25 June 2026 – The former askari, Joseph “Joe” Mamasela (74) and his accomplice, Michael “Tebogo” Macitinga (66), briefly appeared before the Benoni Regional Court facing multiple charges, including 15 counts of murder, arson, kidnapping, unlawful possession of explosives, unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, as well as defeating or obstructing the administration of justice. These are charges emanating from the Serious Organised Crime Investigation’s Crimes Against the State probe into allegations that came out from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) relating to three incidents, Operation Zero Zero, Nietverdiend 10 and the KwaNdebele 9.
The Hawks spokesperson, Colonel Katlego Mogale said in all these incidents, the accused are alleged to have deceived the youths into believing they were participating in operations against the apartheid government. Mogale said instead, they met their deaths at the hands of the suspect and two accomplices, who allegedly operated from Vlakplaas under the command of Eugene de Kock.
“Subsequently, the duo proceeded to apply for bail. Bail was granted at R5000 for accused 1 and the second accused was released on a warning. Their bail conditions included tender passports, not to apply for travel documents, stay within Gauteng province, inform an investigating officer of travel plans in writing, and report to Moroka and Benoni police station once per month.
“The third accused in the case has since been deceased. By midnight tonight, this case will be 41 years old. Matter was transferred to the South Gauteng High court sitting in Benoni on 1 February 2027 for the duo’s next appearance,” said Mogale.
25 June 2026 – The Northern Cape Provincial Joint Structure (PROV JOINTS) comprising of the South African Police Service (SAPS), government departments, municipalities and other law enforcement and security stakeholders, wish to assure communities across the province that comprehensive operational plans are in place to ensure the safety and security of all residents ahead of the planned 30 June shutdown actions and any related activities. The Provincial Joint Structure said it has been closely monitoring developments, including calls for protest action, public gatherings and sentiments targeting foreign nationals.
The Northern Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola said while the right to peaceful protest is protected by the constitution of the Republic of South Africa (RSA), this right must be exercised within the confines of the law and should not infringe on the rights, safety and dignity of others. Otola said the security forces will not tolerate any acts of violence, intimidation, destruction of property, disruption of essential services, criminality or any form of discrimination and xenophobic-related actions directed at individuals or communities based on nationality or any other grounds.
“We directed that all operational deployments remain focused, intelligence-driven and coordinated to maintain public order, prevent crime and respond swiftly to any incidents that may threaten the safety of communities.
“Law enforcement officers will be deployed strategically across identified areas to ensure visibility, monitor developments and facilitate a safe environment for residents, businesses, road users and visitors throughout the province,” she said.
Otola further said the public is urged to remain calm and to obtain information from credible sources and are encouraged to work together with law enforcement agencies by reporting any suspicious activities, acts of violence or criminal behaviour to the relevant authorities. She added that the Northern Cape remains committed to promoting social cohesion, respect for human rights and the rule of law.
“The Provincial Joint Structure further calls on all residents to reject violence, hate speech and actions that may create division within communities. The safety and security of every person living in the Northern Cape remains a collective responsibility.
“The Provincial Joint Structures are ready and committed to ensuring that peace and stability is maintained before, during and after the planned activities,” said Otola.
25 June 2026 – The police in the North West continue to make significant strides in the fight against crime following the successful execution of Operation Shanela II, which resulted in the arrest of 690 suspects for various offences across the province between 15 and 21 June 2026. The intelligence-driven operation focused on preventing and combating serious and violent crime through high-density policing, roadblocks, vehicle control points, stop-and-search operations and the tracing of wanted suspects.
The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Anne Magakoe said during the week-long operation, police arrested suspects for a range of serious and priority crimes, including five for murder, three for rape, four for illegal possession of firearms, 26 for dealing in drugs, 52 for possession of drugs, 33 for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, 21 for residential burglary, 11 for business burglary and 83 illegal immigrants. Magakoe said in addition, detectives arrested 529 wanted suspects, including those linked to murder, rape, business robbery, house robbery and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.
“The police also confiscated and recovered several illegal items, including three firearms, ammunition, dagga, crystal meth (Tik), mandrax tablets, liquor, packets of illicit tobacco products, cellphones, eight (8) generators and two (2) vehicles, among other exhibits,” she said.
Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Naidoo, reiterated that police will continue to intensify Operation Shanela II, working closely with law enforcement agencies and community stakeholders to keep communities safe. Naidoo urges community members to continue working with the police by reporting criminal activities through the Crime Stop number 08600 10111 or via the MySAPS App.
