Daily Archives: August 12, 2026

A man jailed for possession of a knife

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By REGINALD KANYANE

12 August 2026 – A man (24) was sentenced by the Upington Regional Court for contravening Section 3, read with Sections 1 and 2, of the Dangerous Weapons Act, 2013 (Act 15 of 2013), relating to the possession of a dangerous weapon. The accused, MarkWell Basson was sentenced to three years imprisonment for the unlawful possession of a dangerous weapon, namely a knife.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane said the conviction stems from an incident on 19 July 2025, when Constable Desiree Plaatjies (33), attached to the Upington Crime Prevention Unit, encountered the accused in Upington during a stop-and-search operation and found him in possession of a knife. Shemane said Plaatjies presented evidence before the court that was found to be credible, reliable and consistent in all material respects.

“The court described her as an honest witness whose evidence remained unshaken during cross-examination. Her testimony contributed significantly to securing the conviction. The sentence is regarded as a landmark ruling in the ZF Mgcawu District, as it is believed to be the first instance in which an accused has received a sentence of imprisonment for the possession of a dangerous weapon in the district.

“Historically, similar cases have often been withdrawn due to evidentiary challenges. The state prosecutor, Amisha Isaacs, commended Plaatjies for her conduct and performance during the trial,” he said.

Isaacs further said having personally observed her conduct and performance in court, she is satisfied that Plaatjies possesses the qualities expected of an effective police official.

“She demonstrates sound knowledge of her duties, honesty, accountability, professionalism and respect for the judicial process. These qualities will undoubtedly serve her well in a position of greater responsibility.

“The exemplary conduct, legal aptitude and thorough trial preparation demonstrated by Plaatjies reflect the high professional standards expected of members of the South African Police Service (SAPS),” said Isaacs.

She said her performance not only contributed to a precedent-setting conviction in the ZF Mgcawu District, but also demonstrates her potential for greater responsibility and leadership within the organisation. Isaacs said the conviction further underscores the seriousness with which the criminal justice system views the unlawful possession of dangerous weapons.

“It reinforces the objectives of deterrence, crime prevention, rehabilitation and the protection of communities. The unlawful possession of dangerous weapons poses a significant threat to public safety, as such weapons can be used to commit acts of violence, intimidation and other serious offences,” she said.

Meanwhile, the ZF Mgcawu District Police Commissioner, Major General Monica Sebili, echoed the prosecutor’s commendation and welcomed the sentence, stating that it sends a strong message to individuals who unlawfully possess dangerous weapons.

“This sentence serves as a deterrent to individuals who may unlawfully possess dangerous weapons, reinforces respect for the rule of law and promotes public confidence in the criminal justice system.

“It further contributes to the prevention of violent crime by holding offenders accountable and demonstrating that the unlawful possession of dangerous weapons will not be tolerated,” she said.

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A husband nabbed for allegedly raping his wife

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By OBAKENG MAJE

12 August 2026 – A 50-year-old man accused of raping his wife has been denied bail by the Calvinia Magistrates Court. It is alleged that on 22 July 2026, the accused raped his wife, but due to fear, the victim only reported the matter to the police on 25 July 2026.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Captain Ivan Magerman said the accused was arrested on 26 July 2026, and appeared in the Calvinia Magistrate’s Court on 27 July 2026, where he was remanded in custody. Magerman said during his second court appearance on 11 August 2026, the victim indicated that she wished to withdraw the case.

“However, the investigating officer, Detective Warrant Officer David Matthys uncovered a history of alleged abuse through hospital records. Following this development, the senior prosecutor directed that the matter proceed.

“The accused subsequently appeared for a formal bail application in the Calvinia Magistrate’s Court on 11 August 2026. In considering the application, the presiding magistrate emphasised the constitutional obligation of the courts and government to protect women and other vulnerable members of society,” he said.

Magerman further said the court ultimately denied the accused bail and postponed the matter to 14 September 2026, for further investigation. He added that as the country observes Women’s Month, SAPS in the Namakwa District welcomes the court’s decision, which reinforces the principle that no person has the right to exercise power or control over their spouse through violence or abuse.

