Daily Archives: July 24, 2026

Makatong clarifies AG’s findings on Office of the Premier building’s lease agreement

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Picture: Northern Cape MEC for Public Works and Roads, Fufe Makatong

By BAKANG MOKOTO

24 July 2026- The Northern Cape Department of Roads and Public Works said it has noted recent social media commentary regarding the lease agreement for the DSC Office Block, currently occupied by the Office of the Premier. The department said it wishes to place the correct facts on record and clarify the Auditor-General’s findings.

The Northern Cape MEC for Public Works and Roads, Fufe Makatong, said the background and context prior to July 2023, the Office of the Premier occupied the Transnet Building at a rental cost of R1.6 million per month, with an annual escalation of 8%. Makatong said due to serious Occupational Health and Safety non-compliance, recurring cable theft causing prolonged power outages and persistent failures of lifts and air-conditioning, the building was deemed unsuitable for continued occupation.

“In July 2023, the Office of the Premier relocated to the DSC Office Block at a rental of R1.4 million per month, with an annual escalation of 6.5%. This relocation resulted in an estimated annual saving of approximately R3 million to the Northern Cape Provincial Government (NCPG), demonstrating prudent financial management and value for public money.

“The Auditor-General’s finding relates to an administrative process. The failure to conduct and submit a market analysis and assessment report prior concluding the lease. This was classified as irregular expenditure,” she said.

Makatong further said her department confirms that no financial loss has been incurred by the state in relation to this lease agreement. She added that in line with the Auditor-General’s recommendations, the department has started to undertake corrective measures.

“This includes the termination of the current lease agreement and the commencement of a new procurement process to regularise office accommodation for the Office of the Premier.

“The department reiterates that procurement processes are the responsibility of the Accounting Officer, who delegates to line functionaries in accordance with public finance prescripts.

The department takes seriously the protection of official information in line with POPIA and other prescripts,” said Makatong.

She said isdues of this nature, regarding the handling of departmental documents will be dealt with through the appropriate internal and legal processes. Makatong said her department remains committed to transparency, accountability and delivering value for money on behalf of the people of the province.

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Matika conducts an outreach programme in honour of Madiba

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Picture: Northern Cape MEC for Sport, Arts and Culture, Mangaliso Matika

By AGISANANG SCUFF

24 July 2926 – As part of the Mandela Month programme, the Northern Cape MEC for Sport, Arts and Culture, Mangaliso Matika conducted an outreach programme to support older persons at Bophelong Care Centre, GAASCA Old Age Home, Seochwareng Old Age Home, and the AFM Fountain of Joy Church on the 22 July 2026. The outreach programme was aimed at providing much-needed support and essential services to older persons in recognition of Mandela Month, while promoting the values of compassion, dignity and selfless service inspired by the legacy of former President Nelson Mandela.

Mafika said the initiative was implemented in collaboration with the Al-Imdaad Foundation, whose partnership contributed significantly to ensuring that older persons received essential items to improve their well-being. He said during the visits, the four institutions received donations of mattresses, food parcels and blankets to enhance the comfort and quality of life of their elderly residents.

“In addition, the Northern Cape Department of Sport, Arts and Culture made financial commitments to further support the facilities and strengthen the services they provide to older persons. The department committed R10 000 to Bophelong Care Centre, R20 000 to GAASCA Old Age Home, R10 000 to Seochwareng Old Age Home and R10 000 to the AFM Fountain of Joy Church.

“We would like to reaffirm government’s commitment to protect the dignity and welfare of older persons. Mandela Month reminds us that serving our communities is a shared responsibility. Through this outreach, we are demonstrating our commitment to ensuring that older persons are cared for, respected and supported,” said Matika.

He further said they appreciate the partnership with the Al-Imdaad Foundation in making a meaningful difference in the lives of our senior citizens. Matika added that his department, remains committed to strengthening partnerships that improve the lives of vulnerable groups and ensure that older persons continue to receive the care, support and respect they deserve.

“The financial commitments made during the outreach will further assist these institutions in addressing their immediate needs and enhancing the quality of care provided to elderly residents,” he said.

