Picture: North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Arthur Adams
By OBAKENG MAJE
5 November 2026 – The North West Provincial Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (PROVJOINTS) will today brief the media on the outcomes of the Local Government Elections and provide feedback on election-related operational and security matters in the province.
The briefing will be led by the North West Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Arthur Peter Adams, in his capacity as Chairperson of PROVJOINTS, together with other key stakeholders.
The media briefing will provide an overview of the provincial electoral process, including feedback on security arrangements, operations and other matters relating to the conduct of the elections.
According to PROVJOINTS spokesperson Colonel Adele Myburgh, the briefing is scheduled to take place as follows:
Picture: AK-47 rifle seized during a shootout/Supplied
By STAFF REPORTER
4 November 2026 – Two suspected cash-in-transit (CIT) robbers were fatally wounded during a shootout with police after an intelligence-driven operation foiled an alleged robbery in the Swartdam area, near Brits, in the North West. The incident occurred at approximately 9:50pm on 3 November 2026, when members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) Tactical Response Team (TRT) acted on intelligence about a suspected cash-in-transit robbery planned in the Bojanala area.
According to the North West police spokesperson, Colonel Adele Myburgh, the police proceeded to the Swartdam area in Moeka Vuma, where they spotted suspects who allegedly matched the descriptions provided. Myburgh said the suspects reportedly opened fire on the police, prompting officers to retaliate.
“During the exchange of gunfire, two suspects were fatally wounded at the scene, while a third sustained injuries and fled into nearby bushes. The injured suspect was discovered during daylight hours and transported to a local hospital, where he remains under police guard.
“The police also recovered an AK-47 assault rifle and a DM4 rifle. Explosives were found inside a Toyota double-cab bakkie allegedly used in the planned robbery,” she said.
Myburgh further said the operation involved members of the Tactical Response Team from Brits, Klerksdorp, Rustenburg and Mahikeng. Following the shooting, she added that, the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) was activated to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident in accordance with its oversight mandate.
“The operation demonstrated the police’s commitment to disrupting organised criminal activities and protecting communities. We commend the members of the Tactical Response Team for their swift response and operational vigilance, which resulted in the foiling of this suspected cash-in-transit robbery.
“Police officers remain committed to protecting communities and disrupting the activities of criminal syndicates. We will not allow criminals to undermine the safety and security of our communities,” said Myburgh.
She said those who choose to attack police officers must know that members will defend themselves and uphold the law. Myburgh said they will continue to intensify intelligence-driven operations to ensure that those involved in serious and violent crimes are brought to justice.
Picture: EFF MPL and Deputy Secretary in North West, Justice Dabampe
By OBAKENG MAJE
4 November 2026 – North West Member of the Provincial Legislature (MPL) and Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) Deputy Provincial Secretary, Justice Dabampe, has been arrested and charged with contravening the Electoral Act and intimidation following an incident at a voting station in Utlwanang Township, Christiana.
The incident reportedly occurred on Monday, 2 November 2026, when Dabampe allegedly entered the voting station accompanied by a group of people who were taking photographs and recording videos of him while he was casting his vote.
North West police spokesperson, Colonel Adele Myburgh, confirmed that police are investigating a case of contravention of the Electoral Act and intimidation following a complaint reported at the voting station.
Myburgh said a 39-year-old female presiding officer, who was on duty at the voting station, alleged that approximately 10 to 15 people arrived, some of whom were wearing T-shirts bearing the regalia of a political party.
“One of the individuals was reportedly carrying a camera, while others were recording a male who had arrived to cast his vote. The presiding officer questioned whether the individuals had the necessary accreditation to take photographs and videos at the voting station.
“In response, the male, who was accompanying the individual with the camera, allegedly stated that he was his photographer. He further threatened to destroy ballot papers inside the voting station if he was not allowed to cast his vote,” Myburgh said.
She added that IEC officials eventually allowed the man to cast his vote while videos were being recorded.
A case of contravention of the Electoral Act 73 of 1998 and intimidation was subsequently opened for investigation.
