23 July 2026 – The police in the Northern Cape together with the provincial traffic officers, continue to intensify efforts to stop the cross-border transport of drugs. This comes after a foreign national (37) was arrested and 379.3 kilograms of suspected dagga valued at more than R7 586 000 was seized during an operation at the Weigh Bridge on the N1 in Colesberg on 22 July 2026.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Brigadier Mashay Gamieldien said at approximately 1:50pm, the provincial traffic officials stopped a white Foton truck transporting mobile toilets after receiving a tip-off that it was being used to transport conceal dagga. Gamieldien said during the inspection, they detected a strong smell of dagga coming from one of the toilets and found a large bag inside.
“The police were called to the scene and after a thorough search, they discovered seven bulk bags wrapped in seal tape containing suspected dagga. The driver was arrested by Colesberg SAPS and charged with dealing in dagga. The truck and trailer were also confiscated. He is expected to appear in the Colesberg Magistrate’s Court soon,” she said.
Meanwhile, the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, commended the officials for their vigilance and swift response, saying the seizure shows the value of cooperation between law enforcement agencies in disrupting drug trafficking. Otola also cited that the police will continue working with partners to stop the movement of illicit drugs across provincial borders.
“The SAPS in the Northern Cape remains committed to fighting the drug trade and ensuring safer communities across the province,” she said.
Picture: SAPS hosts integrated crime and violence prevention strategy/Supplied
By AGISANANG SCUFF
23 July 2026 – The South African Police Service (SAPS) National Head Office: Organisational Development and Strategic Management hosted an Integrated Crime and Violence Prevention Strategy (ICVPS) work session at the Kimberley SAPS Gymnasium in the Frances Baard District on Monday. The SAPS said Integrated Crime and Violence Prevention Strategy has been identified as a national priority by the acting Minister of Police, Professor Firoz Cachalia during a Parliamentary briefing held on 17 February 2026.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane said in response to this directive, the SAPS National Head Office: Organisational Development and Strategic Management embarked on a nationwide rollout of awareness and capacity-building sessions to outline the objectives of the Strategy and the expectations for priority police stations. Shemane said the work session was facilitated by Brigadier Sandra Pillay and Colonel Jenny Ganess from SAPS National Head Office: Organisational Development and Strategic Management.
“Among those in attendance, were the Provincial Head for Organisational Development and Strategic Management, Brigadier Merle Coghlan, the Provincial Head: Proactive Policing, Brigadier Irene Kopaledi, senior SAPS officers, Station Commanders and Detective Branch Commanders from the Frances Baard, John Taolo Gaetsewe and Namakwa Districts.
“The workshop focused on the six strategic pillars of the ICVPS, such as an effective criminal justice system, early intervention to prevent crime and violence and promote safety, victim support, effective and integrated service delivery for safety, security and violence prevention,” he said.
Shemane further said this includes crime prevention through environmental design and active public and community participation. He added that the strategy is informed by the White Paper on Safety and Security (2016), which gives effect to the vision of safe communities as articulated in the National Development Plan 2030.
Shemane said it envisions communities where people feel safe at home, at school in the workplace and in public spaces, where women can move freely without fear, and where children can play safely. He said that the ICVPS provides a framework to guide the implementation of a comprehensive, holistic and integrated approach to community safety, crime prevention and violence reduction.
“It’s further advocates for a collaborative approach involving state and non-state stakeholders across all three spheres of government to strengthen integrated planning, coordinated service delivery and meaningful partnerships with communities and civil society.
“SAPS remains committed to service excellence and continues to promote collaboration in building safer communities through proactive crime prevention initiatives, information sharing, violence prevention and community empowerment,” said Shemane.
23 July 2026 – The South African National Civic Organisation (SANCO) in the North West said it has noted with shock and deep disappointment the allegations of bullying and unfair treatment directed at ANC Provincial List Committee (PLC) representative, Dr Sello Ntsoko. SANCO said it was approached by Ntsoko, who raised serious concerns regarding the conduct of certain ANC members serving on the PLC.
SANCO provincial secretary, Mogomotsi Mosheshe said according to these concerns, Ntsoko has repeatedly been prevented from expressing his views freely, with his contributions allegedly being suppressed through the use of numerical majority rather than democratic engagement. Mosheshe said equally concerning are allegations of manipulation, undue interference and undemocratic practices during the candidate selection process.
