Daily Archives: January 21, 2026

‘Rural schools produce jewels’

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Picture: Top achiever, Temogo Matong/Facebook

By AGISANANG SCUFF

21 January 2026- The North West Department of Education salutes Grade 12 learner from Setswakgosing Secondary School in Morokweng village, near Ganyesa, Temogo Matong (18), who is the top learner nationally in the Quintile 2 schools and a top learner in the North West during the matric results. Matong is a middle child amongst the three children in his family.

The elder sister is currently studying Education at a tertiary institution whilst the younger sister is still at school. Matong highlighted that he shared his knowledge with his classmates at school.

“Normally, whenever we were studying with my classmates, I would be the one who became a teacher. The more you repeat something many times, the more you understand it very well. I realized that sharing was caring through other people.

“Today, I stand with great pride knowing that I have assisted many other fellow learners at school. In my matric results, the highest percentage in my subjects is 99% and the lowest is 90%. The results made me to be the top learner in the country within the Quintile 2 category,” he said.

Matong highlighted that his secret was to listen to his teachers’ instructions in class. He further said his advice to learners in schools is to listen to their teachers in class, no matter their ages.

“All you need is to follow their instructions in class because those individuals have been trained to teach learners. Again, learners need to cut off from gallivanting around and not paying attention to their books. They should distance themselves from friends who will distract them from their studies.

“They should formulate study groups in order to help each other on different topics of their studies. I am planning to pursue medical studies at the University of Cape Town,” added Matong.

The Principal of Setswakgosing Secondary School, Olaotse Moreke, indicated that Matong was dedicated to his studies. Moreke said Matong showed signs that he is an exceptional learner from lower grades.

“He was dedicated and committed to his studies,” he said.

Meanwhile, the North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi said schools in the rural areas are producing quality results. Motsumi said they are extremely proud that Matong is coming from a school that is based in the rural area.

“Schools in the rural areas are also producing top learners, who are able to compete with urban schools. So, as the department, we provide quality education across the province irrespective of the area in which the school is based.

“We salute all our teachers who continue to work hard in our schools. These schools produce jewels of our country,” she said.

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Manager jailed for defrauding employer R2m

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

21 January 2026- The Pretoria Specialised Commercial Crimes Court has sentenced Jans Daniel Naude (44), a former manager at Fanatics Trading (Pty) Ltd to seven years imprisonment, of which three years are suspended for a period of five years on condition that he is not convinced of fraud and theft during the period of suspension. The court also declared him unfit to possess a firearm.

National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Gauteng, Lumka Mahanjana said this is after Naude was convicted on 23 counts of fraud of more than R2million. Mahanjana said Naude was employed as the Technical and Production Manufacturing Facilities Manager from 2014 until February 2024, at Fanatics Trading (Pty) Ltd, a company involved in food manufacturing and meat and poultry processing.

“His responsibilities included ordering bulk stock from suppliers, including chicken products. Between 12 August 2016 and 12 January 2022, Naude created fraudulent invoices and delivery notes purportedly from Federated Meats, and substituted the supplier’s legitimate banking details with those of his personal First National Bank (FNB) account.

“As a result, payments exceeding R2 million were unlawfully diverted into his personal account. The fraud was uncovered when senior management at Fanatics Trading detected irregular and excessive stock purchases. An independent auditing firm was appointed, and following the audit findings, the matter was reported to the South African Police Service. Naude was subsequently summoned to appear in court,” she said.

Mahanjana further said in court, Naude pleaded guilty and admitted that he committed the offences after feeling aggrieved at being overlooked for a promotion. She added that through his legal representative, he sought a non-custodial sentence, citing that he was a first-time offender and the primary caregiver to his two minor children.

“However, State Advocate Lerato Phoebe Labuschagne opposed a lenient sentence, stressing the seriousness of the offences and the gross abuse of trust. She informed the court that the financial prejudice suffered by the company was so severe that it had to borrow money to pay employees’ salaries and urged the court to impose a sentence that would send a strong deterrent message.

“In handing down a sentence, Magistrate Ignatius de Preez found that Naude failed to demonstrate genuine remorse and pleaded guilty only because the state had a strong case against him. The court further noted that Naude did not take the court into his confidence by disclosing what he did with the stolen funds,” said Mahanjana.

She said the magistrate concluded that a custodial sentence was appropriate under the circumstances. Mahanjana said NPA welcomes the sentence, which affirms that those who abuse positions of trust for personal gain will be held accountable.

“The sentence serves as a clear warning that white-collar crime is not victimless and will be met with decisive prosecutorial action,” she said.