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Vass handover RDP houses to beneficiaries

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Picture: Some of the beneficiaries received keys to their RDP homes/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

24 July 2026 – The Northern Cape MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlement and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), Bentley Vass officially handed over newly-completed houses at the Onseepkans 90 Housing Project on Wednesday. Vass said this development is part of the One Billion Rand Housing Project, an initiative aimed at clearing the province’s housing backlog and building safer, stronger communities.

He further said restoring dignity through quality housing remains at the heart of our mandate. Vass added that seeing the sheer joy on the faces of mothers, fathers, and youth as they open the doors to their brand-new homes drives their resolve.

“Our firm stance remains ensuring that all remaining housing units under the first phase of this landmark One Billion Rand Housing Project, are fully completed and handed over to their rightful owners before the end of this financial year.

“The department will continue to work closely with local municipal leadership, contractors and community structures to maintain the construction momentum and guarantee that no project in the first phase is left incomplete,” he said.

The executive mayor of the Namakwa District, Alinda Beukes and , the Khâi-Ma Local Municipality, Estelle Cloete said: “On behalf of the Khâi-Ma Local Municipality, I extend our deepest gratitude to the provincial government and Vass for prioritizing Onseepkans through this landmark Housing Project.

“Delivering these newly-completed homes not only restores pride and stability to our families, but also reflects the power of strong intergovernmental collaboration in restoring human dignity across our communities.”

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767 suspects nabbed during Operation Shanela II

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Picture: The police during stop and search operation/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

24 July 2026 – The acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, reiterated that police across the province will continue to squeeze the space for criminals in response to serious and violent crimes through Operation Shanela 2, which focuses on enhanced crime prevention and combatting criminal activities. Naidoo said consequent to operations conducted between 13 and 19 July 2026, a total of 767 suspects were arrested for various crimes ranging from murder, attempted murder, assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm and common assault, dealing in drugs, illegal dealing in liquor, possession of drugs, burglary at business and residential premises, to driving under the influence of alcohol.

“In addition, 97 suspected undocumented migrants were taken in for processing by Immigration officials. During the operations, 391 premises, 2 856 persons and 1423 vehicles were searched.

“Moreover, the police working together with other law enforcement agencies confiscated alcohol, ammunition, cash, cellular phones, contraband goods, a variety of drugs, eight dangerous weapons, commercial explosives, 2 202 kg kilograms of copper cables, tobacco products and eight vehicles,” he said.

Naidoo further said on 16 July 2026, a tip-off was received was operationalised, leading to the recovery of a Toyota HiAce Quantum, found parked next to the road in Majakaneng, near Mooinooi. He added that the vehicle valued at around R400 000, was recovered before the owner, who is from Tlhabane Township, near Rustenburg could realised that his it was stolen.

“In a second unrelated incident reported in Vryburg on 19 July 2026, a suspect (17) was arrested for the alleged rape of his niece (5). The suspect will be dealt with in accordance with the Child Justice Act, Act 75 of 2008.

“We welcome the results achieved. The police will remain resolute in their mission to decisively deal with serious and violent crime in the province through Operation Shanela 2,” said Naidoo.

He also encouraged all law enforcement agencies to continue working tirelessly towards building safer communities and urged members of the public to cooperate with police by reporting criminal activities.

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Police are looking for a missing Ipeleng Dire

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Picture: Missing person, Ipeleng Dire/Supplied

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

24 July 2026 – The police in Klerksdorp request the community’s assistance in locating a missing person, Ipelegeng Dire (23). Dire, who is originally from Ipelegeng Township in Schweizer Reneke, was last seen on 23 March 2026, at Van Zyl Street, Pienaarsdorp, in Klerksdorp.

The North West police spokesperson, Captain Majang Skalkie said a search commenced and extensive investigations were conducted, but police could not locate her. Skalkie said it is unknown what she was wearing at the time of her disappearance.

“Dire is light in complexion, short and has a slender built body with black long hair. The police request anyone who may have information regarding Ipelegeng Dire’s whereabouts to contact the Investigating Officer, Sergeant Mateane Mokoto on 063 224 3512.

“Alternatively, they can call their local police station or Crime Stop on 08600 10111. Anonymous tip-offs can also be communicated via the MySAPS App from your smartphone,” she said.