“These allegations, if left unaddressed, have the potential to undermine the credibility and integrity of the PLC. As a people-centred and community-driven organisation, SANCO will never allow the voices of the communities we represent to be silenced.
“Our representative serves on the PLC to advance the interests of our communities, and any attempt to intimidate, marginalise, or bully him is an attack on SANCO itself. We therefore wish to make it unequivocally clear that if Ntsoko is targeted for fulfilling his responsibilities, SANCO will regard such actions as an attack on the organisation and the communities it represents,” he said.
Mosheshe further reminded their alliance partner, the African National Congress (ANC), that the revolutionary alliance was not formed by chance. He added that it was built on the enduring principles of mutual respect, unity, consultation, and collective leadership.
“These principles must continue to guide the conduct of all alliance partners and their representatives. SANCO therefore calls upon ANC members serving on the PLC to refrain from any conduct that may be perceived as bullying, intimidation, or the suppression of differing views.
“We urge all members to demonstrate political maturity, uphold democratic values, and conduct themselves in a manner that promotes fairness, transparency, and respect for all participants in the candidate selection process,” said Mosheshe.
He said they remain hopeful that this unfortunate impasse can be resolved amicably in the best interests of the alliance and the people of the North West. Mosheshe said unity among alliance partners is essential, if they are to work together effectively towards securing a decisive victory for the ANC in the forthcoming Local Government Elections (LGEs).
“Finally, SANCO wishes to remind the leadership of the ANC that arrogance, factionalism, intolerance, and conduct inconsistent with the ANC Constitution have significantly contributed to the erosion of public confidence in the movement.
“If the renewal of the ANC is to be meaningful, there must be a genuine commitment to self-correction, accountability, and decisive action against individuals whose conduct undermines the values and objectives of the organisation,” he said.
Mosheshe said without such commitment, the renewal project risks becoming an empty slogan rather than a genuine programme of organisational renewal.
Meanwhile, it is alleged that Ntsoko has since resigned as ANC Provincial List Committee (PLC) due to bullying and unfair treatment directed him. However, it is alleged that, this has drawn attention of the ANC Secretary-General, Fikile Mbalula who has intervened in the matter and pursuing Ntsoko to reverse his decision.
23 July 2026 – The African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL) in Bojanala Region has raised concerns on the state of the ANC and the ongoing ANC councillor candidate selection processes across all municipalities in Bojanala. The ANCYL regional executive committee (REC) said it has noted with grave concern the allegations of manipulation, interference and undemocratic practices in the candidate selection processes across various ANC branches in Bojanala.
According to the ANCYL Bojanala regional spokesperson, Pako Mokua, this conduct is a direct attack on the democratic character of the ANC and a betrayal of the trust placed in it by communities. Mokua said it is particularly alarming that this is happening at a time when young people, who remain largely non-aligned to narrow factional interests are voluntarily stepping forward to offer themselves for public office and community service.
“We must state categorically clear that the ANC is in a crisis of electoral decline, currently sitting at 40% nationally. What we are witnessing in Bojanala is not organisational renewal, but self-destruction. The current infighting and alleged manipulations are not a result of external infiltration. They are a self-inflicted wound intended to weaken and bury the ANC ahead of the next local government elections.
“The organisational report confirmed a disturbing and consistent pattern in branches across Bojanala, where young candidates who emerged through legitimate, democratic community processes are being systematically targeted, removed and replaced by ANC branch executive committees and certain regional deployees,” he said.
Mokua further said the REC cites, as a case in point, the unjustifiable re-run ordered in Rustenburg Sub-Region, Ward 1-Phatsima village by the ANC BEC leadership. This decision is a blatant subversion of the will of the people and sets a dangerous precedent that threatens to collapse confidence in the ANC. He added that the ANCYL condemns in the strongest terms the tendency to undermine community outcomes through rigged branch general meetings (BGMs), where membership registers are manipulated by ANC branch secretaries.
“This is an attack on the sovereignty of the branch and on the renewal agenda of the ANC. We call on all young people who were elected and endorsed in community meetings to report any acts of victimisation, removal or manipulation to us.
“The ANCYL Bojanala will closely monitor all selection processes and provide immediate political and organisational support to all young people contesting both ward and proportional representation councillors in line with the ANC’s commitment on generational mix and renewal. The REC resolved that every third name on the PR list must be a young person during the reordering process,” said Mokua.
He said this is a non-negotiable principle to guarantee the future leadership of the ANC. Mokua said any attempt to tamper with this principle will be challenged.
