Picture: Some of drugs seized by the police/Supplied
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.
Picture: A man arrested for dealing in drugs/supplied
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.
Picture: Drugs and money seized by the police/Supplied
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
14 August 2026 – A coordinated intelligence-driven operation conducted by members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Port Nolloth has resulted in the arrest of two suspects on charges of dealing in drugs. On 13 August 2026, at approximately 6:30am, members of the Springbok K9 Unit, Namakwa District Task Team Shift A and B and Namakwa Crime Intelligence, executed a tactical operation at a residence in Dondolo Street, Port Nolloth.
Upon entering the premises, the police encountered a man (28) and his girlfriend (19). The search warrant was presented and explained to the occupants, following which a thorough search of the premises was conducted.
The Namakwa District police spokesperson, Captain Ivan Magerman said during the search, police seized mandrax tablets, with an estimated street value of R3000, as well as an undisclosed amount of cash suspected to be the proceeds of illicit drug sales. Magerman said the couple was subsequently arrested and is facing charges of dealing in drugs.
“The suspects are expected to appear in the Port Nolloth Magistrate’s Court in due course,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Namakwa District Police Management, commended the members involved for their continued commitment, vigilance and coordinated efforts in disrupting the illegal drug trade. SAPS said it remains resolute in its efforts to combat drug-related crimes and will continue to conduct intelligence-driven operations aimed at removing drugs from communities and bringing those involved in the illicit drug trade to justice.
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.
14 August 2026 – Two men were sentenced to a combined 36 years imprisonment by the Kimberley Regional Court for attempted murder and robbery with aggravating circumstances. The accused, Ronaldo Louw (24) and Siyabulela Buffel (24) were convicted on 29 July 2026 and sentenced on 12 August 2026.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane said on the count of attempted murder, each accused was sentenced to 12 years imprisonment, while they received a sentence of eight years imprisonment for robbery with aggravating circumstances.
“Both sentences will run concurrently. The incident occurred on 17 August 2024, when a woman (23) accompanied by her mother and boyfriend, was travelling home after the taxi in which they were travelling dropped them off in Phomolong, instead of taking them to Phutanang.
“While walking home between Retswelele and Phomolong, the trio was confronted by six unknown men who robbed them of their personal belongings, including money and cellular phones,” he said.
Shemane further said during the robbery, the victim’s boyfriend was stabbed and was subsequently admitted to hospital for medical treatment and later discharged. He added that as the investigation progressed, the victim positively identified and pointed out two of the six suspects.
“The two suspects were subsequently arrested and charged with attempted murder and robbery with aggravating circumstances. They remained in custody until the finalisation of the matter in court on 12 August 2026,” said Shemane.
Meanwhile, the Frances Baard District Police Commissioner, Major General Charlotte Makgari, commended the investigating officer, Detective Sergeant Khalala Gilbert Seotsa of the Kagisho Detective Unit for his dedication, commitment and diligence, which resulted in the successful investigation and conviction of the two offenders.
Makgati reiterated that the SAPS remains committed to ensuring that violent offenders are brought to justice and removed from society to safeguard communities.
“The police will continue to intensify efforts to prevent crime, protect vulnerable members of society and ensure that cases involving women and children are investigated effectively and efficiently.
“These efforts will continue beyond Women’s Month as part of our ongoing commitment to creating safer communities,” she said.
Picture: The vehicle allegedly used in an armed robbery/Facebook
By OBAKENG MAJE
14 August 2026 – A woman, who was hitchhiking from Wolmaransstad to Vryburg was allegedly robbed at gunpoint after accepting a lift from occupants of a white Volkswagen Polo, leading to the arrest of three suspects in Makwassie.
The incident occurred on 12 August 2026, at approximately 3:20pm along the Wolmaransstad/Schweizer-Reneke Road. It is alleged that about 3km outside Wolmaransstad, the driver pointed what appeared to be a firearm at the victim, Karabo Lekaowa, demanding money and her personal belongings.
The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Anne Magakoe said Lekaowa was allegedly dropped off at an isolated area. Makgakoe said unknown to the suspects, the victim had concealed her cellphone and managed to photograph the vehicle.
“The photograph was circulated through community groups, resulting in a lookout being issued. Following a swift police response to information received, two men and a female aged between 26 and 39, were traced and arrested in Makwassie.
