15 October 2026 – In an effort to curb crimes committed using non-government organisations, the Kimberley Serious Commercial Crimes Court convicted Nathan Baldwin Ramailane (62) on one count of fraud and two counts of money laundering. Ramailane was charged alongside his NGO Heseqwa Caring Network.
The Hawks spokesperson in Northern Cape, Lieutenant Colonel Tebogo Thebe said, the accused had submitted a request for funding from the National Lottery Commission (NLC). Thebe said the application was approved to the tune of R700 000 and paid to the charitable organisation.
“As part of the monitoring processes, the NLC requested a progress report which was followed by a visit to the organisation’s premises. The organisation was found not to be in operation. A suspected fraudulent report signed by the directors was sent to the (NCL) officials to mislead that the NPO was in operation.
“The NLC instituted an internal investigation into the matter and further laid a complaint with the Hawks Serious Commercial Crimes Investigating unit (SCCI) in Kimberley. The actual loss suffered is R700 000 caused by the conduct of the accused. Investigation revealed the funds were used to purchase a motor vehicle, which was later used for personal reasons by the Director,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Provincial Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation in the Northern Cape, Major General Stephen Mabuela said: “Ramailane will be sentenced on the 8 December 2026, by Kimberley Serious Commercial Crimes Court. We are hoping for a good sentence that will send the message that crimes committed using NGO/NPO’s will not be tolerated.”
Picture: A suspected stolen copper cable seized/Generic
By STAFF REPORTER
15 October 2026 – Six Lesotho nationals have appeared in the Odendaalsrus Magistrate’s Court on charges of theft of essential infrastructure and contravention of immigration legislation following the discovery of copper cables in a vehicle allegedly travelling in convoy with another vehicle. The accused, Ntoane Mokoto (42), Nako Lengau (25), Teboho Molupe (42), Major Mohlolo (48), Katleho Ramphaololi (40) and Thuso Leeto (40), appeared in court on 14 October 2026.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in the Free State, Mojalefa Senokoatsane said they were arrested on 12 October 2026, following a police operation prompted by a tip-off received regarding two vehicles allegedly transporting copper cables. Senokoatsane said the police stopped a vehicle bearing Lesotho registration plates and discovered rolls of copper cables inside.
“The vehicle had four occupants, including the driver. A second vehicle, a bakkie bearing North West registration plates and carrying two occupants, was also stopped. No copper cables were found in the bakkie.
“The preliminary information indicates that the two vehicles were travelling in convoy and that the owner of the bakkie was a passenger in the vehicle in which the copper cables were found. All six accused are Lesotho nationals,” he said.
Senokoatsane further said the four accused produced passports, which remain subject to verification, while the other two allegedly failed to produce travel or identification documents required to establish their immigration status. He added that the accused allegedly did not provide police with information regarding the origin of the copper cables.
“The relevant municipal infrastructure unit and Eskom are expected to conduct further investigations to establish the ownership and origin of the recovered cables. The matter was postponed to 23 October 2026, for bail information and a possible bail application.
“The NPA views the theft and damage of essential infrastructure in a serious light. Cable theft undermines the delivery of critical services, imposes significant financial costs on the state and affected communities, and compromises the reliability of electricity and other essential services,” said Senokoatsane.
He said the NPA remains committed to prosecuting those who allegedly target essential infrastructure and to ensuring that those responsible are held accountable through the criminal justice system.
15 October 2026 – The case against Fani John Sibeko (46), who is accused of killing four ANCYL members and injuring three others during a shooting incident in Katlehong North, Gauteng, briefly appeared before the Palmridge Magistrate’s Court. Sibeko faces four counts of murder and three counts of attempted murder, as well as charges of discharging a firearm in a public place and failure to safeguard a firearm.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Gauteng, Magaboke Mohlatlole said the charges relate to an incident that allegedly occurred on 13 October 2026, when a group of African National Congress (ANC) supporters was returning from a memorial service for the late councillor, Jeanese Magugu at Mogobeng Primary School. Mohlatlole said it is alleged that while the group was walking and chanting, gunshots were heard from behind them.
