditse gore ba ikemiseditse go falola ditlhatlhobo tsa bone.}

^{“Ke rata go akgola baithuti botlhe, balebedi ba ditlhatlhobo, ditlhopha tsa botsamaisi jwa dikolo le batlhankedi ba thuto ka boineelo, tirisanommogo le boikanyego jwa bone mo go netefatseng gore ditlhatlhobo tsa NSC tsa 2026 di simologa sentle.}

^{“Ka Labone, baithuti botlhe ba ba kwala ditlhatlhobo tsa NSC ba tla kwala nngwe ya dipampiri tse dikgolo, e leng English Paper 3,” Mosenogi wa tlhalosa.}

^{Mosenogi are ba eleletsa baithuti botlhe masego le katlego fa ba ipaakanyetsa go kwala ditlhatlhobo tse. Are baithuti ba rotloediwa go nna ba ritibetse, go dirisa nako ya bone ka tshwanelo le go rulaganya dikarabo tsa bone ka kelotlhoko.}

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Gupta-linked companies convicted of fraud and money laundering

October 13, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

By BAKANG MOKOTO

13 October 2026 – Two company directors and three mining companies linked to the Gupta family have been convicted of fraud and money laundering involving R107.5 million in funds intended for the rehabilitation of two coal mines in Mpumalanga. The Gauteng High Court sitting in Johannesburg convicted Ronica Ragavan, Pushpaveni Ugeshni Govender, Optimum Coal Mine (Pty) Ltd, Koornfontein Mines (Pty) Ltd and Tegeta Exploration and Resources (Pty) Ltd on four counts relating to the unlawful use of mine rehabilitation funds.

Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) spokesperson Henry Mamothame said the convictions followed a case in which the state demonstrated that money held in rehabilitation trusts was allegedly diverted to pay mining contractors and other third parties instead of being used for its legally prescribed purpose. Mamothame said National Director of Public Prosecutions Advocate Andy Mothibi and IDAC Acting Investigating Director Advocate Ntuthuzelo Vanara welcomed the judgment.

“The court, presided over by Judge Mudunwazi Makamu, convicted the accused on four counts involving R7.5 million from the Optimum Mine Rehabilitation Trust and R100 million from the Koornfontein Rehabilitation Trust.

“On the first count of fraud involving R7.5 million, Ragavan, Govender, Optimum Coal Mine and Tegeta were found guilty. The same accused were convicted on the corresponding money laundering charge under Section 4 of the Prevention of Organised Crime Act 121 of 1998,” he said.

Mamothame further said on the fraud charge involving R100 million from the Koornfontein Rehabilitation Trust, Ragavan, Govender, Koornfontein Mines and Tegeta were convicted. He added that the same four accused were also found guilty of money laundering relating to that amount.

“Ragavan was a director of Koornfontein Mines and Tegeta when the offences were committed, while Govender was a director of Optimum Coal Mine and became a trustee of both rehabilitation trusts on 26 April 2016. All the accused had pleaded not guilty.

“However, the court found former deputy director-general of the then Department of Mineral Resources, Maleatlana Joel Raphela, not guilty on all charges against him,” said Mamothame.

He said the offences violated regulations requiring mining rights holders to set aside funds for rehabilitating land affected by mining activities. Mamothame said the National Environmental Management Act 107 of 1998 and its financial provision regulations require such funds to remain available for environmental rehabilitation.

“During the trial, the state presented evidence that Tegeta acquired Optimum Coal Mine and Koornfontein Mines from Glencore in a transaction implemented on 8 April 2016. The acquisition also gave Tegeta control of the mines’ rehabilitation trusts.

“As of 1 February 2016, the Optimum Mine Rehabilitation Trust held approximately R1.44 billion, while the Koornfontein Rehabilitation Trust held about R278.5 million. In the Optimum matter, the court heard that R7.5 million was transferred from the trust’s Standard Bank account to an Optimum Coal Mine account on 23 May 2016,” he said.

Mamothame said Ragavan and Govender had signed a letter requesting the transfer. He said the state argued that the bank was falsely informed that the transaction was authorised and that the money would be used for rehabilitation work.

“On the same day, the R7.5 million was combined with R9.5 million from Tegeta and ultimately formed part of a R26.4 million payment to Klipbank Mining for underground mining work carried out in April 2016.

“Although rehabilitation work was undertaken using the funds, the money was never repaid to the trust. In the Koornfontein matter, the State presented evidence that approximately R280 million held by the rehabilitation trust was transferred from First National Bank to the Bank of Baroda in May 2016,” said Mamothame.

He said on 5 May 2016, the Department of Mineral Resources granted Tegeta approval in principle to use the trust funds for concurrent rehabilitation, subject to three conditions. Mamothame said however, the version of the approval letter presented to the Bank of Baroda did not contain those conditions.

He said on 6 June 2016, R170 million from the trust was placed in a fixed deposit and pledged as security for a R150 million loan facility granted to Koornfontein Mines. Mamothame said the bank was given written undertakings that the loan would be used exclusively for mine rehabilitation.

“The bank subsequently paid out R100 million on 13 June 2016. Within two days, the funds had moved through Koornfontein Mines and Tegeta accounts before reaching a Tegeta account at the State Bank of India.

“Of the amount, R67.8 million was paid to mining contractors Klipbank Mining and Coalcor Mining. A further R30 million was transferred back to the Bank of Baroda and subsequently paid to other companies, including Koornfontein Mines and Optimum Coal Mine,” he said.

Mamothame said the state established that none of the R100 million was used for rehabilitation and that no rehabilitation work was undertaken at Koornfontein. He said the trust’s R170 million remained pledged to the bank as security for a year, leaving the funds at risk.

Welcoming the convictions, Mothibi emphasised the importance of protecting communities from the environmental and financial consequences of mining activities.

“Rehabilitation trusts exist to ensure that surrounding communities are not left to carry the cost of the damage mining leaves behind. We commend the prosecution and investigation team for securing such a crucial conviction. We remain committed in the fight against corruption.

“The matter was postponed to 1 December 2026 for sentencing proceedings. The court also extended bail for Ragavan and Govender until the case is finalised,” he said.

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MISA wishes Class of 2026 success as matric examinations begin

October 13, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

13 October 2026 – The Motor Industry Staff Association (MISA) has wished the Class of 2026 well as learners prepare to write their National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations, marking the culmination of 12 years of schooling. The October–November 2026 examinations are scheduled to begin on 13 October with Computer Applications Technology (CAT) Paper 1 Practical and conclude on 26 November 2026.

More than 856,000 learners have enrolled for this year’s examinations.

MISA spokesperson Phakamile Hlubi-Majola said the examinations represented an important milestone for learners and an opportunity to take the next step towards their future careers and further education.

“For many matriculants, these examinations represent the completion of 12 years of schooling and months of dedicated preparation.

“Their results will also play an important role in shaping their next steps, particularly for learners who plan to pursue further studies at universities, colleges and other tertiary institutions,” she said.

Hlubi-Majola further said the examinations have received the green light from Umalusi, the quality assurance council responsible for general and further education and training, following an assessment of the readiness of the examination system and preparations by the Department of Basic Education and provincial education departments. She added that Umalusi’s approval confirmed that the necessary measures were in place to support credible, fair and secure examinations.

“The association also highlights its commitment to supporting the educational aspirations of members’ children through financial assistance programmes.

“The MISA Bursary provides R12,500 towards the tertiary studies of qualifying children of members, while its School Support programme offers financial assistance to eligible learners from Grade 1 to Grade 12,” said Hlubi-Majola.

According to her, these initiatives are aimed at ensuring that financial difficulties do not prevent members’ children from completing their education and reaching their full potential. Hlubi-Majola said the association recognised that educational support was important in helping young people access opportunities and build a better future.

“As learners prepare for the examinations, MISA has encouraged them to remain focused, use their remaining study time effectively and approach each paper with confidence.

“Learners have also been urged to comply with examination rules and instructions to ensure a smooth and credible examination process,” she said.

Hlubi-Majola said MISA wishes the Class of 2026 every success in their final examinations. She said may their hard work and dedication pave the way for a bright and successful future.

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A man sentenced to 25 years for murder and attempted murder

October 13, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

^{By REGINALD KANYANE}

^{13 October 2026 – An accused, Sivuyile Mntuyedwa (23), has been sentenced to a combined 25 years imprisonment for murder and attempted murder following a stabbing incident in Kuyasa village in September 2025.}

^{Northern Cape police spokesperson Captain Nomthandazo Mnisi said the Colesberg Regional Court sentenced Mntuyedwa on 7 October 2026 to 15 years imprisonment for murder and 10 years for attempted murder. Mnisi said he was also declared unfit to possess a firearm.}

^{According to Mnisi, the incident occurred on 6 September 2025, when Mntuyedwa became involved in an altercation with the son of Sarah Tina (49). She said during the confrontation, Mntuyedwa allegedly drew a knife and approached the son.}

^{“Tina intervened in an attempt to defuse the situation, but was stabbed in the upper body. Mntuyedwa later followed Patrick Vuyo Louw (27), who had stopped to assist the injured woman and stabbed him in the chest.}

^{“Louw died at the scene and Mntuyedwa was subsequently arrested. The successful prosecution followed an investigation by Detective Sergeant ZG Phololo of the Kuyasa Detectives,” said Mnisi.}

^{The acting Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Major General Luntu Ngubelanga welcomed the sentence and commended the investigating officer and prosecution team for their dedication and professionalism. Ngubelanga said the South African Police Service (SAPS) remained committed to ensuring that perpetrators of violent crime were held accountable for their actions.}

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Monna o atlholetswe di ngwaga di le 10 morago ga go betelela leloko la kereke jaaka ene

October 13, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

*^{Setshwantsho: Mmeteledi, Letlhogonolo Theophilus Motshabi/Facebook}*

^{Ka OBAKENG MAJE}

^{13 Diphalane 2026 – Monna wa dingwaga di le 28 wa kwa motseng wa Sekhing mono Taung, o atlholetswe dingwaga di le 10 kwa kgolegelong. Se, se tla morago ga gore a betelele mosadi wa dingwaga di le 22 ke kgotlhatshekelo ya sedika ya Taung. Go begwa fa Letlhogonolo Theophilus Motshabi a ne a itse motswasetlhabelo jaaka le leloko ka ene la kereke.}

^{Sebueledi sa Bosetšhaba sa Botšhotšhisi (NPA) mono Bokone Bophirima, Lindiwe Mabasa, o tlhalositse gore kgotlatshekelo e utlwile gore ka la di 29 Mopitlwe 2025, mosadi yo o ngongoregang o ne a le kwa lefelong la bojalwa le bomorwarraagwe le bokgaitsadie fa Motshabi a ne a mo kopa go tsamaya le ene go ya kwa ntlung e e gaufi go ya go ga metsi a a neng a tla go dirisetswa hubbly bubbly peipi. Mabasa are fa ba goroga, Motshabi o ne a tsena mo ntlong e nnye ya mmu e e neng e dirisediwa go boloka dikgong.}

^{“O ne a kopa mosadi gore a dirise lebone la mogala wa gagwe go bonesa mo teng ga ntlo ka gonne ene a ne a sa bone sentle. Mosadi o, o ne a dumela, a sa itse maikaelelo a gagwe.}

^{“Motshabi o ne a tswala kgoro, mme a akantsha gore ba tlhakanele dikobo. Fa mosadi a gana e bile a leka go letsetsa kgaitsadie yo o neng a sa ntse a le kwa lefelong la bojalwa, Motshabi o ne a mo tshwara, a mo amoga mogala mme a mo tshosetsa ka garawe,” ga rialo Mabasa.}

^{Mabasa are ka ntlha ya go boifa botshelo jwa gagwe, mosadi o ne a apola diaparo tsa gagwe. Motshabi o ne a mo betelela a mo tlhaga kwa morago. Mabasa are Motshabi o ne a tswelela ka go mo betelela le fa mosadi a ne a lela ka ntlha ya botlhoko e bile a mo kopa gore a emise.}

^{“Ka nako eo, batho ba ba neng ba le kwa lefelong la bojalwa ba ne ba lemoga gore mosadi o a lela, mme ba itsise ausi wa motswasetlhabelo.}

^{“Fa ba fitlha, ba ne ba mo fitlhela a tshwenyegile thata e bile diaparo tsa gagwe di le leswe. O ne a bolelela Mogoloe gore Motshabi o mo beteletse,” Mabasa wa tlhalosa.}

^{Mabasa are Motshabi o ne a tlhagelela ka letlhabaphefo le le kwa ntlheng e nngwe ya phaposi, a sa apara hempe e bile a sa rwala setlhako se le nosi. Mabasa are Motshabi a bodiwa gore ke eng a rwele setlhako se le mosi, o ne a boela mo ntlong ka kgoro e e kwa thoko, mme moragonyana a tswa ka letlhabaphefo a rwele setlhako se sengwe.}

^{“Moragonyana, o ne a leka go tlhotlheletsa ausi wa motswasetlhabelo gore a dumele gore ga a a tlhakanela dikobo le monnawe, ka go leka go mmontsha dirwe tsa gagwe tsa bonna.}

^{“Ausi wa motswasetlhabelo o ne a gana go leba, mme a ya kwa seteisheneng sa mapodisi go ya go bula kgetsi. Motshabi o ne a se ka a ipona molato, mme kwa tshimologong a latola ditatofatso.}