Picture: Bafana Bafana players against Republic Korea/Supplied
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
25 June 2026 – Bafana Bafana have written a new chapter in the history books after advancing to the knockout stages of the FIFA World Cup for the first time on a balmy summer evening in Monterrey, Mexico on Wednesday night. The South African senior men’s national team sent Monterrey Stadium into thunderous applause after beating South Korea 1-0 courtesy of a 67th minute strike from man-of-the-match Thapelo Maseko.
The nimble-footed Maseko had tormented the East Asians for long spells during this final Group A match, and his persistence was eventually rewarded when he waltzed his way past the South Korea rear-guard to score the only goal of the match.
Bafana Bafana coach, Hugo Broos said: “I think we played a very good game, tactically. It was very good and everybody did their job. The difference with this game and our previous match (against Czechia) was that when we had the ball, we were very dangerous, and that was very important.
“We had very quick players on the pitch, and we used them very well. We found the spaces during the good moments. And then yeah, we needed that goal. We had a few chances in the first half, and I told the players at halftime to keep on believing. I am very proud of the performance of my team.”
He further said Bafana Bafana had never gone past the group stages of the global tournament after stumbling in the opening stages of the 1998, 2002 and 2010 World Cups. Broos added that they certainly made amends in dramatic fashion in Monterrey when they put the South Koreans to the sword during a dominant display.
“The South African senior men’s national team will now face 2026 FIFA World Cup co-hosts Canada in the Last 32 in Los Angeles on 28 June 2026,” he said.
Picture: The DA Northern Cape Provincial Leader and Member of Provincial Legislature (MPL), Isak Fritz
By BAKANG MOKOTO
25 June 2026 – The Democratic Alliance (DA) has called on the Northern Cape Department of Health to focus on delivery rather than announcing new plans while longstanding healthcare challenges remain unresolved. The DA said while the department’s vision of “a long and healthy life for all people in the Northern Cape” is commendable, the reality facing many residents tells a different story.
The DA Northern Cape Provincial Leader and Member of Provincial Legislature (MPL), Isak Fritz said communities continue to experience ambulance delays, growing surgical backlogs, medicine shortages and severe staff shortages across healthcare facilities. Fritz said five years ago, the government introduced a Ten-Point Health Recovery Plan and promised meaningful improvements in healthcare delivery.
“Today, many of the same problems remain. Before announcing another Ten-Point Plan, the government must explain what happened to the first one and why so many commitments have not been fulfilled.
“I remain deeply concerned about the state of emergency medical services, the lengthy waiting periods for surgeries, vacant healthcare posts, and shortages of essential medication,” he said.
Fritz further said these failures affect all residents, but place the greatest burden on poor and rural communities that depend entirely on public healthcare services. He added that healthcare should be judged by the experiences of patients, not by promises, plans, or policy documents.
“Every rand allocated to healthcare must result in measurable improvements, including more ambulances on the road, reduced waiting lists, fully staffed facilities, reliable medicine availability, and quality healthcare services closer to communities.
“The people of the Northern Cape do not need another plan. They need action. They need results. Most importantly, they need a healthcare system that works,” said Fritz.
He said the people of the Northern Cape cannot be treated with promises. Fritz said they need treatment, they need care and above all, they need a health system that delivers dignity and quality healthcare to every resident.
Setshwantsho: Banna ba le babedi, Phemelo Maine (40) ga mmogo le Okemetse Phatlhanyane
Ka OBAKENG MAJE
25 Seetebosigo 2026 – Kgetsi ya polao kgatlhanong le banna ba le babedi ba kwa motseng wa Matlhako 2, gaufi le Pudimoe, e buseditswe morago ke kgotlhatshekelo ya sedika ya Taung go fitlha Phukwi a tlhola matsatsi a le 14. Balatofadiwa, Phemelo Maine (40) ga mmogo le Okemetse Phatlhanyane (27), ba latofadiwa ka go bolaya Boingotlo Makaota (16).
Go begwa fa setopo sa ga Makaota, se bonwe kwa lebitleng le le seng boteng kwa nageng kwa motseng wa Matlhako 2. Go ya ka moagisani, one a utlwa segajaja sa lekgarebe mo bosigong jwa Labone kwa ntlung ya ga Maine.
Go begwa fa moagisani o, gape a tlhalositse fa a ne a bona Maine ga mmogo le ditsala tsa gagwe ba kgorometsa kereibaye e go bontshang fa ene e pegile sengwe mo teng mo mosong wa Labotlhano.
Sebueledi sa sepodisi sa maloba se se rotseng tiro mo Bokone Bophirima, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone are: “Sepodisi se ile sa tswa letsholo, mme seo se ile sa lebisa kwa go epololweng ga setopo sa ga Makaota.