“A man driving a motor vehicle allegedly approached the group and initially fired shots into the air before firing multiple shots into the crowd. Four people were killed and three others injured. The deceased have been identified as Nqobile Faneli (23), Njabulo Ngcongo (23), Zanga Bingwa (21) and Yonwaba Tunce (27).
“Following the incident, Sibeko allegedly handed himself over to the police and remains in custody. The case docket has been assigned to the Gauteng Political Killings Task Team (PKTT) for further investigation,” he said.
Mohlatlole further said the state requested a seven-day postponement to allow for further bail investigations. He added that the matter was accordingly postponed to 22 October 2026.
“The NPA remains committed to ensuring that serious violent crimes are prosecuted effectively and that those alleged to be responsible are held accountable through the criminal justice process,” said Mohlatlole.
Picture:New species of jumping plant lice: Paternapsyllidium mckayi/Supplied
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
15 October 2026 – Three tiny insects that lived about 90 million years ago have helped a North West University (NWU) researcher uncover new clues about life on earth during the age of the dinosaurs. The discovery also sheds light on how insects fed on plants and how some became the crop pest farmers face today.
A senior lecturer in Agriculture at the NWU’s Potchefstroom Campus, Dr Sandiso Mnguni, has identified plant-feeding insects as fossils, which includes two new species of jumping plant lice and one aphid, found at Botswana’s Orapa Diamond Mine. Mnguni said the aphid is unique as it is the first complete fossil aphid from Africa and it had an unusual mouthpart.
“The insect has distinct body parts that helped him identify it. The other two insects have unusual wing patterns that set them apart from previously known species of jumping plant lice. The fossils were collected at the diamond mine during the 1980s and stored at the University of the Witwatersrand, where they remained available for further study.
“I began examining the collection in 2018, while studying towards my PhD. I had previously studied ancient beetles, but decided to explore other insect groups. One of the discoveries (the first jumping plant lice) has special meaning for me,” he said.
Mnguni further said he named it Paternapsyllidium mckayi in honour of his late PhD supervisor, Dr Ian McKay, who trained him in the study of ancient insects. He added that the second jumping plant lice, Derivatupsyllidium kimperlitis, takes its name from kimberlite, a type of rock linked to diamond deposits.
“The name reflects the fossils’ origin at Botswana’s Orapa Diamond Mine. A volcanic eruption triggered by volatile gases like carbon dioxide, steam and mineral-rich fluids from the kimberlite resulted in a crater lake in the centre and helped form the rock deposits at the mine.
“The third insect, an aphid named Oviparosiphum adamas, takes its name from the Latin word for diamond. The name reflects the diamond mining operation where the fossils were discovered. The findings help scientists understand how insects lived and survived millions of years ago,” said Mnguni.
He said the work contributes towards a more accurate documentation of diversity and enables us to map their distribution at the time. Mnguni said during that period, flowering plants became more common, which changed the environment and created new food sources for insects.
“Like their modern relatives, these ancient insects fed on plant sap. Today, similar insects damage crops, spread plant diseases and affect food production. The descriptions provide further insight into the insect diversity of the Orapa Diamond Mine during the Cretaceous period, a time between 145 million and 66 million years ago when dinosaurs roamed the earth.
“We worked with researchers from the Agricultural Research Council, Citrus Research International and the University of Fort Hare due to their expertise on working with modern relatives of the ancient insects,” he said.
Mnguni plans to continue studying the fossils to understand how these insects are related to other species. His work will help scientists build a clearer picture of ancient life and how insects have changed over millions of years.
Mnguni said the work will also help crop farmers to understand how the insect pests have evolved over the years. He said the work shares insights into plant-insect relationships.
“The knowledge can support the development of more effective and sustainable crop protection and integrated pest management strategies in the future,” concluded Mnguni.
15 October 1016 – An alleged attack on nurses by approximately 60 young people carrying dangerous weapons and a toy gun at Mamusa Community Healthcare Centre (CHC) in Ipelegeng Township, near Schweizer Reneke, prompted healthcare workers to protest for several days, demanding the deployment of armed security guards before returning to their duties. The incident allegedly occurred at approximately 3am on Sunday, 4 October 2026, at the healthcare facility in Extension 5.
