Daily Archives: December 28, 2025

Four suspects nabbed for possession of drugs

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By OBAKENG MAJE

28 December 2025 – A crime intelligence-driven operation by the Crime Combating Operational team resulted in the arrest of four suspects including a female, for possession of drugs and possession of suspected stolen goods. The suspects were arrested after the police searched their places in Meriting New Stands, Seraleng and Ramochana in the policing area of Boitekong on Thursday morning, 25 December 2025.

The North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said the first three suspects were found in possession of drugs that included mandrax, dagga, crystal meth, and rock, all with estimated street value of R15 000. Mokgwabone said the team also confiscated R860 cash believed to be the proceeds of crime.

“The fourth suspect was arrested after being found in possession of suspected stolen cell phones. The suspects with ages between 37 and 52 are expected to appear in the Bafokeng Magistrate’s Court in Tlhabane on 29 December 2025, for possession of drugs and possession of suspected stolen goods.

“Meanwhile, based on information received from members of the community, the Shanela 2 Safer Festive Season operation conducted in Vryburg was extended to Ipelegeng Township, outside Schweizer Reneke, where several identified addresses were raided by the combined Anti-Gang and Drug Task Team of the Provincial Office,” he said. 

Mokgwabone further said a suspect was arrested with a quantity of drugs, drug paraphernalia and cash. He added that at one of the identified addresses, the suspects fled, leaving behind a quantity of drugs, which was confiscated.

“The suspect is expected to appear in the Schweizer Reneke Magistrate’s Court on 29 December 2025, for possession of drugs,” said Mokgwabone.

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‘Hosting the military forces of Iran and Russia is not neutral’

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By REGINALD KANYANE  

28 December 2025- The Democratic Alliance (DA) said the media confirmations that Iranian naval vessels are en route to South Africa to participate in the Mosi III naval exercise alongside Russia make it increasingly difficult for the government to maintain that South Africa is genuinely pursuing a policy of non-alignment. The DA said hosting the military forces of Iran and Russia is not neutral.

DA Spokesperson on Defence and Military Veterans, Chris Hattingh, who is also Member of Parliament (MP), said these are sanctioned states involved in active conflicts and serious human rights abuses. Hattingh said allowing them to conduct military exercises in South African waters sends a clear political signal, whether the government admits it or not.

“South Africa’s policy of non-alignment is being hollowed out. What begins as quiet military cooperation slips into secrecy and ends in open alignment. It reflects a deliberate willingness to accept alignment with authoritarian states, while hiding behind the language of non-alignment to avoid accountability.

“When military actions no longer match its diplomatic claims, non-alignment ceases to be neutrality and becomes a quiet and calculated drift away from democratic partners. This concern is heightened by recent public statements from Iran’s president describing his country as being in a state of war with the United States and Western powers, making South Africa’s decision to host Iranian naval forces deeply concerning,” he said.

Hattingh further said at the same time, South Africa’s defence relationships with democratic countries are weakening. He added that joint military exercises with the United States have been cancelled, US participation in the Africa Aerospace and Defence exhibition failed and diplomatic tensions are increasing.

“These outcomes are the predictable result of confused foreign policy and poor political judgement. While South Africa recently voted against Russia at the United Nations, a single vote counts for little when it is contradicted by continued military cooperation with Russia and Iran, carried out with limited transparency and minimal parliamentary oversight.

“The DA will demand full transparency on all military exercises involving sanctioned states, insist on urgent parliamentary oversight of the SANDF’s international engagements, and hold President Cyril Ramaphosa accountable to restore proper civilian control over defence policy,” said Hattingh.

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DA calls on the City of Tshwane to prioritise electricity infrastructure

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By AGISANANG SCUFF

28 December 2025- The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Tshwane said it is concerned that the current state of the City’s electrical grid has reached a breaking point. The DA said a dangerous combination of aging infrastructure, inadequate safety measures, and targeted criminal activity is leaving their communities in the dark and at risk.

DA Tshwane Spokesperson for Utilities, Themba Fosi said this festive season, two substations in the City of Tshwane have burned down, leaving communities in the dark. Fosi said first, it was the Olievenhoutbosch Substation in Centurion and yesterday, the Koedoespoort Substation in the Moot.