“A 29-year-old male suspect was arrested and briefly appeared before the Christiana Magistrates’ Court. He was granted bail of R500, and the case was postponed to 12 November 2026. Investigations are ongoing.
“The police urge members of the public and political party supporters to adhere to the Electoral Code of Conduct and allow the electoral process to unfold in a free and fair manner,” Myburgh said.
Meanwhile, IEC North West Provincial Electoral Commissioner Bonolo Modise confirmed that the commission was aware of the incident.
Modise explained that anyone entering a voting station must conduct themselves in accordance with the presiding officer’s instructions and obtain permission before undertaking any activity inside the voting station.
“You cannot simply walk into a voting station and do as you please. People should remember that the voting station is under the authority of the presiding officer.
“The presiding officer requested Dabampe to refrain from taking photographs or recording himself, but he refused to comply. As a result, the presiding officer requested assistance from police officers who were on duty at the time,” Modise said.
He emphasised that the IEC would not tolerate incidents that could disrupt other voters or interfere with their constitutional right to cast their votes.
Modise further indicated that the commission had not experienced any major challenges during the voting process.
He said all voting stations had opened on time, with no reports of disruptions.
“We hope the situation remains calm until the voting stations close, after which the counting of ballots will commence,” he said.
Picture: North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi/Supplied
By REGINALD KANYANE
4 November 2026 – The North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi has today cast his vote in Vryburg, reaffirming his commitment to democratic participation and the constitutional right of every resident of North West to have their voice heard through the ballot. Speaking after voting, Mokgosi encouraged all eligible voters to participate in the electoral process, emphasizing that every vote contributes to shaping the future of communities, the province and the country.
He further stressed that the government’s responsibility to serve communities extends beyond elections and election campaigns. Mokgosi reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to accelerating service delivery, improving infrastructure, expanding economic opportunities and ensuring that residents continue to receive quality services.
“Today, I have exercised my democratic right as a South African citizen. While elections are an important cornerstone of our democracy, our commitment to the people does not begin or end at the ballot box.
“We remain focused on expediting the delivery of basic services, creating opportunities for our communities and building a better future for all,” he said.
Mokgosi further commended electoral officials, security personnel, political parties, observers and volunteers for their efforts in ensuring a peaceful, free and fair electoral process. He added that residents should continue exercising their democratic rights responsibly and to uphold the values of unity, respect and active citizenship throughout the election period and beyond.
4 November 2026 – The North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Virginia Tlhapi said she regrets an incident where a traffic officer was run over to death by car in Rustenburg. Tlhapi said the traffic officer was on daily duty with his other colleagues when he tried to stop a bakkie that reportedly passed several stop signs on the Bophuthatswana Street towards Meriting, near R510 road.
“According to the information, the Provincial Inspector (PI) Rendani Maluta (41) tried to stop the vehicle that did not stop and hit him with the front right fender and driver fled at the scene. Other traffic officers chased the vehicle with the back-up of police and the suspect who was found drunk was arrested.
“The incident happened at around 10am on 3 November 2026. I visited the scene and I would like to send our heartfelt condolences to the Maluta family, friends and colleagues. It is regrettable that we have lost one of our own dedicated traffic officers as a result of reckless and drunk driver,” she said.
Tlhapi further said they are now ending the year in such bad news. She added that their numbers go down at the festive season, the time they need to be more visible on the road to save lives.
“We appreciate the swift response of his colleagues and the police to who apprehended the suspect. His arrest would not bring back Maluta, but justice must prevail.
“Once more, we implore road users to be responsible and drive sensibly, especially that the festive season has just begun. Maluta was a traffic officer at the Rustenburg Provincial Traffic Station as a Provincial Inspector with 14 years of service at the department,” said Tlhapi.
She said the details of the funeral will be announced in due course. Tlhapi said the suspect is expected to appear in Tlhabane Magistrate’s Court on 5 November, 2026.
4 November 2026 – The police in the Northern Cape has expressed concern over recent road fatalities in the province and urged all road users to exercise caution, remain vigilant and comply with road safety regulations. With the festive season underway, motorists and travellers embarking on long-distance journeys have been reminded that responsible driving and adherence to traffic laws are essential to preventing further loss of life on the roads.