^{“Moragonyana, o ne a kaya fa mosadi o, a ne a dumetse go tlhakanela dikobo le ene, le gore o ne a gakgametse fa a simolola go lela le go goa,” Mabasa wa tlhalosa.}

^{Mabasa are Motshabi o ne a newa beile fa kgetsi e sa ntse e seka. Le fa go ntse jalo, kgotlatshekelo e ne ya gana tlhaloso ya gagwe mme ya fitlhela gore bosekisi bo ne bo supile molato wa gagwe ntle le pelaelo epe e e utlwalang. Mabasa are Motshabi o ne a bonwa molato wa petelelo.}

^{“Ka nako ya dikganetsano tsa katlholo, mmueledi wa puso, Kgotso Mosanya, o ne a kopa kgotlatshekelo gore e mo atlhole go ya ka katlholo e e beilweng ke molao ya bonnye jwa dingwaga tsa kgolegelo.}

^{“O ne a tlhalosa gore Motshabi o ne a dirisitse tshepo ya mosadi yo ka tsela e e sa siamang, ka gonne a ne a mo itse e le leloko ka ene la kereke mme a se na lebaka la go akanya gore a ka mo tlhasela,” Mabasa wa tlhalosa.}

^{Mabasa are Mosanya gape o ne a bolela gore Motshabi ga bontsha go ikwatlhaela se a se dirileng, le gore petelelo eo, e tlogetse mosadi a na le botlhoko le kgatelelo ya maikutlo tse di nnelang ruri. Mabasa are kgotlhatshekelo e ne ya fapoga mo katlholong ya bonnye jo bo beilweng ke molao mme ya atlhola Motshabi dingwaga di le 10 tsa kgolegelo ntle le kgetho ya go di fokolediwa.}

^{“Gape e ne ya laela gore leina la gagwe le tsenngwe mo Rejisetareng ya Bosetšhaba ya Batlolamolao ba ba Amanang le Thobalano,” ga rialo Mabasa.}

^{Mokaedi wa Botšhotšhisi jwa Setšhaba mono Bokone Bophirima, Dr Rachel Makhari-Sekhaolelo o amogetse katlholo eno, a bolela tsholofelo ya gore e tla thibela batho ba bangwe go dira ditlolomolao tse di tshwanang. Makhari-Sekhaolelo o gateletse gore NPA e tswelela go tsaya petelelo e le tlolomolao e e masisi e e gatakang seriti, tshireletsego ya mmele le ditshwanelo tsa motheo tsa batswasetlhabelo.}

^{“NPA e ikemiseditse go lwantsha tirisodikgoka e e ikaegileng ka bong le dipolao tsa basadi (GBVF), go netefatsa gore badiraphoso ba rwala maikarabelo a ditiro tsa bone le go sireletsa seriti le ditshwanelo tsa batswasetlhabelo,” Makhari-Sekhaolelo wa tlhalosa.}

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Losi calls for action against unemployment

October 13, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

*Picture: COSATU president, Zingiswa Losi*

By OBAKENG MAJE

13 October 2026 – COSATU President Zingiswa Losi has called on the federation’s leadership and affiliates to put aside factional differences, unite behind the interests of workers and intensify the fight against unemployment, poverty, inequality and exploitation. Addressing the opening of the Congress of South African Trade Unions’ (COSATU) 15th National Congress on 12 October 2026, Losi said the federation faced a critical moment following recent divisions that resulted in an adjourned congress.

She urged delegates to use the gathering to rebuild unity and strengthen the labour movement rather than allow internal disputes to weaken the organisation.

“We have been down this road of division, and it does not end well. It weakens the Federation, it demoralises workers, it emboldens our class enemies. It is enough.

“The federation had to place workers’ interests above individual ambitions and factional differences. Continued division could undermine our ability to represent the working class,” said Losi.

She said let this adjourned Congress mark the moment when all of them step back from the precipice, unite and put aside their differences and place the unity of the federation and the interests of the working class ahead of our individual ambitions or factional imaginations. Losi said COSATU’s primary responsibility was to defend workers against unemployment, exploitation, poverty, inequality, racism, sexism, crime, corruption, homophobia and Gender Based Violence (GBV).

“The federation existed to serve workers, including domestic workers, public servants and employees in vulnerable sectors.

“We are here to serve the working class, from the domestic worker in Sandton forced to work for weeks at a time without seeing her children, to the police officer in Kimberley who risks his life to keep us safe. We are not here to serve ourselves,” she said.

Losi highlighted what she described as COSATU’s achievements in protecting labour rights, improving wages and securing social and economic reforms. She said the federation had played a significant role in defending South Africa’s progressive labour laws and preventing proposals that sought to weaken workers’ rights.

“I want to point out agreements we have reached with government following negotiations at the National Economic Development and Labour Council (Nedlac), including measures to double retrenchment payments, protect the National Minimum Wage from deductions and extend labour protections to workers in non-traditional employment arrangements.

“The national minimum wage had helped improve the earnings of millions of vulnerable workers since its introduction,” said Losi.

According to her, minimum wages for domestic workers, farm workers and employees in sectors such as hospitality, construction, cleaning, security and transport had increased substantially. She further highlighted the two-pot retirement system, which came into effect in 2024 after years of engagement and resistance, saying it had enabled millions of workers to access some of their retirement savings while retaining funds for long-term retirement provision.

“Today, more than R80 billion has been released into the pockets of over 4 million highly indebted workers whilst boosting long term savings and doubling the number of workers who will be able to retire in comfort.

“The federation would continue engaging government on tax reforms to reduce the financial pressure on working and middle-class households, added Losi.

She warned that South Africa could not continue to accept high unemployment and sluggish economic growth as normal. Losi called for a comprehensive economic stimulus package, increased public employment programmes and the revival of artisan training to create pathways into permanent employment for young people.

“We cannot continue to normalise the abnormal nor tolerate 43.8% unemployment and a stagnant economy,” she said.

She also urged government to abandon austerity measures and ensure that public institutions received adequate resources to deliver essential services.

Losi welcomed the recruitment of additional personnel in the public sector, including 10 000 police officers, 10 000 labour inspectors and 6 500 South African Revenue Service employees.

She said the country needed more teachers, police officers, nurses, paramedics, doctors and other public servants to meet the needs of communities.

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PPE tender trio found guilty of corruption and money laundering

October 13, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

By STAFF REPORTER

13 October 2026 – The Hawks have secured convictions against a businessman, his company and an Emthanjeni Municipality employee in a case involving the alleged corrupt awarding of personal protective equipment (PPE) tenders. The trio, identified as Rhulani Innocent Tshuketana (36), his company Ribilwa Trading Enterprises and municipal employee, Lusapho Donald Williams (40), were found guilty by the Kimberley Specialised Commercial Crimes Court.

According to the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) spokesperson in Northern Cape, Lieutenant Colonel Tebogo Thebe, the accused were initially charged with corruption under the Prevention and Combating of Corrupt Activities Act and money laundering in contravention of the Prevention of Organised Crime Act. Thebe said Tshuketana and his company were arrested in Midrand on 2 December 2024, while Williams was arrested at his workplace on 3 December 2024, by the Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation team.

“Investigations revealed that in March 2020, Ribilwa Trading Enterprises was awarded a tender to supply PPE to a municipality without following proper supply chain management procedures. The investigation further found that the company had allegedly received multiple tenders within a short period.

“Williams, who worked as a youth coordinator at Emthanjeni Municipality, had received gratification from Tshuketana, the director of Ribilwa Trading Enterprises,” he said.

Thebe further said Williams allegedly failed to disclose business interests outside his employment and was not authorised to receive remuneration beyond his official duties. He added that payments received by Ribilwa Trading Enterprises from Renosterberg Municipality amounted to R1 614 455.

“In a separate matter in October 2024, the Kimberley Specialised Commercial Crimes Court found Ribilwa Trading Enterprises guilty of contravening the Tax Administration Act. The company was fined R30 000, while Tshuketana was fined R50 000, bringing the combined fine to R80 000.

“In the latest proceedings, Tshuketana, his company and Williams were found guilty on nine counts of money laundering and 27 counts of corruption. The matter was postponed to 27 January 2027 for sentencing,” said Thebe.

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Govt invests billions to restore reliability of SA’s Iron Ore Line

October 13, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: 861-kilometre Iron Ore Line

By BAKANG MOKOTO

13 October 2026 – The Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy said the government is investing billions of rands to restore the reliability and capacity of the Iron Ore Line, a critical freight rail corridor linking the Northern Cape’s mining industry to the Port of Saldanha in the Western Cape. Creecy made the remarks on 12 October 2026, during a visit to the 861-kilometre Iron Ore Line as part of the government’s October Transport Month programme.

“The annual maintenance shutdown, which runs from 6 to 16 October 29026, is intended to allow Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM) to undertake intensive maintenance work that would be difficult to complete during normal rail operations.

“The work includes rail and sleeper replacement, track maintenance, rehabilitation of railway formations, culvert installation, and electrical and signalling maintenance,” she said.

Creecy further said they are standing on one of South Africa’s most important freight rail corridors, stretching 861 kilometres from Sishen in the Northern Cape to the Port of Saldanha in the Western Cape. She added that for 50 years, this heavy-haul railway has moved iron ore, manganese and other critical commodities from the Northern Cape to international markets.

“The corridor played a significant role in supporting export earnings, employment, industrial growth and the broader South African economy. Improving the railway’s performance would help mines transport commodities more efficiently, strengthen port operations and ensure that exporters could reach international markets reliably.

“TRIM’s long-term Ore Line Restoration Programme, which runs until 2030, is valued at approximately R8.9 billion. The programme aims to restore reliability, improve capacity and support economic growth through a safer and more efficient rail network,” said Creecy.

She said the government has allocated R3.4 billion through the Budget Facility for Infrastructure over the current and next financial years to support the restoration programme. Creecy said TRIM is expected to invest approximately R2.2 billion in restorative maintenance on the Ore Corridor during the current financial year, including R1.5 billion from the infrastructure funding allocation.

“Safety is not separate from delivery. It is the foundation of delivery. The success of this shutdown will be measured not only by the maintenance completed, but by ensuring that every person returns home safely and that the corridor is restored to service without compromise.

“Transnet is also investing R1.47 billion in maintenance of rolling stock used on the ore line. This includes R752.3 million for wagon maintenance and R721.9 million for locomotive maintenance. The investments will support critical maintenance and overhaul programmes, address longstanding maintenance backlogs and improve the availability and reliability of locomotives and wagons,” she said.

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COGTA proves that a clean audit is achievable

October 13, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

13 October 2026 – The North West Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) has secured its first ever clean audit award for the 2025/2026 financial year during the AGSA Award Ceremony in Rustenburg. The milestone was celebrated at the Auditor-General South Africa (AGSA) Clean Audit Awards ceremony, where the North West MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlement and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), Oageng Molapisi, received the award on behalf of the department, marking a significant achievement in its pursuit of accountability, good governance and sound financial management.

The ceremony was attended by North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi, Speaker of the North West Legislature, Viola Motsumi, North West MEC for Treasury, Kenetswe Mosenogi, North West MEC for Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), Bitsa Lenkopane, as well as Heads of Departments (HoDs) and other stakeholders.

Addressing the gathering, Mokgosi emphasised that compliance alone is not enough, noting that true excellence is achieved when institutions cultivate a culture of accountability, ethical leadership and good governance. He said the first clean audit is an important milestone and a foundation on which to build.

“The importance of positive audit outcomes demonstrates accountability, responsible financial management and effective internal controls within government institutions. When accountability, ethical leadership and good governance work together, organisations become stronger.

“Good audit outcomes can deliver better services and stimulate the economy by creating jobs, and contribute meaningfully in fighting poverty,” said Mokgosi.

Molapisi shared the same sentiments and welcomed the achievement. He expressed his hope that it would not be a once-off accomplishment, but the beginning of a sustained record of clean audits in the years to come for everyone to achieve especially municipalities.

Other clean audit recipients included the Department of Arts, Culture, Sport and Recreation, North West Treasury, North West Gambling Board and the North West Provincial Legislature.

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Picture: COGHSTA proves that a clean audit is achievable/Supplied

A man sentenced to life imprisonment for killing his girlfriend

October 13, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

By REGINALD KANYANE

13 October 2026 – A man (38) was sentenced to life imprisonment by the Mogwase Regional Court for killing his girlfriend in Makoshong village. On 25 May 2025, the accused, Benjamin Moya

brutally assaulted his girlfriend after finding her in the company of a male friend.

According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in the North West, Lindiwe Mabasa, Moya arrived at the deceased’s residence on the evening of the incident and found her with the man, who fled after becoming aware of his presence. Mabasa said Moya then assaulted his girlfriend with clenched fists, booted feet, a sjambok and a builder’s spirit level.

“The court heard that Moya subsequently instructed the woman to accompany him to the residence of another woman with whom he was romantically involved. He regarded both women as his wives and wanted the deceased to explain the circumstances surrounding the incident.

“He continued assaulting her, while they were on their way to the other woman’s residence. Upon arrival, Moya requested that both women accompany him to the wife of his best friend, whom he had allegedly found with the deceased,” she said.

Mabasa further said before they could proceed, it became apparent that the victim had sustained serious injuries and was bleeding. She added that the victim was rushed to hospital for medical attention, but was declared dead on the same day.

“Faced with overwhelming evidence against him, Moya pleaded guilty to murder. The court further heard that he had been released on bail on 15 January 2026, and remained out on bail until the matter was finalised.