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Lenkopane approaches DBSA for assistance in SEZ revitalisation

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Picture: The North West MEC for DEDECT, Bitsa Lenkopane along delegates/Facebook

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

21 January 2026- In a significant move toward the road to Special Economic Zone (SEZ) designation application and industrial park revitalization, the North West MEC for Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), Bitsa Lenkopane led a high-level delegation on an engagement with the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) at its head office today. Lenkopane said she met with the DBSA team, led by Chief Risk Officer (CRO), Mpho Kubelo and was joined by DEDECT Head of Department (HOD), Relebohile Mofokane, NWDC acting CEO, Thapelo Mokotedi and various officials from the department and its entities.

She further said the engagement focused on a structured partnership process aimed at unlocking industrial development outcomes while simultaneously resolving institutional financial exposures. Lenkopane added that this strategic approach is designed to transform the province’s industrial assets into functional, well-managed anchors for investment and local economic development with the assistance of DBSA and key stakeholders.

“Central to this vision is the revitalization of three key industrial hubs that serve as the foundation for the province’s growth. The Bodirelo Industrial Site is being positioned as a future-facing growth platform specifically aligned to the SEZ designation pathway, with plans already underway to address bulk infrastructure constraints such as water and electricity supply.

“Simultaneously, the partnership targets the Babelegi and Ga-Rankuwa Industrial Parks for focused turnaround and stabilization interventions to restore industrial activity and improve revenue collection. Restoring these sites is essential for the designation application of the Bojanala SEZ, as well as job creation, SMME development, and industrialisation, noting that when these assets are functional, they serve as vital anchors for local communities,” she said.

Lenkopane said to ensure these plans move from proposal to reality, a Technical Task Team will be formally introduced to operationalize the solution through clear deliverables and accountability mechanisms. She said this team, which includes representatives from DEDECT, NWDC, DBSA, National Treasury, the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic), Gauteng Provincial Government and City of Tshwane, is mandated to finalize infrastructure and settlement packages within a 30-day solution sprint.

“The collaborative effort will also foresee the operationalisation of the Infrastructure Development Fund to support bulk utility upgrades, ensuring that the North West accelerates its industrial growth and remains a competitive destination for investment,” said Lenkopane.

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NWU sends its heartfelt condolences messages after the deaths of 12 learners

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Picture: Twelve learners killed in car accident

By REGINALD KANYANE

21 January 2026- The North West University (NWU) conveys its deepest condolences to the families, teachers, classmates and the basic education community affected by the recent scholar transport accident in Vanderbijlpark. The university said this tragic event has robbed the country of potential and promise – innocent young lives cut short and dreams permanently shattered.

The NWU principal and vice-chancellor, Prof Bismark Tyobeka said as part of the Vanderbijlpark community, they stand in solidarity with the affected families, schools and the basic education department in the Sedibeng District and Gauteng Province in general. Tyobeka said they are once again called upon to review and improve scholars and public transport in the country to ensure maximum road safety.

“Our relevant experts and staff are already participating in offering the necessary support services to the affected families and schools. We are ready to offer any further counselling and psychological support that may be needed.

“We extend our thoughts and prayers to all those affected and trust that, through unity, support, and solidarity, they will have strength to deal with this tragic loss. May their souls rest in peace,” he said.

Meanwhile, the police have arrested the scholar transport driver (22), who was involved in an accident that claimed the lives of 12 learners in Vanderbijlpark on 19 January 2026. He was arrested after he was discharged from hospital.

The Gauteng police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo said the suspect is expected to appear before Vanderbijlpark Magistrate’s Court within 48 hours, facing charges of twelve counts of culpable homicide and reckless and negligent driving. Masondo said after the police visited the hospitals and the mortuary to verify the number of fatalities and injuries, it can be confirmed that twelve learners died at the accident scene and five were taken to the nearest hospitals for medical treatment, of which one has since been discharged.

“The driver of the truck that was involved in the accident escaped unharmed, while the passenger sustained injuries and was receiving treatment in hospital. Investigations are underway as police continue to obtain witness statements,” he said.

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Outcry as illegal miners threaten residents

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By OBAKENG MAJE

21 January 2026 – The Portfolio Committee on Mineral and Petroleum Resources said it condemns in the strongest possible terms the reported violent and criminal actions by illegal miners, commonly referred to as zama zamas, in Sporong Informal Settlement in Randfontein in West Rand.

The committee said according to the reports, heavily armed illegal miners have threatened residents, forced approximately 300 families – mostly women and children – to flee their homes.

