26 August 2026 – Today, the South African Police Service (SAPS) remembers and pays tribute to fallen heroes, the late Warrant Officer Vuyisile Rodney Sintwa and Sergeant Simon Sentsho Masenye who died in the line of duty on 8 August 2025. The SAPS said Sintwa and Masenye were stationed at Florida Police Station in Gauteng at the time of their tragic death.
SAPS national spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said in the build-up to the SAPS Commemoration Day, which will be held at the Union Buildings on 6 September 2026, SAPS will honour 12 police officers who laid down their lives while serving and protecting the people of South Africa.
Picture: Learners from Tong Commercial Secondary School in Ganyesa allegedly assaulted a fellow learner/Facebook
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
26 August 2026 – The North West Department of Education said it has noted with concern a bullying incident involving learners from Tong Comprehensive Secondary School in Ganyesa village, which circulated on social media. The department said it has been informed that the incident occurred at Elgiers Village, approximately 10 kilometres from Ganyesa and involved learners who were allegedly engaged in a physical altercation.
The North West MEC for Education, Dr Desbo Mohono said upon becoming aware of the incident through social media, the school management and School Governing Body (SGB) immediately informed the Circuit Manager and engaged the affected learners and their parents. Mohono said on 25 August 2026, the school, SGB, Circuit Manager, SAPS and Social Development conducted an anti-bullying campaign during which learners were sensitised about bullying, its consequences and the importance of reporting incidents to educators and school management.
“A meeting was also held with the parents of the affected learners. It emerged that the bullying allegedly originated at school and was linked to Facebook gossip and insulting letters written in class.
“Following the meeting and consideration of the seriousness of the matter, 12 learners were suspended for seven days pending further investigation. A formal disciplinary hearing is scheduled for 4 September 2026,” she said.
Mohono further said the parent of the affected learner was advised to open a case with SAPS, and a case was subsequently opened under case number 76/8/2026. She added that the department has further arranged for the affected learner to receive psychosocial support from the wellness unit.
“We call on learners to reject bullying and to report incidents of intimidation, harassment and violence before they escalate. Bullying has no place in our schools. Every learner has the right to learn in an environment that is safe, respectful and free from intimidation.
“We commend the school, SAPS, Social Development, parents and other stakeholders for responding promptly to this incident. We urge learners to speak up when they experience or witness bullying and to seek assistance from educators, school management, parents or other responsible adults,” said Mohono.
She said they will continue strengthening the interventions against bullying and violence in schools to ensure that learners are protected and able to learn in a safe and supportive environment. Mohono said her department appreciates the prompt response by SAPS and the cooperation of the parents, school management and other stakeholders in addressing the matter.
26 August 2026 – The South African Football Association (SAFA) said it wishes to provide an update to its members, stakeholders, the football fraternity and the public on the status of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) Project and the R20 million received from the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC). SAFA said in April 2026, DSAC transferred R20 million to SAFA to support the implementation of VAR in South African football.
SAFA CEO, Lydia Monyepao said prior to receiving the funding, SAFA had already conducted a comprehensive technical evaluation of VAR technology and service providers and identified three preferred VAR providers. Monyepao said the contractual agreements were entered into by SAFA.
“At its meeting of 9–10 May 2026, the SAFA National Executive Committee (NEC) approved the implementation of the VAR Project in principle. However, before any procurement process or contractual commitments could proceed, the NEC resolved that the project budget, cost assumptions and procurement considerations be subjected to further review by the Finance Committee and a dedicated task team, in accordance with SAFA’s governance and policy requirements.
“SAFA has also consulted with the Premier Soccer League (PSL), through the Joint Liaison Committee (JLC), on the proposed implementation framework. The VAR Project Team presented to the JLC and the PSL Executive Committee as part of the stakeholder consultation process,” she said.
Monyepao further said SAFA acknowledges that the governance, financial verification and due diligence processes have taken longer than initially anticipated. She added that, however, it is important to emphasise that the R20 million received from DSAC has not been spent.
“The full amount remains secure in a separate account, together with the interest accrued, pending the completion of the outstanding governance, budget verification and procurement processes.
“Following engagement with DSAC on 18 August 2026, the Department has granted SAFA a final 21-day extension to conclude the outstanding processes and submit a comprehensive report on the project, including the recommendations arising from the review and confirmation of the funds held,” said Monyepao.