“Go begwa fa setopo seo, se ne se phuthetswe ka kobo, mme moswi one a supiwa ke ba lelapa la gagwe. Dipatlisiso di shupa fa setopo sa ga Makaota, se ne se na le dintho mo tlhogong, mo diropeng ga mmogo le mo maotong.”
Mokgwabone are dipatlisiso di ile tsa bolodiwa kwa lelapeng la ga Maine, mme diaparo tsa moswi di ile tsa fitlhelwa teng. Mokgwabone are, Maine o tshwerwe ka Lamatlhatso morago ga go ineele kwa sepodising.
“Monna o, o ile a isiwa kwa sepodisi ke morwa rragwe, mme one a tshwarwa. Sepodisi se ile sa botsolotsa Phatlhanyane o bonweng a tsamaya le Maine fa a ne a kgorometsa kereibaye, mme le ene o ile a lelelwa ke ditshipi,” Mokgwabone wa tlhalosa.
Kgabagare, Maine o ile a ipona molato mabapi le ditatofatso tsotlhe kgatlhanong le ene, fela o ile a fetola mogopolo moragonyana mabapi le seo.
Picture: The Northern Cape MEC for Agriculture, Environmental Affairs, Rural Development and Land Reform, Lebogang Motlhaping
By STAFF REPORTER
25 June 2026 – The Northern Cape Department of Agriculture, Environmental Affairs, Rural Development and Land Reform said it is saddened by the tragic accident that occurred on 18 June 2026, near Vaallus Farm in the Douglas area, where a handcrafted raft carrying farm workers capsized in the Vaal River. The department said the raft was transporting 20 people from Vaallus Farm to Olierivier Farm when it capsized during the crossing.
The Northern Cape MEC for Agriculture, Environmental Affairs, Rural Development and Land Reform, Lebogang Motlhaping said fourteen occupants survived and were treated at a hospital in Douglas before being discharged. Motlhaping said tragically, six farm workers were swept away in the incident.
“Search and rescue operations have since recovered five bodies, while efforts continue to locate one person who remains missing. The department extends its heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, colleagues, and the broader farming community affected by this devastating loss.
“The department further acknowledges the deep pain and uncertainty experienced by the family who’s loved one has not yet been recovered. The affected farm workers have been identified as Boom Neels, Olivier Trooi, Hans George, Yolandie Matjan, Robert Paul and Herodi Michael,” he said.
Motlhaping further said the tragedy has deeply saddened the department and the wider agricultural sector. He added that they are heartbroken by the tragic loss of lives in the Vaal River accident near Douglas.
“These were members of our rural and farming community, people who contributed daily to the agricultural sector and to the livelihoods of their families. On behalf of the department, I extend our sincere condolences to the bereaved families, friends, co-workers, farm owners and the entire Douglas farming community,” said Motlhaping.
He said no words can fully carry the weight of such a painful loss. Motlhaping said, however, they want the families to know that they are not alone.
“The department stands with them during this difficult time and we will work with relevant stakeholders to ensure that appropriate support is extended to the affected families. The department commends the South African Police Service (SAPS) Search and Rescue Unit, emergency services, local authorities and all role players involved in the ongoing search and recovery operation.
“Their continued efforts under difficult weather, terrain and river conditions are deeply appreciated. The SAPS has opened an inquest docket to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident. The department respects this process and will continue to cooperate with relevant authorities, while avoiding speculation on matters that remain under investigation,” he said.
Motlhaping said as part of its response, the department will engage the affected families, local leadership, farming stakeholders and relevant government structures to determine the immediate support required. He said this includes working through district structures to ensure that the bereaved families receive care, guidance, and assistance during this painful period.
“The department also calls on farming communities, farm owners, workers, and rural stakeholders to exercise heightened caution during periods of heavy rainfall and rising river levels. The safety of farm workers and rural communities must remain a shared responsibility, particularly in areas where river crossings form part of daily movement and agricultural operations.
“This tragedy is a painful reminder of the risks faced by rural communities during severe weather conditions. The Department remains committed to working with organised agriculture, municipalities, communities, and relevant government departments to strengthen awareness, preparedness, and safety measures in vulnerable rural areas,” said Motlhaping.
He said the department once again extends its deepest condolences to the families of the deceased and continues to keep the family of the missing person in its thoughts as search operations continue.
24 June 2026 – The acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, has issued a stern warning to individuals who exploit incidents to engage in criminal activities such as looting, theft, malicious damage to property and public violence. Naidoo said the warning follows an incident that occurred in Promosa and other extensions in Ikageng Township, near Potchefstroom on 22 June 2026, during which eight tuck shops were allegedly looted by a group of youngsters.
