Monthly Archives: August 2026

Municipality seeks R10m overdraft as revenue collection deteriorate

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By REGINALD KANYANE

5 August 2026 – The Democratic Alliance (DA) in North West said the revenue collection has deteriorated, despite Kgetlengrivier Local Municipality remaining under a Financial Recovery Plan and Section 139 intervention. The DA said the municipality now seeks a R10 million overdraft to meet its financial obligations.

DA PR councillor, Mduduzi Maphanga said they will request the Provincial and National Treasury to assess the implementation of the Financial Recovery Plan (FRP). Maphanga said the DA in Kgetlengrivier is deeply concerned that the municipality’s Financial Recovery Plan (FRP) is failing to deliver the financial turnaround residents were promised.

“Despite the municipality remaining under a Section 139 intervention and implementing a Financial Recovery Plan, the latest financial reports indicate that revenue collection has deteriorated significantly instead of improving.

“While some progress has reportedly been made in curbing expenditure, the municipality continues to struggle to collect the revenue needed to remain financially sustainable. The seriousness of the situation was highlighted when the mayor informed the council that the municipality had no option, but to pursue a R10 million overdraft facility after the Provincial Executive Representative (PER) reportedly advised against it,” he said.

Maphanga further said according to the mayor, failure to secure the overdraft would leave the municipality unable to meet its financial obligations. He added that the DA questioned this decision and raised concerns that, while financial shortfalls were referenced, council was not provided with a clear breakdown of the projected deficits or the long-term implications of taking on additional debt.

“An overdraft is not a financial recovery strategy. It is a temporary measure that merely postpones the problem. Once the borrowed funds are exhausted, the municipality risks finding itself in exactly the same financial position, unless the underlying failures in revenue collection are addressed.

“The continued decline in collection rates raises serious questions about whether the Financial Recovery Plan is being implemented effectively and whether sufficient oversight is being exercised over its implementation,” said Maphanga.

He said they will therefore write to both the Provincial Treasury and National Treasury requesting an independent assessment of the implementation of the Financial Recovery Plan, including the performance of the Provincial Executive Representative (PER) and the Municipal Support Representative responsible for assisting the municipality’s financial recovery. Maphanga said residents deserve more than short-term financial fixes that increase future liabilities.

“They deserve a municipality that collects revenue efficiently, manages public finances responsibly and delivers value for every rand collected. As the 2026 Local Government Elections (LGE) approach, residents have an opportunity to choose a municipality built on sound financial management, accountability and value for money,” he said.

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Picture: Kgetlengrivier Local Municipality

Committee mourns the passing of Dr Babagana Ahmadu

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Picture: The deceased, Dr Babagana Ahmadu

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

5 August 2026 – The Acting Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Agriculture, Dr Nobuhle Nkabane has expressed profound shock and sadness at the passing of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) representative to South Africa, Dr Babagana Ahmadu. Nkabane said the committee received news of Ahmadu’s passing during its meeting on Tuesday, where it is receiving briefings from Members of the Executive Councils (MECs) responsible for Agriculture on provincial interventions to contain Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD).

“Upon receiving the news, members observed a moment of reflection in honour of Ahmadu’s contribution to agriculture and food security.

“The committee received news of Ahmadu’s passing with deep sorrow, describing his death as a loss not only to the FAO family but also to South Africa’s agricultural sector and the broader African continent,” she said.

Nkabane further said Ahmadu dedicated his career to advancing sustainable agriculture, strengthening food systems and supporting initiatives aimed at improving food security and rural development. She added that through the FAO, he worked closely with national and provincial governments, development partners and stakeholders across the agricultural sector to support programmes that improve the livelihoods of farming communities.

“The committee had come to appreciate the important contribution made by the FAO in supporting South Africa’s agricultural development agenda, particularly through technical cooperation, policy support and capacity-building initiatives.

“His passing comes at a time when South Africa continues to confront complex challenges facing the agricultural sector, including animal diseases, climate-related pressures and the imperative of ensuring food security,” said Nkabane.

She said Ahmadu’s contribution to these efforts will be remembered with gratitude. Nkabane conveyed the committee’s heartfelt condolences to Ahmadu’s family, colleagues at the FAO, the United Nations family and all those who had the privilege of working alongside him.

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Impeachment Committee to receive legal opinion on whether Ramaphosa can be compelled to testify

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Picture: The Chairperson of the Impeachment Committee, Makashule Gana

By BAKANG MOKOTO

5 August 2026- The Impeachment Committee for Section 89 Enquiry will meet today to receive and consider a legal opinion on whether President Cyril Ramaphosa can be compelled to appear before the committee to give evidence. Also among the agenda items are the consideration of the recommended evidence leader.

