Daily Archives: February 15, 2026

Community members gather in prayer after a loss of lives

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Picture: Prayers as five lives lost/Supplied

By BAKANG MOKOTO

15 February 2026 – The police in the Namakwa District said they have note with profound sadness the recent loss of five lives in three separate culpable homicide incidents within the district. The police said on 12 February 2026, at approximately 9am, community members across the Namakwa District gathered at various town entrances in a coordinated prayer initiative to promote road safety and to honour the memory of the deceased.

The Namakwa District police spokesperson, Captain Ivan Magerman said participants were dressed in black as a symbol of mourning and remembrance. Magerman said the gathering served as a unified call for greater responsibility and heightened awareness among all road users.

“The tragic incidents have deeply affected families and communities within the district. Personnel of the Namakwa District Commissioner’s office was joined by Station Commanders, SAPS members, Radio NFM, the Traffic Department, community leaders, and church representatives.

“This includes Community Policing Forum (CPF) structures, the Department of Health, the Department of Social Development, the Department of Transport, Safety and Liaison, Blue Patrollers, emergency medical services and various non-governmental organisations in support of the initiative,” he said.

Magerman further said the police in collaboration with the Traffic Department and other relevant stakeholders, will continue to intensify the enforcement of road traffic legislation and conduct ongoing operations aimed at enhancing road safety throughout the Namakwa District.

Meanwhile, the Namakwa District Police Commissioner, Brigadier Schalk Andrews, emphasised that road safety remains a shared responsibility and called upon all motorists, pedestrians and community members to exercise caution, comply with traffic regulations and prioritise the preservation of human life. Andrews expressed appreciation to all stakeholders and community members for their unity and cooperation during this period of mourning.

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Challenges and shortcomings encountered within CPF structures addressed

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Picture: Challenges faced by CPFs addressed during training /Supplied

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

15 February 2026- The Northern Cape Provincial Office of Proactive Policing successfully hosted a two-day Community Police Forum (CPF) Training Session in Upington in the ZFM District on 11-12 February 2026. The training was facilitated by the Upington HRDC with the Social Crime Coordinator of Kakamas SAPS, Constable Itumeleng Mahura.

The ZFM District police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Omphile Masegela said the session was officially opened with a prayer by the Secretary of Upington CPF, Pastor Anthony Oor. Masegela said the ZFM District Police Commissioner, Major General Monica Sebili, welcomed attendees and addressed members on the challenges and shortcomings encountered within their respective CPF structures.

“She encouraged members to remain committed and dedicated in executing their duties. The Provincial Head of Proactive Policing, Brigadier Irene Kopeledi, outlined the purpose of the training session and acknowledged the presence of the Secretariat for Police, Director Dirkie Jasson from the Department of Transport Safety and Liaison.

“Jasson, presented the draft funding model of the CPF. The CPF members, accompanied by the Social Crime Coordinators, were afforded an opportunity to raise questions and concerns from their respective station areas, which were addressed during the session,” she said.

Masegela further said the Provincial Chairperson of the CPF Board, Clement Baai, delivered the vote of thanks. She added that, Baai expressed appreciation for the attendance and urged members to share the knowledge gained with fellow CPF members in their respective areas.

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Police are looking for persons of interest to resolve a murder case

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Picture: Persons of interest in a murder case/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

15 February 2026- The Galeshewe Serious and Violent Crimes Unit are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying three persons of interest in connection with the murder of a man (37) that occured in Captain Matsie Street, Kagisho in Galeshewe Township, near Kimberley on 1 January 2026 at approximately 4:54am. It is alleged that the deceased was fatally stabbed several times on the upper body.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane said three persons of interest have been described as Sesotho speaking and believed to be between the ages of 20 and 38 years old. Shemane said the police urge anyone with information that can help with the investigation and tracing of the persons of interest to contact the investigating officer, Detective Sergeant Garcia Bitterbos on 082 469 1744 or SAPS Crime Stop number on 08600 10111 or contact the nearest police station or make use of the MySAPS App.

