27 October 2026 – A man (49) has been sentenced to 10 years imprisonment after being convicted of rape and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH) against his girlfriend (29) in Niekerkshoop. The conviction and sentence were secured through the diligent investigative work of Detective Constable Boipolelo Criselda Polelo of the Pixley ka Seme District Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Litabe said the incident occurred at the victim’s home on Monday, 30 March 2026. Litabe said the evidence presented in the Griekwastad Regional Court revealed that the accused, Floyd van Wyk, arrived at the woman’s home at approximately 7:45pm and accused her of selling her body to other men.
“He then slapped her in the face, undressed her and raped her before stabbing her in the hip with a knife. He also twisted her already broken leg. The police were alerted to the incident and a case of rape and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm was registered at the Niekerkshoop Police Station.
“The accused was arrested on the same day. Detective Constable Polelo was assigned to investigate the case. Her investigation ultimately led to the accused’s conviction and sentencing,” he said.
The acting Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Major General Luntu Ngubelanga, commended Polelo for her dedication and thorough investigative work, which ensured that the perpetrator was brought to justice. Ngubelanga said South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Northern Cape reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying efforts to combat gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), in line with the organisation’s newly established Reset Agenda.
Picture: ANC former president, Reginald Oliver Tambo
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
27 October 2026 – The African National Congress Veterans’ League (ANCVL) has called on South Africans to uphold the legacy of former ANC president Oliver Reginald Kaizana Tambo by promoting ethical leadership, accountability, non-racialism and effective governance. In a media statement, the league said the principles championed by Tambo should translate into tangible improvements in the lives of ordinary South Africans, particularly amid persistent poverty, unemployment, inequality and social exclusion.
The statement, issued to commemorate the 109th anniversary of Tambo’s birth, described him as a revolutionary whose life was characterised by sacrifice, humility, integrity and an unwavering commitment to the freedom and dignity of all South Africans.
ANCVL president, Snuki Zikalala said Tambo had sustained the liberation movement during some of its most difficult years in exile and under apartheid oppression. Zikalala highlighted Tambo’s leadership during periods of low morale, internal divisions and military setbacks, noting that the Morogoro ANC Conference was convened to help steer the organisation away from the brink of collapse.
He also recalled Tambo’s international diplomatic efforts in the late 1980s to secure support for the Consensus Resolution, which helped establish a framework for negotiations towards a democratic South Africa.
“This is the mark of a true leader and shows what is possible when leadership prioritises the will of the people and trusts them. The league linked Tambo’s legacy to contemporary global political developments, expressing concern about the rise of authoritarian and right-wing governments, violence, exploitation and discrimination against vulnerable communities.
“It also highlighted the role of young people and student-led movements in challenging political establishments in different parts of the world,” said Zikalala.
With elections approaching in several countries, he expressed hope that opposition to exploitation, violence and discrimination against migrants, Palestinians, black people and LGBTIQ+ communities would gain momentum. Turning its attention to South Africa, Zikalala said the forthcoming local government elections would test whether voters believed the ANC continued to uphold Tambo’s legacy and his faith in the will of the people.
“Voting for the ANC should not simply be an endorsement of its liberation history, but should also reflect confidence in its ability to deliver effective governance and improve people’s lives.
“Thirty-two years into our democracy, we have made significant strides, but poverty, unemployment, inequality and social exclusion continue to undermine what freedom promised,” he said.
Zikalala warned that frustration over persistent socio-economic challenges had driven some people towards political parties promising quick solutions, while others had become disillusioned with voting and government. He also raised concern about attempts to blame migrants for the country’s challenges, arguing that complex social and economic problems required meaningful solutions rather than scapegoating.
“The ANC remains the political party most committed to the constitutional principles associated with Tambo and the protection of democratic processes and institutions. However, we stress that respect for Tambo’s legacy must be demonstrated through ethical leadership, accountability and a renewed commitment to serving the public.
“We call for leaders to acknowledge the complexity of the country’s challenges and avoid making unrealistic promises. We further reaffirm the importance of Tambo’s commitment to non-racialism, saying South Africa’s diversity should unite rather than divide its people,” said Zikalala.
