Monthly Archives: April 2026

Lenkopane swears in Gambling Board and Liquor Authority

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Picture: New Boards members taking oaths/Supplied

By STAFF REPORTER

21 April 2026 – The North West MEC for Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), Bitsa Lenkopane, has today officiated the formal swearing-in ceremony of the newly-appointed Board Members of the North West Gambling Board and the North West Liquor Authority at Sun City Resort, near Rustenburg.

Lekopane said the swearing-in marks a critical governance milestone aimed at strengthening oversight, accountability and effective regulation within the province’s gambling and liquor sectors. She further said the two Boards play a strategic role in ensuring compliance with legislation, promoting responsible trading practices, protecting communities and contributing to economic growth and revenue generation.

“The weight of responsibility entrusted to the new Board Members, describing the oath of office as a solemn commitment to serve with integrity, discipline, and accountability. There is seriousness of commitment undertaken by the Board Members.

“This oath is not ceremonial, it demands loyalty, integrity, and discipline requires that you always act in a manner that is beyond reproach. The gambling and liquor sectors remain highly sensitive, operating at the intersection of economic activity and social responsibility,” added Lenkopane.

She called on the Boards to strike a careful balance between industry growth and addressing societal challenges. Lenkopane said the North West Liquor Authority, through its Board, is responsible for adjudicating liquor license applications and ensuring compliance with trading conditions across approximately 8,000 licensed establishments in the province, including taverns, pubs, night clubs, liquor restaurants, accommodation establishments and bottle stores.

“Similarly, the North West Gambling Board is mandated to regulate the gambling industry through licensing, compliance monitoring, and enforcement, while combating illegal gambling activities and protecting vulnerable groups, particularly young people.

“The Gambling Board is in a stable state with a clean audit and strong performance. We call on the new Board to build on this foundation. We are handing over an institution that is stable and performing well,” she said.

Lenkopane said this must be protected and improved. She said they will not accept regression.

“The responsibility now rests with you to restore confidence and demonstrate professionalism. I want to issue a firm warning against misconduct and weak enforcement. There must be no corruption, no selective enforcement and no inaction.

“We expect these Boards to regulate fairly, act decisively against non-compliance, and contribute to rebuilding public trust. The appointment of the Boards fulfils a commitment made during the 2025/26 Budget Speech to strengthen governance, improve accountability and enhance the performance of departmental entities,” said Lenkopane.

She further announced that a 15 to 18-day compliance operation will be rolled out across districts, focusing on illegal gambling, unlawful liquor trading and strengthening inspections. Lenkopane said this forms part of efforts to reposition compliance as a pathway to economic empowerment, ensuring that liquor outlets are properly licensed and registered, while decisively addressing non-compliant practices, including proxy operations.

“The department will intensify compliance monitoring in collaboration with law enforcement agencies, including targeted operations to address illegal gambling and unlawful liquor trading.

“These efforts are also aimed at contributing to the reduction of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), often linked to substance abuse,” she said.

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A man sentenced to 12 years imprisonment for murder

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

21 April 2026 – A 30-YEAR-OLD man was sentenced to 12 years imprisonment by the Warrenton Magistrate’s Court for murder. This comes after the accused, Moleli Motlatsi killed Sakia Segolodi (32).

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane said the incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday, 23 February 2025, at approximately 00:45am. Shemane said the members of Warrenton SAPS responded to a complaint of a stabbing in Mocumi Street, Ikhutseng, Warrenton.

“It is reported that Motlatsi, Segolodi and a witness, were returning from a local tavern when an argument broke out between the accused and the deceased. The altercation escalated into a physical confrontation, during which the accused fatally stabbed the victim.

“Emergency Medical Services (EMS) declared the victim dead at the scene. The accused was promptly arrested by members of Warrenton SAPS,” he said.

Shemane further said the Frances Baard District Management commended the Detective Warrant Officer, Thys Mokoroane for his meticulous investigative work, which ensured the successful conviction and sentencing of the accused, thereby removing a dangerous offender from the community.

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Duo appeared in court for contravention of customs and excise act

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

21 April 2026 – Two accused, Alam Kuruneri (35) and Nelson Ngwenya (32) briefly appeared in the Mogwase Magistrate’s Court on 20 and 21 April 2026, respectively, on charges of contravention of the Customs and Excise Act 91 of 1964. It is alleged that on 17 April 2026, members of Mabeskraal SAPS spotted a white truck with two occupants and stopped it.

The Hawks spokesperson in North West, Warrant Officer Nkosinathi Ndlovu said a passenger reportedly fled on foot soon after the truck had stopped. Ndlovu said it is reported that the police requested the driver to open at the back of the truck.

