Daily Archives: August 26, 2026

Cocaine worth over R200m seized

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Picture: Cocaine worth over R200m seized/Supplied

By AGISANANG SCUFF

26 August 2026 – The acting National Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane, has applauded the work of a multidisciplinary team at OR Tambo International Airport (ORTIA) following the seizure of cocaine worth an estimated R200 million. On Tuesday, SAPS members attached to ORTIA, working with other law enforcement authorities including Customs officials, intercepted two separate consignments of cocaine.

Dimpane said in the first incident, two large travel suitcases were intercepted at the airport terminal. She said the suitcases contained blocks of suspected cocaine weighing approximately 84 kilograms.

“In a separate interception at the cargo section, four boxes containing approximately 250 kilograms of suspected cocaine, packed into 220 blocks, were seized. The combined estimated street value of the seized cocaine is more than R200 million.

“No arrests have been made at this stage. Investigations are underway to identify and apprehend those responsible for the importation and distribution of the drugs,” she said.

Dimpane further commended the multidisciplinary team for its vigilance and continued efforts to disrupt drug trafficking through the country’s major international entry points. She added that the vigilance of their members at this strategic port of entry ought to be commended.

“On a monthly basis, we continue to intercept large quantities of drugs and disrupt the activities of drug mules. These successes send a strong message that we will not allow South Africa to be used as a transit point or market for illicit drugs.

“We will continue working with our law enforcement partners to detect, intercept and dismantle drug trafficking networks,” concluded Dimpane.

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Three people hacked to death with spade

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Picture: Two of three people hacked to death with spade/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

26 August 2026 – The police in Moeka Vuma, near Makapanstad have launched a manhunt for a man (41) wanted in connection with the brutal murder of three people. The police are searching for James Mohajane, who is wanted for the murder of his girlfriend, Moipone Lefoka, her sister, Esther Lefoka and Esther’s boyfriend, Tshepo Molekwa.

The national police spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said it is alleged that the three victims were last seen together at a house belonging to Tshepo Molekwa. Mathe said on Sunday morning, the bodies of the three victims were discovered at the house.

“They had allegedly been hacked to death with a spade. Mohajane was nowhere to be found when police arrived at the scene. His cellphone was, however, found at the crime scene. The motive for the killings is still under investigation.

“SAPS is appealing to anyone who may have information on the whereabouts of James Mohajane to immediately contact Sergeant Nhlapo on 078 918 7746,” she said.

Mathe further said members of the public are urged not to approach or confront the suspect, but to immediately provide information to the police. She added that the SAPS reiterates its commitment to intensifying efforts to prevent and combat Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) and violent crime, particularly crimes targeting women and vulnerable groups.

“The South African Police Service (SAPS) intensifies its fight against GBVF and serious and violent crimes perpetrated against women, children and vulnerable groups during Women’s Month,” said Mathe.

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A man sentenced to 15 years imprisonment for attempted murder

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By REGINALD KANYANE

26 August 2026 – A man (47) was sentenced to 15 years imprisonment by the Colesberg Regional Court for attempted murder. This comes after a victim (52) reported the matter at Kuyasa Police Station in January 2026, after he sustained a life-threatening stab wound.

According to the Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Litabe, on 9 January 2026, at approximately 10pm, the accused, Vuyani Rasmeni and the victim, were at a shebeen in Kuyasa, where they were socialising. Litabe said later that evening, the victim went to a nearby tuck shop and when he returned to the shebeen, he encountered Rasmeni, who allegedly took out a knife and stabbed him once in the chest before fleeing the scene.

“The victim was rushed to hospital, where he received medical treatment for the life-threatening injury. He was discharged from hospital on 16 January 2026. The case was assigned to Detective Sergeant Gorrah, who conducted a thorough investigation that led to the arrest of the accused.

“Rasmeni appeared in court on several occasions and was remanded in custody until his conviction and sentencing. In addition to the 15-year prison sentence, the court declared Rasmeni unfit to possess a firearm,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Pixley ka Seme District Police Commissioner, Major General Nomana Mtukushe, welcomed the sentence and commended Detective Sergeant Gorrah for his exceptional investigative work, which ultimately contributed to securing justice for the victim. Mtukushe said the conviction and sentencing of the accused, aligns directly with the SAPS’ commitment to ensuring that all citizens are and feel safe, that supports and advocates the Reset Agenda.

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Police are looking for a missing patient, Hendrick “Choko” van Eck

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Picture: Missing patient, Hendrick “Choko” van Eck/Supplied 

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

26 August 2026 – The Kimberley Serious and Violent Crimes Unit are appealing to the public for assistance in locating Hendrick “Choko” van Eck (64), who reportedly went missing from Robert Sobukwe Hospital on 23 August 2026. Van Eck is originally from Ritchie, near Kimberley.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Litabe said van Eck is slender in build and approximately 1.65 metres tall. Litabe said he was allegedly wearing a hospital gown when he was last seen.

“Anyone with information regarding his whereabouts is requested to contact the nearest police station or the investigating officer, Detective Sergeant Moagi Mokatsane on 082 302 0407. The public is reminded that there is no waiting period to report a person missing.