Mamusa Local Municipality’s Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Infrastructure, Nomathemba Mvala, disclosed details of the incident in a video published on the municipality’s official Facebook page.
“There was an incident at Mamusa Community Health Centre in Extension 5, Ipelegeng, where approximately 60 young people allegedly attacked nurses at around 3am on a Sunday. They were carrying dangerous weapons, including a toy gun,” Mvala said.
According to Mvala, the incident resulted in healthcare workers protesting for approximately 3–4 days, during which the facility was not operating. The nurses reportedly refused to return to their duties until their concerns regarding security at the facility were addressed.
“The nurses protested for approximately 3 to 4 days following the incident, and the facility was not operating during that period,” she said.
Mvala explained that the municipality subsequently intervened and engaged senior managers from the Mamusa Health Sub-District to address the situation and find a solution to the employees’ concerns. She said as the municipality, they had to intervene and meet with senior managers from the Mamusa Health Sub-District to address the situation at the facility.
“The healthcare workers had demanded armed security personnel as a condition for returning to work, raising concerns about their safety while performing their duties.
“The healthcare workers requested that security at the facility be strengthened through the deployment of armed guards. They indicated that they would only return to work once those security measures were implemented,” Mvala said.
Mvala said the municipality and senior health officials held a meeting on 11 October 2026, where decisions were taken to strengthen security at the facility. She said during their meeting with the senior managers from the Mamusa Health Sub-District on Sunday, they agreed on the necessary security measures to address the concerns raised by the nurses.
“The decisions were implemented the following day, allowing healthcare workers to resume their duties and the facility to return to normal operations.
“The decisions taken during Sunday’s meeting were implemented on Monday, allowing the healthcare facility to resume normal operations,” Mvala said.
However, the South African Police Service (SAPS) has indicated that no attack was reported at the healthcare facility, raising questions about whether the alleged incident was formally brought to the attention of law enforcement authorities.
Responding to an enquiry from The Guardian, police spokesperson in the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District, Warrant Officer Tryphosa van Rooyen said the Ipelegeng Police Station had no record of a criminal complaint relating to the alleged incident.
“The Ipelegeng Police Station confirmed that no case was opened in this regard and there was no attack reported at the clinic,” Van Rooyen said.
Meanwhile, North West Department of Health spokesperson Tebogo Lekgethwane acknowledged being aware of the incident when approached for comment.
“The department can confirm that an incident occurred at Mamusa Community Healthcare Centre (CHC), wherein armed members of the community forcefully entered the facility. No nurses were attacked or injured.
“Yes, the facility was temporarily non-operational during the night and patients were referred to the hospital. The department has deployed armed security at the CHC. This was demanded by staff members who felt unsafe following this incident,” he said.
Lekgethwane said the matter was reported to the police when the incident occurred and the police were part of the multi-disciplinary team attending to the matter. He said the facility is fully operational.
15 October 2016 – The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) said it is ready to proceed with the case against Lawrence Chamurwa Mudzinganyama (40), who is facing multiple charges stemming from an alleged incident at Vlamo Restaurant in Randburg. The NPA said the state had furnished the defence with the contents of the case docket and that the matter had been transferred to the Regional Court at the Randburg Magistrates’ Court for further proceedings.
The NPA spokesperson, Kaizer Kganyago said the NPA is ready to proceed with the matter and remains committed to ensuring that cases are prosecuted diligently and that all accused persons are afforded a fair trial.
“Mudzinganyama was arrested on 20 September 2026, at the Randburg Police Station. He was initially released on warning on a charge of intimidation,” he said.
Kganyago further said, however, following further investigations, including the collection of witness statements and the securing of video footage, the State added further charges against him. He added that Mudzinganyama is now facing three counts of intimidation, three counts of assault with intent to do Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH), three counts of crimen injuria and one count of fraud.
“The charges relate to an incident that allegedly occurred on 18 September 2026 at Vlamo Restaurant in Randburg.
