Picture: Two suspects nabbed for illegal mining/Supplied
By STAFF REPORTER
28 September 2026 – Two men aged 42 and 43 have been arrested for alleged illegal mining activities in the Alexander Bay policing precinct in the Namakwa District. According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), the arrests were made on 25 September 2026, after police received a tip-off from a security company about illegal digging activities at Beesbank at approximately 9:30pm.
The Namakwa District police spokesperson, Captain Ivan Magerman said while travelling to the mine, Alexander Bay SAPS members conducted patrols at Beauvallon, where they spotted a blue double-cab bakkie with people standing next to it. Magerman said a search of the vehicle led to the discovery of several bags containing suspected diamond-bearing gravel, as well as digging implements found inside and outside the vehicle.
“The two suspects were arrested at the scene for allegedly contravening the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act 28 of 2002 by conducting illegal prospecting and mining without authorisation.
“The police seized the suspected diamond-bearing gravel, digging implements and the vehicle as part of the investigation. The suspects are expected to appear before the Port Nolloth Magistrate’s Court soon,” he said.
Magerman further said the police in the Namakwa District remained committed to combating illegal mining activities. He added that illegal mining activities cause serious damage to the economy and the environment.
“We remain committed to combating these activities and ensuring that those involved are brought to justice,” said Magerman.
Picture: Amajita players after winning COSAFA Cup/Supplied
By STAFF REPORTER
28 September 2026- A determined Amajita made it back-to-back COSAFA U20 Men’s Championships when they beat a spirited Mozambique who enjoyed the backing of about 18 000 fans at the ABB Stadium in Matola on Sunday. The South Africans won 2-1 with goals from Oarabile Booysen – a stunner that gave the goalkeeper no chance – and a second from the spot courtesy of Steven Mendes, who converted the winner to take his tally to six in the tournament. In the process, the prolific marksman claimed the Top Goal Scorer Award ahead of Mozambique’s Alirio Cuna, who scored five.
The home had side responded through Martinho Começar, but it was not to be as Amajita continued where they left off two years to be crowned regional champions again.
Amajita Head Coach Raymond Mdaka said one needs consistency of some kind, and yes, it will not be easy but sometimes when you win, you need to maintain that consistency of winning, winning and winning. Mdaka said his team has the talent and when given time and the opportunity to prepare, they can do better.
“It’s a blessing to have this kind of talented players. Even in the previous edition, honestly, we had very good players and I’m happy we have got an opportunity now to make a better team compared to the one that we came with here.
“But keeping the trophy, taking it back home where it was for the whole season is something else and I really appreciate and give credit to the boys and every supporter who gave us energy almost every day.” he said.
For the Mozambique clash, the Amajita mentor had made two changes to the team that ran out against Zambia in the semi-finals, bringing on crowd favourite Emile Witbooi and Zazi Qotoyi in place of Matthew Palmer and Sanele Simelane. With the scores level at 1-1 apiece at the break, the recess was delayed for close to half an hour as safety measures were put in place when the home fans were still streaming in at an already packed venue.
But the South Africans braved the huge crowd and claimed victory, with Witbooi taking the Player of the Match accolade.
SAFA president, Danny Jordaan said it was a very tough game, and you can even see the margin of the score, it was 2-1. Jordaan said you would have thought of maybe a 1-1 or so.
“It was tough and they (Mozambique) were also coming, but we felt we had the edge in terms of keeping the ball and going to the goalposts. But credit to the boys, tournaments like these need that character, and that mentality. We are not only coaching technically and tactically, we are also coaching mentally so that when we face challenges they’re able to withstand (whatever comes their way).
“This is such a great achievement. Congratulations to HOD Solly Mkhabela, Coach Raymond Mdaka, the Technical team and the players. We are tremendously proud as a nation,” he said.
South Africa leave the tournament without defeat – a repeat of the last edition – winning all their five matches against Lesotho (3-0), Angola (2-0), Eswatini (2-0), Zambia (4-2) and Mozambique (2-1). The regional champions scored 13 and conceded three, leading to Amajita shot stopper, Takalani Mazhamba, to be named the Goalkeeper of the Tournament.
The home side had something to smile about because other than the silver medals, Cuna took the Player of the Tournament award. By progressing to the final of the regional tournament, both South Africa and Mozambique had already secured their spots in the CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations scheduled to be played in Ghana next year and will be two representatives of the COSAFA region.
Amajita will return home to South Africa on Monday and are expected to land in Johannesburg around 8:30 in the morning.