“These criminal acts constitute a violation of the law. A criminal case has been opened and is currently under investigation. We condemn the looting in the strongest possible terms and describe it as criminal conduct that will not be tolerated.
“As the police, we would like to emphasise that community cooperation remains vital in maintaining peace and order and that those responsible for criminal acts, will be pursued and brought to justice. The community is urged to work together with law enforcement by reporting any suspicious or criminal activities at their nearest police station, through Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or anonymously via the MySAPS mobile application,” he said.
24 June 2026 – A man, Rassie Hlabirwa Nkune (37) from Mpumalanga and former police official Jacob Mothibe Chego (41), previously employed at the White River Vehicle Crime Investigation Unit (VCIU), were convicted on two counts of premeditated murder of a couple, Lucky and Sabeliwe Zwane Mogashoa, two counts of conspiracy to commit murder, four counts of kidnapping, fraud, and defeating the ends of justice by the Gauteng High Court sitting in Pretoria. In addition, Nkune was convicted of two counts of robbery with aggravating circumstances.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson, Lumka Mahanjana said on 16 March 2022, Mogashoa received a call from Chego informing him that his vehicle, which had been reported stolen in 2018, had allegedly been recovered and was being held at the White River police vehicle impound. Mahanjana said the following day, Nkune, posing as a police officer, contacted Mogashoa and informed him that he would visit his residence in Roodepoort to collect documentation related to the recovered vehicle.
“Upon arrival, Nkune was given the documents and arrangements were made for a meeting on 19 March 2022, to collect the vehicle from the impound. On that day, Mogashoa, his wife and their two minor children, aged one and eight, travelled to Benoni, where they picked up Nkune at a petrol station.
“While en route to the White River vehicle impound, Nkune instructed Mogashoa at gunpoint to stop the vehicle in an open veld in Etwatwa. He then ordered the couple to get out of the vehicle, leaving their two young children inside. Nkune forced the couple into the veld, where he shot both in the head while the children remained in the car,” she said.
Mahanjana further said after committing the murders, Nkune returned to the vehicle, drove with the children to another nearby area, abandoned them in the vehicle and fled the scene on foot. She added that the eight-year-old child then took the younger sibling and walked in search of help.
“While walking along the N12 highway, they were assisted by a woman who took them to a nearby police station, where the incident was reported. Following investigations, Nkune was arrested while already in custody, serving a life sentence for the murder of two women in a separate case.
“On 16 April 2024, Chego and his co-accused, Elvis Press Makhubela (now deceased), handed themselves over to the police at the Springs Police Station. They were arrested and subsequently released on bail. In court, both Nkune and Chego pleaded not guilty and denied committing the offences,” said Mahanjana.
However, the state prosecutor advocate Tholoana Sekhonyana presented compelling evidence, including testimony from the eight-year-old child and Nkune’s associate, which proved the accused’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. In delivering judgment, the court found the state witnesses to be credible, reliable and corroborated by objective evidence.
She said the court further found that Nkune and Chego had jointly planned and executed the crimes and accordingly convicted them on all counts. Mahanjana said the NPA remains committed to ensuring that perpetrators of violent crime, including those in positions of trust, are held accountable for their actions.
“This conviction sends a clear message that those who abuse positions of trust for personal gain will face the full might of the law. The NPA reaffirms its unwavering commitment to delivering justice for victims of violent crime and their families. The matter has been postponed to 10 August 2026, for sentencing proceedings,” she said.
24 June 2026 – The police in the Northern Cape has noted with concern the circulation of a video on various social media platforms which is being shared with misleading messages and commentary aimed at creating fear, uncertainty and mobilising support for the planned 30 June shutdown actions. The Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola said she wishes to inform members of the public that the video currently circulating is an old video from 2020 in Upington and does not reflect any current incident or situation in the Northern Cape.
Otola said the resurfacing and redistribution of outdated content with false narratives is irresponsible and appears to be aimed at influencing public sentiment and inciting participation in unlawful activities. She further said the police in Northern Cape remain fully prepared and has activated appropriate operational plans through the Provincial Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (ProvJOINTS) to ensure the safety and security of all residents, visitors and businesses across the province.
“The members of the public are urged not to share unverified information or content intended to cause panic. Such practices constitute an offense which is punishable by law. Communities are encouraged to rely on official communication platforms for accurate updates and to report any suspicious activities to the SAPS.
“The public is further warned to refrain from sharing such videos, as doing so contributes to the spread of misinformation and unnecessary panic. The SAPS remains committed to maintaining law and order while protecting the rights and safety of all people in the Northern Cape,” she added.
The Guardian 