“In recent months, we have seen an alarming surge in substation fires across the metro. These are not merely technical glitches; they are catastrophic failures that result in prolonged blackouts, damaging local businesses and compromising the safety of residential neighborhoods.

“Each fire further weakens an already strained electricity grid, leading to a “domino effect” of infrastructure instability. Investigations into these incidents have over time revealed a systemic failure in preventative maintenance,” he said.

Fosi further said many of their substations lack modern fire suppression systems, functional smoke detection, or even basic physical firebreaks. He added that without these essential protections, a small electrical fault, which should be contained, rapidly escalates into a total infrastructure loss.

“Just a few days ago, Olievenhoutbosch Substation was engulfed by fire due to cable theft. Before being removed from government, the DA, under the leadership of Mayor Cilliers Brink, budgeted for the needed protection for substations to prevent fires.

“There was also a budget and plan to move the City’s protection of physical assets away from static security guarding to technological early detection mechanisms linked to armed response,” said Fosi.

He alleged that the ANC took the first opportunity to re-allocate these funds to water tankers and security companies linked to the Deputy Executive Mayor. Fosi said it is now the time that the ANC government prioritises the residents of Tshwane and stabilises the electricity grid above their patronage networks.

“The DA will be writing to the City Manager to demand immediately assess fire protection systems at all major substations and install automated suppression technology.

The municipality must implement 24 hour remote monitoring at high-risk sites to deter theft and vandalism.

“Establish a dedicated task force to track and prosecute those responsible for destroying City infrastructure. The residents of this City have reached the limit of their patience, and the DA will continue to stand with them until solutions are found,” he said.

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Parliament mourns the death of Dr Renee Thompson

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By AGISANANG SCUFF

28 December 2025 – The National Assembly (NA) said it has learned with deep sadness at the passing of Dr Renee Thompson, a respected intellectual, activist and longstanding friend of Parliament. The NA said Thompson participated in various parliamentary programmes over the years and maintained a deep and principled interest in the constitutional and legislative work of Parliament and its role in improving the material conditions of the people of South Africa.

The Parliament spokesperson, Moloto Mothapo said her engagement with the institution was informed by a strong understanding of parliamentary processes and a commitment to democratic accountability. Mothapo said having previously served within the caucus of the majority party, Thompson brought to her work a strong grounding in parliamentary research, communications and drafting.

“She was widely regarded as a sharp thinker with a deep well of institutional knowledge, able to engage complex parliamentary issues with clarity, rigour and purpose. Her contributions reflected both technical competence and a principled commitment to public service.

“Beyond her formal roles, Thompson remained a thoughtful interlocutor on parliamentary and constitutional matters, consistently advocating for a Parliament that is responsive, ethical and centred on the lived realities of the people it serves,” he said.

Mothapo further said Thompson’s intellectual curiosity, courage of conviction and generosity of spirit enriched the democratic discourse around Parliament’s work. He added that the Presiding Officers extend their sincere condolences to Dr Thompson’s family, friends and colleagues.

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Police need your assistance to locate a missing woman

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

28 December 2025- The police in Mmabatho request the community’s assistance in locating a Goatlegile Margareth Mohosetji (20), who is residing at Lonely Park village, near Mahikeng. The police said Mohosetji was last seen by her mother on 21 November 2025, at around 5:30pm, when she left to go to her rented room at Ramosadi village, Mahikeng.

The North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said the mother called her later, but the cell phone went on voice mail. Mokgwabone said she then traced her at Ramosadi village, but could not find her.  

“Search was then conducted around Ramosadi and Seweding villages, but Mohosetji was not found. Extensive investigations were done and all leads were followed up with no success. It is not clear what clothes she was wearing at the time of her disappearance.

“She is tall and slender, has black short hair, and she is brown in complexion. Anyone with information regarding her whereabouts is requested to contact the Investigating Officer, Sergeant Golekane Senokwanyane on 079 897 1873. They can also call their local police stations or Crime Stop on ‪08600 10111,” he said.

Mokgwabone further said anonymous tip-offs can also be communicated via the MySAPS App.

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Picture: Missing woman, Goatlegile Margareth Mohosetji/Supplied

DA condemns brutal murder of Chairperson of AFASA in KZN

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

28 December 2025- The Democratic Alliance (DA) said it strongly condemns the brutal and senseless killing of African Farmers’ Association of South Africa (AFASA) Chairperson in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), Mbongeni Skhakhane, who was fatally shot yesterday morning at his place of business. DA said Skhakhane’s murder is a devastating loss to his family, the AFASA fraternity and the broader agricultural sector.

