Daily Archives: May 13, 2026

‘South Africa continues to face high levels of crime’

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Picture: The Chairperson of the Committee, Dr Mmusi Maimane

By OBAKENG MAJE

13 May 2026 – The Standing Committee on Appropriations has raised concern over the decline in the number of police officers and notes that this comes at a time when crime levels in South Africa continue to rise. This comes after the South African Police Service (SAPS), the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) and the Civilian Secretariat for Police Service appeared before the committee to discuss their expenditure plans for the 2025/26 financial year.

The Chairperson of the Committee, Dr Mmusi Maimane said the SAPS were led by the acting Police Minister of Police, Prof Firoz Cachalia and the acting National Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane. Maimane said the committee prioritised departments with significant appropriations.

“Alongside social services and the learning and culture function, policing represents one of the largest areas of government expenditure. Within the justice, crime prevention and security cluster, policing is a central driver of both budget allocation and service delivery outcomes.

“South Africa continues to face high levels of crime. This underscores the need for careful scrutiny of both the scale and composition of the policing appropriation to ensure it supports effective capability and measurable impact,” he said.

Maimane also emphasised that the committee’s oversight is focused on the appropriation and its implications, rather than on police operations or appointment decisions. He further said they are assessing how the Appropriations Bill affects SAPS’s ability to deliver on its mandate, including the operational risks associated with a high vacancy rate.

“The SAPS informed the committee that in recent years, they have seen sustained increases in organised, serious and violent crimes and crimes against vulnerable groups. SAPS further indicated that, to remain within the compensation-of-employees budget ceiling, it was required to progressively reduce employee numbers more intensively in 2021/22, which contributed to an overall decline in personnel over the period.

“Members noted that SAPS had allocated additional funding of R568 million for early retirement and voluntary exit programmes. The committee recommended that SAPS should be aggressively recruiting and training a new generation of officers,” he added.

Maimane said at a time when communities are watching commissions of enquiry on television, all they see and hear is that the police are generally corrupt and they are now faced with a statistic showing that approval of policing has declined. He said this is something they can ill afford, given that their crime-fighting strategy relies heavily on community engagement.

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A concern over neglect of autistic learners at Johannesburg School of Autism

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By REGINALD KANYANE

13 May 2026 – The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Gauteng said autistic learners at the Johannesburg School for Autism in the Johannesburg CBD, are being forced to learn in overcrowded conditions, where inadequate care, limited therapy services and unsuitable infrastructure have created an environment that fails to meet their most basic developmental and educational needs.

DA said a recent oversight inspection uncovered that the school operates across four floors in a building shared with 22 other businesses and organisations, a setup that is far from suitable for learners who are high on the autism spectrum and unable express fear, frustration, or discomfort in words.

DA Gauteng Member of the Education Portfolio Committee and Member of Provincial Legislature (MPL), Bronwynn Engelbrecht said furthermore, the school does not have enough speech therapists, resulting in learners receiving sessions only once every two weeks. Engelbrecht said for a non-verbal child, speech therapy is not a luxury, but a vital bridge to dignity, independence, and meaningful inclusion.

“The outdoor space is also a concern with school officials informing us that learners are taken outside only once a day because the outdoor space is not spacious and was not designed for learners with special needs.

“These factors highlight a difficult reality: children who already face significant communication barriers are being educated in an environment that is not adequately designed to meet their needs,” she said.

Engelbrecht said they call on the Gauteng Department of Education to reorganise the building so that the school gets at least two full floors, preferably the ground floor and second floor, to create a safe environment for learners. She said in addition, the department must increase the number of speech therapists so that every child receives therapy at least once a week.

“We will table questions to Gauteng Education MEC, Lebohang Maile, to determine whether there are plans to allocate fully dedicated floors to the school or relocate it, as well as to increase speech therapy services and implement a long-term infrastructure solution for the institution.

“The DA is the only party committed to fostering an inclusive society that supports individuals with autism and other neurodiverse conditions. A DA government in Gauteng will ensure that facilities like the Johannesburg School for Autism are transformed into a dignified, safe, autism-focused centre to give every learner the best possible chance at independence,” said Engelbrecht.

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A man jailed for theft of a motorcycle  

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By REGINALD KANYANE

13 May 2026 – Hopetown accused, Bronwyn Mias (20) was found guilty of theft of motor vehicle which he committed during January 2024, and was convicted and sentenced to three years imprisonment suspended for three years on condition he is not convicted of theft of motor vehicle during this period. On 23 December 2025, the complainant who resides on a farm in the Hopetown area, locked his door and went to visit a friend.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane said on 24 December 2025, the complainant returned and noticed that his Honda motorcycle valued at R15 000 was not in the yard. Shemane said the victim also noticed that the front door lock was broken and the keys of the motorbike were missing.