“Alternatively, members of the public can contact the SAPS Crime Stop number on 08600 10111 or use the MySAPS App to provide information that may assist the police in locating the missing person. All information received will be treated with the strictest confidentiality,” he said.

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Ten suspects nabbed in connection with N14 murder

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Picture: Ten suspects arrested in connection of murder/Supplied

By BAKANG MOKOTO

26 August 2026 – Ten suspects were arrested in connection with the murder of Kago Moshole (19), whose body was found lying next to the N14 road, near Ganhaai village on 24 August 2026. Following an intensive investigation, Mothibistad SAPS detectives arrested ten suspects, nine men and one woman.  

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Captain Nomvuyo Makoloi said the female suspect is aged 35, while the male suspects are aged between 30 and 40. Makoloi said nine of the suspects are from Kagung village, while one is from Ganhaai.

“The police have also confiscated a Toyota GD-6, which was allegedly used in the commission of the crime. The operation involved members of the Kuruman K9 Unit, who assisted the detectives in the investigation and subsequent arrests.

“The suspects are also being detained in connection with kidnapping and attempted murder,” she said.

Meanwhile, the acting John Taolo Gaetsewe District Police Commissioner, Brigadier Kenneth Baloyi, applauded the community for providing valuable information that assisted police in the investigation. Baloyi also expressed his appreciation for the coordinated efforts of all role-players involved in the operation, which contributed to the swift progress of the investigation and the subsequent arrests.

“The investigation is continuing and police cannot rule out further arrests as they work to establish the full circumstances surrounding the murder, kidnapping and attempted murder after they allegedly also assaulted another person who is currently receiving medical treatment.

“Anyone who may have information that could assist the police investigation is urged to contact the investigating officer, Sergeant Phenyo Chwene on 082 416 1095. All information provided will be treated confidentiality,” he said.

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Police conducting compliance inspections at liquor outlets

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Picture: The police conducting compliance inspections at liquor outlets and gambling establishments/Supplied

By AGISANANG SCUFF

26 August 2026 – The Northern Cape Gambling and Liquor Board (NCGLB) in partnership with the South African Police Service (SAPS), conducted compliance inspections at liquor outlets and gambling establishments in Noupoort, Norvalspont and Colesberg on 26 August 2026, as part of the ongoing #WeComply Campaign. The inspections form part of efforts to promote responsible liquor trading, strengthen regulatory compliance and ensure that liquor and gambling establishments operate within the prescripts of the law in the Pixley ka Seme District.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Constable Rowan Bacela said the operations focused on key compliance requirements, including the strict prohibition of the sale or supply of alcohol to persons under the age of 18, possession and display of valid liquor and gambling licences and the prevention of the unlawful leasing, transfer or use of liquor and gambling licences. Bacela said the inspections also sought to combat the manufacturing, distribution and sale of illicit and counterfeit liquor.

“A total of 16 liquor outlets and one gambling establishment were inspected during the operation. Three liquor outlets were found to be selling illicit liquor. The affected liquor was removed from the shelves after it was established that the relevant lot numbers had been cancelled by the Department of Agriculture.

“The proprietors were cautioned and instructed to discontinue the sale of the affected products. The SAPS remains committed to working closely with the NCGLB and other relevant stakeholders to strengthen liquor compliance and prevent crime associated with the illegal sale and consumption of alcohol,” he said.

Bacela further said through initiatives such as the #WeComply Campaign, the SAPS continues to promote proactive policing, information sharing, regulatory compliance and collaborative partnerships aimed at creating safer communities across the Northern Cape.

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Preservation orders exceeding R4.4m granted to the state

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By AGISANANG SCUFF

26 August 2026- The Northern Cape High Court sitting in Kimberley granted the Hawks Asset Forfeiture Investigation and National Prosecuting Authority ‘s Asset Forfeiture Unit forfeiture orders of vehicles exceeding combined value of R4.4 million. The first case involves an accused who previously served as a financial administrator at Kathu High School.

The Hawks spokesperson in Northern Cape Warrant Officer Nomthandazo Mnisi said the woman is accused of embezzling school funds to the tune of R4.6 million rands. Mnisi said the modus operandi included creating separate private banking accounts where School funds were diverted.

“Financial discrepancies were identified in October 2025, when an audit detected irregularities in the school’s financial records. The stolen funds included normal school fees and donor amounts, which are used to pay School Governing Body (SGB) teacher’s salaries.

“The Directorate’s investigation revealed that the accused created factious invoices purporting to be legitimate school suppliers and authorised payments which went to her private account and for her benefit. Allegations are, the accused further paid herself overtime despite the school’s policy prohibiting such payments,” she said.

Mnisi further said the matter was referred to Asset Forfeiture Investigation and Asset Forfeiture Unit for further probing. She added that the preservation orders of six vehicles and caravans belonging to the accused were granted to the state.

“In a separate incident, the team acquired a preservation order of two vehicles belonging to a person of interest who deals and transport Sugilite/Wasselite from Johannesburg to Kuruman area,” said Mnisi.