“According to the state, Mudzinganyama allegedly entered the women’s restroom and demanded to take photographs of one of the witnesses. He is also accused of threatening three witnesses with violence and death,” said Kganyago.
He said crimen injuria charges stem from allegations that he insulted the complainants and impaired their dignity by calling them a derogatory name in the presence of other people. Kganyago said the fraud charge relates to an allegation that Mudzinganyama falsely presented himself to the witnesses as the owner of Vlamo Restaurant, despite allegedly knowing that he was not its lawful owner.
“The defence requested additional time to consult with the accused, resulting in the matter being postponed to 30 October 2026, for a trial date to be determined. His bail was extended until his next court appearance.
“The NPA reiterated its commitment to prosecuting cases diligently while upholding the right of every accused person to a fair trial,” he said.
Picture: North West MEC for Social Development, Sussana Dantjie addressing young people/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
15 October 2026 – The North West MEC for Social Development, Sussana Dantjie has urged young people to draw inspiration from their peers who have turned challenges into opportunities through entrepreneurship. Dantjie said entrepreneurship could serve as a pathway to economic independence, encouraging young people to move away from relying solely on government for employment and instead explore opportunities to establish their own businesses.
She was addressing community members who gathered to access government services during the Re thuse re go thuse programme at Kraaipan village in the Ratlou Local Municipality on Wednesday.
“Government has many programmes that, if you take advantage of them, could open doors to greater opportunities in life.
“There are many potential employers among you, but unfortunately, you see yourselves only as employees,” said Dantjie.
To illustrate the importance of entrepreneurship, Dantjie further shared the story of a young woman from Ventersdorp who started a laundry business with just one load of washing. She added that through determination and hard work, the young woman managed to grow her business, employ another young person and begin exploring opportunities to expand into dry-cleaning services.
“The woman’s journey from humble beginnings to business ownership should inspire young people to identify and pursue opportunities within their own communities.
“So, I would like to young people in Kraaipan to use the available space in their residential yards to establish backyard vegetable gardens, which could eventually develop into sustainable businesses,” said Dantjie.
She said they should start small with a backyard garden and then approach the relevant government departments for assistance. Dantjie also they need young people to establish cooperatives that can supply goods and services.
“Government departments should also explore opportunities to support these cooperatives through procurement.
“Young people should work together to establish cooperatives that could create employment, stimulate local economic activity and contribute to the development of their communities,” she said.
Meanwhile, Dantjie handed over school uniforms to 62 learners from disadvantaged backgrounds, comprising 18 boys and 44 girls. She said the uniforms were procured from a cooperative and distributed to learners identified as needing assistance.
“The intervention was intended to ensure that financial hardship did not prevent learners from attending school with dignity or concentrating on their education.
“It is important that children do not feel uncared for because they lack proper school uniforms. Instead, they must be able to focus on their lessons without worrying about their circumstances,” said Dantjie.
She said with this uniform handover, they hope to restore and preserve the dignity of learners and their parents. Dantjie said initiatives such as entrepreneurship support and assistance to vulnerable learners formed part of her department’s efforts to promote community empowerment, encourage self-reliance and support families facing socio-economic challenges.
Picture: A woman killed during farm attack/Generic
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
15 October 2026 – The Democratic Alliance (DA) in North West demands urgent action after the brutal farm murder of Hannetjie van Zyl (55), near Ottosdal. The DA said rural communities deserve effective, responsive policing.
DA provincial leader and Member of Provincial Legislature (MPL) in North West Provincial Legislature, Freddy Sonakile said they call for stronger rural policing and equal protection for all. Sonakile said DA demands urgent intervention following another shocking and brutal farm murder in the Ottosdal/Wolmaransstad area on 5 October 2026.
“The brutal and vicious murder of van Zyl took place at the entrance security gate to her farmhouse. Criminals attacked her from behind, striking her several times on the neck and head with an iron bar before stealing her handbag and cell phone.
