11 May 2026 – The accused, Japhta Thabiso Khoele (47) appeared in the Brits Magistrate’s Court on 8 May 2026, facing charges of robbery with aggravating circumstances. It is alleged that on 5 May 2026, a security official was accosted by four armed suspects after he had collected cash from a supermarket in Brits.
The Hawks spokesperson in North West, Warrant Officer Nkosinathi Ndlovu said the suspects allegedly fired shots injuring the security official on his leg before fleeing with an undisclosed amount of cash. Ndlovu said an investigation led the Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation to Letlhabile village in Brits, where one suspect was arrested after he was caught setting alight a vehicle that was used as a getaway during robbery.
“Upon conducting a search, the Hawks allegedly found R20 000 in cash and police reflective jackets in possession of the suspect. The accused was remanded in custody and his matter was postponed to 15 May 2026 for bail application,” he said.
11 Motsheganong 2026 – Kgetsi ya polao kgatlhanong le balatofadiwa ba le supa eleng Flora Mogwera (66), Tshwaro Katong (53), Mosimanegape Gabonewe (55), Victor Maphasane (63), Tekoetsile Katong (63), Losilatau Charles Sakiele (58) ga mmogo le Mompati Mocumi (62), e solofetswe go boela kwa kgotlhatshekelo ya Taung mo letsatsing la gompieno. Balatofadiwa ba, ba ile ba tshwarwa kwa motseng wa Manthe, gaufi le Taung, mabapi le ditatofatso tsa go bolaya monna wa kwa motseng wa Mothanthanyaneng, Robert Rapelang Molale morago ga go molatofatsa ka bogodu jwa leruo.
Go begwa fa Molale a ile a teketwa le go tsenngwa mo metsing kwa molapong ka kgwedi ya Sedimonthole 2025. Go begwa fa Molale a ile a tlhokafala morago ga moo.
Go dumelwa fa dinku tse di utswitsweng ele tsa molatofadiwa, Flora Mogwera (66).
Kgabagare, balatofadiwa botlhe ba neetswe beile ya R500 mongwe le mongwe.
Picture: A yellow CAT excavator and a case compressor and a water pump confiscated/Supplied
By REGINALD KANYANE
11 May 2026 – The South African Police Service in Bojanala Sub-District 2 has dealt a significant blow to illegal mining activities following the arrest of two suspects aged 33 and 26 respectively, during a disruptive operation conducted at Tlhatlhaganyane (Ten Sisters) at Mabeskraal on Thursday evening. The operation formed part of ongoing efforts aimed at addressing illegal mining and related criminal activities in the area.
The North West police spokesperson, Col Anne Magakoe said during the operation, the police recovered mining equipment believed to have been used in illegal mining activities. Magakoe said the recovered equipment includes a yellow CAT excavator, a case compressor and a water pump.
“The police arrested a suspect (33) for illegal mining after he was allegedly found operating the excavator. According to information received, the suspect allegedly informed police that he was merely an employee and proceeded to contact the alleged owner of the machinery.
“It is further alleged that the owner subsequently arranged for a suspect (26) to approach the police officers with cash in an attempt to secure the release of both the suspect and the confiscated machinery,” she said.
Magakoe further said the second suspect was immediately arrested for bribery and the money was seized as evidence. She added that both suspects were detained at Mabeskraal Police Station.
“The first suspect is facing a charge of illegal mining, while the second suspect is facing a charge of bribery. Both suspects are expected to appear before the Mogwase Magistrate’s Court on 11 May 2026,” said Magakoe.
Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, commended members involved in the operation for their professionalism, integrity and commitment to fighting crime. Naidoo said the actions of their members demonstrate that SAPS remains committed to rooting out illegal mining and refusing any form of corruption.
“We will continue to intensify operations to ensure that those involved in criminal activities face the full might of the law. The police investigations continue,” he said.
Picture: Police conducting stop and search during Operation Shanela II/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
11 May 2026 – More than 20 undocumented persons were arrested for contravention of the Immigration Act 13 of 2002 in Mahikeng during the high-density operation brought together by the Provincial Anti-Gang Unit, Tactical Response Team (TRT), K9 Unit, FLASH and officials from Home Affairs. The police said the units worked together in a coordinated effort to stabilise the area and intensify crime-fighting operations.
The North West police spokesperson, Constable Thuto Bobelo said the police conducted focused stop-and-search operations and swept through identified priority zones targeting illegal firearms, drugs and other criminal activities. Bobelo said during the operation, two suspects were arrested for dealing in dagga, one suspect for dealing in drugs identified as crystal methamphetamine, one suspect for selling liquor without a licence and another for drunken driving.
“The intervention concluded with compliance inspections at liquor outlets and intensified patrols aimed at addressing emerging criminal activity and restoring order in Mahikeng,” he said.
Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo who led an unannounced Operation Shanela 2 said they targeted crime hotspots within the taxi rank and Central Business District (CBD). Naidoo commended all members and stakeholders involved for their dedication, bravery and commitment to combating crime.
“The police will continue to intensify operations to ensure safer communities across the province,” he said.
The Guardian 