Traffic volumes are expected to increase significantly on major routes as families and holidaymakers travel to their respective destinations. Road users have been urged to plan their journeys in advance, allow sufficient travelling time and ensure that their vehicles are roadworthy before embarking on long-distance trips.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Litabe said SAPS has reminded motorists to obey traffic laws, observe prescribed speed limits and avoid reckless and negligent driving, including dangerous overtaking, particularly around curves and other hazardous sections of the road. Litabe said fatigue has also been identified as a contributing factor to road accidents. Motorists are therefore encouraged to take regular rest breaks and share driving responsibilities where possible to remain alert and focused behind the wheel.
“The police have warned that driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs will not be tolerated. Law enforcement officers will maintain an increased presence on the roads through high-visibility operations, including roadblocks and vehicle inspections, to enforce compliance and promote road safety.
“Pedestrians have also been urged to exercise caution when crossing roads, particularly in areas with heavy traffic, and to wear bright or reflective clothing when walking at night,” he said.
Litabe further said drivers are reminded to wear seatbelts at all times, while members of the public are encouraged to report reckless and unsafe driving to the relevant authorities. He added that SAPS has called on all road users to act responsibly, exercise patience and show consideration for one another on the roads.
“Every life is precious, and road safety remains a shared responsibility. Let us work together to prevent road fatalities and ensure that everyone reaches their destination safely,” said Litabe.
4 November 2026 – The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Northern Cape has deployed its members across all five policing districts in the province to ensure a safe, peaceful and secure environment as the 2026 Local Government Elections get underway. Before deployment, the five District Commissioners of Frances Baard, Pixley ka Seme, ZF Mgcawu, Namakwa and John Taolo Gaetsewe Districts, conducted parades with their respective members, during which operational instructions and marching orders were issued.
The Northern Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, who also chairs the Provincial Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (PROV JOINTS) said the briefings were aimed at ensuring that police officers were adequately prepared, fully informed and strategically positioned to carry out their election-related responsibilities. Otola said the parades also reaffirmed SAPS members’ operational readiness, discipline and commitment to maintaining law and order, protecting voters, Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) personnel and election materials, as well as safeguarding voting stations and surrounding areas.
“The police officers have been deployed at identified voting stations and other strategic locations across the province to monitor the electoral process, conduct patrols, respond promptly to incidents and prevent intimidation, violence, disruptions or criminal activities that could threaten the integrity of the elections.
“In collaboration with other law enforcement agencies and relevant stakeholders, the SAPS remains committed to ensuring that every eligible voter can exercise their democratic right without fear, intimidation or interference,” she said.
Otola emphasised that a zero-tolerance approach would be adopted towards election-related offences, warning that law enforcement agencies remain vigilant and ready to act decisively against anyone attempting to disrupt the electoral process or undermine the democratic rights of others. She further said the SAPS in the Northern Cape will continue monitoring developments throughout the province and provide updates on any significant incidents that may occur.
“The authority of the State will be asserted, and the safety and security of all inhabitants remain our priority,” said Otola.
Picture: Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture is Gayton McKenzie
By STAFF REPORTER
4 November 2026 – The Democratic Alliance (DA) said it has come to its attention that a staunch Patriotic Alliance (PA) “leader” and an advocate acting on behalf of the party was allegedly appointed to the Cricket World Cup Local Organising Committee (LOC) as a non-executive director in August 2025. The DA said PA is just like the ANC, the same cadres are deployed and everyone else is excluded.
DA Western Cape leader, Tertuis Simmers said Phillip Johannes October’s appointment to the committee raises serious questions, especially with the recent TicketPro scandal exposed by the Daily Maverick. Simmers said along with serving on the PA Regional Executive, he is also part of Cheslyn Daniels’ campaign team and is known to be the legal advisor for the Cape Town region.
“Gayton has clearly ensured that his cadres hold the keys to the Local Organising Committee, along with the company that has the rights to the tickets. What makes this more concerning is that the Hawks reported in 2023 that Phillip October was convicted of tax fraud.
