Author Archives: The Guardian

A man appear in court for possession of unlicensed firearm

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

27 July 2026 – An intelligence-driven operation conducted by members of the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Crime Intelligence and the District Illicit Unit has resulted in the arrest of a suspect for the alleged possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition in Kanana Township, near Orkney. The operation followed intelligence received on 18 July 2026, regarding a man allegedly in possession of a firearm at an informal settlement in Kanana Extension 5.

The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Adéle Myburgh said the information was verified and the identified premises were placed under continuous monitoring, while operational plans were finalised. Myburgh said on 21 July 2026, the police executed the operation by searching the identified shack.

“The search led to the arrest of the suspect and the recovery of a hunting rifle and various ammunition. The suspect, Thabo Abednigo Nteu (40), was charged with the possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition. Nteu briefly appeared before the Orkney Magistrate’s Court on 23 July 2026, and was remanded in custody for a bail application on 30 July 2026,” she said.

Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, said the police remains committed to removing illegal firearms from communities and commends the effective collaboration between Crime Intelligence and the District Illicit Unit. Naidoo emphasised that intelligence-led policing continues to play a vital role in combating serious and violent crime and encouraged members of the community to continue providing information on criminal activities.

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Alleged armed robbers in court in separate cases  

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

27 July 2026 – A man (39) was arrested by the police in Delareyville following an alleged attempted vehicle hijacking and shooting incident that occurred at approximately 1:45pm on General De Larey Street, in Delareyville on 22 July 2026. It is alleged that the complainant a courier driver (40), was offloading parcels from his Nissan NP300 when he was approached from behind by an armed suspect.

The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Adéle Myburgh said a suspect allegedly pointed a firearm at the complainant and announced that it was a hijacking. Myburgh said the complainant turned to face the suspect and a struggle ensued.

“During the altercation, the suspect allegedly fired five shots at the complainant. Fortunately, none of the shots struck him. The suspect then fled the scene on foot, while the complainant pursued him in his vehicle. The suspect was later located in Du Toit Street, where, with the assistance of community members, was apprehended and disarmed.

“The complainant contacted the police and upon arrival, they took the suspect into custody and seized a 9mm pistol with ammunition. The suspect was charged with attempted robbery, attempted murder and possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition. He is expected to appear before the Delareyville Magistrate’s Court on 27 July 2026,” she said.

Myburgh further said in a second and unrelated incident in Potchefstroom, four suspects entered a takeaway shop in Wandellaan, Walter Sisulu Street on Friday evening. She added that, they allegedly threatened three employees with a knife, brutally assaulted two of them and stole cash and cigarettes before fleeing the scene on foot.

“The police responded promptly and managed to arrest two suspects aged 26 and 27, respectively. The pair are expected to appear before the Potchefstroom Magistrate’s Court on 27 July 2026, on charges of business robbery,” she said.

Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, commended the swift response of both community members and police officials. However, Naidoo reminded the public that suspects should be approached with caution and handed over to the police immediately when members of the public intervene in criminal incidents.

“The police remain committed to removing criminals from the streets and ensuring that offenders are brought to justice. We commend the police officers and community members for the swift arrests of robbery suspects over the weekend. The arrests send a strong message that serious and violent crime will not be tolerated,” he said.

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President Cyril Ramaphosa accedes to investigating director’s resignation

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Picture: Former IDAC Head, Advocate Andrea Johnson

By REGINALD KANYANE

27 Jul 2026 – The Republic of South Africa (RSA) president, Cyril Ramaphosa has in terms of Section 12(8)(a) of the National Prosecuting Authority Act of 1998 accepted the request by Advocate Andrea Johnson, the Investigating Director of the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC), to vacate office with immediate effect. Ramaphosa’s agreement follows a recommendation by Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi and supported by National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDDP), Advocate Andy Mothibi, that Johnson’s request be granted.