Former Speaker of Parliament, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
23 July 2026 – The trial against the former Speaker of Parliament, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula commenced at the Gauteng Division of the High Court, Pretoria, wherein the first witness took the stand. The state has called upon its first witness, General Bantubonke Holomisa to testify as one of the complainants in this matter.
Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) spokesperson, Henry Mamothame said Mapisa-Nqakula is facing 12 counts of corruption and money laundering wherein she is accused of soliciting and receiving R4.5 million, with R2.1 million allegedly received as cash from a service provider. Mamothame said the matter was postponed to 23 July 2026, for further trial and the state is expected to call on its next witness to the stand.
Picture: Moretele Local Municipality mayor, George Manyike
By REGINALD KANYANE
23 July 2026 – The Moretele Local Municipality mayor, George Manyike has today hosted a community Imbizo at the Dipetlelwane Sports Ground, where he accounted to residents on the municipality’s programmes and service delivery commitments. Community members from wards 2, 3, 6, 13, 14, 15, 16, 18, and surrounding areas, gathered to engage directly with Manyike, who was accompanied by Members of the Mayoral Committee (MMCs), councillors, and senior municipal officials.
According to Manyike, the Imbizo provided residents with an opportunity to raise concerns, ask questions and receive updates on key municipal programmes and development initiatives. He further said the discussions focused on critical issues affecting communities such as water provision, sanitation, electricity, roads, housing, infrastructure development and local economic opportunities.
“By bringing together residents from several wards, the municipality encouraged a broader and more inclusive dialogue on matters affecting the wider Moretele community, while reinforcing the principles of transparency, accountability, and participatory governance.
“We encouraged residents to continue working closely with the municipality to improve service delivery and community development. These community engagements are an important platform for ensuring that local government remains accountable and responsive to the needs of our people. Together, we can build a better Moretele through active public participation,” he added.
Manyike said the municipality remains committed to strengthening engagement with communities through regular public participation platforms that promote transparency, responsiveness, and collaborative governance.
Picture: Team SA during World Spelling Bee Championship competition/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
23 July 2026 – The North West Department of Education has congratulated Team South Africa after securing a fourth place at the World Spelling Bee Championship held in Shanghai, China, from 13 to 20 July 2026. The department said among the team’s outstanding performers was a Grade 7 learner from Klerksdorp Primary School, Mbulelo Tolom (13).
The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi said Tolom was the youngest member of the six-member Team South Africa. Motsumi said individually, Tolom achieved an impressive 6th place in the World Spelling Bee Championship.
“He competed against learners from higher grades and demonstrating exceptional spelling ability, determination and resilience on the international stage. So, we would like to commend the team’s outstanding performance on the international stage.
“This is exceptional achievement at an international level and their performance demonstrates the high quality of education provided in our schools and confirms that South African learners can compete with the very best in the world,” she said.
Motsumi further said she is also exceptionally proud of Mbulelo Tolom for achieving the 6th place overall in the World Spelling Bee Championship. She added that as the youngest member of Team South Africa, Tolom competed against learners from higher grades and from some of the best schools across the world.
“His achievement proves that one’s background does not determine one’s destination, but hard work, determination and commitment can lead to success. Tolom has shown that South African learners have the talent and confidence to compete on the global stage. He is an inspiration and a positive role model for many young people in the North West and across the country.
“Team South Africa returned home with a gold medal from the World Spelling Bee Championship after delivering an outstanding performance at the prestigious international competition,” said Motsumi.
Picture: Namakwa Highway Patrol Unit member, Sergeant Brisela Jacobs/Supplied
By AGISANANG SCUFF
22 July 2026 – The police in Namakwa continue to recognise and celebrate the dedication, resilience and invaluable contribution of women in policing. Sergeant Brisela Jacobs of the Namakwa Highway Patrol Unit shared her inspiring journey within the SAPS, reflecting on her beginnings as a Reservist in 2006, before officially joining the Service as a student in 2013.
Jacobs’ commitment to serving and protecting communities has seen her progress to the Namakwa Highway Patrol Unit, where she currently serves as an Advanced Driver. Her responsibilities include conducting highway patrols, performing vehicle checks and contributing to road safety and crime prevention initiatives along the N7 and N14 routes within the Namakwa District.
“I am passionate about my role and the aspects of highway policing inspires me the most. This gives me an opportunity to serve communities with skill, precision, professionalism and commitment, while contributing to safer roads and ensuring the safety and security of road users across the district.