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Robbery suspect arrested, police and civilian injured

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Picture: Police seized a firearm during robbery/Generic

By BAKANG MOKOTO

24 July 2026 – A man (26) was arrested in Oukasie following an exchange of gunfire with the police on 22 July 2026. According to preliminary information, police responded to a complaint of robbery after an elderly person (68) alleged that his grandson forcibly pushed him to the ground and robbed him of his licensed firearm at his residence in Masenkeng, Oukasie.

The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Adele Myburgh, said it is further alleged that the suspect fired two shots at the complainant, missing him, before fleeing the scene. Myburgh said the police immediately launched a search operation, which was later reinforced by members of the Brits Tactical Response Team (TRT), Crime Prevention, and other SAPS units.

“During the search, the suspect was spotted, but fled towards nearby mountains before running through residential areas. While pursuing the suspect near a primary school, the police members allegedly came under fire when the suspect opened fire on them.

“A further exchange of gunfire ensued after the suspect entered a residential property. During the incident, a police Sergeant (41), sustained a gunshot wound to the right leg and was transported to a medical facility, where he is receiving treatment,” she said.

Myburgh further said a female bystander (30) also sustained a wound to the right leg during the exchange of gunfire and was taken to hospital, where she was released shortly after receiving medical treatment. She added that the suspect sustained multiple gunshot wounds during the confrontation and was transported to the hospital under police guard, where he is receiving medical treatment.

“Several criminal cases are under investigation, including robbery, attempted murder, unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition. This includes discharging a firearm in a municipal area. Additional charges may be added as the investigation progresses.

“The stolen firearm and ammunition have been recovered and seized for forensic examination,” said Myburgh.

Meanwhile, acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, commended the police for their swift response to a dangerous and volatile situation. Naidoo said the police displayed exceptional courage and professionalism, while confronting an armed and dangerous suspect.

“Their decisive actions prevented further harm to the community and demonstrate that the South African Police Service (SAPS) remains committed to protecting the public and bringing violent offenders to justice. I would like to wish a speedy recovery to the injured police member and civilian,” he said.

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Two Eswatini nationals nabbed with 13 bags of dagga

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By AGISANANG SCUFF

23 July 2026 – The North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng congratulated an elite Eagles Unit for the arrest of two foreign nationals with 13 bags of dagga of a value still to be determined. This comes after the Eagles traffic officers received a tip-off about two Eswatini nationals travelling from Mpumalanga through Gauteng on N12 heading towards Klerksdorp with drugs.

Morweng further said working with the South African Police Service (SAPS) Flying Squad Unit, the Eagles successfully intercepted the vehicle smuggling the dagga and two men were immediately arrested. He added that the Eagles were on a routine visible patrol duties when they received an information about the vehicle traveling westwards.

“Whilst an exact value of the confiscated drugs is still being calculated by our experts, the sheer volume of the haul represents a significant blow to interprovincial drug trafficking networks.

“We commend the Eagles for their vigilance, quick response and seamless collaboration between our law enforcement officers. This arrest underscores our unwavering commitment to ensuring that North West will not be used as a drug transit corridor,” he said.

Meanwhile, the suspects are expected to appear in court soon and the investigation into the origin and final destination of the contraband is ongoing.

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Committee on IR to engage in a bilateral meeting with Egyptian Parliamentary on African Affairs of the Chamber Deputies

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Picture: The Chairperson of the South Africa Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on International Relations and Cooperation, Supra Mahumapelo

By OBAKENG MAJE

24 July 2026 – The Portfolio Committee on International Relations and Cooperation will on Friday engage in a bilateral meeting with the Parliament of Egypt’s African Affairs Committee Chairperson, Dr Sherif ElGabaly. ElGabaly will be accompanied by other members of the Parliament of Egypt.

The Chairperson of the South Africa Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on International Relations and Cooperation, Supra Mahumapelo said the engagement provides an opportunity for the two parliamentary committees to exchange views, share best practices and strengthen parliamentary cooperation on matters of mutual interest. Mahumapelo said the bilateral is an opportunity for enhancing regional and international cooperation, which assists parliaments to align on matters of continental and global importance.