The Chairperson of the Impeachment Committee, Makashule Gana said the committee will also consider the draft Terms of Reference that will guide its work. Gana said the meeting will be virtual from 9am to 5pm.

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Committee gives CRL Commission one week to present plan on Section 22 Reform and inclusivity

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Picture: The chairperson of Portfolio Committee on COGTA, Dr Zweli Mkhize

By AGISANANG SCUFF

5 August 2026 – The Portfolio Committee on Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs today directed the Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities (CRL Commission) and its Section 22 committee to submit, within one week, a concrete proposal explaining how concerns about inclusivity and reform of the committee will be addressed. The meeting follows earlier engagements with the CRL Commission and the religious sector to discuss concerns raised about the way the Commission is dealing with its mandate, particularly the process followed to establish a Section 22 Committee.

The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee, Dr Zweli Mkhize said Section 22 Committee was established to explore self-regulation following concerns about reported cases of abuse of congregants in the religious sector. Mkhize said several religious groups, however, have raised concerns about the constitutionality and inclusivity of this process, as well as perceived overreach into religious affairs.

“The committee will consider the Commission’s response at its next meeting before determining how the matter should proceed. During the meeting on Tuesday, the committee engaged the CRL Commission on its draft report with observations and several recommendations.

“Among the recommendations is that the process of developing a code of ethical conduct for the religious sector should continue. However, the committee stressed that the religious sector must lead this process and not the Commission,” he said.

Mkhize further said the Commission should not lead this process or participate directly in the substantive discussions around its content. He added that this separation should help address the concerns and grievances that have arisen, including those relating to public statements.

“We must make it clear publicly that the processes are to be separated in this manner. The committee’s approach is intended to protect religious freedom while promoting accountability and preventing human-rights violations in religious settings.

“The issue of inclusivity has to be addressed. And the issue of reforming the committee has to be addressed. Addressing these matters will go a long way towards reducing public discomfort concerning the Section 22 committee,” said Mkhize.

He said they have also noted that the meeting was intended to ensure that the approach adopted by the committee helps to resolve the misunderstanding between the Commission and members of the religious sector. Mkhize said the committee’s recommendations provide for a forum, in terms of section 181(3) of the Constitution to assist and protect the CRL Commission in fulfilling its constitutional functions.

“The forum must consider, among other things, developing the code of ethical conduct for and by the religious sector.

“The committee also noted that the relevant role-players were not against such a code but that the Section 22 committee will have to be reviewed and reformed and the process should be inclusive given the diverse nature of the sector,” he said.

Mkhize noted the uMkhonto weSizwe Party’s enquiry, if the parties in court can be approached for the matters to be resolved amicably out of court. He said an application is before the courts to declare the Section 22 process unlawful.

“Settling this matter outside of court would be ideal. The mediation process embarked upon by the committee seeks to ensure an inclusive process that will satisfy even parties that approached the court that an amicable solution is possible through cooperation and dialogue.

“The Democratic Alliance did not support the recommendations in the committee’s draft report and called for the Section 22 process to be paused pending ongoing court cases, among other things,” said Mkhize.

He said the party further proposed that an independent body investigate the Commission’s Chairperson. Mkhize said the African Christian Democratic Party, in turn, reserved its position pending consideration of its proposed amendments to the draft recommendations.

“The committee noted the parties’ positions and we will be considered together with the Commission’s implementation proposal before concluding the matter. A separate meeting will also be held with the religious sector,” he said.

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Challenges at Grootvlei Maximum Correctional Centre in Mangaung

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Picture: Grootvlei Maximum Correctional Centre in Mangaung

By OBAKENG MAJE

5 August 2026 – The Portfolio Committee on Correctional Services has raised serious concerns over healthcare services, food safety measures and severe staff shortages at the Grootvlei Maximum Correctional Centre in Mangaung, Free State, following an oversight visit to the facility on Tuesday. The facility, formerly known as the Mangaung Correctional Centre, was taken over by the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) on 1 July 2026 after operating for 25 years as a public-private partnership under Bloemfontein Correctional Contracts (BCC) which had contracted G4S to manage it.

The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee, Kgomotso Ramolobeng said the facility has accommodation capacity of 2 928 inmates and is currently operating at full capacity. Ramolobeng sais the committee’s inspection revealed persistent challenges in the provision of healthcare services to inmates.

“Members of the committee heard repeated complaints regarding the availability of medication with some inmates alleging that they had received incorrect medication, while others reported interruptions in the supply of chronic medication for as long as three consecutive days.