“During arguments on sentencing, the state prosecutor Joseph Makwe highlighted the prevalence of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in South Africa and argued that there were no substantial and compelling circumstances to justify deviating from the prescribed minimum sentence,” said Mabasa.

She said the court agreed with the state’ submissions and sentenced Moya to life imprisonment. Mabasa said he was also declared unfit to possess a firearm.

The Director of Public Prosecutions in North West, Dr Rachel Makhari-Sekhaolelo, welcomed the sentence and commended Makwe and Sergeant Unathi Tiem of the South African Police Service (SAPS) for their dedication and efforts in ensuring that justice was served. Makhari-Sekhaolelo said the right to life is a fundamental constitutional right that must be protected and upheld.

“The NPA remained committed to combating GBV, holding perpetrators accountable and securing justice for victims and their families. The sentence reaffirmed the importance of ensuring that perpetrators of serious crimes faced the consequences of their actions,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Convenor of the Moral Regeneration Movement (MRM) Provincial Committee, Pastor Lesiba Kgwele said: “Though such sentences will restore confidence in the criminal justice system early intervention is required to avert GBVF deaths.

“The sentence should serve as a deterrent and send an unequivocal message to perpetrators of despicable GBV acts and abusers of women like the heartless Moya that there is no place for them in society.”

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Mahika Mahikeng Cultural Festival promises the ultimate December vibes

October 13, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: Mahika Mahikeng Cultural Festival

By OBAKENG MAJE

13 October 2026 – Get your festive season plans ready as the iconic Mahika Mahikeng Cultural Festival is back to reclaim its spot as North West’s ultimate December celebration. The North West Department of Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation (ACSR), alongside Big Daddy247 Events, officially kicked-off the countdown during a star-studded launch in Hartbeespoort Dam.

The North West MEC for Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation, Wessels Morweng said from 3 until 6 December 202, the City of Goodwill as Mahikeng is affectionately known, will transform into a vibrant centre of music, culture and economic opportunity. Morweng said revellers will be drawn to the Mmabatho Convention Centre and Mmabatho Stadium.

“More than just a world-class weekend party, the festival serves as a primary financial driver for local tourism, hospitality and creative industries. Impressive figures from recent Parks Board research, highlighting a massive R25 million in overall revenue in 2025, including R19 million directly boosting local SMMEs and R8.9 million generated for accommodation and hospitality.

“So, we call on local businesses and creatives to unite. The power of community-led growth and collective participation will be essential in helping to take Mahikeng back to its old self. It will also ensure that local talent shines, emerging artists across all four districts of the North West will get their chance to take the mic during provincial build-up activations leading up to the main event,” he said.

He further said this year’s stellar line-up brings together local powerhouses, national icons and international stars across three action-packed days. Morweng added that on 3 December 2026, revellers’ spirit will be elevated with Lebo Sekgobela, Dumi Mkokstad, Simon Makgatholela, Ndumiso Mabena, and Kgethang Konese at Mmabatho Convention Centre.

“On 4 December 2026, the heat will be turned up with Amapiano giants, Scorpion Kings, Kabza De Small and DJ

Maphorisa, A-Reece, Zee Nxumalo, Royal Musiq, Shakes and Les, Juss Gigi, and Benzoo at Mmabatho Stadium. On 6 December 2026, revellers will be given a chance to unwind with

legendary sounds from Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse, Ringo Madlingozi, Mafikizolo, Vusi Nova, Sun-El Musician, and Simmy, alongside international stars Jimmy Dludlu (Mozambique), Sannere (Lesotho), and Ezra Neethings (Botswana) at Mmabatho Stadium.

“Big Daddy247 Events is inviting local vendors, SMMEs, and job seekers to be part of making 2026 Mahika Mahikeng Cultural Festival 2026 a success. Opportunities are available for catering,

mobile sanitation, 3km barricade fencing, emergency medical services, hostesses, cleaners, and local traders,” he said.

Morweng said interested businesses can submit their profiles by visiting the event team at the Mmabatho Stadium Tennis Court offices, emailing info@bigdaddy247events.co.za or reaching out via WhatsApp at 063 523 9158.

Meanwhile, tickets are on sale now via Computicket starting from R200, with special Black Friday discounted packages dropping soon for a limited time.

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Five accused arrested after R100 million drug lab uncovered in Krugersdorp remanded in custody

October 13, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: Five accused who were arrest remanded in custody

By STAFF REPORTER

13 October 2026 – Five suspects have appeared before the Krugersdorp Magistrate’s Court following their arrest in connection with a clandestine drug manufacturing laboratory valued at an estimated R100 million in Hekpoort, near Krugersdorp, Gauteng. The accused appeared in court on 12 October 2026, facing charges of manufacturing and dealing in illicit drugs.

The Hawks spokesperson, Colonel Katlego Mogale said the laboratory was uncovered last week during a multidisciplinary operation led by the South African Narcotics Bureau of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks), in collaboration with the South African Police Service (SAPS) Head Office Crime Intelligence, the Special Task Force and the West Rand K-9 Unit. Mogale said the police reportedly discovered quantities of Mandrax and ecstasy tablets at the suspected drug manufacturing facility.

“The operation was part of efforts to combat illicit drug manufacturing and distribution. The clandestine laboratory, worth an estimated R100 million, was uncovered through a multidisciplinary operation involving various law enforcement units.

“The five accused are expected to return to the same court on 21 October 2026 for a formal bail application. The investigation is ongoing,” she said.

According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the accused are Trent Coetzer (36), Nakedi Makwesi (44), Evan-Lee Mohapi (25), Donell Coetzer (28) and Lyle Johnson (21). They face charges relating to the manufacturing of and dealing in illegal drugs.

According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Gauteng, Magaboke Mohlatlole said law enforcement authorities received information about suspected illegal drug manufacturing activities at the farm. Mohlatlole said after obtaining a search warrant, the police conducted an operation at the premises, where they discovered the clandestine laboratory and arrested the five accused.

“The operation was led by the Hawks’ Narcotics Bureau in collaboration with the South African Police Service (SAPS) Head Office Crime Intelligence, the Special Task Force and the West Rand K-9 Unit.

“Preliminary estimates place the value of the laboratory and its contents at approximately R100 million. The matter had been postponed to 21 October 2026, for the verification of the accused’s residential addresses and a formal bail application,” she said.

Mohlatlole said all five accused remain in custody. She said the NPA remained committed to working closely with law enforcement agencies to combat organised crime and ensure that those involved in the manufacture and distribution of illegal drugs were held accountable before the law.

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Three ANC members expelled, Ward councillor ordered to step aside

October 13, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

By BAKANG MOKOTO

13 October 2026 – The African National Congress (ANC) in Ekurhuleni has expelled three members and directed ward 79 councillor, Njabulo Mbonani to voluntarily step aside with immediate effect as the party moves to enforce organisational discipline ahead of the 2026 Local Government Elections. The party announced that the Regional Working Committee (RWC) had resolved to terminate the membership of Thato Mashiane, Thembinkosi Lubisi and Sibusiso Dlamini, following consideration of organisational reports, disciplinary findings and representations.

ANC Ekurhuleni acting Regional Secretary, Moipone Mhlongo said formal notices of expulsion and termination of membership were issued by the Office of the Regional Secretary on 9 October 2026.

“The decisions reflect the organisation’s commitment to ensuring accountability and compliance with its rules and procedures. The decisions followed notices to show cause issued to the three members on 2 October 2026, concerning their organisational standing, membership obligations and conduct in relation to the ANC’s electoral and organisational processes.

“A Special Regional Working Committee report on the recall of ANC councillors, dated 7 October 2026, identified conduct that it considered serious violations of the ANC Constitution, particularly Rule 25,” she said.

Mhlongo further said the alleged violations included supporting or joining political organisations contesting elections against the ANC’s officially endorsed electoral mandate, campaigning for or acting as an agent of organisations opposing ANC-endorsed candidates and failing to comply with official party policies, directives and duties. She added that adherence to the ANC Constitution, organisational discipline and respect for duly adopted resolutions remained fundamental obligations of party membership.

“To maintain continuity in municipal governance, constituency representation and service delivery, the ANC Ekurhuleni Region announced interim arrangements for three wards. The party designated acting councillors, Thabang Jiyane for Ward 2, ANC Chief Whip Alderman Pelisa Nkunjana for Ward 71.

“Councillor Lumka Poki is designated for Ward 52. The arrangements remain subject to applicable legal, municipal and administrative requirements. In a separate development, the RWC directed Ward 79 councillor, Njabulo Mbonani to voluntarily step aside from his position with immediate effect,” said Mhlongo.

She said Mbonani has been requested to confirm his acceptance of the directive in writing within 48 hours of receiving the official notice and to cooperate with the necessary handover arrangements. Mhlongo said Alderman Dorah Mlambo has been identified to act as Ward 79 councillor, subject to the required legal and administrative processes.

“The Region will engage the relevant municipal authorities to facilitate the necessary arrangements and safeguard continuity of governance and service delivery. The ANC Ekurhuleni Region has formally written to the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) and the City of Ekurhuleni Municipality, requesting that the vacancies arising from the organisational decisions be formally declared.

“The party remained committed to implementing its decisions through the appropriate structures and procedures, in accordance with applicable legislation and municipal governance requirements,” she said.

Mhlongo said as preparations for the 2026 Local Government Elections continue, their priorities include strengthening party structures, upholding accountability and ensuring that municipal governance and service delivery remain central to its work.

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North West MEC Mokua dismisses Zimoja video linking her to Matlosana service delivery challenges

October 13, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: North West MEC for Public Works and Roads, Elizabeth Mokua

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

13 October 2026 – North West MEC for Public Works and Roads, Elizabeth Mokua has dismissed a video clip circulating on social media by Moja Love’s Zimoja Daily, which she said is misleadingly linking her to service delivery challenges in the City of Matlosana. In a statement, Mokua said the video falsely attributed municipal responsibilities to her department, clarifying that its mandate is limited to provincial roads and immovable state assets.

She further stressed that municipal services such as water, sanitation and refuse removal within municipal boundaries fall outside her department’s responsibilities. Mokua added that the misinformation is not only irresponsible, but it confuses the public, distorts accountability and undermines genuine efforts to address service delivery where it is most urgently needed.

“I would also like to clarify that the R299 million mentioned in the video relates to equitable share funding temporarily withheld by the National Treasury in July 2026, from 13 municipalities in the province, including the City of Matlosana, as part of compliance processes under the Municipal Finance Management Act.

“I would like to emphasise that the funding matter was a National Treasury process with no link to the Department of Public Works and Roads. Despite the clarification, my department continued to support service delivery in Matlosana and the wider Dr Kenneth Kaunda District through its provincial programmes,” she said.

Mokua said in September 2026, her department distributed 3 500 bags of asphalt to the City of Matlosana Local Municipality for pothole repairs, with a further 2 500 bags still to be delivered. She said her department is also recruiting 100 Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) beneficiaries from the municipality to work as litter pickers under the Clean Cities campaign, launched by the Deputy President in 2025.

“An additional 155 local residents are being recruited through the Itirele routine road maintenance programme to clean road reserves and culverts and cut grass along provincial roads. The participants are expected to be deployed to various sites by the beginning of November 2026.

“The department had undertaken pothole repairs and road blading on various municipal roads through the provincial Thuntsha Lerole Accelerated Service Delivery Programme. These initiatives also form part of the department’s intervention under Section 154(1) of the Constitution, which requires provincial and national governments to support and strengthen municipalities’ capacity to manage their own affairs,” said Mokua.

While acknowledging residents’ frustrations over service delivery, she called for accurate information and urged communities to direct complaints to the relevant authorities. Mokua said they respect the constitutional right of communities to raise genuine service delivery concerns.

“However, we strongly caution against the deliberate dissemination of inaccurate and misleading information that falsely links the Department of Public Works and Roads. We reaffirm our commitment to delivering and maintaining provincial road infrastructure for the benefit of North West residents,” she said.

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Sasol Banyana Banyana aims to finish off Madagascar

October 13, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: Banyana Banyana players against Madagascar/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

13 October 2026 – Sasol Banyana Banyana Head Coach Dr Desiree Ellis said they will not underestimate Madagascar and will put up a professional performance despite leading 4-0 from the first leg. The two nations meet in the second leg second round of their 2028 LA Olympic Games qualifiers at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein on Tuesday.

Kick-off is at 6pm.

South Africa is enjoying the healthy lead from the first leg played on Friday at the same venue due to the Islanders not having a suitable playing venue. Striker Ronnel Donnelly bagged a hattrick with Hildah Magaia netting the fourth goal.

Ellis said the aim is to continue where they left off.

“The plan is to first secure the game, 4-0 doesn’t mean we can underestimate them, we still have to play really well from the start to make sure that they don’t get a foothold in the game.

“We said we wanted to take the tie away from them and I don’t want to sound disrespectful, but we have to play really badly that we don’t get through this round, but we still have to put up a professional performance,” she said.

After playing in front of empty stands in the first match due to a request from Madagascar not to have spectators at the Free State Stadium, Ellis is excited at the prospects of playing with some noise in the background.

“We know there’s a crowd that going to come out, there’s no two ways about it that you come to Bloemfontein and not have a crowd. So, we want to make sure that we put up a good performance because a good performance gives you a good result as well and through that we are able to play better football.

“I think the last time we were here we played a qualifier, I think it was against Lesotho, so we’ve come back now,” she said.

Ellis further said they played in other provinces and she knows Bloemfontein loves football. She added that she has seen it with the U23s, with Bafana Bafana and hopefully they can come out in their numbers.

