Daily Archives: November 13, 2025

‘It is better to miss out on a deal than to fall victim to a scam’

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

13 November 2025- The police in the Northern Cape alert communities across the province about online vehicle auction scams that are currently trending in other parts of the country. The police said in these scams, perpetrators clone or imitate the websites and advertisements of reputable banks and well-known auctioneers to deceive unsuspecting victims into paying for vehicles that do not exist.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Litabe said the victims are often lured into making large deposits into bank accounts held at legitimate financial institutions. Litabe said although no such incidents have been reported in the Northern Cape at this stage, it is important to warn the public, especially as they approach the festive season, a period when many people receive bonuses or savings and are often targeted by fraudsters and scammers.

“To avoid becoming a victim of this type of fraud, community members are urged to remain vigilant. They are urged to verify the auctioneer, confirm the legitimacy of the auction house through its official website or professional bodies such as the South African Institute of Auctioneers (SAIA) before participating.

“They should inspect the vehicle and never bid on a vehicle they have not physically inspected. They should attend official viewing days and ask the auctioneer relevant questions before placing a bid,” he said.

Litabe further said they should understand the terms and conditions. He added that they should carefully read and understand the auction’s terms, payment procedures and refund policies.

“Research the vehicle’s market value to ensure the price is realistic and not bait. Make sure the auction house is registered and has a verifiable physical address. Be cautious of poorly written advertisements or vague descriptions.

“Be wary of sellers who avoid sharing information, request payment outside the official platform, or make offers that seem “too good to be true. Avoid paying non-refundable deposits. Legitimate auctions may require a registration fee, but you should never pay a non-refundable deposit to secure a vehicle before the auction concludes,” said Litabe.

He said they should not rush decisions and avoid making hasty commitments. Litabe said if something feels suspicious or they are uncertain, rather walk away.

“Verify payment details and always confirm that you are transferring funds to the official and verified bank account of the auction company. Trust your instincts and if something does not feel right, it probably is not. It is better to miss out on a deal than to fall victim to a scam.

“The SAPS urges community members to share this information with family and friends to help prevent financial losses during the festive period. Anyone who suspects fraudulent activity is encouraged to report it immediately to the nearest police station or contact the SAPS Crime Stop number at 08600 10111 or via the MySAPS App,” he said.

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Nkabinde grilled at Ad Hoc Committee

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Picture: SAPS Chief of Staff, Christopher Nkabinde/Screengrab

By REGINALD KANYANE

13 November 2025 – The Ad Hoc Committee established to investigate allegations made by the KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, has suspended its proceedings today following unsatisfactory testimony from Christopher Nkabinde, Chief of Staff in the Office of the suspended Minister of Police, Senzo Mchunu.

During the hearing, Nkabinde was unable to provide clarity on key matters, including the sequence of events relating to his contact with North West businessman, Brown Mogotsi. The committee found the evidence presented to be inconsistent and lacking in accuracy, particularly regarding matters that could have been easily verified through the Minister’s official diary.

The Chairperson of the Committee, Soviet Lekganyane stated that the quality of the witness’s evidence rendered it impossible for the committee to continue with the day’s proceedings. Lekganyane said the witness failed to provide clear and truthful responses to straightforward questions.

“Despite his senior position, he could not confirm basic calendar details and demonstrated no intention to be forthright with the committee. The committee resolved to discontinue the proceedings for the day and will consider rescheduling Nkabinde’s appearance at a later stage.

“The Parliamentary Legal Services team has been requested to advise on any potential consequences arising from the witness’s conduct before the committee,” he said.

Lekganyane further said the committee remains committed to executing its mandate in a thorough, fair and transparent manner. He added that they expect all witnesses appearing before them to uphold the highest standards of integrity and accountability.

“The work of this committee is undertaken in the interests of the people of South Africa, and we will not allow the process to be undermined by unprepared or untruthful testimony,” concluded Lekganyane.

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North West and Gauteng provinces met to consider progress reports on cross-boundary matters

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Picture: North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi

By AGISANANG SCUFF

13 November 2025- The Executive Council members of the two provinces led by the North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi and acting Gauteng Premier, Lebogang Maile, held a successful meeting in Pretoria to consider progress reports on the cross boundary issues that affect the two provinces.

Various work-streams led by Heads of Departments from the two provinces were set up to investigate the cross-boundary issues with a view to providing lasting solutions on the identified challenges.