“All information will be treated with the strictest confidentiality,” he said.

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Police’s ‘Meet and Greet’ commences at Radio Kaboesna

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Picture: Namakwa police officers visiting Radio Kaboesna/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

15 February 2026- The police in Northern Cape said the first airing of the “Meet and Greet” programme in Calvinia was featured on the Midday Magic program on Radio Kaboesna on 12 February 2026. The police said the program was hosted by a radio presenter, JR and was joined by the Namakwa District Head of Corporate Communication, Captain Ivan Magerman, alongside the Station Commander of Calvinia SAPS, Lieutenant Colonel Andries Du Plessis.

Magerman said: “The officers gave an overview of their seasoned careers in the South African Police Service as an introduction to the listeners.

“Lieutenant Colonel Du Plessis assured the public that schools in Calvinia remain safe and emphasized that the CPF and its sub-structures are functioning effectively.”

He further took the community into his confidence by affirming that crime is under control and expressed gratitude to residents for their active participation in the fight against crime. Magerman encouraged community members to register as informers to strengthen efforts against drug-related crimes and burglaries.

“We commend the enthusiastic participation of listeners, noting the well-considered questions posed and the constructive engagement during the program.

“In addition, we introduced the Radio Kaboesna – SAPS Helpdesk, a platform where community members can raise concerns about policing, ask questions, and share positive feedback regarding the work of local police officers,” added Magerman.

In his absence, the Namakwa District Commissioner, Brigadier Schalk Andrews, extended his sincere appreciation to the Station Management of Radio Kaboesna for their continued support in the fight against crime through radio outreaches.

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Police raise awareness on bullying at school

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Picture: Police visit a local school to create awareness against bullying/Supplied

By STAFF REPORTER

15 February 2026- The police said bullying can be defined as unwanted, aggressive behaviour that involves a real or perceived power imbalance, where repeated actions cause harm, fear, or distress to another person. The Springbok Station Commander, Colonel Moses Lekgwati and his members, conducted an awareness program at a high school in Springbok, focusing on the impact of bullying and the importance of creating a safe and supportive learning environment.

The Namakwa police spokesperson, Captain Ivan Magerman said program included engaging and interactive speeches, which were creatively turned into fun activities to help learners better understand and remember the importance of the subject. Magerman said the program actively participated, showed enthusiasm and commitment throughout the session.

“The police commended the school management, educators, and learners for their cooperation and dedication in making the program a success.

“Emphasis was placed on participation which reflects the strength of the community in addressing issues that affect young people,” he said.

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A man found guilty of statutory rape

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

15 February 2026- A man (19) from Pella was found guilty of raping his friend (15) by the Pofadder Regional Court on 10 February 2026. The accused was alleged to have been friends with the victim for a long time, but they began a sexual relationship in December 2022.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Thabo Litabe said in January 2025, the victim fell pregnant and her mother was notified by the Northern Cape Department of Health. Litabe said the matter was reported to the police and the suspect was subsequently arrested.

“He pleaded guilty to the charges and appeared before court on several occasions after the case was assigned to Detective Constable Franklin Afrikaner of Pofadder Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit.

“The court also found him guilty of statutory rape and sentenced him to five years imprisonment, which was wholly suspended for five years on condition that he is not found guilty of the same offence within that period,” he said.

Litabe further said the accused was declared unfit to possess a firearm.

Meanwhile, the Namakwa District Commander, Brigadier Schalk Andrews commended the investigating officer for securing a conviction. Andrews reiterated that crimes committed against women and children will not be tolerated and perpetrators will be harshly dealt with.

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Uncle sentenced to five years imprisonment for sexual assault

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

15 February 2026- A man (33) was sentenced to five years imprisonment by the Pofadder Regional Court for sexual assault. On 24 June 2024, at approximately 00:30, the accused arrived at his sister’s residence and requested accommodation for the night.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Litabe said the accused’ sister initially indicated that there was limited space and insufficient bedding. Litabe said, however, after he persistently pleaded with her, she agreed to allow him to stay over.

