^{By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI}

^{11 November 2016 – The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has announced the recall of 738 Volvo EX30 and EX30 Cross Country vehicles following concerns about a potential safety risk involving the front seat head cushion reinforcement. The recall affects certain 2024 to 2027 model-year vehicles sold across South Africa.}

^{According to the NCC spokesperson, Phetho Ntaba, Volvo Car South Africa (Pty) Ltd informed the commission that the affected vehicles have a defect involving the reinforcement of the front seat head cushion. Ntaba said the supplier warned that under specific conditions and in the event of a sufficiently severe collision, the front seat head cushion could pose a risk of injury to occupants.}

^{“We advise consumers who own the affected vehicles to contact their preferred Volvo dealership to arrange an appointment for the necessary recall work to be carried out.}

^{“Consumers seeking further information or clarification about the recall can contact the National Consumer Commission via email at ProductRecall@thencc.org.za,” she said.}

^{Ntaba further urged affected vehicle owners to take the necessary steps to ensure that their vehicles undergo the recall process.}

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

11 November 2026 – The Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Leon Schreiber said his department has delivered on its target of expanding Smart ID replacement services to over 750 bank branches — more than four months ahead of schedule. Schreiber said when the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) launched its new digital partnership with the banking sector on 9 March 2026, as part of the Minister’s Home Affairs @ home reform agenda, it set itself the ambitious target of scaling this ground-breaking new service to 750 branches by the end of the 2026/27 financial year.

“Just eight months later, and more than four months ahead of schedule, this target has already been surpassed, with 753 bank branches now delivering access to Smart IDs in communities that were historically excluded from this critical Home Affairs service. 

“More than one million South Africans across the length and breadth of the country have already benefited from this new digital service channel,” he said.

Schreiber further said at the start of the current administration, only 214 Home Affairs offices nationwide were equipped to process Smart ID applications. He said addition of 753 participating bank branches over the past eight months has expanded the department’s Smart ID footprint to 967 locations, an increase of over 350% in just 246 days.

“This service requires no prior booking, paperwork or queues. Citizens can simply walk into a participating branch of ABSA, Capitec, First National Bank or Standard Bank, where applications are processed through secure biometric technology in just five minutes.

“More banks and more services are set to be added to the project shortly. This expansion in access across all communities also supports the department’s roadmap to phase out the fraud-prone green ID book, which serves as a key pull factor for illegal immigration and identity theft, in favour of the more secure Smart ID Card, strengthening the security and integrity of South Africa’s identification system,” said Schreiber .

He said eight months ago, they set themselves what many regarded as an extremely ambitious target of delivering Smart ID services to 750 bank branches by the end of March 2027. Schreiber said today, they have not only achieved that target but exceeded it with more than four months to spare.

“An increase in access of over 350% in just 246 days is the fastest service expansion [the department’s history]. We can now say with confidence that the days of standing in a long queue just to apply for a replacement Smart ID are fast coming to an end. 

“There is so much more still to come as we continue to expand our digital partnership … At a time when people have often complained that government falls short of its promises, Home Affairs is demonstrating that government is not only able to deliver on its commitments, but that it can, through the embrace of innovation and fundamental reform, exceed all expectations,” he said.

Schreiber said through the department’s commitment to delivering world-class digital public infrastructure for the people of South Africa, they are including millions of previously excluded citizens in critical Home Affairs services at a scale and pace never seen before. He said every day, they continue to accelerate their work to entirely redesign and rebuild Home Affairs for the modern age, anchored in their ceaseless quest to deliver dignity for all.

“South Africans can find their nearest participating bank branch by visiting myhomeaffairsonline.dha.gov.za,” said Schreiber.

