A man sentenced to 20 years imprisonment for murder of his girlfriend


By AGISANANG SCUFF

31 August 2026 – A man (31) was sentenced to 20 years imprisonment by the Swartruggens Regional Court for murder. This comes after the accused killed his girlfriend (20) at a farm near Swartruggens. On 12 August 2023, the accused and the deceased visited a tavern before returning to the farm.

The Bojanala Platinum 2 District police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Ofentse Mokgadi said the accused assaulted the deceased, who was later found unresponsive in his room with multiple bruises and a swollen face. Mokgadi said she was declared dead at the scene.

“The accused was subsequently arrested and sentenced. He was also declared unfit to possess a firearm. The successful conviction and sentence were made possible through the dedicated efforts of the police,” he said.

Meanwhile, the acting Bojanala Platinum 2 District Police Commissioner, Brigadier Mamotsamai Ntoagae, commended the police and prosecutor for their professionalism and teamwork.

“Their dedication demonstrates the importance of thorough investigations and effective prosecution in ensuring justice for victims of Gender-Based Violence (GBV). This sentence sends a clear message that perpetrators will be held accountable,” said Brigadier Ntoagae.

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Boyfriend sentenced to eight years imprisonment for rape


By BAKANG MOKOTO

31 August 2026 – A man (29) was sentenced to 8 years imprisonment by the Tlhabane Regional Court for rape. The incident occurred in Tlhabane Township, near Rustenburg.

The North West police spokesperson, Sergeant Kelebogile Morake said the court heard evidence that the victim was with her boyfriend at the time and after consuming alcohol, she went to sleep. Morake said while she was asleep, the accused, Odirile Modise, who was her then boyfriend, questioned her about wearing leggings to bed.

“The accused subsequently forcefully undressed and raped her. The victim reported the matter to the police. The investigating officer ensured that the victim received medical attention and the J88 medical examination confirmed the offence. The accused was subsequently traced and arrested.

“The accused appeared several times before the Tlhabane Regional Court. On Wednesday, he was found guilty of rape and sentenced to eight years imprisonment. He was declared unfit to possess a firearm,” she said.

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Arthur Adams, welcomed the successful investigation and conviction. Adams commended the Warrant Officer Matshose Christopher Maimela and the prosecution team for their dedication and professional handling of the matter.

“This sentence demonstrates that the SAPS will continue to pursue perpetrators of sexual offences and ensure that victims receive the necessary support throughout the criminal justice process. We encourage victims of sexual offences to report such incidents to the police and not suffer in silence,” he said.

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Police investigating a house robbery and rape case


By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

31 August 2026 – The police in Potchefstroom are investigating a case of house robbery and rape following an incident that occurred at a residence in Potchefstroom in the early hours of Sunday, 30 August 2026. It is alleged that a woman (52) was attacked inside her newly-occupied residence after an unknown suspect gained entry through a broken window.

The North West police spokesperson, Sergeant Kelebogile Morake said the suspect allegedly demanded money and assaulted the victim. Morake said it is further alleged that the suspect raped the victim and took her cellular phone, purse and keys before fleeing the scene.

“The suspect is described as an African male, approximately 20 to 22 years-old with dreadlocks. He was reportedly not wearing a mask and spoke English. The victim was found outside the property by a neighbour and members of the neighbourhood watch after her cries for help were heard.

“Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel were summoned to the scene and the victim was taken to hospital for medical examination. A case of house robbery and rape is being investigated, the suspect is still at large,” she said.

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Arthur Adams, strongly denounced this senseless and brutal attack. Adams said the detectives are working around the clock to identify and apprehend the suspect.

“They will not rest until justice is served. The police are appealing to anyone who may have information regarding this incident to contact the Investigating Officer, Constable Kefilwe Mashoko on 082 443 8805 or Crime Stop on 08600 10111. Anonymous tip-offs can also be communicated via the MySAPS App,” he said.

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