“The outcome further demonstrates the commitment of the criminal justice system to protecting victims of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and holding alleged perpetrators accountable through due process,” said Magerman.

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Alleged gangster in court for double murder of police officers

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Picture: Two slain police officers and civilians/Facebook

By BAKANG MOKOTO

12 August 2026 – An alleged gangster (23) will appear in the Boksburg Magistrate’s Court today on two counts of murder and possession of unlicensed firearms. The suspect was arrested following a multi-disciplinary tracing operation that led to the recovery of two R5 rifles at KwaDukathole Informal Settlement in Germiston in the past weekend.

The Hawks spokesperson Colonel Katlego Mogale said the operation was led by the DPCI’s Serious Organised Crime Investigation, supported by Gauteng Crime Intelligence Tactical and Special Operations, the Provincial Tracking Team, Tactical Response Team, Anti-Gang Unit and PRASA. Mogale said the coordinated effort resulted in the identification and arrest of the suspect who allegedly took part in the killing of two Gauteng SAPS Anti-Gang Unit members, Constable Sphiwe Sibeko (28) and Constable Thapelo Tlomatsabe (29), as well as two civilian women.

“The suspect, a known gangster, was out on bail at the time of his arrest. He has several pending cases, including two counts of murder, two counts of attempted murder and possession of an unlicensed firearm.

“Investigations are ongoing, with police continuing to pursue all those involved. Further arrests have not been ruled out. SAPS and the DPCI remain committed to dismantling criminal networks, removing illegal firearms from communities and ensuring that perpetrators of violence against police officers and civilians are brought to justice,” she said.

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217 suspects nabbed during Operation Basadi

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Picture: Money and drugs seized during Operation Basadi/Supplied

By AGISANANG SCUFF

12 August 2026 – Female District Commissioners and senior female officers across the Northern Cape took the lead in Operation Basadi disruptive actions, conducted under the umbrella of Operation Shanela II, as part of intensified efforts to combat crime, enhance community participation and promote safer communities throughout the province. The South African Police Service (SAPS) in collaboration with community structures and various government departments, intensified crime-fighting operations across the province, demonstrating a firm and uncompromising stance against criminality.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Colonel Cherelle Ehlers said the operations, conducted from 3 to 9 August 2026, resulted in the arrest of 217 suspects for various offences. Ehlers said operational actions included stop-and-search operations, high-visibility patrols, vehicle checkpoints (VCPs), roadblocks and tracing operations targeting wanted suspects.

“During these operations, a total of 7 420 individuals were searched and 3 505 vehicles were stopped and searched. Detectives also conducted focused tracing operations, which resulted in the apprehension of several wanted suspects who had been evading arrest and failing to appear before court for various offences.

“Compliance inspections were further conducted in collaboration with relevant authorities at liquor outlets, second-hand goods dealers, scrapyards, recycling facilities, firearm dealerships, as well as formal and informal businesses,” she said.

Ehlers further said these inspections resulted in the closure of several unlicensed liquor outlets for non-compliance with applicable legislation and regulations. She added that the arrests included suspects linked to drug-related offences, illegal liquor trading, property-related crimes, murder, rape, attempted murder and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH).

“In the continued fight against drug-related crime, 27 suspects were arrested for drug-related offences, while substantial quantities of drugs were confiscated. In addition, alcohol and dangerous weapons were confiscated during stop-and-search operations.

“As part of Operation Basadi and in commemoration of Women’s Month, several community outreach programmes and awareness campaigns were conducted in collaboration with community structures and key stakeholders,” said Ehlers.

She said these initiatives focused on strengthening partnerships with communities and raising awareness about the safety and protection of women, children and other vulnerable groups. Ehlers said the Northern Cape SAPS remains resolute in its commitment to creating a safer and more secure environment for all communities.

“Law enforcement agencies will continue to intensify intelligence-driven and focused operations aimed at disrupting criminal networks, apprehending wanted suspects and preventing crime,” she said.