“We just want to put up a good performance and work on a few things. We have a few days to prepare, and it is work in progress. We also have to be at our best when we play better opposition, this is a rehearsal but it’s still an Olympic qualifier.

“I have called Lelona Daweti from Sundowns Ladies following the release of Bonolo Mokoma from the national team camp due to injury,” said Ellis.

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Monna o tshwerwe morago ga polao

October 13, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

Ka OBAKENG MAJE

13 Diphalane 2026 – Monna wa dingwaga di le 25 o tlhageletse kwa Kgotlatshekelo ya Schweizer Reneke mabapi le polao ya ga Atlholang Theteletsa wa dingwaga di le 22, yo o neng a fitlhelwa a bolailwe ka go tlhabiwa ka thipa kwa motsesetoropong wa Ipelegeng ka Labotlhano maitseboa. Tshepang Letebele o tlhageletse kwa kgotlatshekelo ka di 12 Diphalane 2026, mme o lebane le tatofatso ya polao.

Kgetsi ya gagwe e buseditswe morago go fitlha 29 Diphalane 2026, gore a dire kopo ya semmuso ya beile. Theteletsa o ne a fitlhelwa a na le dintho di le dintsi tsa go tlhabiwa ka thipa, mme a rapaletse mo mmileng wa Kgaka kwa Ipelegeng morago ga ura ya borobedi maitseboa ka di 9 Diphalane 2026.

Go ya ka sebueledi sa sepodisi mono Bokone Bophirima, Saresanta Kelebogile Morake, ba ditirelo tsa tshoganyetso ba ile ba netefatsa fa a tlhokafaletse kwa lefelong la tiragalo. Morake are mapodisi a ne a biletswa kwa lefelong la tiragalo, kwa motswasetlhabelo a neng a fitlhelwa a na le dintho di le dintsi tsa go tlhabiwa ka thipa.

“Go ne ga totobadiwa fa a tlhokafaletse mo lefelong leo. Letebele o ne a tshwarwa ka Lamatlhatso ke maloko a Community Police Forum ya Ipelegeng (CPF) kwa lebenkeleng le legolo ko toropong ya Schweizer Reneke.

“Mapodisi a re maemo a a dikologileng polao eno ga a ise a tlhaloganyesege, mme dipatlisiso di sa ntse di tsweletse,” Morake wa tlhalosa.

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SAWS warns of extreme heat

October 12, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

12 October 2026- The South African Weather Service (SAWS) says the heatwave affecting northwestern KwaZulu-Natal will end on Tuesday.

“A heatwave, characterised by persistently high temperatures, is expected over the northwestern parts of KwaZulu-Natal from 11–13 October 2026. Meanwhile, extremely uncomfortable conditions are expected over the southern parts of the Eastern Cape,” the weather service warned.

SAWS said a surface trough was expected over the central and western interior this week, while a surface high would remain over the eastern parts of the country.

“Upper-air perturbations may contribute to the development of isolated to scattered thunderstorms over the central and eastern parts of the country,” the weather service added.

Partly cloudy and warm to hot conditions are expected on Monday, with isolated to scattered thunderstorms developing over the central and western parts of the country in the afternoon.

Severe thunderstorms are possible over the Eastern Cape and southern parts of the Free State.

Similar conditions are expected on Tuesday, with isolated to scattered afternoon thunderstorms over the central and western parts of South Africa.

Severe thunderstorms are possible over the Eastern Cape, the Free State and southern parts of the North West.

The public and stakeholders are urged to monitor official SAWS forecasts and warnings, which will be updated as the likelihood and severity of potential impacts become clearer.

SAWS also advised the public to avoid sharing information from unauthorised or unverified sources.

For regular updates, visit https://www.weathersa.co.za/ or follow SAWS’s official media channels. –SAnews.gov.za

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Morutabana o gapilwe ka dikgoka

October 12, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

*^{Setshwantsho: Morutabana o go begwang a thopilwe ka dikgoka/Facebook}*

^{Ka AGISANANG SCUFF}

^{12 Diphalane 2026 – Mapodisi a Welkom a batlisisa kgetsi ya go thopa sejanaga ka dikgoka le go thopo motho ka dikgoka morago ga gore morutabana, Gert Adams(55), a nyelele mo maemong a a sa tlhaloganyesegeng. Go begwa fa Adams o begilwe a nyeletse morago ga tiragalo e e belaelwang ya go tsewa ka dikgoka ke batho ba ba sa itsiweng.}

^{Sebueledi sa sepodisi kwa porofenseng ya Free State, Sarasanta Palesa Thabana are go begwa fa ka di 4 Diphalane 2026, mo e ka nnang ka ura ya 11:30 bosigo, Adams o ne a tsewa ka dikgoka ke batho ba ba sa itsiweng. Thabana are go twe o ne a kgona go founela mosadi wa gagwe, mme mogala wa kgaolwa ka tshoganyetso.}

^{“Morago ga moo, o ne a begwa a nyeletse. Sejanaga sa gagwe sa mmala wa thokwa, Hyundai iX35, se ne sa bonwa kwa Klippan kwa Welkom ka di 6 Diphalane 2026, se sena ope mo teng.}

^{“Mogala wa gagwe wa letheka le dithoto tse dingwe di ne tsa fitlhelwa mo sejanageng seno,” Thabana wa tlhalosa.}

^{Thabana are lefelo le monna yo a leng kwa go lone ga le ise le itsiwe, mme dipatlisiso tsa mapodisi di sa tsweletse. Thabana are lebaka la go thopiwa ga gagwe ga se le tlhaloganyesege mo nakong eno.}

^{“Letsholo patlo la go batlana le Adams ga mmogo le batho ba ba ka tswang ba amega mo tiragalong eno ke karolo ya dipatlisiso tse di tsweletseng.}

^{“Mapodisi a ikuela mo bathong ba ba nang le tshedimosetso e e ka thusang mo dipatlisisong gore ba itlhaganele go e fetisetsa kwa mapodiseng,” Thabana a rialo.}

^{Are batho ba ba nang le tshedimosetso ba ka ikgolaganya le Detective Sergeant Tsie Matlokotsi wa Welkom Serious and Violent Crimes mo nomorong ya 078 758 5658. Thabana are ba ka nna ba letsetsa Crime Stop mo go 08600 10111 kgotsa ba romela tshedimosetso ka sephiri ba dirisa MySAPS App.}

^{“Tshedimosetso yotlhe e e tla amogelwang e tla tshwarwa ka sephiri se se gagametseng,” ga gatelela Thabana.}

^{taungdailynews@gmail.com}

Top cop, Lieutenant General Shadrack Sibiya resigns

October 12, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

*^{Picture: Former senior police, Lieutenant General Shadrack Sibiya}*

^{By OBAKENG MAJE}

^{12 October 2026 – The South African Police Service (SAPS) has confirmed that Lieutenant General Shadrack Sibiya is no longer an employee of the organisation, with effect from 12 October 2026. According to SAPS said Sibiya’s departure follows his resignation during a disciplinary hearing that commenced on Monday morning.}

^{The national police spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said Sibiya’s legal representative tendered his resignation immediately after the disciplinary proceedings began.}

^{“As the former senior officer had an ongoing disciplinary case against him at the time of his resignation, his departure from the service is therefore regarded as a dishonourable discharge.}

^{“The service further confirmed that Sibiya’s employment had been terminated with immediate effect,” she said.}

^{taungdailynews@gmail.com}

SAPS e simolola semmuso ditiragalo tsa bosetšhaba tsa go netefatsa pabalesego ka paka ya meletlo

October 12, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

^{Ka BAKANG MOKOTO}

^{12 Diphalane 2026 – Tirelo ya Sepodisi ya Aforika Borwa (SAPS) e simolola gompieno ditiragalo tsa bosetšhaba tsa pabalesego ka paka ya meletlo mo kgaolong ya Ehlanzeni, kwa Mpumalanga, fa paka ya meletlo ya kwa bokhutlong jwa ngwaga e ntse e atamela. SAPS e tlhalositse gore go simololwa ga ditiragalo tseno go tla etelelwa pele ke ditiro tsa paakanyetso tse di tla nnang karolo ya matsholo a a nonotshitsweng a sepodisi, ka maikaelelo a go oketsa go bonala ga mapodisi, go thibela le go lwantsha bosenyi, le go netefatsa polokesego ya baagi mo pakeng e e tlang ya meletlo.}

^{Tonakgolo ya nakwana ya sepodisi, Firoz Cachalia, mmogo le motlatsatona wa Sepodisi, Dr Polly Boshielo le Cassel Mathale, ba solofetswe go etelela tiragalo eno pele.}

^{Mokomeshenara wa Bosetšhaba wa nakwana wa sepodisi, Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane, o tla tlhagisa le go neela semmuso Cachalia leano la tiragatso ya sepodisi go netefatsa polokesego ka paka ya meletlo. Dimpane are sepodisi se boletse gore ditiro tseno di ikaelela go netefatsa gore mapodisi a bonala thata mo metseng, go thibela ditiragalo tsa bosenyi le go tsaya dikgato kgatlhanong le bosenyi, gore baagi ba bolokesege ka paka ya meletlo.}

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Monna o atlholetswe dingwaga di le 28 kwa kgolegelo mabapi le go bolaya lekgarebe la gagwe

October 12, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

Ka KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

12 Diphalane 2026 – Bothati jwa Bosetšhaba jwa Botšhotšhisi (NPA) bo kgonne go netefatsa gore Ofentse Kotsedi wa dingwaga di le 36, o atlholelwa dingwaga di le 28 mo kgolegelong ka ntlha ya go bolaya mosadi yo a neng a ratana le ene. Kotsedi o bonwe molato ke Kgotlatshekelo ya Kgaolo ya Zeerust mabapi le polao go ya ka Karolo ya 51(1) ya Molao wa Phetolo ya Molao wa Bosenyi wa bo 105 wa 1997.

Sebueledi sa NPA mono Bone Bophirima, Lindiwe Mabasa are kgotlhatshekelo e utlwile gore ka la bo 29 Seetebosigo 2024, Kotsedi o ne a etela lekgarebe la gagwe, mme a mo fitlhela a ntse a baakanyetsa bana ba gagwe ba babedi dijo tsa maitseboa. Mabasa are o ne a mo kopa madi a go reka bojalwa, mme a galefa thata fa mosadi yoo a mmolelela gore ga a na madi.

^{“Kotsedi o ne a tlhasela mosadi yo setlhogo, ka go mo itaya thata. Mongwe wa bana o ne a bona se se diregang. O ne a mo tlogela ka dikgobalo tse di ile tsa lebisa kwa losong la gagwe.}

^{“Fa go sekasekiwa katlholo, moemedi wa puso, Kagiso Modibedi, o ne a kopa kgotlatshekelo gore e mo atlholele kotlhao e e beilweng ke molao ya botshelo jotlhe mo kgolegelong,” Mabasa wa tlhalosa.}

^{Mabasa are le fa kgotlatshekelo e ne ya fitlhela go na le mabaka a a botlhokwa le a a pateletsang a a neng a letla gore go fapogwe mo kotlhaong eo, e ne ya mo atlholela dingwaga di le 28 mo kgolegelong. Mabasa are mo godimo ga kotlhao ya kgolegelo, kgotlatshekelo e ne ya bolela gore Kotsedi ga a tshwanelwa ke go nna le tlhobolo.}

^{“Gape, e laetse gore ba lelapa la moswi ba rerisiwe fa go ka sekasekiwa kopo ya gagwe ya go gololwa ka parole mo isagong,” ga rialo Mabasa.}

^{Kgabagare, mokaedi wa Botšhotšhisi jwa Setšhaba kwa Lekaleng la Bokone Bophirima, Dr Rachel Makhari-Sekhaolelo o amogetse katlholo eno, a tlhalosa gore e romela molaetsa o o nonofileng wa gore tirisodikgoka e e ikaegileng ka bong le tirisodikgoka mo malapeng ga di kitla di letlelelwa.}

^{“Boikemisetso jwa mokgatlho ono wa go sekisa ka natla melato ya tirisodikgoka e e diragalang mo malapeng le go netefatsa gore badirabosula ba rwala maikarabelo a ditiro tsa bone.}

^{“NPA e tla tswelela go lwela tshiamiso le go sireletsa batho ba ba mo kotsing mo setšhabeng, segolobogolo basadi le bana,” Makhari wa tlhalosa.}

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Moeti o rotloetsa go abelwa ga barutwana ba basetsana mesangwana ya kgwedi

October 12, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

*^{Setshwantsho: Baithuti ba basetsana ba amogela mesangwana ya go ya kgweding}*

^{Ka OBAKENG MAJE}

^{12 Diphalane 2026 – Baithuti ba basetsana ba Mophato wa 12 kwa sekolong se segolwane sa Bogosing kwa motseng wa Maphoitsile, ba abetswe mesangwana ya bomme ya go ya kgweding. Kabelano e, e dirilwe ke baithuti ba maloba ba sekolo seno.}

^{Mongwe wa barulaganyi ba neelano eno, Mika Moeti yo e leng leloko la komiti ya ga meiyara kwa masepaleng o mogolwane wa Taung, gape e le moeteledipele wa lekoko la sepolotiki la Action SA mono Taung, are ba dirile seno ka maikaelelo a go thusa baithuti ba ba tswang kwa malapeng a a humanegileng ba ba sa kgoneng go ithekela dilo tsa botlhokwa tsa boitekanelo. Moeti are ba simolotse letsholo leno ka gonne ba tlhaloganya mathata a baithuti ba ba tswang kwa malapeng a a sa itsholelang, mme batsadi kgotsa maloko a malapa a bona ba sa kgone go ba rekela mesangwana eo.}