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Picture: The Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Leon Schreiber

^{By STAFF REPORTER}

^{11 November 2026 – The Chairperson of South African Local Government Association (SALGA) in North West, Khumalo Molefe has called on municipal managers and councillors to ensure that legislative provisions and transitional guidelines are consistently applied during the transition to the incoming term of local government. Molefe said it was important for municipalities to understand and correctly implement the provisions of Section 26 of the Municipal Structures Act, particularly those relating to councillors’ terms of office, continuity of municipal governance and the responsibilities of incumbent political office bearers.}

^{He emphasised that municipal administrations must handle the transition in accordance with the law and avoid inconsistent practices that could unfairly affect councillors. Molefe also raised concerns about administrative practices involving the return of municipal vehicles and financial deductions during the transition period. Molefe also urged Municipal Managers to uphold professionalism, respect the applicable legal framework and ensure that councillors are treated fairly and consistently.}

^{“As SALGA in North West, we stress that the transition to a new municipal term should be managed through proper administrative processes, with due regard for the rights and responsibilities of outgoing councillors and the continuity of municipal operations.}

^{“So, we on all municipal stakeholders to familiarise themselves with the relevant legislation and transitional guidelines to prevent unnecessary disputes and ensure a smooth handover of municipal governance,” he said.}

^{Molefe said he has made his full message available in both Setswana and English to guide municipalities and councillors through the transition process.}

^{taungdailynews@gmail.com}

^{By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI}

^{11 November 2026 – A man was sentenced to 15 years imprisonment by the Kimberley Regional Court for murder. This comes Eugene Makomane (22), killed a man in Ritchie, Northern Cape.}

^{The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Northern Cape, Mojalefa Senokoatsane said the incident occurred on 2 March 2024, at a taxi rank in Ritchie, where the deceased was gambling with other people in the company of his girlfriend when Makomane approached him and confronted him about a previous incident in which he had allegedly been stabbed by a friend of the deceased. Senokoatsane said when the deceased ignored him and asked him to leave him alone, Makomane allegedly became enraged, pulled out a knife and stabbed him once in the back of the neck.}

^{“Despite the victim falling to the ground, Makomane continued stabbing him twice in the back before fleeing the scene. He was later arrested after being identified by witnesses.}

^{“During the trial, Makomane pleaded not guilty and raised self-defence as his argument. However, the state, led by Prosecutor Mothelesi Katlego Thothela, presented evidence from three witnesses, including the deceased’s girlfriend and a minor witness, as well as a post-mortem report and chain evidence,” he said.}

^{Senokoatsane further said Makomane also testified in his own defence. Je added the court found the state witnesses’ evidence clear, satisfactory and mutually corroborative on material aspects of the incident, concluding that the state had proved its case beyond a reasonable doubt.}

^{“His self-defence argument was rejected after the court found his version false, particularly because his account changed during cross-examination. During sentencing proceedings, the state presented a Victim Impact Statement compiled by Court Preparation Officer Lindokuhle Sikhakhane, detailing the psychological trauma suffered by the deceased’s family and the impact of his death on his minor children.}

^{“Thothela argued that Makomane had been the aggressor and continued attacking the deceased even after he had fallen and was defenceless. He further told the court that the accused had violated the deceased’s right to life and deprived his young children of a loving father and breadwinner,” said Senokoatsane.}

^{He said the state argued that there were no substantial and compelling circumstances justifying a departure from the prescribed minimum sentence and requested 15 years imprisonment. Senokoatsane said the court agreed with the state’s submissions and sentenced Makomane to 15 years behind bars.}

^{“He was also declared unfit to possess a firearm. The conviction and sentence demonstrated the criminal justice system’s response to violent crime, emphasising that the consequences of taking a life extend beyond the victim and leave families, particularly young children, to endure lasting emotional and social hardships.}

^{“The NPA remained committed to vigorously prosecuting perpetrators of violent crime, ensuring accountability while placing the rights and dignity of victims at the centre of the criminal justice process,” he said.}

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^{By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI}