“The committee regards these allegations as a matter of serious concern, as access to appropriate healthcare services is a constitutional obligation that must be upheld within correctional facilities,” she said.

Ramolobeng further said during inspection at the facility’s kitchen, the committee was dismayed to discover that food samples for 1 August 2026 were unavailable. She added that the samples are required to be retained for 72 hours as part of standard food safety and quality assurance measures.

“The absence of the required food samples and food tasting records undermines accountability and limits the ability to investigate any concerns relating to food quality or possible food-borne illnesses.

“The committee has called for strict adherence to food safety protocols and proper record management. Furthermore, the committee called on the DCS to fill the 309 vacant posts at the facility by the end of September 2026,” said Ramolobeng.

She said while appreciating that 310 of the 495 former G4S officials are now employed under DCS, the committee still urged that special preference be given to the remaining officials who meet the inherent minimum requirements for the vacant posts. Ramolobeng said the committee then advised that those whose applications were unsuccessful should be informed in writing, stating reasons for their disqualifications.

“We sympathise with the currently unemployed G4S employees and we are looking at other avenues to see how their matter can be resolved amicably.

“We have sought legal advice from Parliament’s Constitutional and Legal Services Office on the matter to better understand the legal implications and the committee’s oversight role,” she said.

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“To every woman wearing the badge: never underestimate your strength”

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Picture: SECI investigator, Sergeant Vuyokazi Bayi/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

5 August 2026 – As the country celebrate Women’s Month, the South African Police Service (SAPS) said it will profile inspiring women in policing whose courage, compassion and unwavering commitment to leading with integrity are advancing the SAPS Reset Agenda by delivering quality investigations, putting victims first and ensuring perpetrators are brought to justice. The SAPS introduced the nation to Sergeant Vuyokazi Bayi (45), an investigator attached to the Serial and Electronic Crime Investigation (SECI) Unit in the Eastern Cape.

Born and raised in Zwelitsha, Bayi’s journey began at King William’s Town Flying Squad when she joined the police service as a constable in 2012. Those first years pursuing suspects at high speed laid the foundation for a career that would place her at the forefront of the fight against crimes committed against women and children.

The Eastern Cape police spokesperson, Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana said Bayi developed a passion for investigating and solving crime, which led her to join the Zwelitsha Detective Service as an investigator. Gantana said in 2020, she joined the King William’s Town Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit, where she investigated sexual offence cases.

“Passion met purpose when Bayi joined the Eastern Cape Serial and Electronic Crime Investigation (SECI) Unit two years ago. As a SECI investigator, she investigates serial rape cases and sexual crimes committed through electronic platforms, ensuring that offenders who prey on vulnerable victims are identified, traced and successfully prosecuted.

“A recent success includes the sentencing of Lesotho national, Lechasa Glass (32) to indefinite imprisonment following his latest conviction on six counts of rape. The court also declared him a dangerous criminal in terms of the Criminal Procedure Act,” she said.

Gantana further said Glass is no stranger to the courts. She added that on 24 May 2024, he was convicted on 24 counts, including multiple rapes and robberies with aggravating circumstances committed against women and children in the Addo and Joubertina areas between 2015 and 2022.

“His previous sentences included six life terms of imprisonment together with multiple fixed-term sentences. Despite already being incarcerated, further DNA analysis linked Glass to three additional dockets involving the rape of a girl (16) in Addo, a girl (13) in Joubertina and a woman (23).

“In total, DNA evidence connected Glass to 16 separate cases. On 14 April 2026, Glass was found guilty on all six counts across the three additional cases. Following psychiatric observation, the court found that he was mentally fit, acted intentionally and displayed no remorse,” said Gantana.

She said on 4 June 2026, Glass was sentenced to imprisonment after being declared a dangerous criminal in terms of Sections 286A and 286B of the Criminal Procedure Act. Gantana said the court further directed that Glass be brought before the same court after the expiry of 23 years from 4 June 2026, for reconsideration of his sentence.

“Bayi, together with her colleague, Warrant Officer Sonwabile Dlomo, conducted a meticulous investigation, with their effective use of DNA technology proving instrumental in linking Glass to these cases and securing the convictions. Their work demonstrates how disciplined investigations, teamwork and scientific policing continue to strengthen the criminal justice system and restore public confidence in SAPS.

“A final-year student, Bayi will soon graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in Police Science and is currently completing an internal course on Psychologically Motivated Crime at the SAPS Academy in Hammanskraal,” she said.

Gantana said Bayi embodies the values of the SAPS Reset Agenda by leading with integrity, serving with compassion, embracing professionalism and relentlessly pursuing justice for victims of Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF). She said through officers like her, SAPS continues to strengthen public trust, uphold the rule of law and build a safer South Africa where every woman and girl can live free from fear.