“As a woman in uniform, I would also like to use the platform to deliver a powerful message to women by encouraging them to recognise their worth and to speak out against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF),” she said.
Jacobs further said women are valuable, precious and they should know that storms do not come to break, but to build them. She added that they should break away from domestic violence, GBVF and break the silence.
“So, I would like to encourage women in the SAPS to conduct themselves responsibly on social media platforms and to remain mindful of the principles and professional standards prescribed by SAPS directives, which provides guidance on professional conduct and communication within the SAPS.
“One of the Namakwa Highway Patrol Unit’s successes involves the tracing of a stolen vehicle through the use of an Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) scanner. The incident demonstrated the value of technology in supporting intelligence-driven policing and enhancing the ability of police officials to detect and respond to criminal activity,” said Jacobs.
She applauded her colleagues in the Namakwa Highway Patrol Unit for their continued teamwork, dedication and commitment to policing. Jacobs also acknowledged the leadership and guidance of the Namakwa District Police Commissioner, Brigadier Schalk Andrews, whose support continues to contribute towards strengthening effective policing and service delivery throughout the district.
Meanwhile, Andrews said: “The SAPS in Namakwa remains committed to recognising the contribution of women in policing and empowering its members to serve communities with integrity, professionalism and dedication.”
22 July 2026 – The police in Northern Cape are urging members of the public to exercise extreme caution when conducting online transactions following a number of reported online shopping scams, particularly in Upington in the ZF Mgcawu District. The police have received several complaints from unsuspecting community members, who were allegedly defrauded after responding to advertisements for various products posted on social media platforms and other online channels.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane said in the reported cases, victims were lured into transferring money for goods advertised online. Shemane said, however, after making payment, the purchased products were never delivered.
“In some instances, the collection addresses provided by the alleged sellers were found to be fictitious or non-existent. SAPS is concerned about the increasing prevalence of online scams and is calling on the public to remain vigilant and to exercise caution when responding to online advertisements, particularly those offering goods at prices that appear too good to be true.
“The members of the public are advised to verify the legitimacy of online sellers before making any payments. Avoid transferring money to unknown individuals without first confirming the authenticity of the seller and the advertised product,” he said.
Shemane further said the public should be cautious of sellers who insist on immediate payment or provide suspicious collection or delivery arrangements. He added that they should verify physical addresses and contact details provided by online sellers.
“Where possible, use secure and reputable online shopping platforms that offer buyer protection. Contact their bank immediately if they suspect that they have fallen victim to an online scam. SAPS further urges members of the public to remain cautious when engaging in online or telephonic communications.
“If in doubt, contact your bank or the police directly for assistance and advice. Members of the public are encouraged to report suspicious activities to their nearest police station, contact the SAPS Crime Stop number on 08600 10111, or submit a report via the MySAPS App,” he said.
Shemane said in cases involving extortion, members of the public can contact the National Extortion Hotline on 0800 911 011. He said the SAPS appeals to communities to remain vigilant and to share information about suspected scams with family members, friends and other community members to prevent others from falling victim to these criminal activities.
22 July 2026 – Two men from Tsineng village, near Kuruman were sentenced to 12 years imprisonment each by the Kuruman Regional Court for attempted murder. This comes after the accused, Tiisetso Tlhaole (25) and Tlhophang Batsamai (33) brutally assaulted Khumoetsile Aubrey Malekanyo (37) on 28 October 2023.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Litabe said a diligent investigative work of Detective Sergeant Khumoetsile Setlhauno of the Batlharos Detective Service led to the successful conviction and sentencing. Litabe said the matter was reported to the police after the victim was admitted to hospital with severe head injuries on the day of the incident.
“The police registered a case of attempted murder and pursued all available leads, which subsequently linked both accused to the attack. The investigation revealed that the two men assaulted the victim by striking him on the head with a rock, leaving him with serious injuries.
“The court found both accused guilty of attempted murder and sentenced each of them to twelve years imprisonment of which four years were suspended for five years on condition that they are not convicted of attempted murder or a similar offence committed during the period of suspension,” he said.
Litabe further said they were also declared unfit to possess firearms. He added that the accused will each serve an effective eight years imprisonment.
Meanwhile, the acting John Taolo Gaetsewe District Police Commissioner, Brigadier Kenneth Baloyi, welcomed the sentence and commended Setlhauno for his dedication and outstanding investigative work, which ensured that justice was served.
The Guardian 