Monthly Archives: January 2026

Exercise caution around water sources

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

9 January 2026- In light of recent drowning incidents and extremely hot weather conditions in the Northern Cape, police once again urge the public to exercise caution around water sources. The police said residents are reminded to assess potential risks before entering rivers, dams, or streams to prevent accidents.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Colonel Cherelle Ehlers said to enhance water safety, precautions should be observed. Ehlers said children should never be left unsupervised near pools, dams, or rivers.

“Avoid swimming alone, always swim with a buddy. Private swimming pools should be secured with an appropriate barrier. Individuals who cannot swim should not enter the water. Adults must avoid swimming, while under the influence of alcohol.

“Do not attempt to walk, swim, play, or drive through floodwaters, as they may conceal strong currents or hidden hazards. Avoid camping near streams or low-lying areas susceptible to flooding. Be vigilant of rising water levels. Stay alert for rapidly changing weather conditions, particularly when thunderstorms are forecasted or have recently occurred,” she said.

Ehlers further said the police urge all communities to remain cautious and vigilant and prioritize safety at all times.

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A man found hanging from the tree

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

9 January 2026- The police in Hartswater are requesting assistance from the public in identifying a deceased person who was found hanging from a tree. On Friday, the police were conducting patrol duties along the N18 road between Hartswater and Magogong when they noticed the body of a man hanging from a tree branch.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Merapelo Pilane said the deceased is unknown and is believed to be between 20 and 30. Pilane said he was wearing a pair of black jeans, a black belt, brown boots, with a red and white Bayern Munich T-shirt and a floral hat.

“Anyone who can assist the police in identifying the deceased person can contact Detective Constable Ompabaletse Matonyane on 083 244 2709 or alternatively utilise the MySAPS App or 08600 10111 crime stop number.

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Five suspects nabbed for various crimes

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Picture: A stolen bicycle seized by the police/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

9 January 2026- Five suspects arrested for various crimes by the police in Kathu. The police displayed a robust crime prevention approach and arrested the suspects.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Colonel Cherelle Ehlers said the police together with Rhino Security arrested a suspect (24), for the theft of a bicycle valued at approximately R5 500. Ehlers said the police immediately launched an investigation when the matter was reported.

“In another incident, the police together with detectives and Designated Firearm Officials arrested a suspect (33), for theft out of a motor vehicle. The swift response led police to the dumping site, where the suspect was found in possession of suspected stolen goods to the approximate value of R13 000.

“A further search resulted in the confiscation of a suspected stolen laptop and jump starter. With the assistance of Kathu Community patrollers, two suspects aged 20 and 23, were arrested in connection with housebreaking and theft and suspected stolen items were recovered,” she said.

Ehlers further said as the disruptive actions continued, the police arrested a suspect (34) for possession of drugs.

Meanwhile, the acting John Taolo Gaetsewe District Police Commissioner, Brigadier Kenneth Baloyi, commended the police for their rapid response and excellent collaboration with other law enforcement structures. Baloyi assured the community that disruptive actions focusing on priority crimes will continue unabated. 

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‘Let’s work together to prevent shoplifting’

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By OBAKENG MAJE

9 January 2026- The police in the Northern Cape urge business owners, employees and members of the public to work together in preventing shoplifting that remains as one of the most prevalent crimes that affect retail businesses, where clothing, groceries and other items are stolen. The police said this does not only result in financial losses, but also threatens jobs and the sustainability of businesses.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Litabe said they therefore encourage the implementation of the safety hints to reduce incidents of shoplifting. Litabe said they should ensure that shops are well lit and neatly arranged to eliminate blind spots.

“Install visible CCTV cameras and warning signage to deter criminal activity. Train employees to be vigilant and to identify suspicious behaviour. Limit the number of customers inside the store during peak hours where possible. Secure high-value items in locked display cabinets or behind counters.

“Conduct regular stock counts to quickly identify losses. Encourage staff to greet customers, as visibility discourages criminal intent. Employees should remain alert at all times and avoid distractions such as excessive cell phone use. They should not confront suspects aggressively, rather report suspicious activity to management or security,” he said.

Litabe further said they should immediately report shoplifting incidents to the police. He added that the public should also apply safety hints by not supporting or participating in shoplifting in any form.

“We encourage them to report suspicious behaviour to store personnel or the police. Parents and guardians are urged to educate children about the legal consequences of shoplifting. The police call on communities, business owners and consumers to form partnerships aimed at protecting businesses and promoting lawful behaviour.

“Anyone with information related to shoplifting incidents is encouraged to report it to their nearest police station or anonymously via the SAPS Crime Stop number 08600 10111 or alternatively via the MySAPS App. Together, we can create safer shopping environments for all,” said Litabe.

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14 suspects wanted for various crimes nabbed

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By OBAKENG MAJE

9 January 2026- The Kimberley Station Detectives conducted a tracing operation on 6 January 2026, to trace and apprehend wanted suspects who have been evading the law. The police said these actions were executed in the greater Kimberley area, result in the apprehension of 14 suspects for various crimes including attempted murder, assault with the intent to cause grievous bodily harm, domestic violence related crime and robbery.

The Kimberley police spokesperson, Sergeant Dikeledi Gopane said detectives will continue to trace and apprehend perpetrators beyond the festive season.