“Upon searching the truck, the police reportedly found fully packed 239 boxes of different types of cigarettes concealed in garbage plastics. The recovered cigarettes are estimated at the value at R2.5 million.

“The driver failed to give proper explanation to the police about the recovered cigarettes. He was subsequently placed under arrest for possession of illicit cigarettes,” he said.

Ndlovu further said an investigation conducted by Rustenburg-based Serious Commercial Crime Investigation led to the arrest of the second suspect, who had fled on foot on 17 April 2026. He added that both accused appeared in court and their matter was postponed to 28 April 2026, for formal bail application.

Meanwhile, the North West Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation Provincial Head, Major General Nombuso Khoza, commended the team for ensuring that the accused are brought to justice.

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Unidentified body recovered near Ifafi Aquatic Club

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By REGINALD KANYANE

21 April 2026 – On 16 April 2026, at approximately 10pm, the South African Police Service (SAPS) divers recovered the body of an unidentified man near Ifafi Aquatic Club in Hartbeespoort Dam. According to the initial report, the SAPS divers were following up on information received regarding an individual who allegedly drowned on 12 April 2026.

The North West police spokesperson, Captain Majang Skalkie said during the search operation, the body of an unidentified man, estimated to be approximately 20, was discovered. Skalkie said the deceased was wearing black trousers.

“An inquest docket has been opened and investigations are ongoing. Members of the community who may have information that could assist in identifying the deceased are urged to contact the Investigating Officer, Detective Sergeant Abinaar Mohlaki of the Hartbeespoort Dam Detectives, on 082 492 3994.

“The SAPS urges the public to treat all open water sources as potentially dangerous and to prioritise safety at all times,” she said.

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Lesotho national in court for possession of suspected stolen livestock

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Picture: Suspected stolen goats confiscated by the police/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

21 April 2026 – The two accused who were arrested for possession of suspected stolen livestock, briefly appeared before the Lichtenburg Magistrate’s Court on 20 April 2026. One of the accused (20), could not be linked to the commission of the offence and she was released. It is alleged that she was hitch-hiking at the time of the incident.

The North West police spokesperson, Captain Majang Skalkie said the driver of the vehicle, Mamapele Mahlaba Mpewa (40), a Lesotho national, was formally charged with possession of suspected stolen livestock. Skalkie said Mpewa was remanded in custody until 28 April 2026, for a formal bail application.

“The livestock was positively identified by the rightful owner through a registered brand mark. Investigations into the matter are ongoing,” she said.

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An axe wielding boyfriend jailed for attempted murder

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Picture: A bloody axe used in a crime/Generic

By STAFF REPORTER

21 APRIL 2026 – The accused, Rasephei Peter Ramathiki (49) was sentenced to life imprisonment by the Mogwase Regional Court for burglary at a residential premises with the intent to kill and attempted murder. The court heard evidence that Mathapelo Maphosa (33), was in a relationship with Ramathiki, but the relationship ended because she (the girlfriend) was constantly and physically abused by her boyfriend (Ramathiki).

The North West police spokesperson, Kelebogile Morake said on 19 May 2025, in Mogwase, while the victim was at home with her siblings, the accused, who was armed with an axe, broke into their home. Morake said Maratiki then proceeded to hit the victim with it.

“She pretended to be dead. Her siblings, who witnessed the assault, ran to neighbours to get help, whilst the accused fled the scene. Thereafter, the victim was rushed to a local hospital for medical treatment and the incident was reported to the police.

“The police responded quickly and initial investigations led to the arrest of Ramathiki later the same day. The accused appeared before court, was denied bail and remanded in custody until his conviction on 20 April 2026,” she said.

Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, commended the investigating officer, Detective Sergeant Jacob Thabo Ngwenya, and all role players involved for their dedication and professionalism in securing the conviction and sentence. Naidoo said the police continue to prioritise the fight against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) as it is a profound violation of human rights and a threat to the safety and dignity of the community.

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A suspect nabbed for burglary and possession of stolen property

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By BAKANG MOKOTO  

21 APRIL 2026 – A suspect (20) linked to burglary at a business premises was arrested by the police in Lichtenburg. On 16 April 2026, a business owner was allegedly informed by a security company that there was a break-in at his business premises.

The North West police spokesperson, Sergeant Kelebogile Morake said upon arrival, he noticed that a glass door was broken and engine oil and jumper cables were missing. Morake said the value of the stolen property and damages are estimated to R5000.

“The police received a tip-off on Saturday afternoon, 18 April 2026, and it was operationalised by members at Lichtenburg Crime Prevention Unit. The police made a significant breakthrough after tracing the suspect who was found in town, allegedly trying to sell engine oil.