He said at a time when social fragmentation and intolerance threaten their national cohesion, they must reaffirm their common humanity and embrace the values of Ubuntu, mutual respect and solidarity. Zikalala said although Tambo did not live to witness South Africa’s democratic breakthrough in 1994, the league said his contribution had helped lay the foundations for democracy.
“We call on South Africans to honour his legacy by defending democratic institutions, holding political leaders accountable and ensuring that the needs and aspirations of ordinary citizens remained central to governance.
“This responsibility extended to the more than 10 000 ANC candidates contesting positions across the country in the forthcoming local government elections,” he said.
Zikalala concluded by urging voters to support the ANC in the elections scheduled for 4 November 2026, presenting the vote as an opportunity to advance democratic governance and resist authoritarianism.
Picture: The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi
By REGINALD KANYANE
27 October 2026 – Government is strengthening its engagement with traditional leaders, community organisations and civil society to address illegal migration, reclaim hijacked state-owned buildings and improve the enforcement of immigration laws. This follows a meeting between the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) on migration.
The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi said delegation included representatives of the Black Business Forum, Binca Nation, led by its president, Ngizwe Mchunu, and leaders of Hlangana Mzansi. Kubayi said the engagement comes amid several marches to Home Affairs offices by groups calling for stricter enforcement of immigration laws and action against undocumented migrants.
Briefing the media in Pretoria on Monday, Kubayi said the delegation had expressed its willingness to work with government to find practical solutions to illegal migration while supporting efforts to build a safe, secure, prosperous and united South Africa.
“The delegation expressed its support for the government’s efforts to build a safe, secure, prosperous and united country and to address illegal migration decisively. We welcome the community leaders’ commitment to nation-building and to finding solutions to illegal migration.
“The delegation had reaffirmed its respect for South African laws, the judiciary and court judgments, while committing to initiatives aimed at promoting stability and economic growth,” she said.
Kubayi further said the group also raised concerns about unemployment, particularly among young people and pledged to support government efforts to restore investor confidence and revitalise the tourism sector, especially in KwaZulu-Natal. She added that the delegation had clarified that its concerns were directed at illegal migration and undocumented migrants, rather than lawful immigration.
“They also reaffirmed that they are not opposed to immigration that is legal and migrants who respect South Africa’s laws and live amongst the South African people engaged in legal and productive activities. They made it clear that what they vehemently oppose is illegal migration and undocumented migrants.
“The reclaiming of hijacked and illegally occupied state-owned buildings was among the key issues discussed during the meeting. The delegation had expressed an interest in partnering with government to address the unlawful occupation of government buildings, which are allegedly being used for criminal activities, including drug dealing and human trafficking,” said Kubayi.
She said IMC has already engaged provincial and municipal leadership, including premiers, members of provincial executive councils, mayors, city managers, metropolitan police and senior South African Police Service officials, to develop a coordinated response. Kubayi sais they have identified hijacked government buildings by street in the eight metros [of the country] and appointed legal representatives to facilitate the removal of unlawful occupants.
“The government is also working with the private sector to repurpose abandoned and illegally occupied buildings. Government has also identified and profiled state-owned buildings across all metropolitan municipalities, with the next phase focusing on identifying such properties in secondary cities.
“A team of lawyers has been appointed to assist with the legal processes required to reclaim the buildings,” she said.
Kubayi said the delegation also expressed interest in participating in ongoing legal proceedings concerning migration and asylum seekers. She said these include the Scalabrini matter, in which the Constitutional Court delivered a judgment on the rights of asylum seekers, as well as proceedings in the Gauteng High Court concerning conflicting judgments on whether undocumented people who have applied for asylum may be detained.
“The IMC raised concerns about the contradictory Gauteng High Court judgments and requested that the matter be heard by a full bench. The matter is scheduled to be considered on 29 October 2026.
“We urge members of the public to exercise caution when sharing information about the Constitutional Court judgment, warning against the spread of unverified claims,” said Kubayi.
She also urge all citizens not to spread unverified information about the Constitutional Court Judgement. Kubayi said residents must ensure that they verify the sources of information about this judgment. Check that the information you get is from a credible source and that it is correct.