“He was permitted to sleep in close proximity to her minor daughter. During the night, the child woke her mother and alleged that the accused had inappropriately touched her private parts.

“When confronted, the accused requested to step outside, allegedly to relieve himself. He then fled the scene and did not return” he said.

Litabe further said a case was subsequently registered and allocated to Detective Sergeant John Rowan Nortje of the Pofadder Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit for further investigation. He added that the investigation led to the arrest of the accused, who appeared in the Pofadder Regional Court on several occasions.

“The court found the accused guilty of sexual assault. He was sentenced to five years imprisonment, wholly suspended for five years. In addition to his conviction, the court declared him unfit to possess a firearm and ordered that his name be entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders,” said Litabe.

Meanwhile, the Namakwa District Commander, Brigadier Schalk Andrews, commended the investigating officer for his hard work in ensuring that justice was served.

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Suspected stolen compressor seized, two suspects at large

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Picture: Suspected stolen compressor seized by the police/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

15 February 2026- The vigilance and swift action of an off-duty police officer led to the recovery of a suspected stolen compressor at a local mechanic in Galeshewe Township, near Kimberley. On Saturday at approximately 4:40pm, the off-duty police officer was at a mechanic workshop in John Daka, Galeshewe Township, where he had taken his vehicle for repairs.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Colonel Cherelle Ehlers said during his visit, he observed four suspects entering the premises and attempting to sell a suspected stolen compressor to the mechanic. Ehlers said the police officer tactically approached the suspects by feigning interest in purchasing the item, enabling him to safely seize the compressor.

“Upon becoming suspicious, the suspects fled the scene. The police have since opened a case of possession of suspected stolen property for further investigation.

“Anyone with information that could assist in the identification and arrest of the suspects is urged to contact the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111 or provide information via the MySAPS App,” she said.

Ehlers further said information received will be treated with strict confidentiality.

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576 suspects nabbed during Operation Shanela II

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Picture: Some suspects were searched during Operation Shanela II/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

15 February 2026- More than 576 suspects were arrested for various offences, including drug-related crimes, illegal dealing in liquor, robbery, murder, attempted murder, rape, assault with the intent to cause Grievious Bodily Harm (GBH), and burglary. The arrests were made Operation Shanella across the Northern Cape.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Colonel Cherelle Ehlers said the continued commitment of the South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Northern Cape was once again demonstrated through the execution of Operation Shanela II conducted across all five districts in the province. Ehlers said the operation carried out from 9 until 15 February 2026.

“This formed part of ongoing intelligence-driven initiatives aimed at preventing crime, stabilising identified hotspots and ensuring safer communities.

“The operations were led by District Commissioners and senior managers at provincial, district and station levels, supported by various law enforcement stakeholders,” she said.

Ehlers further said during the operational period, numerous premises were searched, while 12623 persons and 5006 vehicles were stopped and searched. She added that they also conducted stop-and-search operations, high-visibility patrols, vehicle check points (VCPs) and roadblocks as part of intensified crime prevention efforts.

“Several suspects were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol. Detectives also executed tracing operations which led to the arrest of numerous wanted suspects who had been evading arrest for an array of crimes.

“Compliance inspections were conducted at liquor outlets, second-hand goods dealers, scrapyards, recyclers, firearm dealers, informal businesses, mines, and farms to ensure adherence to relevant legislation,” said Ehlers.

She said these inspections resulted in the closure of 16 unlicensed liquor outlets. Ehlers said during the operations, large quantities of alcohol and drugs were confiscated.

“Counterfeit goods, dangerous weapons, and money suspected of being the proceeds of crime were also seized.

“The police and Community Policing Structures (CPFs) continue to conduct awareness campaigns to address Gender-Based Violence (GBV), contact crimes and other trending crime patterns,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, and her management, welcomed the positive outcomes and reaffirmed SAPS’ commitment to safeguarding communities and maintaining safety and security across the province. Otola encouraged members of the public to continue working with law enforcement agencies in the fight against crime.

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