“She had opened the gate and was getting back into her vehicle to enter her property when she was attacked. Her husband, Sarel van Zyl, found her brutally battered body. He immediately reported the incident to the agricultural security groups, which remain the only immediate response mechanism available to many farming communities in the North West,” he said.
Sonakile further said Hannetjie van Zyl was a very kind-hearted person who was well-known in the communities of Ottosdal, Migdol and Wolmaransstad. He added that tragically, she lost her life on the way to hospital in Klerksdorp.
“Her death is a stark example of the systemic failures that continue to deny justice, safety and security to rural communities in the North West. Her family, friends and the wider community demand decisive action and a thorough investigation by SAPS.
“The failure to adequately fulfil its mandated safety and security obligations in rural areas is placing the lives and livelihoods of farmers, farm workers and rural communities at increasing risk.
SAPS Ottosdal, approximately 17 kilometres from the farm, was contacted and only arrived at the scene an hour later,” said Sonakile.
He alleged that, according to the family, police indicated that they did not regard the incident as a farm attack, but rather as the theft of a handbag, despite the fact that a woman had been brutally beaten and ultimately lost her life. Sonakile said the reality of brutal farm attacks and murders must be acknowledged and acted upon.
“These crimes must be treated as a priority because recognition without action is meaningless. The DA’s position is clear that rural safety requires a properly resourced and accountable policing system that recognises the unique challenges faced by farming communities.
“The DA supports stronger provincial policing capacity, improved cooperation between SAPS, provincial government, local government, farmers and rural safety structures, and dedicated resources to ensure that police can respond swiftly and effectively to crimes in rural areas,” he said.
Picture: Women in Construction with North West MEC, Oageng Molapisi
By AGISANANG SCUFF
15 October 2026 – North West MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), Oageng Molapisi recently met with women contractors in the province to address barriers hindering their participation in the industry and explore ways in which the department could assist them in overcoming these challenges. Molapisi said the platform provides the department with an opportunity not only to celebrate women’s valuable contributions to society, but also to engage in meaningful discussions about the opportunities available to them.
He further said this includes challenges they continue to face, particularly in the construction and human settlements sector. Molapisi added that women are builders, entrepreneurs, professionals, leaders and decision-makers and their contribution is essential to the growth and development of our communities
and the economy.
“We call on women in the construction and human settlements sector to strengthen their collective voice through organised structures that advocate for their interests and promote meaningful participation in the industry.
“Structures such as the South African Women in Construction and Built Environment (SAWIC and BE) are important, as they can provide a platform for women to collectively address challenges, advocate for their needs and advance their interests in the
Sector,” he said.
Molapisi stressed that such structures should play an active role in advocating for women in construction, ensuring that their concerns are heard and that they have access to opportunities that support their growth and development. He emphasised that women would be better positioned to influence decisions and address common challenges if they worked together through representative structures rather than raising their concerns individually.
“There is a need to deliberate and bring inclusive interventions to support the growth and sustainability of women-owned businesses, while ensuring that women, youth and persons with disabilities are not left behind in the province’s economic development efforts.
“We become stronger when we are organised because we can collectively advocate for our issues instead of approaching them individually. I would like to caution that achieving transformation and inclusion required deliberate action, noting that government policies were intended to address existing imbalances and
create opportunities for groups that had historically been disadvantaged,” said Molapisi.
He said if they are not deliberate in their efforts, they will not achieve the objectives they have set themselves. Molapisi further emphasised the need for accountability in implementing measures
aimed at empowering women, particularly the commitment to allocate 40% of procurement spending on companies owned by women, youth and persons with disabilities.
Picture: EPWP employees participate in the programme/Generic
By OBAKENG MAJE
15 October 2026 – The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in the Greater Taung said it condemns the alleged politicisation of public employment opportunities. This comes after the the Department of Public Works allegedly approached the Greater Taung Local Municipality (GTLM) and requested the municipality to inform unemployed individuals about its job opportunity drive called Taung Participant Recruitment Plan, which will last for six months.
The purported recruitment programme seeks to appoint 800 unemployed individuals to participate in categories such as Itirele, NYS Building, General Workers, Call Centre and Building Maintenance.