Mokgosi said some of the challenges that were discussed between the two provinces, include the transfer of properties that are currently funded by Gauteng Province, but are in the North West province, other assets that are in Gauteng Province and belong to the North West province, the Industrial Parks, municipal services and the North West Transport Investments (NTI). He further said the meeting resolved that the work-streams led by HODs should be empowered to urgently finalise matters that are jointly agreed upon, such as transfers of assets and properties, and provide final proposed solutions.

“The two provinces recognize the challenges that bedevil the NTI as a North West entity, which is expected to provide services to the residents of Gauteng but has not been able to do so. Further that workable and existing investment models should be explored to resuscitate and make it viable.

“The leadership of the two provinces expressed their commitment to ensuring effective intergovernmental coordination and cooperative governance. Continuous engagements will be maintained to address any residual administrative issues, improve service delivery, and promote equitable development across the affected communities,” said Mokgosi.

He expressed appreciation at the collaboration demonstrated by the leadership of the two provinces, while Maile reaffirmed the dedication of Gauteng Province to strengthening collaboration between provinces in the spirit of unity and efficient governance for the benefit of all citizens.

Maile added: “The two provinces have further agreed to convene another meeting in January 2026 to address outstanding matters.”

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Police looking for missing John Mvelase

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Picture: Missing John Malebo Mvelase/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

13 November 2025 – The police in Kanana request for community’s assistance in locating John Malebo Mvelase (54), who is residing in Extension 15 in Kanana Township, near Orkney. Mvelase was last seen by his daughter when he travelled to his residential home at around 4pm on 25 July 2022.

The North West police spokesperson, Constable Thuto Bobelo said according to information received, Mvelase lives alone and is not mentally stable. Bobelo said when his daughter visited him the next day, he was not found.

“A search was conducted around Kanana without any positive feedback. Extensive investigations were done and all leads were followed up with no success. At the time of his disappearance, he was wearing a black trouser with red stripes, brown sneakers and a grey jacket.

“He is black in complexion, has a tall and slender build body and has short grey and black hair. Anyone with information regarding his whereabouts can contact the Investigating Officer, Sergeant Thembani Mvala on 072 703 3657, your local police station or Crime Stop on ‪08600 10111,” he said.

Bobelo further said anonymous tip-offs can also be communicated via the MySAPS App from your smartphone. He added that extortion-related incidents can be reported on the Extortion hotline on 080 091 1011.

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Mmabana Foundation Athletes Set to Shine on the Global Stage

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Picture: The athletes going to represent North West in Spain/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

13 November 2025- The Mmabana Arts, Culture and Sport Foundation (MACSF) is once again elevating South Africa’s presence on the international scene as five of its elite bodybuilding athletes prepare to compete at the prestigious 2025 IFBB World Fitness Championships in Barcelona, Spain. Renowned for its commitment to artistic sport development, MACSF continues to nurture and showcase exceptional talent, earning recognition both nationally and abroad.

The Mmabana Arts, Culture and Sport Foundation Media Liaison Officer (MLO), Mpho Lepedi said following a series of outstanding performances, the following athletes have been selected to represent South Africa at this global event. Lepedi said Vuyo Goliath and Oarabile Rababui are from Mmabana Mahikeng, while Michael Masangana, Peter Lekoma and Sihle Radebe are from Mmabana Lehurutshe.

“To honour their achievements and send them off in style, an official ceremony was held at Mmabana Lehurutshe, celebrating their dedication and success. Our athletes have landed in Spain. So, let us salute these champions as they embark on this remarkable journey, proudly carrying the South African flag onto the world stage,” she said.

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‘Safety of learners will not be compromised’

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Picture: The North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

13 November 2025- The North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng said the safety of the learners will not under any circumstances be compromised. Morweng was addressing the provincial elective conference of the South African National Small Bus Operators Council, (SANSBOC) held in Klerksdorp.

He further said SANSBOC is a government-supported initiative aimed at formalizing and empowering small bus operators most of whom are in scholar transport. Morweng added that they were established by the National Department of Transport with an interim structure in 2009 and a formal structure and provincial councils officially launched in 2012.

“They exist to be a structured voice for micro bus operators. You provide an essential mobility that allows learners, especially those from disadvantaged communities, to access education. Your service ensures that they can reach school on time and safely, fulfilling a fundamental constitutional right.