Ramaphosa spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya said Johnson directed her request for an immediate release from office to the National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDDP) and Ramaphosa. Magwenya said Ramaphosa thanked Johnson for her years of service in the NPA and as the head of IDAC.

“The President assures the leadership and staff of the NPA of the government’s unwavering support for its work in the fight against crime and corruption,” he said.

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Police are looking for missing girl

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Picture: A missing girl, Mmalatsatsi Kamogelo Phelelo

By OBAKENG MAJE

27 July 2026 – The police in Klerksdorp request the community’s assistance in locating a missing girl, Mmalatsatsi Kamogelo Phelelo (17). Phelelo is originally from Ratsagae village, near Swartruggens and currently staying in Rethabile Children’s Home in Freemanville, Klerksdorp.

The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Adéle Myburgh said Phelelo was last seen on 24 July 2026, when she was dropped off at school by the Children Home’s transport vehicle, a Volkswagen Crafter. Myburgh said after school, she could not be found.

“She was wearing a winter maroon school uniform at the time of her disappearance. Phelelo is of average build, about 1,6 m tall, weighs 65kg with black, short hair, a dimple on her chin, dark brown eyes and she is dark in complexion. The police request anyone who may have information regarding her whereabouts to contact the Investigating Officer of Klerksdorp Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit, Warrant Officer Dave Venter on 082 460 4447.

“Alternatively, call your local police station or Crime Stop on ‪08600 10111. Anonymous tip-offs can also be communicated via the MySAPS App from your smartphone,” she said.

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Makatong clarifies AG’s findings on Office of the Premier building’s lease agreement

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Picture: Northern Cape MEC for Public Works and Roads, Fufe Makatong

By BAKANG MOKOTO

24 July 2026- The Northern Cape Department of Roads and Public Works said it has noted recent social media commentary regarding the lease agreement for the DSC Office Block, currently occupied by the Office of the Premier. The department said it wishes to place the correct facts on record and clarify the Auditor-General’s findings.

The Northern Cape MEC for Public Works and Roads, Fufe Makatong, said the background and context prior to July 2023, the Office of the Premier occupied the Transnet Building at a rental cost of R1.6 million per month, with an annual escalation of 8%. Makatong said due to serious Occupational Health and Safety non-compliance, recurring cable theft causing prolonged power outages and persistent failures of lifts and air-conditioning, the building was deemed unsuitable for continued occupation.

“In July 2023, the Office of the Premier relocated to the DSC Office Block at a rental of R1.4 million per month, with an annual escalation of 6.5%. This relocation resulted in an estimated annual saving of approximately R3 million to the Northern Cape Provincial Government (NCPG), demonstrating prudent financial management and value for public money.

“The Auditor-General’s finding relates to an administrative process. The failure to conduct and submit a market analysis and assessment report prior concluding the lease. This was classified as irregular expenditure,” she said.

Makatong further said her department confirms that no financial loss has been incurred by the state in relation to this lease agreement. She added that in line with the Auditor-General’s recommendations, the department has started to undertake corrective measures.

“This includes the termination of the current lease agreement and the commencement of a new procurement process to regularise office accommodation for the Office of the Premier.

“The department reiterates that procurement processes are the responsibility of the Accounting Officer, who delegates to line functionaries in accordance with public finance prescripts.

The department takes seriously the protection of official information in line with POPIA and other prescripts,” said Makatong.

She said isdues of this nature, regarding the handling of departmental documents will be dealt with through the appropriate internal and legal processes. Makatong said her department remains committed to transparency, accountability and delivering value for money on behalf of the people of the province.

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Matika conducts an outreach programme in honour of Madiba

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Picture: Northern Cape MEC for Sport, Arts and Culture, Mangaliso Matika

By AGISANANG SCUFF

24 July 2926 – As part of the Mandela Month programme, the Northern Cape MEC for Sport, Arts and Culture, Mangaliso Matika conducted an outreach programme to support older persons at Bophelong Care Centre, GAASCA Old Age Home, Seochwareng Old Age Home, and the AFM Fountain of Joy Church on the 22 July 2026. The outreach programme was aimed at providing much-needed support and essential services to older persons in recognition of Mandela Month, while promoting the values of compassion, dignity and selfless service inspired by the legacy of former President Nelson Mandela.