However, EFF Member of Parliament (MP) and mayoral candidate for the Greater Taung Local Municipality (GTLM), Mothusi Montwedi raised serious concerns regarding the distribution of the 800 participant opportunities. Montwedi said following an engagement with the Department of Employment and Labour, the EFF understands that a meeting was held with the Speaker of Greater Taung Local Municipality (GTLM), Grace Moipolai and the mayor’s office to communicate the available opportunities and facilitate their broad distribution.
“The intention was to ensure that information reached communities across the Greater Taung so that deserving and eligible residents could apply. However, the EFF is concerned that this intended broad distribution did not take place as expected.
“Instead, Moipolai allegedly shared information about the opportunity within her ANC political network, creating the impression that a government employment opportunity intended for the public, was being treated as an opportunity for ANC comrades,” he said.
Montwedi further said they reject any practice that makes access to public employment dependent on political affiliation, personal connections or membership of a particular political network. He added that, these allegations require a transparent response from the relevant municipal leadership to establish how the opportunities were communicated and whether all eligible residents had a fair chance to apply.
“EFF calls for a transparent and non-partisan recruitment process. During our engagement with the Department of Employment and Labour, we called for a transparent and inclusive recruitment process.
“We proposed that application forms and information about the opportunities be distributed through the offices of traditional leadership, as well as through public platforms accessible to communities throughout Greater Taung,” said Montwedi.
A ward councillor candidate of Alliance For Social Equity in Taung, Bakang Mankuroane said: Typical of the ANC and everything is about themselves and themselves alone. This is a living proof that poverty is systematic and deliberate under the ANC-led government.
“They deliberately deprive our people of opportunities that could have improved their lives, so that they can control them. I was asking myself that, why would CVs for EPWP Programme be collected by Crespo, fearing lack of integrity and fairness being compromised.”
Mankuroane said they are also aware that they go around threatening older persons. He said that they threatened older persons and alleged that, if they do not vote for ANC, government will stop social grants.
“Mandela once said, if the ANC does to you what the apartheid regime did to you, then do to the ANC what you did to the apartheid regime. Now, the time has come for our people to liberate themselves from all the disrespect and disregard they receive from the ANC.
“Poverty and unemployment affect us all, not only ANC supporters. I want to conclude by reminding our people that, they can continue to subject themselves to such injustices or they can change the status quo by voting for someone who is both capable and willing. The ball is in their court, I urge them to vote wisely,” said Mankuroane.
However, the Greater Taung Local Municipality (GTLM) mayor, Itumeleng Maribe refuted these allegations and described them as absurd. Maribe said indeed they are quite aware of the recruitment process for EPWP programme.
“However, the issue of recruitment is the competence and directive of the Department of Labour and Employment. The Department of Labour and Employment, has established a database of unemployed youths within the community of Taung in general.
“In previous years, the Department of Labour and Employment, visited various areas to establish and register unemployed young persons. Now, they already have that database. They have communicated and informed us about this recruitment,” he said.
Maribe said they can attest that the recruitment process is open to the public and transparent. He said it is not ANC programme, but government process.
“I can assure you that, we have been interacting and indicated that recruitment process is in the public for any unemployed young person interested in applying. So, we encourage unemployed persons to submit their Curriculum Vitae (CVs) to the Department of Labour and Employment to be captured.
“Now, we are calling on various political parties to order because what is happening is interference. They must allow the Department of Labour and Employment as a relevant authority through Department of Public Works to implement this process without interference,” said Maribe.
He said he is chairing inter-governmental relations committee and they meet often as government to ensure that all processes that are beneficial to the public are fair and transparent.
“So, it will be reckless and irresponsible for political parties to alleged that there are some individuals who are being recruited in the darkness without following due diligence procedures or being recruited by a certain political party.
“I condemn that kind of statements and as a leader of government at the Greater Taung Local Municipality, the recruitment process is going to be fair and transparent,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Chief of Staff at the Office of the Mayor, Lekgotlha Crespo Menyatso refuted allegations that, he had collected CVs of any job seekers. Menyatso, who threatened to take legal action against Mankuroane said, they have been directing job seekers who wanted to submit their CVs to the Department of Labour and Employment.