^{“Gompieno, re abetse baithuti ba basetsana ba Mophato wa 12 mesangwana ya kgwedi. Re dira seno ka gonne re tlhaloganya gore go na le baithuti ba ba humanegileng ba batsadi kgotsa bamalapa a bona ba ba sa kgoneng go ba rekela mesangwana e.}

^{“Sesangwana e botlhokwa thata, mme re rata go leboga baithuti ba pele ba sekolo sa Bogosing ba ba nnileng le seabe mo moneelong ono,” Moeti wa tlhalosa.}

^{Gape Moeti are ba tlile go abela baithuti ba basimane dilo tse ditlhapang, mmogo le didirisiwa tsa sekolo. Moeti are ba solofela gore porojeke eno e tla tswelela e le tiro e e dirwang ka metlha.}

^{“Re solofela gore seno se tla tlisetsa baithuti ba le bantsi boitumelo le go ba rotloetsa go tswelela ka go tsena sekolo ntle le dikgoreletsi.}

^{“Go abela baithuti ba basetsana ba ba nnang kwa magaeng mesengwana ya kgwedi go botlhokwa thata mo go lwantsheng lehuma le le pateletsang basetsana bangwe go sa ye sekolong ka nako ya bona fa ba le mo kgwedi,” Moeti wa tlhalosa.}

^{Moeti are seno se tlile go sireletsa boitekanelo jwa bona le seriti. Moeti are kabelano e, e thusa basetsana go tswelela ba tsena sekolo.}

^{“Go nna le mesangwana ya kgwedi go thusa go fokotsa go sa tsene sekolo, ka gonne basetsana bangwe mo metseng ya magaeng ba tlhola ba sa ye sekolong malatsi a le mmalwa kgwedi le kgwedi kgotsa ba tlogela sekolo gotlhelele ka ntlha ya go tlhoka madi a go reka dilo tsa boitekanelo.}

^{“Go tsena sekolo ka metlha go thusa baithuti go sala dithuto morago, go falola dithuto tsa bona le go fitlhelela ditoro tsa bona tsa isago,” Moeti wa tlhalosa.}

^{Moeti are go sireletsa boitekanelo le pabalesego go tlhoka mesangwana ya kgwedi go ka pateletsa basetsana go dirisa dilo tse di sa siamang le tse di sa phepafalang, tse di jaaka matsela a kgale, diponche kgotsa matlhare. Moeti are dilo tseno di ka baka mathata a boitekanelo le dikotsi tsa malwetse.}

^{“Gape, go sa ye sekolong le go tlhoka dilo tsa botlhokwa go ka dira gore basetsana ba nne mo maemong a a ka ba bayang mo kotsing ya go sotliwa kgotsa go dirisiwa ka tsela e e sa siamang.}

^{“Go nna le mesangwana ya kgwedi go thusa go fokotsa poifo, matshwenyego le ditlhong tse basetsana ba ka nnang le tsona ka ntlha ya go boifa gore diaparo tsa bona di ka leswafala kgotsa ba sotliwa ke ba bangwe,” Moeti wa tlhalosa.}

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SAHRC condemns violent protests against resumption of asylum processing

October 12, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

*Picture: Protesters during asylum seekers*‘ applications

^{By REGINALD KANYANE}

^{12 October 2026 – The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) has called for calm and condemned violent protests in eThekwini and Soweto following the resumption of asylum application processing at the Durban Refugee Centre. In a statement issued on 9 October 2026, the commission expressed concern over reports that asylum seekers and refugee centre officials had been subjected to intimidation and threats, leaving many fearing for their safety.}

^{The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) Commissioner, Nomahlubi Khwinana said they have received numerous calls from concerned asylum seekers seeking assistance and protection amid escalating tensions. Khwinana said retaliatory attacks linked to the protests were also concerning, warning that they could further escalate tensions and undermine human rights.}

^{“The commission calls on those behind these violent protests to desist. Although the constitution guarantees the right to peaceful and unarmed protest, violence is unacceptable.}

^{“The commission explained that South Africa’s refugee processing system is primarily governed by the Refugees Act 130 of 1998, which gives effect to international and regional refugee protection instruments, including the 1951 United Nations Refugee Convention and the 1969 Organisation of African Unity Convention,” she said.}

^{Khwinana further said the principle of non-refoulement, which prohibits returning people to countries where they face persecution, violence or threats to their lives or freedom. She added that SAHRC further reminded the public of a Constitutional Court ruling delivered in July 2026, which confirmed that asylum seekers could not be excluded from the asylum process solely because of administrative technicalities, such as missing strict reporting deadlines or lacking transit visas, without being interviewed.}

^{“The commission urged the government to ensure that refugee processing centres had sufficient capacity to comply with the court order and facilitate access to the asylum application process.}

^{“It also raised concerns about misinformation circulating on social media, clarifying that the court ruling did not automatically grant refugee status, but addressed procedural barriers preventing people from accessing the asylum process,” said Khwinana.}

^{She said the commission welcomed clarification from the Department of Employment and Labour regarding proposed amendments to the Employment Services Act. Khwinana warned that preventing asylum seekers from accessing refugee centres to process their applications was unlawful.}

^{“The SAHRC called on protesters to exercise their constitutional rights peacefully and urged law enforcement agencies to intervene against violence while protecting vulnerable groups and ensuring asylum seekers could access the application process as directed by the Constitutional Court.}

^{“We would engage with relevant stakeholders to ensure that everyone’s human rights were promoted and protected,” she said.}

^{taungdailynews@gmail.com}

Four suspects nabbed after fire destroyed Tiragalo Secondary School

October 12, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

*^{Picture: A burnt Tiragalo Secondary School/Supplied}*

^{By BAKANG MOKOTO}

^{12 October 20226 – The North West Department of Education has expressed shock and disappointment after a block of classrooms at Tiragalo Secondary School in Kgakala Township, near Leeudoringstad, was destroyed by fire just days before the start of the 2026 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations. The fire broke out in the early hours of Friday, 9 October 2026.}

^{The acting North West MEC for Education, Kenetswe Mosenogi said five suspects were arrested by the police on the same day in connection with the incident. Mosenogi said five block of classrooms housed a library, a computer storeroom, a textbook storeroom and three classrooms that were designated as an examination centre for Grade 12 learners.}

^{“Several valuable items were destroyed in the fire, including 24 computers, textbooks ordered for 2027, a microwave oven, a kettle, a projector, six new doors, a table tennis board, athletics equipment for male and female learners, toilet paper, stationery and 80 boxes of Typek paper.}

^{“We would like to express our disappointment, saying the incident was the fourth school fire in the province within two months,” she said.}

^{Mosenogi further said on behalf of the entire department, she extremely upset by the burning down of the entire block of classrooms. She added that the Grade 12 learners have lost three classrooms that were intended to serve as their examination centre, as well as many other valuable items.}

^{“This is totally unacceptable. We cannot tolerate the theft and destruction of learners’ property. We describe the incident as a serious setback for the department, which would once again have to rebuild a school facility destroyed through criminal acts.}

^{“I want those who are behind this incident to face the full might of the law and receive lengthy sentences. This will serve as a deterrent to others and send a clear message that school property must be protected and that acts of criminality against our schools will not be tolerated,” said Mosenogi.}

^{She also commended the South African Police Service (SAPS) for its swift response and the arrest of the five suspects allegedly responsible for the destruction of the school. Mosenogi said the department is working to secure alternative examination venues for the affected Grade 12 learners, as the fire occurred unexpectedly just days before the commencement of the national examinations.}

^{“The department said arrangements were being made to ensure that the affected learners could sit their examinations despite the damage to the school,” said Mosenogi.}

^{taungdailynews@gmail.com}

Ramaphosa calls for transformation to grow South Africa’s agricultural sector

October 12, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

*^{Picture: RSA president, Cyril Ramaphosa}*

^{By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI}

^{12 October 2026 – The Republic of South Africa (RSA) president, Cyril Ramaphosa has called for greater transformation of South Africa’s agricultural sector, saying that expanding access to land, finance, skills and technology is essential to creating a new generation of black commercial farmers and strengthening food security.}

^{In his weekly letter to the nation, Ramaphosa said agriculture had significant potential to drive economic growth, reduce poverty and create jobs, provided government, farmers and the private sector worked together to expand opportunities for emerging farmers.}

^{“Redlands’ success shows that with effective partnerships, a transformed agricultural and agribusiness sector can boost the rural economy and create jobs.}

^{“I am referring to Redlands Farm, a commercial dairy farm in Stutterheim in the Eastern Cape, owned and operated by young black farmers,” he said.}

^{Ramaphosa further said the farm has expanded its operations with support from the Land Bank through its Blended Finance Scheme, which combines government grant funding with loan finance. He added that many emerging farmers remained trapped at subsistence level because they struggled to secure funding for agricultural inputs, infrastructure and additional land.}

^{“A 2025 study by the University of Pretoria found a strong correlation between investment in agriculture and poverty reduction.}

^{“South Africa’s agricultural sector employs approximately 944 000 people, with another 200 000 employed across the broader agricultural value chain,” said Ramaphosa.}

^{He said the country’s agricultural sector has more than doubled since the advent of democracy in 1994, while exports reached a record R270 billion in 2025, making South Africa the world’s 32nd-largest agricultural exporter. Ramaphosa said the country exports a diverse range of products, including table grapes, maize, beef, wine, citrus, sugar and wool.}

^{“The African continent accounts for nearly half of South Africa’s agricultural exports, with the remainder going to the European Union and countries in Asia, the Middle East and the Americas.}

^{“Despite this growth, Ramaphosa said the benefits of agricultural development had not reached all communities equally,” he said.}

^{Ramaphosa said they still have what has been called ‘two agricultures’. He said predominantly white-owned commercial farms account for the bulk of the country’s commercial farming output, while black farmers only account for around 10%.}

^{“Transforming agriculture was necessary not only to address historical inequalities but also to protect the country’s long-term food security.}

^{“Being reliant on the productive capacity of a relatively small segment of the population to meet our country’s food needs is unsustainable,” said Ramaphosa.}

^{He said the population is growing and with it the demand for food. Ramaphosa said South Africa needed to cultivate a new generation of skilled and productive commercial farmers who could expand the country’s agricultural production and sustain the sector into the future.}

^{“This would require aspiring farmers to have access to training, mentorship, modern technologies, practical experience and the resources needed to operate commercially viable farming businesses.}

^{“We have identified access to land as a critical starting point, noting that government was releasing approximately 2.5 million hectares of state-owned land to black farmers through the Proactive Land Acquisition Strategy, with title deeds being provided to beneficiaries,” he said.}

^{However, Ramaphosa cautioned that access to land alone was insufficient to guarantee success. He said knowledge of crops, weather, animal disease and the like is gained from practical experience and learning from established farmers.}

^{Ramaphosa welcomed the programmes run by agricultural commodity organisations, including the Citrus Growers’ Association, Grain South Africa, the National Wool Growers’ Association, Potatoes South Africa, Red Meat Industry Services, the Milk Producers’ Organisation and Fruit South Africa. He said these organisations played an important role in developing an inclusive agricultural economy by helping emerging farmers acquire the knowledge and experience needed to succeed.}

^{Ramaphosa also highlighted the importance of affordable, long-term financing for new commercial farmers.}

^{“The Land Bank and the Department of Agriculture introduced the blended finance instrument to help address funding challenges facing farmers.}

^{“Commercial banks have since joined the programme. We want to encourage other agribusinesses and commercial banks to join the blended finance programme and to develop more funding instruments to support agriculture,” said Ramaphosa.}

^{He said government was also working to expand and diversify export markets for South African agricultural products while engaging farmers and agribusinesses on new breeding techniques and advances in agricultural biotechnology. Ramaphosa said partnerships between government, farmers, businesses, lenders, traditional leaders and communities would be essential to building on the sector’s progress.}

^{“We can bring more land under cultivation, create a new generation of black commercial farmers and ensure that we grow enough not only to feed all our people, but to sell to markets across the world,” he said.}

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Ramaphosa urges Class of 2026 to uphold integrity as matric exams begin

October 12, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

*^{Picture: Grade 12 learners pledge-signing ceremony/Supplied}*

^{By REGINALD KANYANE}

^{12 October 2026 – South Africa’s Class of 2026 has pledged to uphold honesty, discipline and integrity as learners prepare to begin their National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations on 13 October 2026. The pledge-signing ceremonies, held at schools across the country on Friday, reaffirmed matric candidates’ commitment to academic excellence and ethical conduct as they prepare to complete their schooling careers.}

^{Addressing Free State matriculants at the provincial pledge-signing ceremony at the Bluegumbosch Multipurpose Centre in Qwaqwa, the Republic if South Africa (RSA) president, Cyril Ramaphosa urged learners to remain focused and avoid making decisions that could jeopardise years of hard work and sacrifice. Ramaphosa urged learners to believe in themselves, for they believe in them.}

^{“The nation stands behind you. We are proud of you for having reached this milestone. And we wish you every success. We acknowledge the sacrifices made by learners, their families, teachers and tutors in preparing for the examinations, describing the upcoming tests as an opportunity for matriculants to reap the rewards of their investment in education.}

^{“No worthwhile goal can be achieved without sacrifice. Without persistence. Without discipline,” he said.}