“He was arrested and a variety of property was recovered in his possession that he could not account for. The accused, Thabo Isaac Motlhatlhedi briefly appeared before the Lichtenburg Magistrate’s Court on 20 April 2026, and was remanded in custody for further investigations until 8 June 2026,” she said.

Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, commended the members of Mahikeng Crime Intelligence and Lichtenburg Crime Prevention Unit for their collaboration that lead to this arrest and confiscation. Naidoo said the police will continue to work hard to ensure that perpetrators are put behind bars.

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Vass meets with SAMWU leadership over ongoing challenges at the embattled Sol Plaatje Local Municipality

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Picture: The Northern Cape MEC for COGHSTA, Bentley Vass

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

21 April 2026 – The Northern Cape MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), Bentley Vass met with the provincial, regional and local leadership of the South African Municipal Workers Union (SAMWU) led by the provincial chairperson, London Solomons. Vass said the meeting requested by SAMWU was cordial and conducted with mutual respect.

He further said they discussed the ongoing challenges at the embattled Sol Plaatje Local Municipality and how these challenges may have a direct impact on the workers. Vass added that he also clarified his moral and constitutional responsibilities and his concerns about the state of the municipality.

“SAMWU noted the Section 139 (1)(a) directives issued to the municipality in March 2026. They said they do not seek to interfere with the constitutional obligations of the MEC as the Executive Authority, and any decisions I may take to stabilise the municipality.

“Section 154 of the Constitution mandates national and provincial governments to support, strengthen, and capacitate municipalities to perform their functions effectively. I will will meet with other stakeholders and community interest groups operating within the Sol Plaatje Local Municipality in the coming few days,” he said.

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State secures forfeiture orders worth more than R1.2m

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By REGINALD KANYANE

21 April 2026 – A collaboration between Hawks’ Priority Crime Specialised Investigation (PCSI) and National Prosecuting Authority’s Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) resulted in a significant achievement, securing forfeiture orders worth more than R1.2 million. The orders were granted by the Northern Cape High Court sitting in Kimberley on 20 April 2026.

The Hawks spokesperson in Northern Cape, Warrant Officer Nomthandazo Mnisi said during May 2024, police in Postmasburg sought a suspect who was alleged to be stealing minibus taxis. Mnisi said the suspect was spotted and apprehended whilst dropping off school kids at Postmasburg and the vehicle was seized.

“The motor vehicle, which is worth R153 950 was forfeited to the state after court granted final forfeiture order on 20 April 2026. Another forfeiture order was granted for a white Opel Corsa worth R59 900.

“The vehicle was seized for transporting a stolen goat. The forfeiture order for the vehicle was granted as an instrumentality in the commission of crime,” she said.

Mnisi further said the police stationed at De Aar, seized a Mazda worth R37 900. She added that information was received regarding a vehicle transporting copper cables.

“The police pursued the vehicle and it was stopped. During inspection of the vehicle, police recovered copper cables weighing 579.5 kilograms. A forfeiture order was granted for the vehicle.

“During September 2024, members of Upington Border Police received information regarding a white Hino Truck traveling along the N14 near Upington allegedly distributing commercially branded gas bottles to consumers illegally,” said Mnisi.

She said the police observed the vehicle near Upington and pulled it over. Mnisi said during the search, they found the truck and trailer fully loaded with gas bottles.

“The driver was immediately arrested and vehicle seized. Forfeiture order was granted for the truck, trailer and gas bottles valued at R555 190.

“In another significant achievement, information was received by members of Serious Organised Crime about two properties purchased in Kuruman with illegal proceeds that was generated from the illegal drug dealings. Estimated value for both properties amount to R 1 276 000,” she said.

Mnisi said forfeiture order was granted for both properties since they were utilised as instruments to commit these offences.

Meanwhile, the acting Provincial Head of the Hawks in Northern Cape, Brigadier De-wit Botha, congratulated the team for their exceptional work and dedication. Botha said their efforts were recognised as pivotal in achieving key objectives and making significant progress within the organisation.

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Matlala’s case postponed for consultations

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Picture: Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala

By OBAKENG MAJE

21 April 2026 – The Pretoria Magistrate’s Court has postponed the case against Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala to 13 May 2026, for the finalisation of consultations and for him to give instructions to his attorney. The court granted the state its request to have Matlala detained at Kgosi Mampuru until consultations are completed.

The IDAC spokesperson, Henry Mamothame said Matlala would be joined by 15 others who are facing charges of corruption, fraud and the Contravention of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA). Mamothame said the charges relate to the alleged irregular awarding of a contract to Medicare 24, a company owned by Matlala, valued at approximately R228 million.

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