“On Christmas Day, the accused was observed driving the motorcycle on an adjacent farm and was subsequently arrested. The motorcycle recovered. The accused was recently found guilty in the Hopetown Regional Court and sentenced to two years imprisonment for a theft of a motorcycle.

“He was also sentenced to two years impriaonment for housebreaking and theft. Mias was declared unfit to possess a firearm,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Pixley Ka Seme District Police Commissioner, Major General Nomana Mtukushe, applauded Detective Warrant Officer Thekiso Mokoena of De Aar Vehicle Crime Investigation Unit (VCIU) for recovering the stolen property and securing a conviction.

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180 suspects nabbed during Operation Shanela II

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Picture: Some of drugs confiscated by police/Supplied

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

13 May 2026 – The multi-disciplinary, high density weekly Operation Shanela 2 was executed by the police in all five districts in conjunction with external role players which resulted in the arrest of 180 suspects for various crimes. The operation was executed from 4 to 10 May 2026, focusing on reducing contact crimes, property related crimes and drug related crimes through the execution of high-density patrols in urban and rural communities, roadblocks and Vehicle Check Points (VCPs) in crime hotspots areas.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane said these targeted disruptive actions and activities included stop and searches, foot and vehicle patrols, compliance inspections and community outreach programmes involving community policing structures. Shemane said during the roadblocks, 2169 vehicles and 4263 persons were stopped and searched.

“Compliance inspections were conducted at scrapyards, second-hand goods dealers, vehicle dealerships, licensed liquor premises, licensed firearm dealers, tuck shops, farms and mines. During the compliance operations, 20 unlicensed liquor outlets were closed down for non- compliance for not failing to comply with the legal requirements as stipulated by law.

“The 180 suspects arrested during the operations, were apprehended for attempted murder, assault, burglary, dealing and possession of drugs, theft off or from motor vehicle, illegal dealing in liquor as well as undocumented foreign nationals,” he said.

Shemane further said wanted suspects were traced by detectives for evading court appearances and contravening court orders. He added that during search and seizure actions, numerous items were confiscated including drugs, large volumes of alcoholic beverages, a firearm, dangerous weapons and cash that is believed to be the proceeds of crime.

Meanwhile, the Northern Cape police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola commended both SAPS members and external role players and the community involvement in their endeavours in the fight against crime.

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Extreme weather conditions hit Northern Cape

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Picture: A severe weather in Northern Cape/Generic

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

13 May 2026 – Multiple Districts in the Northern Cape have been affected by extreme weather conditions hence the SAPS is appealing to residents to implement the following safety measures during this period and also to be vigilant and alert. Floods, ice and snow have been observed in the John Taolo Gaetsewe, Pixley Ka Seme, ZF Mgcawu and Frances Baard Districts.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Colonel Cherelle Ehlers said motorists and residents are urged to exercise extreme caution. Ehlers said motorists are urged to reduce speed and increase following distance to allow for adequate reaction time in case of sudden stops or changing road conditions.

“Use headlights at all times to enhance visibility and ensure your vehicle is visible to others. Ensure windshield wipers are functioning properly to maintain clear visibility. Avoid puddles and standing water, which may conceal potholes.

“Be cautious of large vehicles that may reduce your visibility due to spray. Stay alert and avoid distractions while driving. If necessary, pull over safely. Adhere to additional road signs indicating road closures and the use of alternative routes,” she said.

Ehlers further said people should ensure that all fires in fireplaces are extinguished and heaters are switched off before going to bed. She added that they should never sleep with burning candles and refrain from using “Umbolas” inside their houses.

“Leave a door or window partially open when using a fuel fired heater to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Install smoke alarms and test whether they are in a working condition. Take extra care when cooking, especially with gas and open fires. Do not overload multi-plugs and wall sockets with heating appliances.

“Switch off electric blankets at night and rather opt for extra warm blankets during winter. Do not splash water on oil or grease that caught fire in your cooking pan as this spreads the fire. Rather, use a fire extinguisher,” said Ehlers.

She urged individuals to keep matches, lighters, and other flammable liquids out of the reach of children. Ehlers said when cooking, keep flammable items like curtains, oven gloves and paper towels far away from burners and stoves.

“Use portable air conditioners safely and with extra care. If your residence catches fire, get out, stay out, call for help, and never re-enter your burning house for pets or personal belongings. Keep heaters away from flammable or combustible materials.

“Never dry wet or damp clothes or fabrics on an electric heater. Follow updated weather alerts on media platforms. Be responsible, conscientious and safe at all times,” she said.

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A man jailed for contravention of protection order

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

13 May 2026 – A man (53) sentenced to two years by then Carnarvon Regional Court for contravening a protection order and crimen injuria. The conviction stems from an incident that occurred on 7 February 2026, when the accused, Ben Dakens allegedly arrived at the complainant’s residence in Carnarvon and threatened to assault and stab her, while also verbally abusing her.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Litabe said it is reported that Dakens accused his wife of taking his cell phone. Litabe said the victim, who was in possession of a valid protection order against her husband, immediately contacted the police for assistance.