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24 suspected stolen cattle seized by the police

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Picture: The suspected stolen cattle/Supplied  

By AGISANANG SCUFF

9 January 2026- The tenacity of the Kuruman Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit  (STESU) led to the arrest of a suspect (43) and the recovery of suspected stolen cattle valued at approximately R150 000. On 19 December 2025, the complainant reported the theft of 24 cattle that allegedly occurred between 12 and 16 December 2025, in the Deerwaard village in Bothithong.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Colonel Cherelle Ehlers said reportedly, the cattle were stolen when her spouse passed away in hospital in Kimberley. Ehlers said on 6 January 2026, investigations led the team from the Kuruman STESU to a nearby cattle post. 

“A total of 9 cattle and 3 calves suspected to be stolen, were identified by the complainant. The suspect was unable to provide a satisfactory explanation for the possession of the cattle and was subsequently arrested.

He is expected to appear in court soon.

“Anyone who has information regarding the incident can contact the investigating officer Detective Sergeant Paseka Bogoto at 076 521 1676, the crime stop number at 0860010111 or alternatively via the MySAPS app.  All information will be treated as confidential,” she said.

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Five suspects nabbed for possession of drugs

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Picture: Some of drugs seized by the police/Supplied

By BAKANG MOKOTO

9 January 2026- Five men aged between 33 and 42 were arrested for possession of drugs by the police in Calvinia, who were conducting crime prevention patrols. All five suspects were formally charged with possession of drugs and were released on warning to appear in court on a later date.

The Namakwa District police spokesperson, Captain Ivan Magerman said although the quantity and estimated street value of the drugs seized were not substantial, the arrests highlight the vigilance, dedication and proactive policing displayed by members on patrol. Magerman said these actions underscore the daily commitment of police to combat drug-related crime and to safeguard communities.

Meanwhile, the Namakwa District Commissioner, Brigadier Schalk Andrews, commended the police for their excellent work and reassured the Calvinia community that the police remain visible, active and committed to maintaining law and order. Andrews further emphasised that success in the fight against drugs is not solely measured by the quantity of drugs confiscated, but by the unwavering commitment of officers who ensure that offenders are identified, apprehended and brought before the courts.

“The SAPS Namakwa Management commends the Calvinia members for their dedication and assures the public that SAPS will continue to serve and protect communities with integrity and resolve,” he added.

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‘Exercise road safety and responsible driving’

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Picture: Drivers urged to exercise responsibly driving/Generic

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

9 January 2026- As the holiday season draws to a close, the South African Police Service in the Northern Cape (SAPS) has appealed to all motorists and travellers who are returning home to exercise road safety and responsible driving. The police said the traffic volumes are anticipated to increase significantly on major routes as families and holidaymakers travel back home.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Litabe said road users are advised to plan their trips in advance, allow enough time on the road and ensure that their vehicles are roadworthy before they embark on their long trips back home. Litabe said the police hereby remind drivers to obey traffic laws at all times, adhere to speed limits and avoid reckless and negligent driving behaviour such as overtaking on dangerous parts of the road and curves.

“Fatigue remains a major contributing factor to road accidents. The drivers are therefore encouraged to take regular rest breaks and to share driving responsibilities where possible. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs will not be tolerated.

“Law enforcement officers will maintain an increased presence on the roads through ongoing high-visibility operations, including roadblocks and vehicle checks, to ensure compliance and promote safer roads. Pedestrians are also urged to exercise caution when crossing roads, particularly in high-traffic areas, and to wear visible clothing when walking at night,” he said.

Litabe further said passengers are also encouraged to wear seatbelts at all times and to report unsafe driving to the authorities. He added that the police call on all road users to work together in ensuring that everyone reaches their destinations safely.

“Responsible behaviour on the roads can save lives,” said Litabe.

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A man sentenced to 10 years imprisonment for attempted murder

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By REGINALD KANYANE

9 January 2026- A man (38) was sentenced to 10 years imprisonment by the Kuruman Regional Court for attempted murder. This comes after the accused, Bakang Baepi brutally attacked his girlfriend.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Merapelo Pilane said the sentence was handed down on 7 January 2026. Pilane said the court heard that on 25 May 2024, a victim (42) was visiting the accused at his residence in Laxey village when an argument ensued between them.

“The altercation escalated into a physical confrontation during which the accused stabbed the victim multiple times with a sharp object. She managed to escape and sought assistance from a neighbour. The incident was subsequently reported to Tsineng Police Station, leading to the arrest of the suspect, who was charged with attempted murder.

“Detective Sergeant Khumoetsile Setlhauno was assigned to investigate the matter. Through his thorough and diligent investigation, Baepi was successfully convicted and sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment. The accused was also declared unfit to possess a firearm,” he said.

Meanwhile, the acting John Taolo Gaetsewe District Police Commissioner, Brigadier Kenneth Baloyi, commended Setlhauno for his dedication and commitment in ensuring that justice was served and that a perpetrator of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) received an appropriate sentence.

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Seven suspects nabbed for dealing in drugs  

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By OBAKENG MAJE

8 January 2026- Seven suspects were arrested for possession and dealing in drugs during stops and search operation conducted by the members of the Public Order Policing (POP) unit in Bergsig. The operations led to the seizure of mandrax tablets and crystal substances suspected to be tik with a combined street value exceeding R2 665.

The Namakwa District police spokesperson, Captain Ivan Magerman said all seven suspects aged between 21 and 39, were released on warnings. Magerman said they will appear in court soon.

Meanwhile, the Namakwa District Commissioner, Brigadier Schalk Andrews, has commended the relentless dedication of police officers on duty in the streets of Springbok, following a series of successful operations conducted on 7 and 8 January 2026. Andrews emphasized that the true measure of success lies not in the quantity and street value of the drugs, but in the unwavering dedication and commitment of police officers who patrol the streets daily to protect the communities of the Namakwa.

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