She said SAFA appreciates the Minister’s and DSAC’s continued support and constructive engagement. Monyepao said the Association remains committed to ensuring that VAR is implemented in a manner that is transparent, financially responsible, compliant with governance and procurement requirements and sustainable.
26 August 2026 – In culmination of Women’s Month, the North West MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Madoda Sambatha, will dialogue with women farmers and stakeholders on matters affecting the growth and development of women in agriculture in the province. Sambatha said the Provincial Women Farmers Dialogue will take place on 31 August 2026, in Klerksdorp as part of the National Women’s Month commemorations.
He further said the dialogue will provide a platform for women farmers and stakeholders to engage on opportunities, challenges and support available in the agricultural sector. Sambatha added that will focus on agricultural technologies, entrepreneurship, government support programmes and financial and non-financial opportunities available to women.
“The programme will also promote agricultural commercialisation and commodity aggregation through the Agri Hub Gateway, while public and private sector stakeholders will showcase their products, services and support programmes.
“The dialogue will further strengthen partnerships in skills development and entrepreneurship and create networking opportunities between women farmers, government, financial institutions, organised agriculture and other key stakeholders,” he said.
Meanwhile, the event will be held at Farm IP 425 Portion 13, Klerksdorp on 31 August 2026 at 9am.
25 August 2026 – Former CEO of Agriseta, Jeremiah Sello Madiba (62), pleaded guilty before Kimberley Serious Commercial Crimes Court for contravention of Public Finance Management Act (PMFA) and sentenced to pay a fine of R30 000 or 12 months imprisonment. Madiba was arrested in June 2022, by the Hawks Serious Commercial Crime Investigation team.
The Hawks spokesperson in Northern Cape, Warrant Officer Nomthandazo Mnisi said during June 2016, an NPO named Business Against Crime misrepresented themselves that they were in partnership with Dipalemo Strategic Trading Services and requested funding from Agriseta to the amount of R1.9 million. Mnisi said the funds was received and mentorship took place, but BAC misused the credentials of Dipalemo Strategic Trading Services in order to receive the contract.
“Furthermore, procurement procedures were not followed by Agriseta in awarding the contract to BAC. After several court appearances, the accused pleaded guilty and was sentenced as mentioned above.
“He is expected to pay R20 000 by the end of 31 August 2026 and R10 000 payable in instalments of R2500 until its fully paid by 7 October 2026,” she said.
The Provincial Head of the Hawks in Cape, Major General Steven Mabuela applauded the team for the great work done.
25 August 2026- The police in Schweizer Reneke are investigating a case of inquest following a fatal incident at an animal auction on 24 August 2026.
The police said they attended the scene and found a man (31) who had sustained fatal injuries after being electrocuted by electrical transformer.
The North West police spokesperson, Sergeant Kelebogile Morake said the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel attended the scene and certified him deceased. Morake said circumstances surrounding the incident are being investigated.
“Thr members of the public are urged to exercise extreme caution around electrical installations, transformers and power infrastructure.
•Never touch or approach an electrical transformer, even if it appears to be inactive. Do not climb on or tamper with transformers, electrical poles, cables or substations. Keep children away from electrical infrastructure and educate them about the dangers of electricity.
“Never enter fenced or restricted electrical areas. Stay away from damaged or fallen electrical cables and treat them as live. Report damaged transformers, exposed cables, sparks or other electrical hazards to the relevant electricity provider immediately,” she said.
Morake further said people should not attempt to repair or investigate electrical equipment themselves. She added that electricity can cause serious injury or death without warning.
“Keep a safe distance, do not touch electrical equipment, and report hazards to the authorities or electricity provider. Safety starts with awareness. Stay away. Stay safe,” said Morake.
Picture: The Northern Cape MEC for Education, Abraham Vosloo
By AGISANANG SCUFF
25 August 2026 – The Northern Cape MEC for Education, Abraham Vosloo will officiate the National Teaching Awards (NTAs) ceremony aimed at recognising, celebrating and honouring teachers and school principals who have performed remarkably well and showcased excellence in Education. Vosloo said the NTAs is a prestigious event, where the hard work, diligence and commitment of teachers are recognised and awarded for their outstanding leadership across the school spectrum.