DA KZN Spokesperson on Agriculture and Rural Development and Member of Provincial Legislature (MPL), Sakhile Mngadi said the DA in KZN extends its deepest condolences at this sad and difficult time. Mngadi said a committed farmer and leader, Skhakane dedicated his life to empowering emerging farmers, strengthening food security, and advancing rural development in KZN.

“This heinous crime again exposes the growing vulnerability of farmers and farm workers. It is unacceptable that those who contribute to livelihoods, jobs and social cohesion continue to live and work under constant threat.

“The DA calls on the South African Police Service (SAPS) to act with urgency and determination. A thorough investigation must now follow to ensure that the perpetrators are swiftly apprehended and brought to justice,” he said.

Mngadi reiterated their call for strengthened rural safety strategies, visible policing and intelligence-led operations to protect farmers and farm workers who are vital to food production and economic stability. He further said they stand in solidarity with the Skhakhane family, AFSA and KZN’s farming community.

“We remain committed to a capable, ethical and caring state and will continue to demand justice and accountability,” added Mngadi.

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DA calls on community to celebrate iconic Cape Minstrels event

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By REGINALD KANYANE

28 December 2025-The Democratic Alliance (DA) in the Western Cape calls on all residents of Cape Town to support the Cape Minstrels at their much-anticipated annual celebration, the Cape Town Minstrel Carnival, set to take place on Tweede Nuwejaar, 2 January 2026. The Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport said it proudly supports this cultural phenomenon, recognising its deep connection to both the region’s history and the broader South African identity.

DA Western Cape Spokesperson on Cultural Affairs and Sport, Benedicta van Minnen said the department has allocated an annual funding budget of R1.7 million to support the event, ensuring that it continues to thrive and that the public can engage with and celebrate this important cultural tradition. Van Minnen said the Klopse remains a symbol of unity, joy and cultural expression.

“We encourage all residents of the Western Cape to take part in this vibrant event that showcases the rich traditions of the province. This is an event that brings together people from all backgrounds, reaffirming the shared values that unite us as South Africans.

“We encourage everyone to join us in celebrating this historic tradition and enjoy a day out to remember with your family and friends on 2 January 2026,” he said.  

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Disappointed Bafana Bafana ready to face Zimbabwe

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By OBAKENG MAJE

28 December 2025- Bafana Bafana return to action on 29 December 2025 in a match they must win to book their place in the Last 16 stage of the tournament. This comes after they suffered a 0-1 defeat to Egypt in an incident-riddled 2025 Africa Cup of Nations Group B match that had no shortage of drama on 26 December 2025.

Mohamed Salah scored the only goal of the match from the penalty spot in the 45th minute to win the game for the North Africans. Drama unfolded just before the half-time break when referee Pacifique Ndabihawenimana stopped play to consult the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) on an incident that had happened earlier.

Ndabihawenimana eventually pointed to the spot and awarded the penalty. Salah then converted the kick and put the Egyptians in the lead.

But the drama was not over in the first half as Mohamed Hany was sent off in the final minutes of the opening period after picking up a second yellow card of the match following a tackle on Tebogo Mokoena. The South Africans put the Egyptians under an enormous amount of pressure in the second half as they tried to make their numerical advantage count.

The North Africans withstood a barrage of attacks from coach Hugo Broos’ charges as they went in search of the equaliser. Bafana Bafana thought they had finally found a breakthrough when Ndabihawenimana once again stopped play to consult VAR after defender Yasser Ibrahim appeared to have handled the ball inside the area.

Bafana Bafana coach, Hugo Broos said the match official eventually did not give the penalty, to the dismay of the South Africans. Broos said the 10-man Egypt, who have qualified for the knockout stages following their win, managed to hold on to win this match.

“Ok, they were one man less, but we dominated them for 45 minutes (in the second half). In that moment, you need a little bit of luck with the ball falling (favourably) or that the shot is good. We didn’t have that luck.

“We lost the game, but there is still another game and after what happened here today on the pitch, certainly the decisions that were made will motivate us to give 200% to win the game against Zimbabwe on Monday,” he said.

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Picture: Bafana Bafana against Egypt