“Throughout Women’s Month, SAPS will continue profiling women across different policing environments whose leadership, integrity and commitment to service are driving organisational renewal, strengthening accountability and advancing the SAPS Reset Agenda.

“Their stories reflect a modern police service that places communities first, values professionalism and remains steadfast in protecting the people of South Africa,” said Gantana.

Meanwhile, Bayi believes continuous learning equips investigators with the knowledge and skills needed to better protect women, children and vulnerable communities.

“To every woman wearing the badge: never underestimate your strength. Your compassion is not a weakness, it is one of your greatest strengths. Your professionalism, determination and integrity inspire those around you and help build safer communities,” she said.

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More than 16 000 suspects nabbed for various crimes

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

5 August 2026 – More than 16 684 suspects were arrested for various offences as part of ongoing efforts to combat and prevent crime through the nationwide Shanela Operation, carried out between 20 and 26 July 2026. The police said during this period, they also conducted immigration enforcement operations, resulting in the arrest of 1 869 illegal migrants, with Gauteng recording the most arrests, at 795.

The national police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Vincent Mukhathi said in addition, detectives arrested 2 547 wanted individuals linked to violent offences, including murder, attempted murder, rape, carjackings, illegal possession of firearms and house and business robberies. Mukhathi said this week, amongst those arrested is a popular traditional healer from KwaMashu in Kwazulu-Natal for allegedly orchestrating the murders of African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL) member Thamsanqa Kingdom Gcabashe and eThekwini Metro Police officials, Lindokuhle Madonsela and Ndumiso Thusi.

“On 25 July 2026, the police arrested an alleged mastermind (37) behind the murder of the Democratic Alliance (DA) candidate councillor, Sinovuyo Dyokwe, following a joint intelligence-driven operation involving the Western Cape Serious Violent Crime Investigation (SVCI) detectives and the Special Task Force (STF) in Parklands.

“Operation Shanela continues to send a strong message that crime and lawlessness will not be tolerated in South Africa, whether committed by locals or foreign nationals. The multidisciplinary operations yielded significant arrests,” he said.

Mukhathi further said 114 suspects were arrested for attempted murder. He added that the majority of arrests were recorded in Gauteng with 26, followed by the Eastern Cape with 24.

“More than 106 suspects were arrested for attempted murder, 152 suspects were arrested for rape, while 101 suspects were arrested for illegal possession of firearms. The Western Cape arrested 38 suspects, followed by Gauteng with 20. More than 534 suspects were arrested for possession of dangerous weapons, 660 suspects were arrested for illegal dealing in liquor and 230 suspects were arrested for dealing in drugs.

“More than 2530 suspects were arrested for possession of drugs. The province of Western Cape recorded the highest number of arrests at 1 314. More than 1383 suspects were arrested for assault GBH and 715 for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs,” said Mukhathi.

He said 128 unlicensed firearms seized, including handguns, shotguns, and rifles. Mukhathi said 2296 rounds of ammunition were also seized.

“Contraband goods worth more than R46 million were seized, including various types of drugs and 55 hijacked and stolen vehicles recovered. On 25 July 2026, Bloemfontein Flying Squad intercepted a white Volvo Stralis 430 truck on the N1 near Glen, suspected of transporting stolen copper cable.

“Centlec technicians confirmed some of the seized cables as company property, while Telkom and Eskom later identified additional cables worth over R300 000. A driver (43) was arrested and charged under the Criminal Matters Amendment Act for tampering with essential infrastructure and possession of stolen property. He will appear in the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court soon,” he said.

Mukhathi said in Richwood, Bothasig, crime intelligence arrested a a suspect (29) at an apartment used as a gang storage facility. He said the police seized seven pistols, 17 magazines, 1 030 rounds of ammunition and assorted drugs valued at R10 million. He said a suspect (40) from Ebony Park was arrested by the Ekurhuleni Task Team, where nine unlicensed firearms (including five AK-47s), rounds of ammunition and four stolen vehicles (Mercedes Benz, BMW, two VW Polos) were recovered.

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A woman raped after hitchhiking

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

5 August 2026 – The Hopetown Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit is appealing to the community for assistance in tracing three unidentified men who may be able to assist with an investigation into the alleged rape of a woman (19). The police said the incident reportedly occurred on 30 June 2026, at approximately 3pm on the R385 gravel road between Hopetown and Belmont.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Litabe said it is believed that the victim was travelling from Hopetown to Douglas when she accepted a lift from three unknown men. Litabe said during the journey, the driver allegedly stopped the vehicle and informed the victim that they had experienced mechanical problems.