Meanwhile, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPPCI) Provincial Head in the Northern Cape, Major General Steven Mabuela, congratulated the teams for their resilience in solving out cases.

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SAPS honours its fallen heroes and heroines

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

26 August 2026 – Today, the South African Police Service (SAPS) remembers and pays tribute to fallen heroes, the late Warrant Officer Vuyisile Rodney Sintwa and Sergeant Simon Sentsho Masenye who died in the line of duty on 8 August 2025. The SAPS said Sintwa and Masenye were stationed at Florida Police Station in Gauteng at the time of their tragic death.

SAPS national spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said in the build-up to the SAPS Commemoration Day, which will be held at the Union Buildings on 6 September 2026, SAPS will honour 12 police officers who laid down their lives while serving and protecting the people of South Africa.

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North West MEC for Education, Dr Desbo Mohono condemns bullying in schools

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Picture: Learners from Tong Commercial Secondary School in Ganyesa allegedly assaulted a fellow learner/Facebook

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

26 August 2026 – The North West Department of Education said it has noted with concern a bullying incident involving learners from Tong Comprehensive Secondary School in Ganyesa village, which circulated on social media. The department said it has been informed that the incident occurred at Elgiers Village, approximately 10 kilometres from Ganyesa and involved learners who were allegedly engaged in a physical altercation.

The North West MEC for Education, Dr Desbo Mohono said upon becoming aware of the incident through social media, the school management and School Governing Body (SGB) immediately informed the Circuit Manager and engaged the affected learners and their parents. Mohono said on 25 August 2026, the school, SGB, Circuit Manager, SAPS and Social Development conducted an anti-bullying campaign during which learners were sensitised about bullying, its consequences and the importance of reporting incidents to educators and school management.

“A meeting was also held with the parents of the affected learners. It emerged that the bullying allegedly originated at school and was linked to Facebook gossip and insulting letters written in class.

“Following the meeting and consideration of the seriousness of the matter, 12 learners were suspended for seven days pending further investigation. A formal disciplinary hearing is scheduled for 4 September 2026,” she said.

Mohono further said the parent of the affected learner was advised to open a case with SAPS, and a case was subsequently opened under case number 76/8/2026. She added that the department has further arranged for the affected learner to receive psychosocial support from the wellness unit.

“We call on learners to reject bullying and to report incidents of intimidation, harassment and violence before they escalate. Bullying has no place in our schools. Every learner has the right to learn in an environment that is safe, respectful and free from intimidation.

“We commend the school, SAPS, Social Development, parents and other stakeholders for responding promptly to this incident. We urge learners to speak up when they experience or witness bullying and to seek assistance from educators, school management, parents or other responsible adults,” said Mohono.

She said they will continue strengthening the interventions against bullying and violence in schools to ensure that learners are protected and able to learn in a safe and supportive environment. Mohono said her department appreciates the prompt response by SAPS and the cooperation of the parents, school management and other stakeholders in addressing the matter.

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DSAC gives SAFA deadline to submit comprehensive report on the VAR project

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Picture: SAFA CEO, Lydia Monyepao

By REGINALD KANYANE

26 August 2026 – The South African Football Association (SAFA) said it wishes to provide an update to its members, stakeholders, the football fraternity and the public on the status of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) Project and the R20 million received from the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC). SAFA said in April 2026, DSAC transferred R20 million to SAFA to support the implementation of VAR in South African football.

SAFA CEO, Lydia Monyepao said prior to receiving the funding, SAFA had already conducted a comprehensive technical evaluation of VAR technology and service providers and identified three preferred VAR providers. Monyepao said the contractual agreements were entered into by SAFA.

“At its meeting of 9–10 May 2026, the SAFA National Executive Committee (NEC) approved the implementation of the VAR Project in principle. However, before any procurement process or contractual commitments could proceed, the NEC resolved that the project budget, cost assumptions and procurement considerations be subjected to further review by the Finance Committee and a dedicated task team, in accordance with SAFA’s governance and policy requirements.

“SAFA has also consulted with the Premier Soccer League (PSL), through the Joint Liaison Committee (JLC), on the proposed implementation framework. The VAR Project Team presented to the JLC and the PSL Executive Committee as part of the stakeholder consultation process,” she said.

Monyepao further said SAFA acknowledges that the governance, financial verification and due diligence processes have taken longer than initially anticipated. She added that, however, it is important to emphasise that the R20 million received from DSAC has not been spent.

“The full amount remains secure in a separate account, together with the interest accrued, pending the completion of the outstanding governance, budget verification and procurement processes.

“Following engagement with DSAC on 18 August 2026, the Department has granted SAFA a final 21-day extension to conclude the outstanding processes and submit a comprehensive report on the project, including the recommendations arising from the review and confirmation of the funds held,” said Monyepao.

She said SAFA appreciates the Minister’s and DSAC’s continued support and constructive engagement. Monyepao said the Association remains committed to ensuring that VAR is implemented in a manner that is transparent, financially responsible, compliant with governance and procurement requirements and sustainable.

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