^{Ramaphosa also commended educators for their dedication to learners, noting that teachers often sacrifice time with their own families to support their students. He highlighted the progress made by learners from no-fee schools in townships and rural areas, saying their achievements reflected personal commitment and progress towards building an education system that provides equal opportunities for all.}

^{“The Free State, which recorded the country’s highest matric pass rate for three consecutive years from 2022 to 2024, was encouraged to reclaim the top position after KwaZulu-Natal ended its winning streak in 2025.}

^{“As the President of the Republic, I cannot favour any one province in the competition for first place, but we do expect the Free State to do everything it can to take its crown back,” Ramaphosa said.}

^{Meanwhile, Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube, who attended the pledge-signing ceremony at Fezeka Secondary School in the Western Cape, urged learners to approach the examinations with integrity, discipline and a commitment to excellence. Reflecting on her own educational journey, Gwarube encouraged candidates to take responsibility for their futures through diligent study and decisions that would open doors to opportunities beyond school.}

^{She reminded learners that the examinations marked an important transition into adulthood and the next chapter of their lives. The Minister also warned against examination irregularities, including taking cellphones and crib notes into examination rooms, cautioning that academic dishonesty could have serious consequences for learners’ future opportunities.}

^{“There are no shortcuts to success. A cellphone hidden in a pocket is not preparation. A leaked question paper is not intelligence. Copying another learner’s work is not achievement.}

^{“The NSC must remain a qualification that South Africans can trust because it is earned honestly,” she said.}

^{Gwarube further said by signing the pledge, learners commit themselves to honesty, accountability and giving their best throughout the examination period. She added that the pledge reinforces commitment to learners’ futures}

^{In Gauteng, Deputy Minister of Basic Education Reginah Mhaule joined provincial Education MEC Lebogang Maile at Riverside High School in Three Rivers, Vereeniging, for the provincial pledge-signing ceremony. Mhaule said the occasion represented more than a commitment to comply with examination rules, reaffirming the importance of academic excellence, integrity, discipline and responsibility.}

^{“Today, our learners are making a commitment not only to the examination system, but to themselves and the futures they are working to build,” Mhaule said.}

^{The ceremonies are intended to reinforce fairness and accountability in the examination process while encouraging candidates to approach their final school examinations with confidence, dedication and determination.}

^{The 2026 NSC examinations begin on 13 October, with Computer Applications Technology (CAT) Paper 1 practical scheduled for the first session.}

^{The second session will feature Hindi, Gujarati, Tamil, Telugu and Urdu Home Language (HL), First Additional Language (FAL) and Second Additional Language (SAL) Paper 1, as well as Hebrew SAL and German HL, FAL and SAL Paper 1. The examination period will conclude on Thursday, 26 November 2026.}

^{Learners have been urged to consult the official examination timetable to confirm the dates, times and subjects for their respective papers. As the Class of 2026 prepares to write, Ramaphosa’s message remains clear: years of preparation must be matched by discipline, honesty and a determination to succeed.}

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“Legotswana” la dikgomo la kwa Granspan le solofetswe go tlhagelela kwa kgotlhatshekelo

October 12, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

*Setshwantsho: Kgotlhatshekelo ya Taung*

^{Ka OBAKENG MAJE}

^{12 Diphalane 2026 – Monna wa dingwaga di le 37 wa kwa motseng wa Granspan, gaufi le Taung, o tshwerwe mabapi le ditatofatso tsa go utswa dikgomo le namane. Go begwa fa tiragalo e, e diragetse ka kgwedi ya Seetebosigo 2026.}

^{Sebueledi sa sepodisi mono porofenseng ya Bokone Bophirima, Serasanta Kelebogile Morake are monna o, o tshwere mo letsatsing la maabane. Morake are mmelaelwa o solofetswe go shadikanya matlho fa pele ga magistrata ka di 12 Diphalane 2026.}

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Nearly One Million Candidates Registered for 2026 Matric Exams

October 12, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

*^{Picture: The Minster of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube/Supplied}*

^{By STAFF REPORTER}

^{12 October 2026 – The Minster of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube has declared the Department of Basic Education ready for the 2026 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations, with a record 962 832 candidates registered to write the October/November examinations. Gwarube said the registered candidates, 815 051 are full-time learners, representing an increase of 48 508 compared with last year, while 147 781 are part-time candidates, including those seeking to improve their previous results.}

^{Announcing the department’s state of readiness in Pretoria on Sunday, Gwarube said the Class of 2026 was the largest full-time cohort to sit for the NSC examinations to date. She said all candidates have been provided with all the support they would need to perform and I am happy to declare that learners are ready for the 2026 NSC Exams.}

^{“Approximately 7 100 examination centres have been established across the country’s nine provinces to accommodate the candidates.}

^{“The department had audited the examination centre network and introduced a risk-based monitoring approach to ensure that supervision and resources were directed where they were most needed,” she said.}

^{Gwarube further confirmed that the setting, moderation and quality assurance of examination materials had been completed, with all question papers and examination instruments reviewed by the department and approved by Umalusi. She added that security measures had also been strengthened throughout the production and distribution chain, including the vetting of examination officials and collaboration with national and provincial law enforcement agencies.}

^{“The department has established 189 marking centres and recruited 51 104 qualified and experienced educators to mark examination scripts.}

^{“A standardised national marking approach, strict quality-control measures and strengthened moderation of school-based assessments will be implemented to protect the credibility of the qualification,” said Gwarube.}

^{She said her department has implemented its 2026 Learner Support Programme across all 75 education districts, reaching 159 180 learners at 1 262 centres. Gwarube said the programme provides additional learning and revision opportunities, particularly for progressed learners, those requiring extra support and schools experiencing performance challenges.}

^{“Learners have also received assistance through revision guides, previous examination papers, online learning materials, digital notes and mock examinations.}

^{“The Second Chance Matric Programme continues to support part-time candidates through after-hours and weekend classes at 41 centres, learning materials distributed to 84 centres and 15 provincial learner workshops,” she said.}

^{Gwarube said candidates Candidates also have access to class monitoring, free online study resources and educational broadcasts on radio and television. She acknowledged that the Class of 2026 had experienced disruptions to schooling during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly during the transition from the Intermediate Phase to the Senior Phase.}

^{“The department had responded by strengthening curriculum coverage, using assessment information to identify learning gaps and providing additional revision opportunities.}

^{“We also appeal to parents and guardians to create a supportive home environment for learners during the final preparation period,” said Gwarube.}

^{She said they appeal to parents, not to burden learners with a load of household chores nor expect them to run family errands. Gwarube said they should give them the space and support they need to perform at their very best in these exams.}

^{“The department had adopted a zero-tolerance approach to examination irregularities and reinforced candidate and parent pledge agreements to promote examination integrity.}

^{“A 24-hour examination hotline is operational to enable members of the public to report suspicious activities,” she said.}

^{Gwarube said contigency plans have also been put in place to address operational challenges, including severe weather conditions and community disruptions. She appealed to communities not to disrupt the examinations to express dissatisfaction over service delivery, political issues or socioeconomic challenges.}

^{“I appeal to communities not to prejudice the Matric Class of 2026 by disrupting the NSC Exams for service delivery, political, or socio-economic dissatisfaction.}

^{“The NSC candidates cannot resolve societal problems, it is Ministers, as elected representatives, who must account,” said Gwarube.}

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Suspect arrested in connection with item belonging to runner, Elizabeth Tsontso Moselakgomo

October 12, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

*^{Picture: The deceased, Elizabeth Tsontso Moselakgomo}*

^{By BAKANG MOKOTO}

^{12 October 2026 – The police have arrested a suspect who was allegedly found in possession of an item belonging to runner Elizabeth Tsontso Moselakgomo. The suspect is expected to appear before the Kempton Park Magistrate’s Court on 12 October 2026, and is likely to face a charge of possession of stolen property.}

^{The national police spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe confirmed the arrest, stating that no murder charge had been brought against the suspect at this stage. Mathe said investigations are ongoing.}

^{“The police have not disclosed further details about the item recovered or the circumstances surrounding the suspect’s arrest,” she said.}

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Klerksdorp carjacking case linked to theft of gas bottles in Leeudoringstad

October 12, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

^{By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI}

^{12 October 2026 – The police in the North West has uncovered alleged inconsistencies in a reported carjacking case in Klerksdorp, which has since been linked to the theft of more than 90 gas bottles worth approximately R70 000 in Leeudoringstad. According to the police, the complainant reported a carjacking case at Klerksdorp Police Station in the early hours of 10 October 2026.}

^{North West police spokesperson Sergeant Kelebogile Morake said he alleged that he had been hired to transport two men from Gauteng to Klerksdorp during the early hours of Friday, 9 October 2026. Morake said the complainant further claimed that at approximately 4:30am, the two men robbed him of his vehicle and dropped him off at Klerksdorp Mall.}

^{“However, the alleged carjacking was only reported approximately two hours after police had recovered the vehicle at business premises in Leeudoringstad, where it was found with stolen gas bottles.}

^{“The police investigations revealed that the vehicle was allegedly linked to the theft of more than 90 gas bottles valued at approximately R70 000,” she said.}

^{Morake further said all the stolen gas bottles have since been recovered, with some found inside the vehicle in question. She added that the recovered items have been processed and will be returned to their rightful owner.}

^{“The vehicle has been seized for further investigation by the Vehicle Crime Investigation Unit (VCIU),” said Morake.}

^{Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Arthur Adams, congratulated the police members involved in recovering the stolen property. Adams had cautioned members of the public against deliberately misleading the police or making false allegations.}

^{“We urge members of the public to provide truthful information and cooperate with the police to ensure that justice is served.}

^{Police investigations into the matter continue,” he said.}

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Three people convicted for murder of IFP branch secretary in Weenen

October 12, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

By REGINALD KANYANE

12 October 2026 – The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Political Killings Task Team (PKTT) has secured the conviction of three accused persons in connection with the murder of Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) Branch Executive Committee (BEC) Secretary Mthokozisi Sithole. The national spokesperson, Colonel Amanda van Wyk said Sithole, who served as the IFP BEC secretary for Mbabazane Ward 20 under the iLanga Libalele Local Municipality, was shot and killed outside a tavern in Weenen on 27 January 2024. Van Wyk said following an intensive investigation by the PKTT, four suspects were arrested and charged with murder and possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.

^{“The accused were identified as Sthembiso Nkululeko Xulu, Mduduzi Mncube, Sthabiso Mncube and Sokolisa Sibiya. Mduduzi Mncube was identified as the alleged shooter.}

^{“Investigators also established a link between the firearm used in Sithole’s murder and another murder case involving Thembinkosi Manana,” she said.}

^{Van Wyk further said the third accused, Sthabiso Mncube, was also charged in connection with Manana’s murder, resulting in the two matters being prosecuted as joined cases. She added that following the investigations by the Political Killings Task Team, the court handed down its judgment in both matters, finding three accused guilty of murder and possession of an unlicensed firearm.}

^{“The matter has been postponed to 28 October 2026 for sentencing. The PKTT remained committed to identifying, arresting and prosecuting those responsible for political killings.}

^{“The task team will continue working closely with the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to strengthen cases and ensure that perpetrators are brought before the courts,” said van Wyk said.}

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30 people arrested in Kwazulu-Natal and Gauteng amid public order operations

October 12, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

*Picture: One of the suspects arrested/Facebook*

By OBAKENG MAJE

12 October 2026 – The police have arrested 30 people in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng since Thursday as police intensify intelligence-led operations to maintain law and order and prevent disruptions to planned sporting events. The police said 25 people were arrested in KwaZulu-Natal and five in Gauteng for offences including public violence, illegal gathering, obstruction and resisting arrest.

The national police spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said those arrested include individuals identified as alleged ringleaders who reportedly threatened to disrupt planned football matches in Durban. Mathe said the SAPS will not allow threats, intimidation or unlawful conduct to undermine public safety, disrupt sporting events or destabilise communities.

“Our responsibility is to protect lives, safeguard property and uphold the rule of law. The police would act decisively and professionally, within the confines of the law, against anyone threatening public order.

“We would like to commend the SAPS members, Crime Intelligence and other law enforcement agencies, led by provincial commissioners, for their efforts to prevent violence and maintain stability under challenging circumstances,” she said.

^{The acting national police commissioner, Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane said the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) and Provincial Joint Operational and Intelligence Structures (PROVJOINTS) continue to coordinate intelligence-led operational responses. Dimpane said the deployment of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) in KwaZulu-Natal forms part of broader stabilisation interventions undertaken in cooperation with the SAPS.}

^{“The police remained on high alert across all provinces, with sporadic incidents reported in the Western Cape, Eastern Cape and Limpopo swiftly addressed through operational interventions.}

^{“We reiterate that the Constitution protects the right of people to assemble, demonstrate and present their grievances peacefully. However, this right does not extend to intimidation, looting, malicious damage to property, public violence or obstruction of lawful activities.}

^{“Such conduct constitutes criminality and the police will respond firmly and impartially in accordance with the law,” she said.}

^{Dimpane also called on communities to cooperate with police, share information and refrain from participating in unlawful activities that could endanger lives and livelihoods. She reiterated that the priority remained preventing violence, protecting all people, maintaining peace and avoiding loss of life.}

^{taungdailynews@gmail.com}

Seven firearms and 89 rounds of ammunition seized

October 12, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

*Picture: Seven firearms seized/Supplied*

By STAFF REPORTER

12 October 2026 – The police have seized seven firearms, an airgun, several magazines and 89 rounds of ammunition during an operation in Germiston, Gauteng, while searching for a suspect wanted in connection with a 2024 murder case in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. The police said the operation was conducted on 9 October 2026, by the Richards Bay Organised Crime Task Team, supported by members of the Public Order Policing (POP) Unit based in Springs.