^{11 November 2026 – The corruption trial involving former Crime Intelligence Head, Richard Mdluli and his co-accused, has been postponed to 16 November 2026, following Mdluli’s ill-health. The matter was scheduled to continue with further evidence in a trial-within-a-trial concerning the validity of search warrants issued during the investigation.}

^{The Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) spokesperson, Henry Mamothame said the state has completed presenting its evidence-in-chief through its first witness, a retired investigator who previously served in the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) and the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC). Mamothame said the witness was undergoing cross-examination by the defence before proceedings in the trial-within-a-trial commenced on Monday.}

^{“Mdluli is charged alongside former South African Police Service (SAPS) Supply Chain Manager (SCM), Heine Barnard and former Chief Financial Officer Solomon Lazarus. The trio faces charges of corruption, fraud and theft relating to the alleged misuse of the SAPS Crime Intelligence secret service account between 2008 and 2012.}

^{“All three accused have pleaded not guilty to the charges. The case was postponed to 16 November 2026,” he said.}

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^{By REGINALD KANYANE}

^{11 November 2026 – An uncle has been sentenced to life imprisonment for raping his niece (12) on three separate occasions in Etwatwa, Gauteng. The incident took place between October 2019 and June 2021.}

^{The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Gauteng, Lumka Mahanjana said a man (41), sentenced by the Benoni Regional Court, which also imposed a five-year prison term for assault with intent to cause Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH). Mahanjana said the court ordered that the sentences run concurrently.}

^{“He was further ordered to be placed on the National Register for Sex Offenders and declared unfit to work with children. The offences occurred while the child was living with her grandparents and older sister.}

^{“During the first incident in October 2019, the accused raped the child in an outside toilet at the family home during a wedding. He threatened to kill her, if she revealed what had happened,” she said.}

^{Mahanjana further said on two subsequent occasions, when the child was home alone while her grandmother was at work, the uncle allegedly visited the house, pushed her to the floor, raped her and assaulted her. She added thay the abuse came to light in June 2021, when the child’s older sister noticed a change in her behaviour and asked her what was wrong.}

^{“The child then disclosed the incidents to her sister, who informed their grandmother. The grandmother subsequently reported the matter to the police. Following investigations, the accused was arrested on 26 September 2022 at Boksburg Prison, where he was already serving a five-year sentence for sexual assault.}

^{“During the trial, the accused pleaded not guilty and denied raping his niece. However, the state prosecutor, Refiloe Neluonde successfully presented the state’s case through the testimony of the child, who testified with the assistance of intermediary services, as well as evidence from her sister,” said Mahanjana.}

^{During sentencing proceedings, she said the accused, through his legal representative, asked the court to deviate from the prescribed minimum sentence, arguing that he had already spent more than three years in custody awaiting trial. Mahanjana said Neluonde opposed the application, arguing that life imprisonment was appropriate given the seriousness of the offences.}

^{“She told the court that the accused had committed the crimes while on parole in another matter and had exploited the child’s vulnerability and the trust associated with their family relationship.}

^{“Instead of protecting his niece, he abused his position of trust and repeatedly subjected her to sexual violence. She further argued that he had shown no remorse, as he continued to deny the offences and had failed to take responsibility for his actions,” she said.}

^{The acting Regional Court Magistrate, Mamelo Mafisa agreed with the state’s submissions, finding that the accused had abused the trust placed in him and demonstrated no remorse. Mafisa said no substantial and compelling circumstances to justify deviating from the prescribed minimum sentence and consequently sentenced him to life imprisonment.}

^{Meanwhile, the Director of Public Prosecutions in Gauteng, Advocate Sibongile Mzinyathi, welcomed the sentence and commended the prosecutor and investigating officer, Warrant Officer Mafuko Alfred Shokwane of the Benoni Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit, for their work in securing the conviction and sentence. Mzinyathi said the NPA hoped the sentence would send a strong message that sexual offences against children and other vulnerable members of society would not be tolerated and that perpetrators would be held accountable.}