“Government’s response to migration would continue to be guided by the five-point plan announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa in June. The plan focuses on cracking down on violations of immigration laws, securing the country’s borders, strengthening the immigration system, closing gaps in migration laws and policies, and working with other African countries to manage migration.
“During the meeting, the delegation also raised concerns about migrant documentation, allegations that South African immigration officials were issuing illegal documents, and the role of law enforcement agencies in enforcing immigration laws,” she said.
Kubayi said the group further emphasised that calls for stricter enforcement of immigration laws should not automatically be interpreted as xenophobia. She said it expressed its willingness to work with government towards building a prosperous South Africa.
“The meeting concluded with an agreement that government would collaborate with the delegation and other interested parties, including traditional leaders, to address the concerns raised and strengthen cooperation in managing migration,” said Kubayi.
27 October 2026 – The National Police Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola has congratulated Brigadier Adriaan Jacobus “Attie” Lamprecht (59), on receiving the Whistleblower Sherpa Support Award at Public Interest South Africa’s 2026 Whistleblower Awards. Held under the theme: “Honouring Courage. Inspiring Integrity,” the awards ceremony recognised Lamprecht and nominees from various sectors for their courage, integrity and outstanding contributions to the people of South Africa.
With 42 years of service in the SAPS, Lamprecht currently oversees several sections at national level, including Crime Stop, Harmful and Occult Crimes, and the Bureau for Missing Persons, which he established in 1994. For more than 30 years, he has headed the internationally recognised Crime Stop Call Centre, which can be reached on 08600 10111.
Masemola said the service enables members of the public to report information about criminal activities anonymously. He said Crime Stoppers International has previously recognised South Africa for its exceptional handling of anonymous tip-offs from members of the public.
“Since its establishment 34 years ago, Crime Stop has maintained a strong track record of protecting the identities of informants who provide information through the platform.
“Over the years, information received through Crime Stop has contributed to thousands of arrests and the seizure of illicit goods and other criminal assets worth hundreds of millions of rand,” said Masemola.
He further said Lamprecht also serves as a director of Crime Stoppers International, a global organisation committed to strengthening anonymous crime-reporting systems and supporting crime-prevention initiatives. Masemola added that he holds a PhD in Sociology and previously managed the Witness Protection Programme when it was administered by the SAPS.
“His experience further underscores his longstanding commitment to protecting individuals who assist law enforcement agencies in the fight against crime.
“We commend Lamprecht for his decades of dedicated service and his significant contribution to strengthening public confidence in anonymous crime-reporting platforms,” he said.
Masemola said Lamprecht’s award is a testament to his unwavering commitment to protecting those who come forward with information to help fight crime. He said his work demonstrates the importance of safeguarding the identities of informants and ensuring that members of the public can contribute to the fight against crime without fear.
“The SAPS congratulates him on this well-deserved honour,” said Masemola.
27 October 2026 – Magalies Water has warned bidders to remain vigilant following a recent tender scam in which unknown individuals allegedly impersonated the entity’s spokesperson, David Magae and implicated its General Manager for Project and Engineering Services, Sibongiseni Mbadamana in attempts to influence tender outcomes. The entity said the individuals were targeting bidders for a tender currently under consideration by Magalies Water’s Bid Committees.
According to Magalies Water, the scammers were using contact details, including the email address davidm@magalieswater.co.za and cellphone numbers 063 660 0464 and 064 968 1664, which do not belong to Magae or Mbadamana as alleged.
An assessment conducted by the entity’s Information and Communication Technology (ICT) department confirmed that the email had not originated from Magalies Water’s official email system. It was classified as a spoof email, meaning the sender had forged email details to impersonate an official Magalies Water account.
Magalies Water spokesperson David Magae said the incident was concerning, particularly because it was not the first time in recent months that the names of officials and members of the executive had allegedly been used for unlawful activities.
“This sustained campaign is aimed at tainting the reputation and image of Magalies Water. We urge bidders participating in both advertised and closed tenders to exercise caution and verify any suspicious communication purporting to come from the entity.
“Magalies Water conducts its financial affairs in strict compliance with the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA), read together with the National Treasury Regulations,” he said.