14 October 2026- The police in the Namakwa District has welcomed the sentencing of a man (27) to 20 years imprisonment for rape, commending the investigating officer for conducting a thorough investigation that led to his conviction. Namakwa District police spokesperson, Captain Ivan Magerman, said the incident occurred on 20 December 2025, when a woman (48) was at her residence on Oorlogskloof Farm in Nieuwoudtville.
Magerman said the suspect, who is the victim’s nephew, arrived at her residence, where he attacked and raped her before fleeing the scene. He said the victim received assistance from a neighbour and the incident was subsequently reported to the police.
“The case was assigned to Detective Constable Gregory Settley, whose thorough and dedicated investigation led to the suspect’s arrest and the successful gathering and linking of evidence to secure a strong case in court.
“On 12 October 2026, the accused, Jakobus Kotze, pleaded guilty to rape and was sentenced to 20 years imprisonment,” he said.
Magerman said the court further ordered that the accused’s name be entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders in terms of Section 50 of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act 32 of 2007.
In terms of Section 103(1) of the Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000, the accused was also declared unfit to possess a firearm.
The Namakwa District Police Commissioner, Brigadier Schalk Andrews, commended Settley for his professionalism and commitment to ensuring justice for the victim. Andrews added that the SAPS remains committed to fighting Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF).
“We urge victims of such crimes to report incidents at their nearest police station so that perpetrators can be brought to justice,” he said.
Setshwantsho: Banyana Banyana kgatlhanong le Madagascar
Ka REGINALD KANYANE
14 Diphalane 2026 – Banyana Banyana e fetetse kwa legatong la boraro la dikgaisano tsa go ipatlela phatlha kwa Diolimpiking tsa 2028 kwa Los Angeles morago ga go fenya Madagascar ka palogotlhe ya dino di le 7-0 mo metshamekong e mebedi kwa Bloemfontein ka Labobedi maitseboa. Aforika Borwa e fentse Madagascar ka dino di le 3-0 mo motshamekong wa bobedi o o tshwaretsweng kwa Free State Stadium.
Motshameki yo o tseneng mo lebaleng mo seripagare sa bobedi, Ronnel Donnelly, o ne a nosa dino di le pedi, mme seno sa dira gore a nne le dino di le tlhano mo metshamekong e mebedi, morago ga go nosa dino di le tharo mo motshamekong wa ntlha. Gabriela Moodaly-Salgado ke ene a butseng dino mo motshamekong oo kwa tshimologong ya seripagare sa bobedi, morago ga gore seripagare sa ntlha se fele go se na nno e e nositsweng.
Banyana Banyana e ne ya tshameka fa pele ga bontsi jwa balatedi ba kgwele ya dinao ba ba neng ba tsile go tla go ba rotloetsa. Setlhopha se ne sa dira diphetogo mo batshameking ba ba simolotseng motshameko, go akaretsa le go tsenya batshameki ba basha, mme Thembi Kgatlana o ne a nna mokapotene wa setlhopha.
Aforika Borwa e nositse dino di le supa mo metshamekong e mebedi, mme ya se ka ya letla Madagascar go nosa nno epe.
Mokatisi mogolo wa Banyana Banyana, Dr Desiree Ellis, o rile ba itumeletse dipholo, le fa go sa ntse go na le tiro e ntsi e ba tshwanetseng go e dira.
“Re dirile diphetogo di le thataro, mme re itumeletse dipholo e bile re fetetse mo legatong le le latelang.
“Le fa go ntse jalo, go sa ntse go na le tiro e ntsi e re tshwanetseng go e dira. Re ne ra tlhama ditšhono tsa go nosa, mme ra palelwa ke go di dirisa ka gonne re ne re se na bopelotelele jo bo lekaneng go fitlhelela dino,” Ellis wa tlhalosa.