“The victim’s property was also recovered. Preliminary investigation established that the firearm allegedly used during the robbery was an imitation firearm, and an additional charge in terms of the Firearms Control Act is expected to be added,” she said.
Magakoe further said the owner of the vehicle has also been linked to an alleged business robbery that occurred on 9 August 2026, along the Broadbent N12 in Wolmaransstad. She added that the suspects are expected to appear before the Wolmaransstad Magistrate’s Court on 14 August 2026, facing charges relating to the alleged robbery and possession of an imitation firearm, as well as the related business robbery.
Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Arthur Adams said: “The quick-thinking victim turned out to be the hero in her own traumatic incident.
“Her heroic efforts are sincerely appreciated and was of great help to the SAPS.”
Picture: The North West MEC for Public Works and Roads, Elizabeth Mokua/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
13 August 2026 – The North West MEC for Public Works and Roads, Elizabeth Mokua held a successful stakeholder engagement with the community members of Boskuil and Oersonskraal in the Maquassi Hills on Thursday, to give an update on the planned upgrading of Road D1954 from gravel to a surfaced road. Mokua said the stakeholder engagement provided an opportunity for the department to share details of the planned project, outline the implementation process and engage the community on the anticipated benefits of the road upgrade.
She further said given the length and scale of the project, the department will implement the road upgrade as a multi-year project which is anticipated to be rolled out in two phases with the first one being implemented in the last quarter of the current financial year. Mokua added that the first phase includes a 12.5km road project extending from the N12 to the railway line in Boskuil.
“The upgrade will significantly improve mobility and accessibility for communities in the area, while supporting safer and more reliable movement of people, goods and services. The department has completed the design process and is progressing with preparations for the procurement of a contractor.
“The project will also provide opportunities for local participation through work opportunities, training and the involvement of local enterprises through sub-contracting during implementation,” she said.
Mokua emphasised that the department’s mandate is centred on ensuring that government remains accessible to communities and responds directly to the needs of the people. She said their mandate is to come closer to their communities and ensure that they deliver services to the people.
“As government, we have a responsibility to listen to our communities, understand their challenges and respond by delivering infrastructure that improves their daily lives. Road infrastructure remains central to the functioning and development of communities as it connects people to essential services and economic activity.
“I would like to further emphasise the importance of continued engagement between government and communities throughout the implementation of infrastructure projects. We want our communities to be part of this journey,” said Mokua.
She said they must continue to engage, listen to one another and work together to ensure that this project delivers the impact that the people deserve. Mokua said infrastructure belongs to the communities and they all have a responsibility to protect and preserve it.
“The D1954 road starts from D5655 road north of N12 to D156 road south of N12,” she said.
13 August 2026 – The Recording Industry of South Africa (RiSA) is proud to announce that 2 x Grammy award-winning global singer and songwriter, Tyla will be honoured with one of the South African Music Awards’ highest accolades at the 32nd South African Music Awards (SAMA32) taking place on 15 August 2026, at the iconic Sun City Superbowl in Rustenburg. At the heart of Tyla’s highly anticipated homecoming is AfriPure, the proudly South African beauty brand whose support is making it possible for one of South Africa’s most celebrated global stars to be honoured on the SAMA stage at home.
Tyla, who first received the International Achievement Award at SAMA30, now returns to the SAMAs to receive further recognition for the extraordinary impact she continues to make on the global music landscape. She follows in the footsteps of Black Coffee, the only other artist to have received the prestigious honour twice.
Backed by a formidable partnership that includes the Motsepe Foundation, the North West Department of Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation, North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), SA Tourism, SABC, IOL, Great Africa Group, the South African Music Performance Rights Association (SAMPRA), the Southern African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO), the Composers, Authors and Publishers Association (CAPASSO), Recording Industry of South Africa (RiSA), RiSA Audio Visual (RAV), MNM Funerals, Settlers Media and NX – the SAMA32 has evolved into far more than South Africa’s premier music awards. It has become a dynamic destination- marketing platform placing the North West Province in the international spotlight as a vibrant centre of culture, tourism, creativity and investment.
Entrepreneur and co-founder of AfriPure, Grant Heynes said as the sponsor of the International Achievement Award, their role in making it possible for the SAMA’s to recognize Tyla, reflects the brand’s commitment to celebrating African excellence, confidence and ambition on the world stage. Heynes said more than a sponsor of the moment, AfriPure is helping create a powerful homecoming that connects a globally recognised South African artist with the country and culture that shaped her.