The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee, Mikateko Mahlaule said threats of murder and child abduction are deeply disturbing and wholly unacceptable in a constitutional democracy founded on the rule of law and the protection of human dignity. Mahlaule emphasised that no community should be subjected to fear, intimidation and displacement because of criminal activities linked to illegal mining.

“Such acts not only undermine the safety and security of communities, but also erode the authority of the state and its institutions. We call upon law-enforcement agencies and all relevant authorities to act swiftly and decisively through coordinated efforts to investigate these incidents, dismantle the criminal networks involved and restore peace, safety and normalcy to the affected community in Randfontein.

“Those responsible must be identified, apprehended and subjected to the full might of the law without fear or favour. The committee’ support for coordinated, multi-departmental interventions to combat illegal mining and its associated criminality – such as Operation Vala Umgodi – while also addressing the broader socio-economic conditions that give rise to such activities,” he said.

Mahlaule further said, however, this cannot and must not come at the expense of the safety and wellbeing of law-abiding residents. He urged government departments – particularly those responsible for policing, mineral and petroleum resources and social development – to ensure that displaced families receive the necessary protection and humanitarian support during this period.

“The committee of the 5th Parliament conducted oversight visits to illegal mining activities and part of the areas visited included Randfontein. We emphasised that the committee will urgently call all the relevant departments to provide an update on the progress made in implementing the recommendations arising from that oversight.

“I have also extended my sympathies to the affected families and reiterate that, the committee will continue to exercise its oversight role to ensure that decisive action is taken to safeguard communities and uphold the rule of law,” said Mahlaule.

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793 suspects nabbed for various crimes during Operation Shanela II

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By AGISANANG SCUFF

21 January 2026 – Shanela 2 Weekly Operations have yielded significant successes with police in the North West arresting numerous suspects for a wide range of criminal offences. The police said operations led by the District Commissioners between 12 and 19 January 2026, resulted in the arrest of 793 suspects.

The North West police spokesperson, Constable Thuto Bobelo said notably, 433 wanted suspects were arrested by Detectives. Bobelo said as part of the operations, police targeted known crime generators through joint law enforcement compliance inspections aimed at enforcing the provisions of the Liquor Act and the Second-Hand Goods Act. Bobelo said large quantities of liquor and various items were confiscated and six unlicensed liquor outlets were closed.

“Among those arrested, eight suspects were apprehended for murder, 11 for illegal possession of firearms and ammunition, seven for rape, nine for aggravated robbery, 28 for burglaries at residential and non-residential premises, 10 for illegal dealing in drugs and 29 for dealing in liquor.

“In addition, 28 illegal immigrants were arrested for contravening Section 49 of the Immigration Act, Act 13 of 2002. They are currently being processed through the courts before being deported to their countries of origin by the Department of Home Affairs. Other arrests were also made in connection with illegal mining activities,” he said.

Bobelo further said in one of the notable arrests, police in Phokeng successfully apprehended Gomotsegang Ngwenyana (29) in connection with an ATM bombing incident on 16 January 2026. He added that crime intelligence and the Provincial Crime Combating Team traced Ngwenyana who was on the run to a residential address in the Monakato Slovo Section, Phokeng.

“Investigations linked the suspect to an ATM bombing that occurred in Reivilo in October 2025. The suspect was charged with ATM bombing and appeared before the Vryburg Magistrate’s Court on 19 January 2026. He was remanded in custody until 12 February 2026,” said Bobelo.

Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, commended the police for their unwavering efforts in securing safer communities and their continued commitment to the fight against crime.

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Police are looking for missing Matebele

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Picture: The missing Letlhogonolo Daniel Matebele/Supplied

By BAKANG MOKOTO

21 January 2026 – The police in Lichtenburg request the community’s assistance in locating a teenage boy, Letlhogonolo Daniel Matebele (17), from Blydeville, near Lichtenburg. The police said Matebele was last seen on Monday night, 29 December 2025, when he told his parents that he was going to sleep.

The North West police spokesperson, Sergeant Kelebogile Morake said a search commenced around Lichtenburg and extensive investigations were conducted without any positive results. Morake said according to his parents, the boy is epileptic and mentally unstable.

“His parents cannot remember what he was wearing at the time of his disappearance. Matebele is dark in complexion and slender built. The police request anyone who may have information regarding the missing person’s whereabouts to contact the Investigating Officer, Sergeant Alpheus Moremi on 079 080 7284.