Mafika said the initiative was implemented in collaboration with the Al-Imdaad Foundation, whose partnership contributed significantly to ensuring that older persons received essential items to improve their well-being. He said during the visits, the four institutions received donations of mattresses, food parcels and blankets to enhance the comfort and quality of life of their elderly residents.

“In addition, the Northern Cape Department of Sport, Arts and Culture made financial commitments to further support the facilities and strengthen the services they provide to older persons. The department committed R10 000 to Bophelong Care Centre, R20 000 to GAASCA Old Age Home, R10 000 to Seochwareng Old Age Home and R10 000 to the AFM Fountain of Joy Church.

“We would like to reaffirm government’s commitment to protect the dignity and welfare of older persons. Mandela Month reminds us that serving our communities is a shared responsibility. Through this outreach, we are demonstrating our commitment to ensuring that older persons are cared for, respected and supported,” said Matika.

He further said they appreciate the partnership with the Al-Imdaad Foundation in making a meaningful difference in the lives of our senior citizens. Matika added that his department, remains committed to strengthening partnerships that improve the lives of vulnerable groups and ensure that older persons continue to receive the care, support and respect they deserve.

“The financial commitments made during the outreach will further assist these institutions in addressing their immediate needs and enhancing the quality of care provided to elderly residents,” he said.

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Vass handover RDP houses to beneficiaries

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Picture: Some of the beneficiaries received keys to their RDP homes/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

24 July 2026 – The Northern Cape MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlement and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), Bentley Vass officially handed over newly-completed houses at the Onseepkans 90 Housing Project on Wednesday. Vass said this development is part of the One Billion Rand Housing Project, an initiative aimed at clearing the province’s housing backlog and building safer, stronger communities.

He further said restoring dignity through quality housing remains at the heart of our mandate. Vass added that seeing the sheer joy on the faces of mothers, fathers, and youth as they open the doors to their brand-new homes drives their resolve.

“Our firm stance remains ensuring that all remaining housing units under the first phase of this landmark One Billion Rand Housing Project, are fully completed and handed over to their rightful owners before the end of this financial year.

“The department will continue to work closely with local municipal leadership, contractors and community structures to maintain the construction momentum and guarantee that no project in the first phase is left incomplete,” he said.

The executive mayor of the Namakwa District, Alinda Beukes and , the Khâi-Ma Local Municipality, Estelle Cloete said: “On behalf of the Khâi-Ma Local Municipality, I extend our deepest gratitude to the provincial government and Vass for prioritizing Onseepkans through this landmark Housing Project.

“Delivering these newly-completed homes not only restores pride and stability to our families, but also reflects the power of strong intergovernmental collaboration in restoring human dignity across our communities.”

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767 suspects nabbed during Operation Shanela II

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Picture: The police during stop and search operation/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

24 July 2026 – The acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, reiterated that police across the province will continue to squeeze the space for criminals in response to serious and violent crimes through Operation Shanela 2, which focuses on enhanced crime prevention and combatting criminal activities. Naidoo said consequent to operations conducted between 13 and 19 July 2026, a total of 767 suspects were arrested for various crimes ranging from murder, attempted murder, assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm and common assault, dealing in drugs, illegal dealing in liquor, possession of drugs, burglary at business and residential premises, to driving under the influence of alcohol.

“In addition, 97 suspected undocumented migrants were taken in for processing by Immigration officials. During the operations, 391 premises, 2 856 persons and 1423 vehicles were searched.

“Moreover, the police working together with other law enforcement agencies confiscated alcohol, ammunition, cash, cellular phones, contraband goods, a variety of drugs, eight dangerous weapons, commercial explosives, 2 202 kg kilograms of copper cables, tobacco products and eight vehicles,” he said.