“The event will take place at Egypt House, 270 Bourke Street, Pretoria on Friday at 4pm,” he said.

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269 suspects nabbed during Operation Shanela II

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By REGINALD KANYANE

24 July 2026 – Detectives conducted 47 tracing operations that led to the arrest of several wanted suspects who had been evading law enforcement and failing to appear in court for various offences during Operation Shanela II. The operational activities included stop-and-search operations, high-visibility patrols, vehicle checkpoints (VCPs) and roadblocks.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Colonel Cherelle Ehlers said the SAPS together with community structures and various government departments, intensified crime-fighting initiatives during the execution of Operation Shanela II across all five districts of the province. Ehlers said the unwavering commitment resulted in the arrest of 269 suspects during the week-long operation conducted from 13 until 19 July 2026.

“During the operation, numerous premises were searched, while a total of 5 583 persons and 2 701 vehicles were searched. Furthermore, compliance inspections were conducted in conjunction with relevant authorities at liquor outlets, second-hand goods dealers, scrapyards, recycling facilities, firearm dealerships and informal businesses to ensure compliance with applicable legislation.

“As a result, 26 unlicensed liquor outlets were shut down for non-compliance with various legislative requirements. In total, 269 suspects were arrested for offences including drug-related crimes, illegal liquor trading, property-related crimes, rape, attempted murder, and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm,” she said.

Ehlers further said the continued disruption of the illegal drug trade led to the arrest of 54 suspects for drug-related offences and the seizure of a substantial quantity of drugs. She said in addition, alcohol, copper cable and dangerous weapons were confiscated during stop-and-search operations.

“In commemoration of Mandela Day, several community outreach initiatives were undertaken across the province to give back to communities,” said Ehlers.

Meanwhile, the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, hosted an outreach programme for elderly residents in Pampierstad. Otola said the Provincial Heads and District Commissioners also led similar initiatives in their respective areas in support of Mandela Day.

“The Northern Cape SAPS remains resolute in its commitment to creating a safer environment for all communities. Law enforcement agencies will continue to disrupt criminal activities through the execution of intelligence-driven and focused operations,” she said.

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Picture: More than 269 Suspects nabbed during Operation Shanela II/Supplied

‘Weekend Special’ abuser jailed for 10 years

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

24 July 2026 – A man (36) dubbed the “Weekend Special” was sentenced to 10 years imprisonment by the Kimberley Regional Court for assault with intent to cause Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH). The victim (27), who was in a domestic relationship with the accused, endured repeated physical abuse particularly over the weekends.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane said the latest incident occurred in the early hours of Thursday, 1 January 2026, when the victim was socialising at a business establishment in Rietvale, Ritchie. Shename said the accused arrived at the premises, forcibly removed and assaulted her, before dragging her to their residence, where the assault continued.

“The victim managed to escape and sought refuge at her parents’ home. She subsequently reported the matter to the police and opened a case of assault with intent to cause Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH). The accused was subsequently traced and arrested.

“He appeared in court, where He was denied bail. He remained in custody until the conclusion of the case on 21 July 2026. The successful prosecution was made possible through the diligent investigation conducted by Detective Constable Dieter Esterhuizen of the Modderrivier Detective Service, whose meticulous work ensured that the violent offender was brought to justice and held accountable for his actions,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Frances Baard District Police Commissioner, Major General Charlotte Makgari, commended Detective Constable Esterhuizen for his dedication and commitment to the investigation. Makgari reiterated that the South African Police Service (SAPS) remains resolute in its efforts to prevent, combat and investigate crimes against women and children and to ensure that perpetrators of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and domestic abuse face the full might of the law.

“This sentence sends a strong message that perpetrators of violence against women will be pursued and held accountable for their actions. Victims of domestic violence should not suffer in silence. The SAPS remains committed to supporting victims, thoroughly investigating reported cases and working with the criminal justice system to ensure that justice is served,” she said.

Makgari further said the SAPS encourages victims of domestic violence and Gender-Based Violence (GBV) to report incidents to the police and seek assistance. She added that communities are also urged to work with the police by reporting suspected acts of violence and abuse.

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