“He allegedly pleaded guilty before changing his plea and will be back in court later in the year. The case was linked to his company, Xiphos Security Services (M2010015131). Phillip and his company initially pleaded guilty under a Section 112 agreement to 146 counts, including fraud, VAT-related offences, tax evasion, and failure to pay PAYE, UIF and Skills Development Levy,” said Simmers.
He further said Phillip is also alleged to face another case in Bellville for Gender-Based Violence (GBV). Simmers added that South Africa and the World Cup host cities deserve better.
“Our sports, arts and culture industry should not be a personal ATM for the Minister and the Patriotic Alliance. The PA cannot be trusted as a party and certainly not in government. From broken promises to ANC-style cadre deployment – they will deliver nothing, but chaos.
“We must stop this type of chaos. We cannot allow the PA to use Cape Town or other Western Cape towns to ensure their friends, families and so-called leaders benefit from taxpayer money. Your rates and taxes must be used for delivery of services, not for PA cadres to get rich,” he said.
4 November 2026 – Hartbeespoortdam police are investigating a house robbery in which three armed suspects allegedly robbed an elderly couple of seven licensed firearms, ammunition, electronic equipment and other valuables at their home in Broederstroom. The incident occurred on Sunday night, 1 November 2026, when three unidentified men allegedly gained entry into the residence through an unlocked wooden sliding door.
According to North West police spokesperson, Sergeant Kelebogile Morake, the suspects wearing face masks, demanded money from the couple aged 66 and 58, claiming that they knew one of the occupants operated a kiosk at a nearby resort. Morake said the suspects allegedly gained access to a safe and stole seven firearms of different calibres, together with ammunition.
“All the firearms were reportedly licensed in the male victim’s name, who is also said to operate an anti-poaching school. The suspects further allegedly stole two cellphones, a laptop, cash and other personal belongings before fleeing the scene.
“During the robbery, the male victim sustained minor injuries. He reportedly sought medical attention after being threatened and allegedly having hot water poured on him by the suspects in an attempt to force him to provide information,” she said.
Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Arthur Adams, condemned the incident and urged residents to remain vigilant and prioritise their safety.
“It is concerning that criminals continue to target vulnerable members of our communities in the comfort of their homes. We strongly condemn such acts of violence and intimidation.
“We urge community members to strengthen their home security measures and work closely with the police by reporting any suspicious activities. We will continue to intensify efforts to ensure that those responsible for these criminal acts are brought to book,” he said.
A case of house robbery has been opened and investigations are underway. No arrests have been made.
Anyone with information that could assist police investigations is urged to contact the investigating officer, Warrant Officer Gregory Kwadi of Hartbeespoortdam SAPS Detectives, on 082 373 9636.
Picture: Former acting National Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Khomotso Phahlane
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
4 November 2026 – The fraud and corruption trial involving former acting National Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Khomotso Phahlane and five co-accused has been postponed to 9 November 2026, by the Gauteng High Court sitting in Pretoria. The postponement was necessitated by the ongoing Local Government Elections, allowing the electoral process to be concluded and giving some of the accused, who reside outside Gauteng, an opportunity to exercise their right to vote.
The Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) spokesperson, Henry Mamothame said Phahlane, Lieutenant-Colonel Godfrey Mahwayi, Major-General Maanda Obert Nemutandzhela, Major-General Mankosana Agnes Makhele and businessmen Inbanathan Kistiah and Avendra Naidoo face charges of fraud, corruption, theft and contravention of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA). Mamothame said charges relate to two contracts valued at approximately R54 million, which allegedly involved irregular procurement processes within the South African Police Service (SAPS).
“One of the contracts concerns the alleged irregular procurement of software known as RIPJAR, which was intended for use during the October 2015 #FeesMustFall student protests at universities.
“The second contract relates to the alleged irregular procurement of communication-encryption software known as Daedalus,” he said.
Mamothame further said software was allegedly used to encrypt telephone calls and erase cellphone records and messages at a time when Phahlane was under investigation by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID). He added that the investigation involved the controversial police blue-light tender and other alleged procurement irregularities during his tenure as acting National Police Commissioner.
“The trial is expected to commence on 9 November 2026,” said Mamothame.