^{“We urge members of the public not to be discouraged by the passage of time when reporting sexual offences, emphasising that such crimes should be reported to the police regardless of how much time has elapsed to ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice,” she said.}

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^{By OBAKENG MAJE}

^{10 November 2026 – Outgoing executive mayor of the Rustenburg Local Municipality, Shiela Mabale-Huma, has expressed heartfelt gratitude to the community, her political organisation, family, municipal officials and stakeholders as she concludes her term in office. In a heartfelt message reflecting on her time as executive mayor, Mabale-Huma described serving the municipality as one of the greatest honours and privileges of her life, saying the journey was characterised by challenges, sacrifices, lessons, achievements and unforgettable moments.}

^{She further acknowledged that her tenure was not without difficulties, noting that there were moments that tested her strength, patience and determination. However, she added that faith, courage, resilience and perseverance enabled her to overcome the challenges.}

^{“The road has not been easy. There were difficult moments, obstacles, disappointments and challenges that tested my strength, patience and resolve.}

^{“There were times when the journey demanded more than I could have imagined. However, through faith, courage, resilience and determination, I persevered,” she said.}

^{Mabale-Huma said she leaves office with valuable lessons, greater wisdom and a deeper appreciation of the responsibilities that come with leadership. She thanked the Rustenburg community for its trust, support, patience, encouragement and constructive criticism throughout her tenure, emphasising that the community’s voices, hopes and aspirations remained central to her commitment to public service.}

^{“I would also like to express appreciation to the African National Congress (ANC) for entrusting her with the responsibility of serving as executive mayor, as well as for the political guidance, support and platform provided to her.}

^{“To my family, I would like to extend special gratitude for their unconditional love, understanding, prayers and sacrifices. Their support had sustained me through demanding responsibilities, long working days and difficult decisions,” said Mabale-Huma.}

^{She acknowledged municipal officials, traditional leaders (Magosi a rona), faith-based organisations, the taxi industry, community organisations, stakeholders and everyone who worked alongside her in serving the people of Rustenburg. As she prepares to hand over the baton, Mabale-Huma said leadership should not be measured by how long an individual occupies public office, but by the purpose with which they serve and the contribution they make to society.}

^{“Leadership is not about occupying an office forever, but about serving with purpose, leaving a meaningful contribution and understanding that the work of building our communities continues beyond any individual term.}

^{“I am leaving office with dignity, integrity and a clear conscience, confident that I had given my best in serving the people,” she said.}

^{According to Mabale-Huma, the road may have been difficult, but it did not break her. She said the challenges did not define her, but how she faced and overcame them did.}

^{“I carry with me the lessons, memories and experiences of this journey, knowing that public office is temporary, but the impact of genuine service should endure.}

^{“Although my tenure as executive mayor was coming to an end, my commitment to serving humanity and the people of Rustenburg would remain unchanged,” said Mabale-Huma.}

^{She said she may be concluding her term as executive mayor, but she will forever remain a daughter of the Rustenburg community, a servant of the people and a comrade committed to the ideals of a better society. Mabale-Huma concluded her message by thanking everyone who walked the journey with her, believed in her leadership and gave her the opportunity to serve.}

^{“Aluta Continua! The struggle for better communities and a better future continues,” she concluded.}

^{taungdailynews@gmail.com}

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

9 November 2026 – A total of 11 people have been arrested in connection with election-related violence in Douglas, Northern Cape, following the arrest of six additional suspects on Sunday. According to the Hawks spokesperson in the Northern Cape, Lieutenant Colonel Tebogo Thebe, six people were initially arrested, but one was released on Monday night after investigators established that they could not link him to the alleged crime.

Thebe confirmed that police arrested another six suspects on Sunday, bringing the total number of arrests to 11. He said the suspects are facing charges of contravening the Local Government: Municipal Electoral Act 27 of 2000, malicious damage to state property, assault, intimidation and public violence.

