By REGINALD KANYANE

14 August 2026 – The police in the Namakwa District continues to intensify efforts to combat the illegal trade in drugs and protect communities from the devastating effects of substance abuse. On Wednesday, the members of SAPS Brandvlei acted swiftly on a tip-off regarding a vehicle allegedly transporting dagga in the Brandvlei area.

The Namakwa District Police spokesperson, Captain Ivan Charles Magerman said the police operationalised the information and spotted a white Toyota Tazz in Burger Street, Brandvlei. Magerman said a search of the vehicle was conducted, resulting in the discovery of several ziplock bags containing skunk dagga, with an estimated street value of R67 500.

“Three suspects aged between 28 and 46, were arrested and are facing charges of dealing in dagga.

“The suspects are expected to appear in the Calvinia Magistrate’s Court in due course,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Namakwa DistrictPolice Commissioner, Brigadier Schalk Andrews, commended the police for their swift and decisive response to the information received. Andrews also expressed his appreciation to the community for providing information that enables the police to disrupt the illegal drug trade.

“Drug dealers have no place to hide in our communities. We will continue to act on information received and ensure that those who profit from the illegal drug trade are brought before the courts.

“We urge community members to continue working with the police by reporting suspicious activities,” he said.

Andrews further said the police in the Namakwa District remains committed to preventing and combating drug-related crimes and calls on members of the public to continue providing information to the police.

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By OBAKENG MAJE

14 August 2026 – An intelligence-driven operation targeting drug dealing and other criminal activities in the Pudimoe policing precinct has resulted in the arrest of a suspect and the seizure of suspected drugs, and cash. The operation was conducted on 12 August 2026, by the police in Pudimoe in collaboration with the District Crime Prevention members and Pudimoe Crime Intelligence, following the execution of a search warrant.

The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Anne Magakoe said the accused, Thapelo Duncan (43), also known as “Bendo” Mothupi, was arrested after police allegedly found him in possession of multiple drug sachets as well as cash. Magakoe said Mothupi, who was allegedly on parole at the time of his arrest, has previously been arrested and convicted in connection with drug-related offences.

“He was convicted in October 2024 and sentenced to two years imprisonment. Mothupi appeared before the Taung Magistrate’s Court on 13 August 2026, on the drug-related charges.

“The matter was remanded to 20 August 2026, for a legal aid application and he remains in custody,” she said.

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Arthur Adams, welcomed the arrest and commended the police involved in the arrest of Mothupi for their intelligence-driven approach and collaborative efforts to disrupt drug dealing and other criminal activities. Adams reiterated that SAPS will continue targeting drug dealers, repeat offenders and criminal networks that threaten the safety and well-being of communities.

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By REGINALD KANYANE

14 August 2026 – A man (41) was arrested for alleged dealing in drugs and contravention of the Immigration Act. This comes after the vigilant actions of a police officer in Kimberley.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Litabe said the arrest forms part of the South African Police Service’s continued efforts to disrupt the proliferation and distribution of illicit drugs, which fuel other forms of criminality and pose a serious threat to the safety and wellbeing of communities. Litabe said on 12 August 2026, a member attached to Provincial Operational Response Services was conducting policing duties in Warren Street, De Beers in Kimberley when he became suspicious of the activities of two men travelling in a vehicle.

“The police officer approached the vehicle as it was about to drive past and identified himself. With the occupants’ permission, a search of the vehicle was conducted.

“During the search, the police officer allegedly discovered packets containing suspected cocaine and khat, with an estimated street value of R1500, concealed inside the vehicle,” he said.

Litabe said the further search was conducted and allegedly resulted in the discovery of cash suspected to be the proceeds of illicit drug dealing. He added that a suspect was immediately arrested and charged with alleged dealing in drugs.

“He was also charged with contravening the Immigration Act after he allegedly failed to produce valid identification and immigration documentation when requested to do so.

“The vehicle was seized as it was allegedly used in the commission of the offence,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Frances Baard District Police Commissioner, Major General Gabathata Makgari, commended the police for his alertness and vigilance, which resulted in the disruption of the alleged distribution of illicit drugs. Makgari said the proliferation of illicit drugs remains a serious concern, as the availability and distribution of drugs can contribute to substance abuse, violence and other forms of criminality within communities.

“This arrest demonstrates the importance of vigilant policing and proactive interventions aimed at disrupting the drug supply chain.

“The Northern Cape SAPS remains resolute in its commitment to combating the trafficking and dealing in illicit drugs,” she said.

Makgari said the operations, intelligence-driven investigations and targeted interventions will continue to be intensified to identify and dismantle networks involved in the distribution of drugs and to prevent these substances from reaching vulnerable members of our communities.

“The suspect is expected to appear in the Kimberley Magistrate’s Court soon,” she said.

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

14 August 2026 – The police in the Northern Cape in partnership with AVBOB, used the airwaves of Radio Teemaneng Stereo this morning to raise awareness against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF).

AVBOB Area Manager, Gezelle Lottering said the programme provides support to survivors of GBVF-related crimes. Lottering said the initiative represents AVBOB’s contribution as a private-sector partner working alongside key stakeholders, including SAPS, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), civil society organisations and communities to strengthen the collective response to GBVF.

“We recognise that addressing GBVF cannot be achieved by one organisation alone. It requires partnerships, coordinated services and practical support for survivors.

“This is why AVBOB is investing in a programme that goes beyond awareness and focuses on providing meaningful support to those affected,” she said.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson,Colonel Cherelle Ehlers commended AVBOB for its continued partnership with SAPS and acknowledged the generous donation of comfort packs and warm blankets. Ehlers said these items will be distributed across all five districts of the Northern Cape and made available at Victim-Friendly Facilities at police stations to assist victims of crime.

“It is important of the victims and survivors to break the silence and report GBVF-related crimes to the police.

“So, we encourage communities to support victims and ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice, while creating safer environments for women and children,” she said.

Ehlers further said the two organisations reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening their partnership and ensuring that efforts to combat GBVF continue beyond Women’s Month.

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