The national police spokesperson, Colonel Amanda van Wyk said the team acted on information regarding the whereabouts of a suspect who is wanted in connection with a murder case reported in Richards Bay in 2024. Van Wyk said upon arriving at the identified address in Germiston, police seized two rifles, three pistols, a revolver, a shotgun, an airgun, several magazines and 89 rounds of ammunition of various calibres.

^{“The suspect remains at large, and investigations are continuing to trace and arrest the wanted individual.}

^{“The seized firearms would undergo ballistic testing to determine whether they may have been used in the commission of other serious and violent crimes,” she said.}

^{Van Wyk further said they have urged the public to assist with information that could lead to the suspect’s arrest.}

^{taungdailynews@gmail.com}

Govt Moves to Stop Traffic Documents Being Used as Identification

October 12, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

*Picture: The Minister of Transport, ^{Barbara Creecy}*

By BAKANG MOKOTO

^{12 October 2026 – The Department of Transport plans to amend the National Road Traffic Regulations to prevent traffic register number (TRN) certificates, learner’s licences and driving licences from being used as general identification documents.}

^{The Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy said the proposed amendments aim to address the misuse of road traffic documents and ensure that identification documents are issued and regulated in accordance with the law.}

^{“The Traffic Register Number was created solely to enable people without a South African identity number to conduct transactions on the National Traffic Information System (NaTIS) for road traffic purposes while finalising their legal status with the Department of Home Affairs.}

^{“It was never intended to serve as general identification. The proposed changes follow a major investigation conducted in 2023, in which the Department of Transport assisted the Department of Home Affairs,” she said.}

^{Creecy further said the investigation uncovered widespread misuse of TRNs and other road traffic documents as forms of identification. She added that some institutions have been accepting TRNs and driving licences as general identification documents, a practice which is inconsistent with the Identification Act, 1997 (Act 68 of 1997).}

^{“The Act designates the Department of Home Affairs as the authority responsible for maintaining the National Population Register and issuing identification documents.}

^{“The amendments were necessary to eliminate legal uncertainty, prevent abuse and align road traffic legislation with the Identification Act,” said Creecy.}

^{She said under the proposed amendments to Regulation 1, TRNs and other documents issued under road traffic legislation will be excluded from the definition of acceptable identification. Creecy said the people who are not permanently resident in South Africa, acceptable identification will consist of a valid passport issued by their country of origin, together with the relevant permit issued by Home Affairs under the Immigration Act, 2002.}

^{“For companies, acceptable identification will include certificates of incorporation, registration certificates, memoranda of incorporation and name-change certificates issued in terms of the Companies Act, 2008.}

^{“For a close corporation converted into a company, the certificate of incorporation issued under Schedule 2 of the Companies Act will be accepted,” she said.}

^{Creecy said the proposed changes mean that TRN certificates, learner’s licences and driving licences will no longer qualify as general identification documents. She said the department also plans to amend Regulation 335 to strengthen controls over the issuing and use of TRNs.}

^{“The proposed amendments will remove provisions that recognise a TRN as an acceptable identification document.}

^{“Furthermore, a TRN holder who obtains another form of acceptable identification will be required to notify the registering authority using form ANR within 21 days and surrender the TRN certificate,” said Creecy.}

^{She said new provision will stipulate that a TRN will remain valid only for the validity period of the passport and permit submitted when the number was obtained. Creecy said natural persons whose TRN certificates do not reflect a validity period will be required to apply for new certificates within three months after the amended regulations come into effect.}

^{She said the proposed amendments would be published in the Government Gazette for public comment in accordance with the National Road Traffic Act, 1996 (Act 93 of 1996). Creecy said interested parties and affected institutions will have 30 days from the date of publication to submit written comments.}

^{“All submissions will be considered before the final regulations are published,” she said.}

^{taungdailynews@gmail.com}

National Safer Festive Season Operations to be launched

October 12, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

^{By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI}

^{12 October 2026 – The South African Police Service (SAPS) will on Monday launch its National Safer Festive Season Operations in the Ehlanzeni District in Mpumalanga as part of efforts to strengthen crime prevention and ensure the safety and security of communities during the upcoming festive season.}

^{The national police spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said the national launch would be led by the acting Minister of Police, Firoz Cachalia, alongside the Deputy Ministers of Police, Dr Polly Boshielo and Cassel Mathale.}

^{“The launch of the National Safer Festive Season Operations forms part of intensified policing efforts aimed at increasing police visibility, preventing and combating crime, and ensuring the safety and security of communities during the festive season,” said Mathe.}

^{The acting National Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane will present and formally hand over the SAPS Safer Festive Season Operational Plan to Cachalia during the launch. Dimpane said the national launch will be preceded by a series of build-up activities aimed at strengthening policing operations and raising awareness about crime prevention and community safety.}

^{“The first phase will involve a social responsibility project at Khutsalani Secondary School, Stand 1202, in Kabokweni, scheduled to begin at 7:15am.}

^{The second phase, comprising an operational parade and the official national launch, will take place at Kabokweni Stadium in the Ehlanzeni District at 10am.}

^{“The operations would focus on enhancing police visibility and ensuring that law enforcement agencies were prepared to respond effectively to crime during the festive season,” she said.}

^{taungdailynews@gmail.com}

A total of 1008 suspects nabbed for various crimes

October 12, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

^{By REGINALD KANYANE}

^{12 October 2026 – A total of 1008 suspects have been arrested for various serious and other crimes during a week-long, multi-disciplinary Operation Shanela II across the Free State province. The South African Police Service (SAPS) and its integrated law enforcement partners conducted 24 approved high-density operations across the province between 4 and 11 October 2026.}

^{According to national police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Covane, the operations focused on crimes involving firearms, drug trafficking, Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF), as well as trio crimes, including carjacking, house robbery and cash-in-transit heists. Covane said the operations also targeted aggravated robberies, including street robberies and aimed to prevent violent and serious crimes through coordinated law enforcement activities.}

^{“The integrated forces continue to conduct foot and vehicle patrols, air-to-ground patrols, roadblocks, vehicle checkpoints, tracing operations and tracking operations to locate wanted suspects and prevent crime.}

^{“The operations involved various stakeholders, including the SAPS, South African National Defence Force, Department of Home Affairs, Department of Labour and South African Revenue Service.}

^{During the week, law enforcement officers conducted 5,259 high-visibility patrols and 3,043 other patrols,” he said.}

^{Covane further said they also carried out 225 Vehicle Check Points (VCPs) operations and 17 roadblocks in identified crime hotspots. He added that a total of 1,158 stop-and-search operations were conducted, alongside 269 tracing operations targeting wanted suspects and 203 tracking operations.}

^{“The police also inspected 738 licensed liquor premises, resulting in the closure of 10 unlicensed liquor outlets.}

^{Furthermore, 2,881 farms were visited in collaboration with the departments of Home Affairs and Labour to ensure compliance with labour laws, prevent farm attacks and curb stock theft.}

^{“Authorities also inspected 112 formal and informal businesses, including spaza shops, as well as 134 second-hand dealers and 48 scrapyards and recycling businesses,” said Covane.}

^{He said seven notices were issued to second-hand dealers for failing to maintain prescribed records. Covane said eight mining areas were visited, while six enforcement operations were conducted in terms of the Safety at Sports and Recreational Events Act (SASREA) and the Regulation of Gatherings Act.}

^{He said the 1,008 arrests included 269 wanted suspects who were successfully traced in connection with various crimes, including business robbery, murder, attempted murder, rape, sexual offences and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. Covane said the overall arrests included 25 suspects for murder, 23 for attempted murder, 30 for rape, 158 for assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and 86 for common assault.}

^{“Other arrests included four suspects for business robbery, six for residential robbery, three for aggravated robbery, 12 for business burglary and 19 for residential burglary.}

^{“The police also arrested 60 suspects for possession of drugs, 24 for dealing in drugs, five for illegal possession of firearms, four for contravening the Firearms Control Act and four for illegal possession of ammunition,” he said.}

^{Covane said a further 48 suspects were arrested for possession of dangerous weapons, 32 for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs and 101 undocumented foreign nationals were apprehended. He said the integrated forces also confiscated various illegal items and contraband during the operations.}

^{“These included four handguns, one rifle, 115 rounds of ammunition and 48 dangerous weapons. The police also seized 45 kilograms of dagga, 134.25 Mandrax tablets, two grams of Mandrax powder and 26.54 grams of crystal methamphetamine, commonly known as Tik.}

^{“Other confiscated items included 673 litres of alcoholic beverages, 10,607 packets of tobacco products, one kilogram of copper cables, five vehicles, 10 vehicle parts and accessories, nine cellphones and cash amounting to R46,844,” said Covane.}

^{He said the next round of planned weekly operations under the Safer Festive Season campaign, #OperationShanela2, had already commenced across all five districts of the Free State province. Covane said the operations would continue to focus on preventing serious and violent crimes, tracing wanted suspects and removing illegal firearms, drugs and other contraband from communities.}

^{taungdailynews@gmail.com}

Batho ba le batlhano ba tshwerwe mabapi le go rekisa diritibatsi

October 12, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

^{Ka OBAKENG MAJE}

^{12 Diphalane 2026 – Batho ba batlhano ba ba belaelwang go dira le go rekisa diritibatsi tse di seng mo molaong ba tshwanetse go tlhagelela kwa kgotlhatshekelo ya Krugersdorp morago ga go tshwarwa mo bekeng e e fetileng, fa sepodisi se sena go ribolola laboratori e e seng mo molaong ya go dira diritibatshi kwa polaseng kwa Hekpoort, gaufi le Krugersdorp, kwa Gauteng.}

^{Laboratori eno ya sephiri ya go dira diritibatsi e fopholediwa go nna le boleng jwa diranta di le dimilione di le 100. Go ya ka sebueledi sa di Hawks, Colonel Katlego Mogale, laboratori eno e ribolotswe ka tiro ya kopanelo ya ditheo tse di farologaneng tsa sepodisi.}

^{“Tiro eno e ne e eteletswe pele ke South African Narcotics Bureau ya Hawks, ka tirisano le SAPS Head Office Crime Intelligence, Special Task Force le West Rand K-9 Unit.}

^{“Ka nako ya tiro eno, mapodisi a ribolotse bontsi jwa diritibatsi tsa Mandrax le tsa ecstasy kwa laboratori e go belaelwang gore e ne e dirisediwa go dira diokobatsi,}

^{“Banna bano ba batlhano, botlhe e le baagi ba Aforika Borwa, ba ba fitlhetsweng mo lefelong leo, ba tla lebana le melato ya go dira le go rekisa diritibatsi tse di seng mo molaong,” Mogale wa tlhalosa.}

^{taungdailynews@gmail.com}

Setlagole is a historically a prominent geological salt pans area

October 11, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

11 October 2026 – Setlagole (also referred to historically as Se tla a gola or Setlagoli) is a prominent historical Setswana town and rural settlement located in the Ratlou Local Municipality within the Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality of the North West Province, South Africa. The reference to “Southpan” (or Soutpan) in relation to Setlagole historically points to the area’s prominent geological salt pans (such as the nearby Muhukubung Pan) and its position on the northwestern edge of the Kaapvaal Craton.

It serves as the official administrative seat for the Ratlou Local Municipality and sits along the N18 national route, roughly 70 kilometers from Mahikeng.

The area is globally recognized by geologists for the Setlagole Megabreccia.

This is a unique geological formation exposed along the Setlagole River bed, featuring large fragmented rocks linked to a massive ancient magnetic anomaly and potential deep-crustal or meteorite impact history. The community is primarily Barolong and Bahurutshe, with Setswana spoken as the predominant first language by over 91% of the population.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Vryburg is a large agricultural town situated in the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality

October 11, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

By BAKANG MOKOTO

11 October 2026 – Vryburg is a large agricultural town situated in the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality of the North West Province, South Africa. Known as the industrial and agricultural heartland of the Bophirima region, it is highly regarded as one of South Africa’s largest beef-producing areas.

Positioned along the N14 national road, making it a primary stopover between Gauteng and Namibia or the Northern Cape. Economic Hub: It functions as the administrative seat of its district, anchoring local trade with massive livestock auctions and agricultural processing.

Are you looking for travel stopovers, local businesses, or specific historical and economic information about Vryburg? Let us know how we can help narrow this down.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Delareyville is a small agricultural and historical town in the Tswaing Local Municipality

October 11, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

By AGISANANG SCUFF

11 October 2026 – Delareyville is a small agricultural and historical town in the Tswaing Local Municipality, Ngaka Modiri Molema District, North West Province, South Africa. Founded in 1913 and laid out in 1914, the town was named after the famous Boer General Jacobus Herculaas (Koos) de la Rey.

It sits in the northwestern corner of the country’s “maize triangle,” roughly 3.5 hours by car from Johannesburg. The area is a major hub for maize, sorghum, groundnut, and sunflower cultivation, alongside cattle and sheep farming.

The district features numerous salt pans with distinct pink coloration that attract large flocks of flamingos. Barberspan Nature Reserve is located about 15km from town, it is a premier destination for bird-watching (housing thousands of waterfowl), fishing, and boating.