“The alleged damage to property includes ballot papers, a police riot shield and a door at a municipal community hall. The suspects appeared before the Douglas Magistrate’s Court, where the matter was postponed to Tuesday for a bail application.

“The police investigations into the incident are continuing,” he said.

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

9 November 2026 – Johannes Fortuin (67) was convicted on 58 counts of contravening the National Credit Act following an investigation by the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Calvinia, Northern Cape. Fortuin was recently sentenced in the Specialised Commercial Crime Court in Calvinia to a fine of R30 000 or six months imprisonment. The conviction follows a meticulous investigation conducted by Detective Warrant Officer Heinrich Matthys of the Calvinia Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit. Shemane said the investigation began on 7 March 2023, after Matthys received information alleging that Fortuin was unlawfully in possession of and using several South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) cards, CPS payment cards and bank cards belonging to other individuals.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane said further investigations revealed that Fortuin allegedly operated an unlawful money withdrawal service, whereby he withdrew money on behalf of cardholders in exchange for a fee of approximately 50 cents for every rand withdrawn. Shemane said investigators also established that records of the transactions were allegedly kept in books and on computer equipment at premises in Calvinia, which operated as both a shop and a residence.

“A subsequent search of the premises led to the discovery and seizure of several SASSA cards, documents, a laptop, a printer, a filing cabinet, a card machine and other items believed to be of evidential value.

“Fortuin was subsequently arrested as the investigation progressed and was eventually convicted on all 58 counts of contravening the National Credit Act,” he said.

Shemane further said conviction highlights the importance of intelligence-driven policing, thorough investigations and the effective collection and preservation of documentary and electronic evidence in securing successful prosecutions. He added that it also reinforces the SAPS’ commitment to combating unlawful financial practices that exploit members of the public, particularly financially vulnerable individuals who depend on social assistance grants for their livelihoods.

The Namakwa District Police Commissioner, Brigadier Schalk Andrews, commended Detective Warrant Officer Matthys for his professionalism, dedication and diligence, which contributed to securing the conviction. Andrews said the conviction demonstrates the importance of holding individuals accountable for financial practices that exploit vulnerable members of society.

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

9 November 2026 – The Northern Cape Provincial Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), Major General Stephen Mabuela, has congratulated newly promoted members, urging them to remain committed, hardworking and determined in their pursuit of career growth.

Mabuela addressed the newly promoted officers during a gathering held in Kimberley on Monday, where he personally congratulated them on their achievements and career progression.

In his address, Mabuela encouraged members to remain resilient, hardworking and spiritually intelligent, emphasising that perseverance and determination were essential to professional development.

Drawing inspiration from the late boxing legend Muhammad Ali, he reminded officers that setbacks should never define their careers.

“Never allow setbacks to determine your future. Falling is part of the journey, but what matters most is your ability to rise again and continue pursuing your goals,” said Mabuela.

He further urged members to take responsibility for their career development by demonstrating dedication, commitment and excellence in their duties.

Mabuela emphasised that officers should actively position themselves for promotion by proving their capabilities and demonstrating their readiness when opportunities arise.

Using the example of two newly promoted colonels, he highlighted the importance of perseverance, self-belief and remaining focused despite challenges.

He also encouraged members who were unsuccessful in the recent promotion process not to lose hope, but to continue working hard, noting that more opportunities would arise in the future.

Addressing officers occupying leadership positions, Mabuela stressed that leadership should be guided by compassion, support and a commitment to developing subordinates.

“Leadership is not about fighting or undermining those you lead. It is about guiding, supporting and developing people to reach their full potential. As leaders, we must create an environment in which our members can grow and excel,” he said.

Mabuela concluded by urging all members to remain focused, disciplined and committed to their responsibilities while preparing themselves to take advantage of future career opportunities.