“The award ceremony will be held at Old CRC Building in Kimberley on Tuesday at 12pm. The Provincial Winner in each category will represent our province at the National Awards Ceremony on 1 October 2026,” he said.
Picture: Some of drugs confiscated by the police/Supplied
By BAKANG MOKOTO
25 August 2026 – A suspect (30) was arrested by the members of Mahikeng Crime Intelligence, together with members of Lichtenburg Crime Prevention for possession of drugs in Lichtenburg. On Thursday, members were on duty when they received a tip-off regarding an individual allegedly involved in dealing in drugs in Extension 1, Lichtenburg.
The North West police spokesperson, Captain Majang Skalkie said the information was followed up and the police proceeded to the identified area, where they arrested the suspect and charged him with possession of drugs. Skalkie said the suspect briefly appeared before the Lichtenburg Magistrate’s Court on 24 August 2026.
Picture: The Greater Taung Local Municipality handed over two road construction projects
By BOINEELO KGOPE
25 August 2026 – The Greater Taung Local Municipality mayor, Itumeleng Maribe, handed over two access roads to the Baga-Mothibi Tribal Authority on Monday. The municipality said it is pleased with the work of the two contractors.
According to Maribe, the Nkemeleng Construction and Leope Services did a diligent job after completing their tasks beforehand. He further said the contractors constructed a 2km road in Shaleng village and 2.2km road in Seoding that were expected to be completed in a period of two financial years.
The Member of Mayoral Committee (MMC) responsible for Infrastructure, Bontsi Chubane shared the same sentiments. Chubane said both projects were completed in less than a year.
“Both internal roads were supposed to be completed in 8 months but the contractor in Seoding completed the job in 6 months. While working as a contractor in Shaleng for 5 months.
“The municipality spent at least R26m for both roads and promised to attend to the concerns raised by community members in Shaleng as soon as possible. Each project is estimated at R13m and the municipality retains a certain amount to ensure that the services delivered are of a great value,” he said.
Chubane further said because there are concerns in Shaleng, the contractor will only receive their balance after fixing these issues.
Meanwhile, the community members in Seoding village, welcomed the road and pleaded with the municipality to provide maintenance to the road to ensure it is well-preserved.
A member of the community, Lesego Motlhatlhedi said: “We will have less vehicle services because we have a better internal road in our village. We thank the municipality for having heard our cry during CPBs about poor internal roads.”
In contrast, the community members in Shaleng village sang a different tune. They alleged that the internal road in their area has brought nothing, but problems for them. According to them, the pavement floods water to some of their yards and calls on the municipality to fix the pavement before more damage is done.
A community leader, Kabelo Gwate said Nkemeleng Construction did a shoddy job with this road.
“Our vehicles cannot drive on this road because of the flow of the water coming from the storm water in Mothelesi Secondary School. Therefore, we are ill-fated with this handover and request the municipality to rectify its mistakes,” he said.
25 August 2026 – The Chairperson of the Select Committee on Education, Science and the Creative Industries, Makhi Feni has called on law enforcement agencies to do all in their power to bring to justice the killers of champion boxer Zolani Tete on the weekend. The committee sends its heartfelt condolences to the Tete family and friends and to the boxing fraternity.
Feni said lawlessness and access to illegal firearms is threatening not only the lives of our people, but South Africa’s stability.
“The ease with which these thugs are able to just disappear among communities and when arrested get bail, is becoming a pandemic. Law enforcements and government agencies need to deal decisively with the killing of innocent South Africans. South Africans have no other home other than South Africa, so it is unacceptable that people are killed for no apparent reason.
“Tete’s murder has made it clear now that arresting these thugs and serving is no longer enough. When people get arrested for contact crimes to only be released on parole or bail to come and perpetuate exactly the things they were arrested for, it is clear arrest is not deterrent enough,” he said.
Feni further said these kinds of crimes must carry serious punishment. He added that this kind of killing is just continuing unabated.
“That is a serious concern and something that the government and the police must resolve. Arrests are no longer enough when we continue to count bodies. Tete was killed in his Mdantsane home on the weekend and four suspects are already in custody.
“The committee welcomes the arrest, but that is woefully inadequate when a person has died. To the family we say akuhlanga lungehlanga, thuthuzelekani ngoko,” concluded Feni.