“The accused was arrested at the scene and subsequently made several court appearances before being convicted and sentenced on 6 May 2026,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Pixley ka Seme District Police Commissioner, Major General Nomana Mtukushe, welcomed the sentence and commended Detective Constable Tomeletso Zelda Louw of the Carnarvon Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit for her diligent investigation and commitment to ensuring that justice was served. Mtukushe said incidents of domestic violence remain a priority and SAPS will implement a stern response to these matters.

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Residents urged to stand against extortion

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

13 May 2026 – The police in Northern Cape are concerned over incidents of extortion involving police impersonators. The police said hence the public is urged to be vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Colonel Cherelle Ehlers said against this backdrop, it is of utmost importance that the public understands the elements of extortion. Ehlers said extortion is a criminal offence in which an individual unlawfully obtains money, property or services from another person through threats, coercion or intimidation.

“These threats may include physical harm, property damage, false accusations, or the exposure of sensitive information. Common forms of extortion include blackmail, protection rackets, cyber extortion and financial extortion.

“Being informed about the methods employed by extortionists and taking proactive steps can help reduce your vulnerability and that of those around you. Victims are strongly encouraged to seek immediate assistance from law enforcement or legal professionals,” she said.

Ehlers further said people should protect themselves by applying safety tips such as to remain vigilant and cautious of suspicious or threatening demands. She added that they should also avoid reacting impulsively to threats.

“Keep detailed records of all communications and demands. Report any suspected extortion incidents to the police without delay. Safeguard sensitive information online using strong passwords and encryption tools.

“Common warning signs of extortion are unjustified demands for money, services, or favours. Intimidation tactics, including verbal threats or implied harm. Pressure to act quickly or under duress. Offers to prevent harm only in exchange for valuables or compliance,” said Ehlers.

She said the police urge all individuals to report incidents of extortion by contacting the National Extortion Hotline number at 0800 911 011. Ehlers said they should take a stand together and put an end to this criminal practice.

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A man sentenced to two life terms in prison for rape

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By STAFF REPORTER

13 May 2026 – Exceptional investigative work by Detective Constable Boipolelo Polelo of the Prieska Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit led to the successful prosecution and sentencing of the accused, Justin Papier (25) to 18 years imprisonment for rape. Polelo was assigned to investigate the rape case that was reported at the Prieska Police Station in April 2024.

According to the Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Litabe, the victim visited the accused at a farm in Prieska on the evening of Thursday, 11 April 2024, to ask for tobacco. Litabe said upon arrival, she found the accused inside the house and he instructed her to fetch the tobacco from near the television set while he locked the door.

“He subsequently pulled the victim towards him and pushed her to the floor before producing a knife and threatening to stab her should she resist him. Papier then raped her. Thereafter, she managed to flee.

“The incident was reported to the police and the suspect was subsequently arrested. During court proceedings, it emerged that this was not the first incident in which the accused had raped the victim. He was linked to another rape incident against the same victim and was ultimately convicted on two counts of rape,” he said.

Litabe further said the accused was sentenced to 18 years imprisonment and was also declared unfit to possess a firearm.

Meanwhile, the Pixley ka Seme District Police Commissioner, Major General Nomana Mtukushe, commended Polelo for the exceptional investigative work that led to the successful prosecution and sentencing of the accused.

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Suspects nabbed for possession of drugs  

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Picture: Police confiscated drugs/Supplied

By STAFF REPORTER

13 May 2026 – The Kimberley Public Order Police Unit (POP), together with members attached to Crime Intelligence, disrupted the distribution of drugs in the Diamond Park informal settlement in Greenpoint, Kimberley on Tuesday. The police acted on information regarding alleged drug dealing activities and executed search warrants at identified premises suspected of being used as drug outlets.

The North West police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane said during the search and seizure operation, three premises were raided. Shemane said at the first premises, police confiscated mandrax tablets, dagga and cash.

“A suspect (26) was arrested for dealing in drugs. The operation continued to a second identified location, where the police found a woman (23) in possession of buckets containing dagga. She was subsequently arrested for dealing in drugs.

“At the third premises, a man was arrested after police allegedly found him in possession of suspected mandrax tablets. Drugs with an estimated street value of R147 000 were confiscated during the operation, along with cash believed to be the proceeds of criminal activities,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Frances Baard District Commissioner, Major General Charlotte Makgari, welcomed the arrests and commended the members for their continued efforts in combating drug-related crimes. Makgari reiterated that the police remain steadfast in their commitment to removing drugs from communities and streets through ongoing collaboration with community members.

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