“When we were approached with the opportunity to play a part in recognizing Tyla’s global achievement, here at home, it felt like a natural fit for a beauty brand to align with the biggest A-pop star.
“Tyla represents the confidence, creativity and global ambition that we believe in at AfriPure, and we are proud to support a moment that celebrates her achievements on home soil,” he said.
Heynes further said Tyla’s continued international success reflects the growing influence and reach of South African music and culture. He added that she embodies the fearless ambition and creative excellence of a new generation of South African artists.
“Her journey resonates deeply with AfriPure: an African story, rooted at home, confident in its identity, represents beauty and is capable of commanding a place on the global stage. For us, this is about celebrating what is possible when African talent, creativity and ambition are given the space to shine,” said Heynes.
Unati Gwija said: “By bringing together iconic artists, emerging talent, industry leaders and thousands of music lovers from across the country and beyond, SAMA32 stimulates tourism, supports local economic activity and creates opportunities for small businesses, creatives, entrepreneurs and the hospitality sector.”
Picture: Former of Parliament, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
13 August 2026 – The trial against the former Speaker of Parliament, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, has been postponed by the Gauteng Division of the High Court sitting in Pretoria on request of the defence team to 20 August 2026, for the accused to receive the transcribed records of the case for them to file an application in terms of Section 174 of the Criminal Procedure Act. The accused placed it on record in court that she will be filing for a discharge in the matter.
The Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) spokesperson, Henry Mamothame said the state has closed its case and it will await the heads of arguments from the accused in order to draft a reply. Mamothame said Mapisa-Nqakula is facing 12 counts of corruption and one count of money laundering, wherein she is accused of soliciting R4.5 million, with R2,1 million allegedly received as cash from a service provider.
13 August 2026 – The North West Media Awards Organising Committee and its Board of Directors are delighted to announce that North West University (NWU) has once again partnered with the prestigious North West Media Awards (NWMAs) as the headline sponsor for the 2026 edition, reaffirming its commitment to recognising and celebrating excellence in journalism and media across the province. The organisers said the continued partnership between the NWMAs and NWU marks another important milestone in recognising and celebrating excellence in journalism, broadcasting, digital media and communications across the province.
The founder and convenor of the North West Media Awards, Ananias Ndlovu said the impact of the University’s support has already been evident. Ndlovu said following last year’s successful partnership, the awards have experienced unprecedented growth, with nominations increasing from 109 nominees in 2025, to 180 nominees in 2026, representing media houses and communication professionals from across the North West.
“The 2026 North West Media Awards will take place on 10 December 2026, at the iconic Sun City Resort, following a new partnership with Sun International. The event continues to grow into one of the province’s flagship celebrations of media excellence.
“Hosted under the theme: “Taking North West to Africa”, this year’s awards will welcome ambassadors from various African countries, traditional leaders, including the Bakgatla Ba Kgafela Traditional Authority, government leaders, media executives and communication professionals from across South Africa,” he said.
Ndlovu further said as part of this year’s programme, the North West Media Awards will honour two distinguished former South African Police Service (SAPS) communicators for their outstanding contribution to public communication. He added that they will honour former Rustenburg Police spokesperson, Elsabé Augoustides for 40 years of dedicated service.
“This will include former North West police spokesperson, Sabata Mokgwabone for 36 years of distinguished service. A special posthumous tribute will also be paid to the late Waldie Volschenk, who served the Rustenburg Herald and the people of the North West as a community journalist for 36 years before his passing on 22 December 2025.
“We would like to express our gratitude to North West University for once again investing in media excellence. We are honoured that the University has renewed its partnership as our headline sponsor. Their continued support demonstrates a shared commitment to strengthening ethical journalism, recognising outstanding communicators and investing in the future of the media industry,” said Ndlovu.
He said together, they are building an awards platform that not only celebrates excellence, but also positions the North West on the African media landscape. Ndlovu said the North West Media Awards continue to honour journalists, broadcasters, photographers, videographers, podcasters, community newspapers, radio stations, digital media practitioners and communication professionals who make a meaningful contribution to informing and empowering communities.
“The Organising Committee looks forward to hosting an unforgettable celebration of media excellence at Sun City as the awards continue to grow in stature and impact,” said Ndlovu.
The Guardian 