“Alternatively, one can call the local police station or Crime Stop on ‪08600 10111. Anonymous tip-offs can also be communicated via the MySAPS App from your smartphone,” she said.

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Four suspects nabbed for possession of dagga

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Picture: Dagga seized by the police/Supplied

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

21 January 2026- Four suspects aged between 20 and 25 were arrested for being in possession of dagga. The suspects were arrested in Seven Miles in Mothibistad on 19 January 2026.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane said the as the police were busy conducting patrols, they received a tip-off from reliable sources of  a vehicle that is believed to be transporting dagga and doing deliveries not far from where they were conducting patrols. Shemane said the police operationalised the information received and spotted the vehicle fitting the description given parked in the street in Seven Miles in Mothibistad.

“The police tactically approached the vehicle and ordered the three suspects who were inside to disembark the vehicle. The driver was requested to open the boot upon which 15 black plastic bags presumed to be dagga was found in the bag in the boot.

“An undisclosed amount of money was found in possession of the driver, who could not give satisfactory account as to why he had the money. With the assistance of the Kuruman K9 unit, the house where the vehicle was parked was searched,” he said.

Shemane further said one suspect was found inside the premises in possession of dagga. He added that dagga with an estimated street value of R135 000 was seized by the police, as well as the vehicle as it was used in a commission of a crime.

“In an unrelated case, the police were on patrol at Seven Miles when they received a tip-off of a person who is in possession of suspected stolen goods. The information was operationalised and the suspect was found with the property and could not give proper account of how he got hold of the property.

“The property was positively identified by the complainant. The suspect (32) was arrested for possession of suspected stolen property, which was later linked to a case that was reported on 25 December 2025 in Seven Miles,” said Shemane.

He said all the suspects are expected to appear in the Mothibistad Magistrate’s Court soon.

Meanwhile, the acting John Taolo Gaetsewe Police District Commissioner, Brigadier Kenneth Baloyi, applauded the police for their swift and unwavering commitment in the fight against crime and for removing drugs from the streets and the recovery of the stolen property.

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Parents urged to play their part in ensuring that children are safe

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By REGINALD KANYANE

21 January 2026- The police in Northern Cape said as the schools reopened for 2026, they are continuing striving to create a safe and secure learning environment for all learners and teaching staff at all learning institutions across the province. The police said for them to achieve their mandate, they urge learners to know their parents contact details, full names and their home addresses.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Constable Thabo Fourie said they encourage learners to report any type of bullying whether on or outside school premises to a trusted adult, guardian or educator. Fourie urged them not to share any personal information with strangers nor walk or talk to them.

“They should walk in groups and in common roads, which are not identified as crime hotspots. They should not walk using their gadgets such as cell phones as that can attract possible threats. The South African Police Service (SAPS) is also pleading with parents to be present in their children’s day-to-day lives so that their kids do not become victims to social media predators.

“We urge them to monitor their children’s social media engagements and to limit their interactions with older people. Encourage your kids to be kind to one another, so that bullying can be a topic of the past. Ensure that your kids’ transport is reliable and all safety precautions are followed to avoid and prevent accidents and injuries,” he said.

Fourie further said parents should play their part in ensuring that their children are and feel safe.

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Moithuti o tlhabilwe ka sekere kwa Ganyesa

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Setshwantsho-papiso: Moithuti o tlhabilwe ka sekere

Ka OBAKENG MAJE

21 Ferikgong 2026- Moithuti (19) wa kwa sekolong se segolwane sa Bore kwa Ganyesa, gaufi le Vryburg, o lebagane le ditatofatso tsa maiteko a polao. Se, se tla morago ga gore moithuti o, go begwa fa a tlhabile boithuti jaaka ene wa dingwaga di le 19 ka sekere.

Sebueledi sa sepodisi mo sedikeng sa Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati, Warrant Officer Tryphosa van Rooyen are go begwa fa baithuti ba, ba ile ba nna le nganyisano kwa sekolong. Van Rooyen are go begwa fa baithuti ba, ba ile ba tsweletsa nganyisano ya bone morago ga sekolo fa ba ne ba le mo tseleng ya go ya magaeng.

“Go begwa fa moithuti o, a ile a ntsha sekere le go tlhaba moithuti jaaka ene. Motswasetlhabelo o ile a rwalelwa kwa bookelong go bona thuso ya potlako morago ga go tswa dikgobalo.

“Go butswe kgetsi ya maiteko a polao, mme ga ise go tshwarwe ope go fitlha ga jaana. Fela dipatlisiso di a tswelela,” van Rooyen wa tlhalosa.

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