Magae further said bidders are encouraged to report suspicious activities, including those relating to tender administration, through the following channels:
27 October2026 – The North West MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), Oageng Molapisi has placed the Provincial Disaster Management Centre on high alert amid concerns over extreme heat and the possible intensification of the current El Niño event. This comes after the latest weather forecasts indicate persistent heat conditions associated with the El Niño climate phenomenon, which affects rainfall and temperature patterns.
Molapisi said these conditions could result in below-normal rainfall, water shortages, drought, challenges in crop and livestock management, increased veld fires and a heightened risk of heat-related illnesses. He warned that these conditions could place additional pressure on communities already experiencing dry weather conditions.
“Climate change and the current El Niño event remind us of the importance of preparedness and collective responsibility. While we cannot control weather patterns, we can take proactive measures to minimise their impact on our communities.
“So, we call on municipalities, traditional leaders and community structures to raise awareness about the dangers of extreme heat, promote responsible water use and ensure that vulnerable residents are protected,” he said.
Molapisi further said this particular attention should be given to children, older persons and people with existing health conditions, who are more vulnerable to the effects of extreme heat. He urged residents to use water sparingly, take precautions against high temperatures and heed official weather warnings.
“The provincial and municipal disaster management structures, together with relevant provincial departments, must strengthen early-warning systems, community awareness initiatives and coordinated responses to ensure vulnerable communities are protected.
“As part of preparations for the El Niño phenomenon, municipalities and residents have been encouraged to conserve water by repairing leaking pipes and taps immediately, limiting unnecessary water consumption, watering gardens early in the morning or in the evening, and reusing greywater where it is safe to do so,” added Molapisi.
He said residents are also encouraged to install rainwater tanks where possible to improve water availability during dry periods. Molapisi said to prevent veld fires and other fire incidents, communities have been urged to clear dry vegetation around their homes, avoid making open fires during hot or windy conditions, maintain required firebreaks and report fires immediately.
“We further advised residents to remain hydrated, avoid strenuous outdoor activities around midday and stay in shaded or cool areas during periods of extreme heat.
“We urge communities to check on older persons and other vulnerable residents and seek medical assistance if anyone displays signs of a heat-related illness,” he said.
Molapisi said residents are also encouraged to follow official weather warnings and take the necessary precautions to protect themselves, their families, livestock and property. His department reiterated the importance of community cooperation and preparedness in reducing the potential impact of extreme weather conditions associated with El Niño.
Picture: The North West MEC for COGHSTA, Oageng Molapisi
By REGINALD KANYANE
27 October 2026 – The North West MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), Oageng Molapisi will brief the media on the province’s state of readiness for the 2026 Local Government Elections on 30 October 2026. According to COGHSTA spokesperson, Lerato Gambu, the briefing will provide an update on provincial preparations and coordination measures aimed at ensuring smooth and successful local government elections across the North West.
Gambu said Molapisi would also outline the department’s post-election transition plan, including arrangements for the constitution of newly-elected municipal councils and the induction of councillors.
“The transition plan is aimed at ensuring continuity of governance, institutional stability and effective service delivery following the elections.
“The media briefing will take place at 9am at the Provincial Disaster Management Centre in Mahikeng. Members of the media wishing to attend are requested to RSVP to Lemogang Pule via WhatsApp on 072 142 3738,” he said.
Gambu further said transport has been arranged for local media practitioners based in and around Mahikeng. He added that the briefing is being convened by the North West Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA).
27 October 2026 – Suspended Pretoria Chief Magistrate Desmond Nair has pleaded not guilty to all corruption charges against him in the Pretoria Commercial Crimes Court. Nair appeared in court on 26 October 2026, where the trial commenced with the state presenting its evidence through its first witness, an employee of a BOSASA subsidiary.
The witness testified about the alleged installation of security upgrades at Nair’s home.
According to the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) spokesperson, Henry Mamothame, Nair is accused of allegedly receiving security upgrades valued at approximately R200 000 at his home in Gauteng in September 2016. Mamothame said the upgrades were allegedly provided by African Global Operations, formerly known as BOSASA.