Henk Joubert Game Reserve is a home to various antelope species like kudu and springbok, as well as zebras and ostriches. Historical landmarks includes the Dutch Reformed Church (a national monument) and the Rooiwal Monument honoring Anglo-Boer War burghers.

Recent infrastructure challenges are water crisis. Residents in Delareyville and nearby villages have faced severe water supply disruptions and infrastructure delays involving local municipal boreholes and incomplete water projects.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Cooke’s Lake Resort is the perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat in the heart of Mahikeng

October 11, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

By OBAKENG MAJE

11 October 2026 – Cookes Lake Resort is the perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat in the heart of Mahikeng. Surrounded by breath-taking natural beauty, our resort offers a serene and tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Our luxurious accommodations provide all the modern amenities you need for a comfortable stay, while our dedicated staff is always available to cater to your every need. Whether you prefer to relax and enjoy the picturesque surroundings or indulge in a range of outdoor activities, Cookes Lake Resort has something for everyone. Come and experience the ultimate in comfort and luxury, book your stay with us today.

Looking for a cozy and comfortable stay in Mahikeng? Our chalet accommodation at Cookes Lake Resort offers the perfect blend of luxury and privacy. Each chalet is tastefully furnished and equipped with all the modern amenities you need for a comfortable stay, including air conditioning, private bathrooms, and kitchenettes.

Our chalets are set amidst picturesque surroundings, offering stunning views of the lake and lush greenery. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or on a romantic getaway, our chalets provide the perfect base for exploring the beautiful Mahikeng region. Come and experience the ultimate in comfort and luxury.

Restaurant

We offer more than just luxurious accommodation and beautiful surroundings. Our on-site restaurant serves up a delectable range of dishes, featuring fresh and locally sourced ingredients, sure to satisfy even the most discerning taste buds.

Enjoy a delicious meal while taking in the serene surroundings of the lake and lush greenery. Our restaurant provides the perfect complement to your stay, offering an unforgettable culinary experience. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity.

Conference and Event Facilities

If you’re looking for a stunning and versatile venue for your next conference or event, look no further than Cookes Lake Resort. Our state-of-the-art conference facilities can accommodate up to 150 guests, with a range of modern amenities, including high-speed internet and audiovisual equipment.

Our team of dedicated event planners is on hand to help you plan every aspect of your event, from catering to decor, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience.

The serene and picturesque surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for weddings, corporate events, and other special occasions. Let us help you create an unforgettable event.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Magaliesburg is a small, historic country town in Mogale City

October 11, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

By REGINALD KANYANE

11 October 2026 – Magaliesburg is a small, historic country town in Mogale City, West Rand, Gauteng, South Africa, situated about 80 to 90 minutes west of Johannesburg and Pretoria. Nestled below the Witwatersrand range, with the rugged Magaliesberg mountain range visible to the north.

Named after Chief Kgosi Môgale Wa Môgale of the BaPô ba Mogale clan (“burg” meaning town and “berg” meaning mountain in Afrikaans). Known as a peaceful weekend breakaway, craft haven, and agricultural hub driven heavily by tourism, self-catering lodges, and small farms.

Hiking and swimming at Mountain Sanctuary Park, the Magaliesberg Canopy Tour, and river trails. Sunrise flights available via operators like Bill Harrop’s Balloon Safaris.

Close proximity to the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site and the historic Blaauwbank Gold Mine. Classic heritage rail trips via Reefsteamers steam train journeys from Johannesburg.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

The Molemane Eye Nature Reserve is a charming, rustic getaway

October 11, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

*Picture: The Molemane Eye Nature Reserve*

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

11 October 2026 – The Molemane Eye Nature Reserve is a charming, rustic getaway situated in the North West Province of South Africa, approximately 11 kilometres from Ottoshoop along the road between Lichtenburg and Zeerust. Managed by the North West Parks and Tourism Board, this compact reserve is centered around a powerful natural spring (the “Eye”) that pumps roughly 2.25 million litres of crystal-clear water daily.

It serves as an accessible weekend escape for nature lovers, campers, and families traveling from the North West and nearby Gauteng.

The central highlight is a deep natural well. Half of its pristine water filters into a local dam, while the other half turns a historic water wheel powering an old mill. The mill is a registered national monument and offers a captivating look into the area’s rich history.

The tranquil dam serves as an excellent backdrop for the reserve’s campsites. It is highly popular for catch-and-release bass fishing, though explicit rules apply (only artificial lures and barbless hooks are permitted, and live bait is strictly forbidden).

While traditionally a small sanctuary for diverse birdlife and smaller indigenous animals, ongoing conservation efforts by the province include game-stocking initiatives to host larger species like eland, sable, buffalo, and rhino.

For overnight stays, the reserve offers rustic and authentic accommodation options, including dedicated campsites spread out along the water’s edge and basic chalets/tented camp facilities. The reserve features well-maintained picnic tables, public restrooms, and braai (barbecue) grids, making it a highly family-friendly location for a relaxed day outing.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

The Sun City Resort is a world-renowned luxury resort and entertainment complex

October 11, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

By BAKANG MOKOTO

11 October 2026 – The Sun City Resort is a world-renowned luxury resort and entertainment complex located in the North West Province of South Africa, approximately a two-hour drive northwest of Johannesburg near Rustenburg. A signature tropical water park featuring a large artificial beach, a roaring lagoon with periodic 2-meter waves, and thrilling water slides.

Four distinct hotels catering to various styles, including the ultra-luxury 5-star The Palace of the Lost City, the Cascades, the Soho Hotel & Casino, and the family-friendly The Cabanas. Two 18-hole championship golf courses—the Gary Player Country Club (home to the annual Nedbank Golf Challenge) and The Lost City Golf Course.

• Safari & Wildlife: Directly borders the malaria-free Pilanesberg National Park, offering Big Five game drives, hot air balloon safaris, and animal sanctuaries.

Features the Sun City Casino, the Sun Central entertainment arena, the massive Superbowl concert venue, and the Southern Hemisphere’s largest permanent maze (The Maze of the Lost City)

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Botsalano Game Reserve serves as a crucial, prolific breeding ground for white rhinos and various antelope species used to restock other provincial parks

October 11, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

By AGISANANG SCUFF

11 October 2026 – Botsalano Game Reserve is a rugged 5 800 hectare wildlife reserve located in the North West Province of South Africa, right along the Botswana border near Mahikeng and the Ramatlabama border post. Managed by the North West Parks and Tourism Board, it serves as a crucial, prolific breeding ground for white rhinos and various antelope species used to restock other provincial parks. It features an open Kalahari thornveld ecosystem, wide-open grasslands, Acacia woodlands, and unique termite sandcastles. Geologically, it sits on the site of one of the oldest volcanic craters in the world, which extends right across the border into Botswana.

The reserve is home to over 2 000 head of animals, including white rhinos, Cape buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, and numerous antelopes like gemsbok (oryx), eland, and springbok. It is also a premier birding hotspot with more than 200 recorded bird species. There are no major dangerous large predators (like lions or leopards), making the atmosphere exceptionally peaceful.

For overlanders and 4×4 enthusiasts, Botsalano is famous for its wild, remote, and unfenced bush campsites (such as Lerako Camp, Laorara, and Sentry Hill) which let you experience the African wilderness completely uninterrupted. It also offers solar-powered, self-catering tented units overlooking a local dam.

Ensure you use Gate 3 to enter the park. GPS navigation systems frequently route travelers toward Gate 2, which is permanently closed, or Gate 1, which is strictly reserved for park management.

The reserve operates on a strictly rustic basis. There are no shops inside, so you must bring all your own supplies—including firewood, food, and drinking water. Recent traveler accounts note that the permanent tented camps are basic and have faced maintenance issues, so self-contained camping is highly recommended.

While there is an extensive road network suitable for most vehicles, conditions can get rough or sandy; high-clearance vehicles or 4x4s are preferred, especially if heading deep into the bush camps.

Are you planning a day trip or looking to book overnight camping at Botsalano? I can provide you with the current gate operating hours or guide you on how to contact their central reservation office.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

A man sentenced to 30 years imprisonment for murder and robbery

October 11, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

11 October 2026 – An accused, Greyton Cloete (27) was sentenced to 30 years imprisonment by the Springbok Regional Court for murder and robbery of a farmer, Edward Coetsee (66) at Kalkfontein Farm in Okiep. The incident occurred on 12 November 2020, at approximately 2am, when two suspects allegedly entered the victim’s farmhouse and demanded money.

The Namakwa District police spokesperson, Captain Ivan Magerman said when Coetsee informed them that he had no money, the suspects attempted to take his personal belongings before brutally assaulting him. Magerman said the victim sustained life-threatening injuries and was subsequently found and transported to hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

“The suspects fled the scene with his personal belongings. In June 2023, following meticulous investigative work by Detective Captain Hermie Beukes, Cloete was apprehended and arrested. During the course of the investigation, he confessed to his involvement in the murder and robbery.

“Further investigative work, supported by DNA evidence, subsequently linked a second suspect to the crime. Both accused remained in custody. The Springbok Regional Court recently sentenced Cloete to 20 years imprisonment for murder, of which two years were suspended for five years, resulting in an effective sentence of 18 years imprisonment.

“He was also sentenced to 10 years imprisonment for robbery. The court ordered that the sentences run concurrently. Cloete was also declared unfit to possess a firearm in terms of Section 103 of the Firearms Control Act,” he said.

Magerman further said the SAPS management in the Namakwa District commends Beukes for his dedication, perseverance and thorough investigative work, which contributed to securing the conviction and ensuring that the perpetrator was held accountable for his actions. He added that the SAPS remains committed to investigating serious and violent crimes and bringing perpetrators before the courts.

“This conviction serves as a reminder that, even when investigations are complex and justice takes time, the SAPS will continue to pursue cases to ensure accountability and justice for victims and their families,” said Magerman.

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Prayer service unites law enforcement officials

October 11, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: Prayer service unites law enforcement officials/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

11 October 2026 – The members of various law enforcement agencies in the Northern Cape, including the South African Police Service (SAPS), Department of Correctional Services, Traffic Department and South African National Defence Force (SANDF), gathered at CRC Kimberley on 11 October 2026, for a prayer service. The service provided an opportunity for law enforcement officials to unite in prayer, seeking divine guidance, protection, strength and wisdom in the execution of their duties.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Captain Thando Mnisi said senior officials in attendance included the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, General Koliswa Otola, Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Policing, Major General Johnny Besnaar, Brigadier Samuel Mathe, Brigadier Mashay Gamieldien and Station Commanders, alongside other senior managers from the participating departments. Mnisi said the gathering underscored the importance of faith, unity and collaboration among law enforcement agencies, reaffirming their shared commitment to serving and protecting the communities of the Northern Cape with dedication, integrity and compassion.

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289 suspects nabbed for various crimes during Operation Shanela II

October 11, 2026The Guardian NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: The police during Operation Shanela II/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

11 October 2026 – More than 289 suspects were arrested for various offences during Operation Shanela II between 5 and 11 October 2026. The police in the Northern Cape said they will continue to intensify its crime-fighting efforts through high-density, multi-disciplinary operations.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane said the operations, conducted across all five districts in collaboration with various law enforcement agencies, form part of the ongoing efforts to clamp down on criminal activities and strengthen police visibility as the SAPS ramps up its Safer Festive Season operations. Shemane said with the festive season approaching, the police are deploying more boots on the ground through intensified patrols, roadblocks, Vehicle Check Points (VCPs) and targeted crime prevention operations.

“These proactive interventions are aimed at disrupting criminal activities, removing illegal firearms and dangerous weapons from circulation, apprehending wanted suspects and ensuring the safety and security of residents and visitors to the Northern Cape.

“During the reporting period, law enforcement officials stopped and searched 6 824 individuals and 3 862 vehicles at VCPs and roadblocks along national and provincial roads,” he said.

Shemane further said the operations resulted in the arrest of 289 suspects for various offences, including drug dealing, possession of drugs, attempted murder, assault with intent to cause Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH), common assault, burglary, malicious damage to property and offences relating to undocumented persons, among other crimes. He added that as part of efforts to enforce compliance with legislation, liquor premises found operating without the required licences or failing to comply with applicable legal requirements were closed.

“A total of 19 fines were issued during the operations. Law enforcement officials also confiscated various items linked to criminal activities, including cell phones, copper cables, dangerous weapons, alcoholic beverages, ammunition, drugs and cash. The provincial management commended the participating law enforcement agencies for their continued collaboration and commitment to the fight against crime.

“The integrated approach, which combines resources, expertise and operational capacity, remains critical in addressing crime and ensuring a coordinated response to threats to community safety. As the province intensifies its Safer Festive Season campaign, the police will maintain a heightened operational presence in crime hotspots and other identified areas of concern,” said Shemane.

He said the focus will remain on visible policing, targeted interventions, the prevention of serious and violent crime and the enforcement of the law to ensure that criminals have no place to hide. Shemane said the police call on communities to support these efforts by remaining vigilant and reporting criminal activities to the police.

“Members of the public are encouraged to report information that may assist in preventing or solving crime through the SAPS Crime Stop line on 08600 10111 or by using the MySAPS App.

“The Northern Cape SAPS remains resolute in its commitment to building safer communities through sustained crime prevention operations, increased police visibility and strengthened partnerships with other law enforcement agencies and community structures,” he said.

Shemane said together, through collective action and vigilance, they can work towards a safer, crime-free Northern Cape this festive season and beyond.

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