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Ka OBAKENG MAJE

9 Ngwanatsele 2026 – Sepodisi sa Taung se batlisisa kgetsi ya polao ntle le maikaelelo. Se se tla morago ga gore go bonwe setopo sa mosetsanyana wa dingwaga di le 7, kwa mmileng kwa motseng wa Lokgabeng, gaufi le Taung mo letsatsing la Tshipi mo mosong.

Go begwa fa moswi a thudilwe ke sejanaga se go belaelwang e le sa modiro wa Ford Ranger kgotsa Toyota Hilux ya mmala o motala wa tlae ya lee, mme mokgweetsi wa teng a sia kwa lefelong la tiragalo.

Sebueledi sa sepodisi mono Bokone Bophirima, Sarasanta Kelebogile Morake are setopo sa moswi se bonwe ke mofeti ka tsela se rapaletse kwa mmileng.

“Ga gona ope o tshwerweng go fitlha ga jaana, mme dipatlisiso di tsweletse. Mongwe le mongwe yo a ka tswang a na le tshedimosetso mabapi le kgang e, a ka letsetsa mmatlisisi wa kgetsi, Detective Sergeant Norman Madibe go nomoro ya mogala ya 082 469 0274,” ga rialo Morake.

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By REGINALD KANYANE

9 November 2026 – Two brothers from Concordia aged 37 and 40 respectively, were each sentenced to 25 years imprisonment by the Springbok Regional Court for the raping a girl (14). This follows an incident that occurred in Concordia on 5 April 2024.

The Namakwa District police spokesperson, Captain Ivan Magerman said the evidence presented before court revealed that the victim, a scholar, was walking home during the evening when she was approached by the accused. Magerman said the two men pursued the victim, overpowered her and sexually assaulted her.

“The victim subsequently reported the incident and was medically examined, with clinical findings confirming strong evidence of sexual assault.

“The accused’s were arrested on 6 April 2024, and remained in custody throughout the duration of the trial. They pleaded not guilty and disputed their identification as the perpetrators,” he said.

However, Magerman further said both accused were found guilty of rape on 5 November 2026, after the court heard all evidence. He added that in sentencing the accused, the court imposed 25 years imprisonment on each accused.

“The court further ordered that both accused being declared unsuitable to work with children. Their names will be recorded in the National Child Protection Register.

“Their particulars will be included in the National Register for Sex Offenders and remain unfit to possess a firearm,” said Magerman.

He said the successful conviction is attributed to the diligent investigation conducted by Constable Lizaan Wanza, whose commitment, professionalism and meticulous investigation ensured that justice was ultimately served for the young victim.

The Namakwa District Police Commissioner, Brigadier Andrews, commended Constable Wanza for her outstanding work. Andrews said successful conviction and sentencing of these offenders demonstrate the value of professional police work and thorough investigations.

“Wanza displayed exceptional dedication, determination and compassion throughout the investigation. Her efforts ensured that crucial evidence was secured and presented before court, ultimately contributing to the successful conviction of the perpetrators.

“Crimes committed against women and children remain a priority for the South African Police Service (SAPS),” he said.

Andrews said the sentence will send a strong message that offenders who prey on the vulnerable will be pursued relentlessly and brought before the courts to account for their actions. He further encouraged victims of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and sexual offences to report such crimes and assured communities that SAPS remains committed to protecting women and children and ensuring justice for victims.

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By OBAKENG MAJE

5 November 2026 – The North West Provincial Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (PROVJOINTS) will today brief the media on the outcomes of the Local Government Elections and provide feedback on election-related operational and security matters in the province.

The briefing will be led by the North West Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Arthur Peter Adams, in his capacity as Chairperson of PROVJOINTS, together with other key stakeholders.

The media briefing will provide an overview of the provincial electoral process, including feedback on security arrangements, operations and other matters relating to the conduct of the elections.

According to PROVJOINTS spokesperson Colonel Adele Myburgh, the briefing is scheduled to take place as follows:

Date: Thursday, 5 November 2026

Time: 12:00

Venue: Disaster Management Centre, Mahikeng.

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