Naidoo further said on 16 July 2026, a tip-off was received was operationalised, leading to the recovery of a Toyota HiAce Quantum, found parked next to the road in Majakaneng, near Mooinooi. He added that the vehicle valued at around R400 000, was recovered before the owner, who is from Tlhabane Township, near Rustenburg could realised that his it was stolen.

“In a second unrelated incident reported in Vryburg on 19 July 2026, a suspect (17) was arrested for the alleged rape of his niece (5). The suspect will be dealt with in accordance with the Child Justice Act, Act 75 of 2008.

“We welcome the results achieved. The police will remain resolute in their mission to decisively deal with serious and violent crime in the province through Operation Shanela 2,” said Naidoo.

He also encouraged all law enforcement agencies to continue working tirelessly towards building safer communities and urged members of the public to cooperate with police by reporting criminal activities.

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Police are looking for a missing Ipeleng Dire

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Picture: Missing person, Ipeleng Dire/Supplied

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

24 July 2026 – The police in Klerksdorp request the community’s assistance in locating a missing person, Ipelegeng Dire (23). Dire, who is originally from Ipelegeng Township in Schweizer Reneke, was last seen on 23 March 2026, at Van Zyl Street, Pienaarsdorp, in Klerksdorp.

The North West police spokesperson, Captain Majang Skalkie said a search commenced and extensive investigations were conducted, but police could not locate her. Skalkie said it is unknown what she was wearing at the time of her disappearance.

“Dire is light in complexion, short and has a slender built body with black long hair. The police request anyone who may have information regarding Ipelegeng Dire’s whereabouts to contact the Investigating Officer, Sergeant Mateane Mokoto on 063 224 3512.

“Alternatively, they can call their local police station or Crime Stop on 08600 10111. Anonymous tip-offs can also be communicated via the MySAPS App from your smartphone,” she said.

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Robbery suspect arrested, police and civilian injured

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Picture: Police seized a firearm during robbery/Generic

By BAKANG MOKOTO

24 July 2026 – A man (26) was arrested in Oukasie following an exchange of gunfire with the police on 22 July 2026. According to preliminary information, police responded to a complaint of robbery after an elderly person (68) alleged that his grandson forcibly pushed him to the ground and robbed him of his licensed firearm at his residence in Masenkeng, Oukasie.

The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Adele Myburgh, said it is further alleged that the suspect fired two shots at the complainant, missing him, before fleeing the scene. Myburgh said the police immediately launched a search operation, which was later reinforced by members of the Brits Tactical Response Team (TRT), Crime Prevention, and other SAPS units.

“During the search, the suspect was spotted, but fled towards nearby mountains before running through residential areas. While pursuing the suspect near a primary school, the police members allegedly came under fire when the suspect opened fire on them.

“A further exchange of gunfire ensued after the suspect entered a residential property. During the incident, a police Sergeant (41), sustained a gunshot wound to the right leg and was transported to a medical facility, where he is receiving treatment,” she said.

Myburgh further said a female bystander (30) also sustained a wound to the right leg during the exchange of gunfire and was taken to hospital, where she was released shortly after receiving medical treatment. She added that the suspect sustained multiple gunshot wounds during the confrontation and was transported to the hospital under police guard, where he is receiving medical treatment.

“Several criminal cases are under investigation, including robbery, attempted murder, unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition. This includes discharging a firearm in a municipal area. Additional charges may be added as the investigation progresses.

“The stolen firearm and ammunition have been recovered and seized for forensic examination,” said Myburgh.

Meanwhile, acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, commended the police for their swift response to a dangerous and volatile situation. Naidoo said the police displayed exceptional courage and professionalism, while confronting an armed and dangerous suspect.

“Their decisive actions prevented further harm to the community and demonstrate that the South African Police Service (SAPS) remains committed to protecting the public and bringing violent offenders to justice. I would like to wish a speedy recovery to the injured police member and civilian,” he said.

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