CAF U20 Men’s Africa Cup of Nations COSAFA qualifiers:
South Africa’s Road to the Final:
[Group Stages]
South Africa 3 – 0 Lesotho (Steven Mendes x2, Teboho Mlangeni)
South Africa 2 – 0 Angola (Lazola Maku, Steven Mendes)
South Africa 2 – 0 Eswatini (Manelis Mazibuko, Milimo Nalumango)
[Semifinal]
South Africa 4 – 2 Zambia (Steven Mendes x2, Oarabile Booysen, Emile Witbooi)
[Final]
South Africa 2 – 1 Mozambique (Oarabile Booysen, Steven Mendes)
TOURNAMENT AWARDS:
Golden Boot: Steven Mendes (South Africa) – 6 goals
Golden Glove: Takalani Mazhamba (South Africa)
Player of the Tournament: Alírio Cuna (Mozambique)
Picture: Two suspects nabbed for illegal mining/Supplied
By BAKANG MOKOTO
28 September 2026 – Two suspects aged 42 have been arrested for alleged illegal mining activities at Beesbank in Alexander Bay, following a police operation on Friday night, 26 September 2026. According to the police, members of Alexander Bay SAPS received a tip-off about suspected illegal mining activities at approximately 10:45pm.
The Namakwa District police spokesperson, Captain Ivan Magerman said the information was immediately acted upon, leading the police to the identified area, where the two suspects were apprehended. Magerman said during a search of the scene, the police seized several bags containing suspected diamond-bearing gravel, as well as digging implements believed to have been used in illegal mining activities.
“The suspects have been charged with contravening the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act 28 of 2002 by allegedly conducting illegal prospecting and mining without authorisation, as well as trespassing.
“Both suspects are expected to appear before the Springbok Magistrate’s Court on 28 September 2026,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Namakwa District Police Commissioner, Brigadier Schalk Andrews, commended the police members for their swift response and vigilance. Andrews said the Alexander Bay SAPS will not tolerate any form of illegal mining, which undermines the economy and damages the environment.
“The police have reiterated their commitment to combating illegal mining activities and ensuring that those involved are brought to justice,” he said.
Picture: Some of drugs confiscated during arrests/Supplied
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
28 September 2026 – The police in Northern Cape have arrested 396 suspects during Operation Shanela II operations conducted across the Northern Cape’s five districts from 21 to 27 September 2026. The operation targeted criminal activities through high-density and disruptive actions, including stop-and-searches, high-visibility patrols, vehicle checkpoints, roadblocks and tracing operations.
Northern Cape police spokesperson, Colonel Cherelle Ehlers said the operation was conducted in collaboration with community structures, government departments and other law enforcement agencies. Ehlers said during the operations, 283 suspects were arrested for various offences, while 6 661 people and 3 424 vehicles were searched.
“Detectives also intensified tracing operations targeting wanted suspects and individuals who had failed to appear in court, resulting in a further 113 arrests.
“Compliance inspections were conducted at liquor outlets, second-hand goods dealers, scrapyards, recycling facilities, firearm dealerships and formal and informal businesses,” she said.
Ehlers further said unlicensed liquor outlets were closed for non-compliance and regulatory violations, while alcohol, drugs and dangerous weapons were confiscated. She added that those who were arrested face charges relating to serious and priority crimes, including drug-related offences, illegal liquor trading, property-related crimes, attempted murder and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.
“The police also continued to strengthen community engagement and partnership policing through awareness campaigns and outreach activities. The Northern Cape SAPS remains steadfast in its commitment to disrupting criminal activities and creating safer communities in support of the SAPS Reset Agenda.
“The intelligence-driven operations, decisive enforcement and strong partnerships would continue to be used to combat crime and ensure that offenders are brought before the law,” said Ehlers.
Picture: Three suspects nabbed during Operation Phakisa/Supplied
By REGINALD KANYANE
28 September 2026 – A multi-agency law enforcement operation along the Namakwa coastal areas has resulted in several arrests, the seizure of drugs worth approximately R98 500 and the confiscation of illicit cigarettes valued at R390 323. The South African Police Service (SAPS) in collaboration with various law enforcement and government departments, conducted Operation Phakisa from 22 to 26 September 2026, targeting Kleinzee, Port Nolloth, Alexander Bay, Hondeklip Bay and Koingnaas.
The operation brought together SAPS specialised units and partner departments, including the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Department of Home Affairs, Department of Agriculture, Environmental Affairs, Rural Development and Land Reform, as well as Customs. The integrated operation focused on addressing criminal activities and ensuring compliance with legislation governing coastal activities.
Law enforcement teams conducted searches and inspections at harbours, launching sites, mining areas, camping sites, fish shops and restaurants. A total of 100 vehicles and 166 individuals were searched, while multiple vessels were also inspected.
Vehicle Check Points (VCPs) were conducted to enhance police visibility and ensure compliance across the targeted areas.