“It is for this that we hope you understand where we come from when we do not compromise on ensuring that the right of learners’ education is not violated nor expediently conceded,” he said.

Morweng emphasized that roadworthiness of the vehicles and its maintenance must be a priority for operators.

“You conduct on the road directly impacts a child’s safety and even their future behavioural pattern. Your drivers are the first role models learners encounter each morning. The way they conduct themselves on the road and how they interact with learners creates a lasting impression.

“A positive, professional attitude fosters a sense of security and respect and lifelong moral value,” he said.

SANSBOC Provincial Chairperson, Final Kgodumo complained about late payments of their invoices by the department. Kgodumo said, however, the department said at times it is as a result of irregular submission of invoices which impact on the processing as verification must be done.

“This is to ensure that invoices reflect the work done and the payment is accurate. We expect you to submit your invoices monthly as per the Service Level Agreement. We expect your drivers to adhere to all road safety regulations, ensuring your vehicles are well-maintained and driving with the utmost care and caution at all times.

“We must be vigilant against reckless driving and be prepared that contravention of this will be met with uncompromising law enforcement officers,” said Morweng.

The Chief Director for Transport Operations which manages scholar transport, Mpho Rantona, said SANSBOC is an important structure which provides an essential service. She said what is impressive is that more and more women are participating in the transport sector.

“We are happy that there are more women participating here which means there are more women who are scholar transport operators. We believe in partnership and will continually and continuously work on ensuring that we do not have a trust deficit with you as our stakeholder.

“It is for this that we must ensure that we have regular conversation which we not only value but appreciate as well. You are more than just transport providers, you are the first and last point of contact for many learners everyday day, playing a pivotal role in their educational journey,” said Rantona.

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Zimbabwean politician and his uncle granted bail of R10 000 each

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Picture: Zimbabwean politician, Job Sikhala and his uncle, Alexander Ferrowst Thema/Supplied

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

13 November 2025- Zimbabwean politician, Job Sikhala (53) and his uncle, Alexander Ferrowst Thema (78), were granted a R10 000 bail each by the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court. Sikhala and Thema are facing charges of possession of explosives.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Gauteng, Lumka Mahanjana said it is alleged that on 6 November 2025, the two were stopped by police while driving along Kgosi Mampuru Street in Pretoria. Mahanjana said upon searching the vehicle, police discovered 26 units of blasting cartridges and 15 units of connector cap fuses.

“In court, the state did not oppose their release on bail. The state prosecutor, Chris Maruma, submitted two affidavits from the investigating officer, Sergeant Thabo Madia confirming that both accused are legally in the country. Sikhala holds a valid visa, while Thema possesses a South African identity document.

“The affidavits further stated that the accused are not in a position to interfere with witnesses or the ongoing investigation. The matter was postponed to 3 February 2026 for further investigation,” she said.

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Exploring the dynamics of couples and family therapy

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

13 November 2025- The Senior Psychologist and Clinical lead at North West University’s (NWU) Centre for Health and Human Performance (CHHP), Dr Rümando Kok said navigating human relationships can be a maze of conflict and misunderstandings, especially in the close-knit relationship dynamics of couples and families. Kok said they are actively promoting healthy interpersonal relationships through expert-led conversations and therapy sessions.

He further said a positive new trend is emerging. Kok added that younger couples are increasingly seeking therapy as a preventive measure before getting married or entering long-term relationships.

“It seems to be a generational shift. They view it as an investment in their relationship rather than a last resort. This reflects a healthy, progressive attitude to mental well-being and to addressing possible obstacles in their relationships head-on.

“Therapy and counselling can provide a sort of “psychological x-ray” of a relationship, empowering couples to understand their specific dynamic, strengths, weaknesses and possible sources of conflict. It helps them to identify issues they should work on from the start to ensure a strong and healthy relationship,” he said.

Kok said counselling and therapy are also very beneficial to families. He said that when psychologists work with couples, they view them as a single dyad – one pair with two parts.

“It is a two-person relational system. A family dynamic is different. It involves multiple dyads that can include the romantic partnership between parents, their relationships as caregivers, and the connections between parents and children.

“Each relationship affects the others, creating a complex system of interactions. Couples and family therapy focus on understanding how these systems function and where relational patterns may have become ineffective,” said Kok.

He said families usually approach them when these systems are not functioning optimally. Kok said conflict is a common reason for therapy.