“The upgrades reportedly included an electric fence, an alarm system, perimeter beams and a closed-circuit television (CCTV) system. The alleged gratification was intended to induce Nair to act dishonestly or improperly in the exercise of his influential position within the judiciary.
“The state commenced leading its evidence through its first witness, who provided testimony regarding the alleged installation of security upgrades at the accused’s residence,” he said.
The matter was postponed to 27 October 2026, for the continuation of the trial.
26 October 2026 – Seven accused are facing 46 charges, including corruption, fraud, money laundering and contraventions of the Municipal Finance Management Act in connection with an alleged R144 million municipal land fraud and a separate social housing funding scheme worth more than R100 million in Mahikeng. The accused, Hendrik Smith, Petrus van der Merwe, Barbra van der Merwe, Sarel van Niekerk, Brian Moholo, Tshepiso Moholo and Reggie Mutsi, appeared before the Specialised Commercial Crime Court sitting at the Molopo Regional Court on 22 and 23 October 2026.
According to a joint statement by the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), the accused were arrested on 22 and 23 October 2026, by members of the Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation and Crimes Against the State units. The first alleged scheme relates to the unlawful sale of municipal land valued at R144 million between 2007 and 2009.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in North West, Lindiwe Mabasa said the state alleges that the first and second accused acted together to defraud the then Mahikeng Local Municipality through a sale agreement that required the purchaser to pay the full purchase price. Mabasa said, however, only R5 million was allegedly paid, leaving an outstanding balance of R139 million.
“Investigators allege that the R5 million payment was made through an unauthorised arrangement involving the accused and other parties, without the municipality’s knowledge or approval. The payment was allegedly part of an attempt to amend the original sale agreement and reduce the purchase price.
“In February 2009, the land was transferred after the first accused lodged an application with the Deeds Registry in Vryburg. The state alleges that the transfer proceeded despite the outstanding balance and without the necessary municipal authorisation,” she said.
Mabasa further said the second alleged scheme involves more than R100 million in social housing funding obtained from the Social Housing Regulatory Authority (SHRA) between 2011 and 2013. She added that the NPA and Hawks allege that the second to seventh accused participated in a scheme to defraud the SHRA using the land acquired through the alleged municipal land fraud.
“The accused allegedly applied for more than R100 million in funding to construct social housing units in Mahikeng. The fifth accused, Brian Moholo, who was the SHRA chief executive officer (CEO) at the time, allegedly facilitated and authorised the process through which the funding was obtained.
“Investigations allegedly revealed that the intended housing units were never completed. Instead, only structures were erected, allegedly to conceal the true purpose of the scheme. The SHRA reportedly suffered financial losses exceeding R100 million.
“All seven accused were granted bail. Six were granted bail of R10 000 each, while the fifth accused, Moholo, was granted bail of R5 000. The matter was postponed to 7 December 2026, for further investigations,” said Mabasa.
“The allegations have yet to be tested in court,” she said.
26 October 2026 – An accused, Ntombifuthi Mavis Rumo (37), has appeared in the Kwa-Thema Magistrate’s Court for allegedly staging her own kidnapping with two other people to extort money from her family. Rumo briefly appeared in court, while her co-accused, Bonginkosi Mndebele (27), appeared in absentia because he is in hospital.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Gauteng, Lumka Mahanjana said both accused are facing a charge of defeating the administration of justice. Mahanjana said the incident allegedly began on 7 October 2026, when Rumo, Mndebele and a third suspect, who has not yet been charged, met and discussed staging her kidnapping because they were experiencing financial difficulties.
“The trio allegedly contacted Rumo’s family and demanded money in exchange for her release. When the family was unable to pay the demanded amount, the suspects allegedly released Rumo on 12 October 2026, and left her along Vlakfontein Road.
“They then reportedly asked her family to collect her from the location. Following an investigation into the reported kidnapping, Rumo was arrested on 20 October 2026, after her husband brought her to the police,” she said.
Mahanjana further said a her arrest, she allegedly pointed out Mndebele to the police. She added that the matter was postponed to 29 October 2026, for bail investigations and for Mndebele to appear in court.
“The state intends to oppose bail for both accused,” said Mahanjana.