According to the Northern Cape police spokesperson, Colonel Cherelle Ehlers the operation yielded several successes, including the arrest of two individuals for contraventions of the Immigration Act and one suspect for contravening the Refugees Act. Ehlers said fines amounting to R4 400 were issued for contraventions of the National Road Traffic Act, while a further R4 700 in fines was issued for violations of the Marine Living Resources Act.
“Fish valued at approximately R1 500 was also seized in connection with contraventions of the Marine Living Resources Act Three suspects were arrested for drug-related offences following the seizure of drugs with an estimated street value of R98 500.
“A significant amount of cash, believed to be the proceeds of crime, was also confiscated, while illicit cigarettes valued at approximately R390 323 were seized and handed over to Customs for further handling,” she said.
The Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, commended all SAPS members and participating law enforcement and government departments for their commitment and collaborative efforts in ensuring the success of the operation. Otola emphasised that sustained and integrated multi-agency operations are critical in disrupting criminal activities, enforcing compliance with legislation and protecting communities, natural resources and legitimate economic activities along the province’s coastal areas.
“The police in Northern Cape would continue working closely with law enforcement and government partners to address criminality, ensure compliance with the law and protect communities and coastal resources.
“Those who engage in criminal activities would be identified and dealt with within the ambit of the law. The Northern Cape SAPS and its partners reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening integrated policing operations and maintaining a visible and effective law enforcement presence throughout the province,” she said.
Picture: A close-up of man holding knife smeared with blood and still dripping/Generic
By OBAKENG MAJE
28 September 2026 – A 36-year-old man, Brian Klaase, has been sentenced to 15 years imprisonment for the murder of Reagan Austin Losper (25) in Vioolsdrift, near the Namibian border. Klaase was sentenced by the Springbok Regional Court on 23 September 2026, following a thorough investigation by Warrant Officer Elridge Losper, formerly attached to the Vioolsdrift Detectives.
According to Namakwa District police spokesperson, Captain Ivan Magerman, the incident occurred on 27 April 2024, when an argument broke out near a shop in Vioolsdrift after Klaase demanded money he had given the deceased to buy cigarettes. Magerman said when the deceased indicated that he had no money, the accused became enraged, produced a knife and repeatedly stabbed him.
“The deceased attempted to defend himself and fled towards the police station, but collapsed on the N7 National Road, where he succumbed to his injuries. He was declared dead at the scene after sustaining a fatal stab wound to the neck.
“The investigation, led by Warrant Officer Losper, ensured that crucial evidence was secured, contributing to the successful conviction and sentencing of the accused. The accused admitted that he had not acted in self-defence, that his life was not in danger and that his actions were unlawful and punishable by law,” he said..
Magerman further said the accused remained in custody after abandoning his bail application.
Namakwa District Police Commissioner, Brigadier Schalk Andrews, commended Losper for his dedication and meticulous investigative work, which contributed to ensuring that justice was served and that the accused received the prescribed minimum sentence of 15 years imprisonment. Andrews reaffirmed SAPS’ commitment to conducting thorough investigations into violent and serious crimes and ensuring that perpetrators are brought before the courts to face the consequences of their actions.
22 September 2026- The Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) has welcomed the arrest of two Eastern Cape women in connection with an alleged R1.1 million fraud case involving UIF funds.
The two women appeared in the Gqeberha Specialised Commercial Crime Court, following their arrest by the Hawks for their alleged part in the scheme.
“[One of the women] was employed by the Department of Employment and Labour within the Employer Services Section. Her responsibilities included the capturing, verification, and filing of employer declaration of employees’ forms, commonly known as UI-19 forms, on benefits files.
“The investigation alleged that prospective UIF claimants were assisted with claim forms and other documentation, despite some allegedly not meeting the requirements to receive benefits.
“It is further alleged that arrangements were made in certain instances for bank accounts through which proceeds from fraudulent claims could be received,” the Department of Employment and Labour said in a statement.
Furthermore, the Hawks found discrepancies which were “subsequently identified during an audit by the department, after which the matter was referred for further investigation”.
The two suspects are alleged to have acted together in arranging and executing the scheme.
“We welcome the work of the Hawks in pursuing allegations of fraud involving UIF funds. Every rand lost through fraudulent activity is a resource that should have been available to support workers who legitimately depend on the Fund.
“We will continue to cooperate with law-enforcement authorities to ensure that allegations of wrongdoing are thoroughly investigated and that those found to have acted unlawfully are held accountable,” UIF Commissioner Thulani Tshefuta said.
The two were released on R2000 bail each and the matter has been postponed to 5 October 2026 for legal representation.