“Conflict remains the most common reason families seek help. People often become reactive instead of interactive, or reflexive rather than reflective. Other issues include infidelity, communication difficulties, unclear roles and emotional disconnection.

“Many conflicts arise from unspoken assumptions. People assume responsibilities without talking about them. These implicit expectations easily lead to tension. Emotional disengagement is another challenge,” he said.

Kok said families may manage daily routines well but still feel disconnected emotionally. He said the power struggles are also a recurring theme.

“We talk about ‘one-up’, ‘one-down’ and ‘equal’ positions. Healthy relationships require flexibility to move between these roles. Problems arise when someone rigidly stays in one position. One-up refers to a person attempting to dominate another. One-down refers to a person taking a subservient stance and an equal stance reflects a balance.

“Therapy can also occur indirectly. Even if the family does not attend together, one member can still influence the system. We offer three key strategies for nurturing healthy relationships. Aim for good enough rather than perfect,” said Kok.

He said perfection is impossible in an imperfect world. Kok said accept your limitations and do your best with what you have.

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Inquest into alleged death of Tlhapi to be re-opened

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By AGISANANG SCUFF

13 November 2025- The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) said the inquest into the alleged death and disappearance of Nicholas Majestic Boiki Tlhapi will be reopened in the North West High Court sitting in Mahikeng. Tlhapi (26) was a community activist and a politically active member of the Ikageng Civic Association in Potchefstroom.

The NPA regional spokesperson in North West, Sivenathi Gunya said on the evening of 20 March 1986, at approximately 8pm, he and eleven other mourners boarded a taxi to attend the funeral of three comrades who had been shot by police. Gunya said the group was arrested at Jouberton Township en route to Klerksdorp during the State of Emergency declared by the government at the time.

“While all of Tlhapi’s fellow detainees were released after approximately 14 days in custody, Tlhapi never returned home and has not been seen in the last 38 years. An inquest into his disappearance was first held on 5 July 1995 at the Klerksdorp Magistrate’s Court (Inquest No. 49/94).

“The court ruled that it could not find beyond a reasonable doubt that Tlhapi was deceased, despite hearing evidence from his father, James Tlhapi and others,” he said.

Gunya further said the matter was later referred to the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) as one of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) cases. He added that the investigation, guided by the NPA, led to a subsequent application by the National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP) to the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development to reopen the inquest.

“The Minister then requested the Judge President of the North West Division of the High Court, in terms of Section 17A(1) of the Inquests Act 58 of 1959, to designate a judge to preside over the reopened inquest.

“The Judge President has accordingly designated Acting Deputy Judge President A.H. Petersen to preside over the matter. The case will be enrolled at the High Court in Mahikeng on 17 November 2025 for the first appearance of interested parties and persons of interest before the court,” said Gunya.

Meanwhile, Dr Rachel Makhari, the Director of Public Prosecutions in the North West said: “The NPA stands united in its commitment to ensuring that justice is served and that there is accountability in the disappearance of Tlhapi.”

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Police looking for suspects who allegedly robbed a foreign businessman

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By REGINALD KANYANE

13 November 2025- The police in Nababeep are investigating a case of robbery following an incident that occurred on 12 November 2025, at approximately 2pm on the N7 road, near Okiep. The police said according to the complainant, a foreign businessman (49), he was en route from Windhoek to Cape Town for business when the alleged incident occurred.

The Namakwa police spokesperson, Captain Ivan Magerman said he further alleges that an unknown white vehicle overtook him and abruptly stopped in front of his vehicle near the bridge in Okiep. Magerman said upon stopping the vehicle, two unknown men exited the white vehicle and approached him.

“One suspect instructed the complainant to exit his vehicle while the other opened the front passenger door and accessed the dashboard compartment. The suspect allegedly removed a transparent plastic bag containing a substantial amount of cash.

“During the incident, the complainant was physically restrained and subsequently pushed to the ground. The suspects then fled the scene with the stolen cash. No weapons were used, and the complainant did not sustain any injuries,” he said.

Magerman further said the suspects remain unidentified at this stage, and the number of occupants in the suspect vehicle is unknown. He added that a case of common robbery is being investigated by Nababeep detectives.

“Anyone with information can call Detective Sergeant Deory Smith on 060 861 9156 or contact the Saps CRIME stop number 08600 10111 or use the MySaps app. All information will be treated confidentially,” said Magerman. 

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