“The three men exited the vehicle, leaving the victim inside. One of the men subsequently returned to the vehicle and allegedly raped the victim. Thereafter, a second man also entered the vehicle and allegedly raped her, while the remaining man stood outside.

“Following the incident, the suspects allegedly abandoned the victim at the scene before driving away. She reported the matter to Belmont SAPS, where a rape case was registered,” he said.

Litabe further said anyone who may be able to identify the three men depicted in the attached identikits is urged to contact Detective Constable Lutsha Sweli on 065 806 8100, Hopetown FCS Commander Captain Aretha Classen on 082 328 9467 or Hopetown SAPS on 053 203 7200. He added that, alternatively, information can be reported to the nearest police station, the SAPS Crime Stop number on 08600 10111 or anonymously via the MySAPS App.

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Picture: Identikits of two men who allegedly raped a woman/Supplied

A man sentenced to life imprisonment for killing police officer

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By AGISANANG SCUFF

5 August 2026 – A man (38) was sentenced to life imprisonment by the Western Cape High Court for robbery with aggravating circumstances, kidnapping, murder of a police official, attempted murder, possession of an unlicensed firearm and possession of ammunition. This stems from November 2021, when members of Table View SAPS responded to a complaint of business robbery at Killarney Gardens.

The Hawks spokesperson in Western Cape, Lieutenant Colonel Siyabulela Vukubi said on arrival at the scene, they were confronted by armed men, who opened fire at them. Vukubi said the exchange of fire ensued which resulted in the fatal shooting of a police officer, whereas his colleague sustained gunshot wounds.

“The suspects robbed the firearms of the two SAPS members, however, they were later recovered at the crime scene. The accused, Gcinikhaya Mbukula was sentenced to life imprisonment with additional 57 years imprisonment.

“He was sentenced to 30 years imprisonment for robbery with aggravating circumstances, five years imprisonment for kidnapping, life imprisonment for murder of a police official, five years imprisonment for attempted murder, 15 years imprisonment for possession of an unlicensed firearm and two years imprisonment for possession of ammunition,” he said.

Vukubi further said the sentences imposed on count 1,2,4,5,6 and 7 are to run concurrently with the sentence imposed on count 3. He added that Mbukula will effectively serve life imprisonment.

“One of the accused on this matter, Luyanda Fuzile, has since been sentenced in 2023, to life imprisonment after he pleaded guilty. The trial for the two remaining accused, Baxolele Matolo and Vusumzi Nyanda, will resume on 11 August 2026,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Western Cape Hawks’ Head Major General Solomon Makgato applauded the resilience, perseverance and meticulous investigation and prosecution by the Hawks and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) after yet another accused was sentenced for the murder of a police official.

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Taking STEM education to every learner

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Picture: NWU vice-chancellor and principal, Bismark Tyobeka 

By AGISANANG SCUFF

4 August 2026 – The North West University (NWU) vice-chancellor and principal, Professor Bismark Tyobeka said science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education is essential to South Africa’s future. Tyobeka said the country needs a new generation of scientists, engineers, innovators and technically skilled professionals to address challenges such as energy security, water scarcity, food production, healthcare, climate change and digital transformation.

He further said a strong foundation in STEM also equips young people with critical-thinking, problem-solving and analytical skills that are valuable in almost every modern career. Tyobeka added that, yet talent is not determined by geography, family income or access to well-resourced schools.

“Promising young minds can be found in every community, including rural areas where learners may have had limited exposure to laboratories, researchers or STEM career opportunities. By inspiring learners to pursue these fields, South Africa can broaden its skills base, reduce inequality and ensure that more young people can participate meaningfully in the industries and innovations that will shape the country’s economic and social development.

“This is why the NWU is deliberately taking science beyond its campuses and into rural communities. The 2026 Vice-Chancellor’s Science Day, to be hosted at Hoërskool Wolmaransstad on 5 August 2026, reflects the belief that science belongs to everyone and should never be restricted by location, background or opportunity,” he said.

Tyobeka said presented under the theme: “Science, technology and innovation are for everyone”, the event will give learners from Wolmaransstad and surrounding schools an opportunity to interact with researchers, innovators and industry experts. He said choosing a town outside a major urban centre is an important part of the initiative.

“It brings possibilities directly to learners who may otherwise have little contact with universities or scientific careers. Through practical demonstrations, conversations and exposure to real-world applications, the NWU hopes to awaken curiosity, build confidence and help learners recognise that a future in STEM is both achievable and worth pursuing,” said Tyobeka.

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