Ellis are fa nno ya ntlha e sena go tsena, go ne go bonala gore tse dingwe di tla latela, mme ke sone se se diragetseng. Are ba kabo ba nositse dino tse dingwe gape ka gonne ditšhono di ne di le teng.
Banyana Banyana, e e leng bommampodi ba Aforika ba 2022, jaanong e tla kopana le Angola mo legatong la boraro la dikgaisano tseno ka Tlhakole kgotsa Mopitlwe ngwaga o o tlang. Angola e fetetse mo legatong le le latelang morago ga go fenya Namibia ka dino di le 2-0 mo motshamekong wa bobedi, fa motshameko wa ntlha o ne o fedile ka 0-0.
Le fa setlhopha sa Aforika Borwa se ne se itebagantse le dikgaisano tsa go ipatlela phatlha kwa Diolimpiking, se ne sa dirisa gape metshameko eno go ipaakanyetsa dikgaisano tsa go ipatlela phatlha kwa Sejaneng sa Lefatshe sa FIFA sa kgwele ya dinao sa ngwaga o o tlang, tse di tla tshwarelwang kwa Rabat, Morocco.
Ellis o okeditse ka gore phenyo e tlisetsa batshameki boitshepo, mme go se letle baganetsi go nosa le gone go na le seabe se segolo mo go ba baakanyetseng metshameko e e botlhokwa e e tlang.
“Go fenya go go naya boitshepo, mme go boloka letloa le sa tsenwa ke dino le gone go na le matswela a a tshwanang. Ka jalo, diphenyo tseno tse pedi di re nonotshitse maikutlo ebile di re thusitse go nna le maatla a go tsena mo metshamekong e e botlhokwa e e tlang.
“Re a itse gore re nositse dino mme ga re a ka ra letla baganetsi go nosa. E nnile thulaganyo e e molemo ya go ipaakanyetsa dikgaisano tsa go ipatlela phatlha kwa sejaneng sa Lefatshe sa FIFA, tse di atametseng,” ga oketsa Ellis.
Banyana Banyana e ka tshameka kgatlhanong le Chinese Taipei, Ecuador le Uzbekistan mo dikgaisanong tsa go ipatlela phatlha kwa sejaneng sa Lefatshe sa FIFA.
14 October 2026 – A pastor and two women have appeared before the Atteridgeville Magistrate’s Court facing serious charges, including conspiracy to commit murder and fraud, following an alleged incident involving a woman and her four-month-old baby. The accused are Pastor Caiphus Mkhawane, 36, Tsako Angel Makhubela, 25, and Amanda Manono Mnguni, 32.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Gauteng, Lumka Mahanjana said all three accused face charges of conspiracy to commit murder and fraud. Mahanjana said Mkhawane and Makhubela face additional charges of human trafficking, premeditated murder, rape, two counts of kidnapping and robbery with aggravating circumstances.
“It is alleged that during August 2026, the accused took out several funeral policies in the name of the victim, who is the mother of the deceased infant.
“On 7 October 2026, Mkhawane, Makhubela and the victim allegedly travelled to the Hennops River under the pretext of performing religious rituals intended to free the woman from evil spirits and protect her children,” she said.
Mahanjana further said upon arriving near the river, the two accused allegedly instructed the victim to undress, tied her up and washed her with water from a bucket. She added that the pastor subsequently took the victim to the river, leaving the baby with Makhubela.
“When they arrived at the river, it is alleged that the pastor washed the victim again and raped her. After the rape, the pastor went to take the child from the wife and they both went to the bushes, where they killed the child.
“The victim allegedly managed to escape and reported the incident to nearby construction workers, who assisted her in contacting the police,” said Mahanjana.
She said following an investigation by Erasmia detectives, Makhubela was arrested on 7 October after the victim allegedly identified her. Mahanjana said Mnguni was arrested later that day, while Mkhawane was arrested on 10 October 2026.
“The matter was postponed to 16 October 2026, for legal aid representation and bail investigations. The NPA remained committed to ensuring that perpetrators of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and related offences were held accountable through the criminal justice system,” she said.
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.
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.
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.
Picture: Gupta-linked companies convicted of fraud and money laundering
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.”
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