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Extreme weather conditions hit Northern Cape

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Picture: Extreme weather conditions hit Northern Cape  

By AGISANANG SCUFF

12 August 2026 – Multiple Districts in the Northern Cape have been affected by extreme weather conditions and the South African Police Service (SAPS) is appealing to residents to implement safety measures during this period and also to be vigilant and alert. The SAPS said floods, ice and snow have been observed in various districts.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Colonel Cherelle Ehlers said the motorists and residents are urged to exercise extreme caution. Ehlers said drivers 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 individuals 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 said they should keep matches, lighters and other flammable liquids out of the reach of children. Ehlers said individuals should keep flammable items like curtains, oven gloves, and paper towels far away from burners and stoves when cooking.

“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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Police officer nabbed for corruption granted R1500 bail

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

12 August 2026 – A Police Sergeant attached to the Kanana Detective Branch, Vusimuzi Radebe (44) was arrested by members of the Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation on 7 August 2026, for alleged corruption and defeating the ends of justice. Radebe briefly appeared in the Klerksdorp Magistrate’s Court on 11 August 2026 and granted R1500 bail.

The Hawks spokesperson in North West, Lieutenant Colonel Tinyiko Mathebula said Radebe’s case was postponed to 30 September 2026, for further investigation. Mathebula said the reports indicate that the accused approached a prosecutor working on a matter in which illegal immigrants were arrested for unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition.

“Radebe allegedly told the prosecutor that the brother of the accused was willing to pay money in order for the accused not to receive a custodial sentence. The prosecutor alerted members of the Hawks Serious Corruption Investigation and an entrapment was set, which led to the arrest of Radebe after he had reportedly handed over R10 000 to the prosecutor,” he said.

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Caved-in mine leaves 14 illegal miners dead

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Picture: 14 illegal miners died at disused mine shaft/Supplied 

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

12 August 2026 – The North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Arthur Adams has confirmed the deaths of 14 illegal miners at the Nkaneng dumping site in Marikana, near Rustenburg. Adams said the incident was reported to the police at approximately 9pm on 10 August 2026.

He further said the preliminary information indicates that a group of suspected zama-zamas were conducting an illegal mining operation at a dumping site. Adams added that a permit had been granted to a company to extract PGM (Platinum Group Metals) in the area.

“The group of zama-zamas were allegedly manually digging in an excavated area when the walls caved in, trapping the illegal miners inside. Nearby mine security guards were informed of the incident by a fellow zama-zama who, after reporting the incident, disappeared.

“The police were subsequently called to the scene, where the deceased illegal miners were discovered. Most of the deceased are understood to be Basotho nationals. Eight people who were rescued have been admitted to a local hospital, where they are receiving medical treatment,” he said.

Adams said three were discharged shortly after receiving treatment and were detained for contravention of the Immigration Act. He said the remaining five are still being kept in hospital under police guard.

“Authorities are continuing to assess the situation amid concerns that an unknown number of illegal miners may still be trapped underground. The immediate priority remains the safe rescue and recovery of anyone who may still be underground, with all relevant resources being mobilised to support the operation.

“An inquest investigation has also been opened to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident. We describe the incident as a tragic reminder of the dangers associated with illegal mining. Illegal mining takes place outside regulated mining environments, often without proper safety measures, oversight or lawful working conditions,” said Adams.

He warned that people entering abandoned or active underground areas expose themselves to significant risks, including rockfalls and other life-threatening hazards.

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Attorney in court for ‘stealing’ client’s estate

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By REGINALD KANYANE

12 August 2026 – Barend Botha (69), who is an attorney, appeared in the Klerksdorp Magistrate’s Court on 11 August 2026, facing charges of theft. Botha was arrested on 11 August 2026, by members of the Serious Commercial Crime Investigation for allegedly stealing his deceased client’s estate.

The Hawks spokesperson in North West, Lieutenant Colonel Tinyiko Mathebula said it is alleged that in June 2016, Botha de Wet and Roodt Law Firm was appointed to assist with the estate of their deceased client. Mathebula said over R130 000 was reportedly transferred from the deceased’s bank account into the trust account of the law firm.

“Investigation revealed that Botha did not transfer the money to the beneficiary. Following an investigation, Botha was apprehended and charged with theft. He appeared in court and was granted R5000 bail.

“His matter was postponed to 30 September 2026 for an appearance at the Specialised Commercial Crime Court sitting in Klerksdorp,” he said.

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DEDECT’s Empowerment Fund brings growth to women entrepreneurs

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Picture: Founder of Maureen’s Beauty Hub (Pty) Ltd, Maureen Modisaotsile

By OBAKENG MAJE

12 August 2026 – As part of Women’s Month Celebration, the North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT) is celebrating women entrepreneurs whose determination, resilience and innovation are contributing to job creation, economic participation and community development across the province. The department said amongst them is Maureen Modisaotsile, founder of Maureen’s Beauty Hub (Pty) Ltd in Golfview, Mahikeng, whose entrepreneurial journey demonstrates how targeted government support can help women-owned businesses strengthen their operations and unlock opportunities for growth.

Formally registered in 2019, Maureen’s Beauty Hub offers a range of professional beauty and wellness services, including massage therapy, waxing, facial treatments, make-up, manicures, pedicures and nail treatments. The business also provides house-call and mobile services for events. Like many small businesses, Maureen’s Beauty Hub faced significant challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic.

However, Modisaotsile remained committed to rebuilding and growing her business.

The North West MEC for DEDECT, Bitsa Lenkopane said theough the department’s empowerment fund, DEDECT provided the business with essential equipment and furniture to strengthen its operational capacity and support its long-term sustainability. Lenkopane said the equipment package included a laptop, salon body massage beds/portable wooden massage tables, beauty trolleys, wax warmers, beauty stools and electric facial chairs.

“These resources have enabled the business to improve the quality of its services, expand its client base and operate more efficiently. The impact of the department’s intervention extends beyond the provision of equipment.

“Since receiving the support, Maureen’s Beauty Hub has expanded its workforce by two additional staff members undergoing training, bringing the business to five beauty professionals, three of whom are permanently employed,” she said.

Lenkopane further said the growth demonstrates how targeted support to small and women-owned enterprises can translate into tangible economic opportunities, skills development and livelihoods within local communities. She added that the growth of Maureen’s Beauty Hub demonstrates the importance of creating practical pathways for women and young entrepreneurs to participate meaningfully in the economy.

“Women entrepreneurs are not merely beneficiaries of economic development. They are active drivers of it. Reflecting the 2026 Women’s Month message is, if you empower women, you empower the nation.

“By supporting a women-led company means building abilities, incomes, households and communities. The story of Maureen’s Beauty Hub demonstrates what becomes possible when entrepreneurs with vision and determination are given the right tools and opportunities to grow,” said Lenkopane.

She said through the empowerment fund, they want to see more women and young people turn their ideas into sustainable enterprises that create jobs and contribute to the economic development of the province. Lenkopane said her department remains committed to using the empowerment fund to strengthen the capacity of women- and youth-owned enterprises, enabling them to improve their operations, access opportunities, create sustainable employment and contribute to a more inclusive and resilient provincial economy.

“The success of Maureen’s Beauty Hub illustrates that empowerment is most meaningful when support translates into real change, stronger businesses, improved livelihoods, skills development and new opportunities for others.

“Her journey is a reminder that when women entrepreneurs are allowed to grow, the impact extends far beyond the business itself. The success of Maureen’s Beauty Hub illustrates the positive impact that targeted government support can have in unlocking the potential of women-owned as well as youth enterprises,” she said.

She said this Women’s Month, the department celebrates entrepreneurs such as Modisaotsile, whose dedication and perseverance continue to inspire other women to pursue entrepreneurship and seize opportunities for economic participation.

Modisaotsile expressed her appreciation to the department for investing in the growth and sustainability of her business.

“The support from DEDECT has made a significant difference to my business. It has enabled us to improve our services, attract more clients and create employment opportunities.

“I encourage women to believe in their ideas, make use of available government support programmes such as the DEDECT’s Empowerment Fund and take the bold step of starting and growing their own businesses,” she said.

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