“The UIF views the arrest as an important step in strengthening accountability and protecting the Fund’s resources, which are intended to provide social protection to eligible workers and their families during periods of unemployment and other qualifying conditions. The UIF is committed to working closely with law-enforcement agencies to investigate the financial misconduct that threatens the integrity of the Fund.
“The Fund has strengthened its measures to detect and prevent fraudulent claims and transactions, while continuing to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to safeguard UIF resources. The Fund remains committed to ensuring that UIF resources are protected and reach the workers and beneficiaries who are legitimately entitled to them at their moment of need,” the department said.
The public, employers and broader stakeholders are urged to report suspected fraudulent activities involving UIF benefits through the Department’s Anti-Fraud Hotline on Telephone Number 0800 601148 or email: fraud@labour.gov.za. – SAnews.gov.za
Picture: North West MEC for DEDECT, Bitsa Lenkopane
By STAFF REPORTER
22 September 2026 – The North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT) in collaboration with Chinese Business Association will host a Business Compliance Engagement at the Mmabatho Convention Centre on 23 September 2026. The engagement will be led by the North West MEC for Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism, Bitsa Lenkopane and is aimed at strengthening compliance with legislation prescripts among Chinese entrepreneurs operating businesses across the province.
Lenkopane said the engagement forms part of the department’s ongoing efforts to promote lawful, compliant and responsible business practices, while strengthening cooperation between government regulators and the business community. She further said approximately 100 Chinese business owners from across the province are expected to attend the engagement, which will provide practical information on the legislative and regulatory requirements governing their operations.
“Key areas of focus will include lawful entry and residence in South Africa, business licensing and registration requirements, liquor licensing, compliance in the hardware and spaza shop sectors, wholesale and distribution requirements, the sale of compliant goods, food safety standards, SABS requirements, ICASA compliance, labour and employment legislation, and SARS requirements.
“Representatives from various regulatory institutions will provide presentations and engage directly with business owners. These include the Department of Employment and Labour, Department of Home Affairs, South African Police Service (SAPS), South African Revenue Service (SARS), National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS), and the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA),” said Lenkopane.
She added that the engagement will also create a platform for business owners to raise compliance-related challenges, seek clarity on regulatory requirements and engage government institutions on practical measures to ensure that their businesses operate within the law. Lenkopane said the engagement will commence at 9am.
Picture: SAPS’ Lieutenant General arrested for rape
By BAKANG MOKOTO
22 September 2026 – The acting National Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane has welcomed the arrest of a senior police officer (59) holding the rank of Lieutenant General on charges relating to sexual offences. The arrest was effected on 21 September 2026, by members of the Commission Recommendations Task Team (CRTT).
Dimpane said the senior officer faces charges relating to the alleged sexual grooming of a girl (16) between July and August 2026, as well as the alleged rape of a woman (18). She further said the alleged rape is reported to have occurred at a hotel in Sandton in May 2026.
“The senior officer is expected to appear before the Randburg Magistrate’s Court on 22 September 2026. We strongly condemned the alleged conduct, particularly in the context of the country’s ongoing fight against Gender-Based Violence and femicide (GBVF).
“I would also like to emphasise that members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) have a heightened responsibility to protect women and children from violence, abuse and exploitation,” added Dimpane.
She said the police officers are entrusted with protecting women and children. Dimpane said they cannot themselves be implicated in conduct that undermines this responsibility.
“As the country continues to confront the scourge of gender-based violence and femicide, there can be no room for anyone within the police service who is alleged to abuse their position or violate the rights of women and children.
“The fight against GBVF must begin with accountability within the ranks of the police. Our commitment to combating GBVF must apply equally within our own organisation. Rank, position or seniority cannot place anyone above the law,” she said.
Dimpane said where credible allegations of criminal conduct are brought against a police officer, they must be investigated without fear or favour. She said that SAPS will continue to take decisive action against members who are suspected of criminal conduct, while respecting due process and the independence of the criminal justice system.
“The arrest demonstrates that SAPS will not shield members facing serious allegations of criminal conduct, irrespective of their rank or position,” concluded Dimpane.
22 September 2026 – The Republic of South Africa (RSA) president, Cyril Ramaphosa will lead the 2026 National Heritage Day celebrations on 24 September 2026, at Rosemoor Stadium in Thembalethu, George, Western Cape. The National Heritage Day celebration will be held under the theme: “Celebrating Our Living Heritage: Strengthening the Ties That Bind Us”, highlighting the role of living heritage in promoting national unity, social cohesion, Ubuntu and a shared sense of belonging.
Ramaphosa spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya said the National Heritage Day is observed annually on 24 September and provides an opportunity for South Africans to recognise, celebrate and reflect on the country’s diverse cultural heritage. Magwenya said the theme underscores the importance of living heritage in strengthening social cohesion and nation-building, while recognising communities as custodians of heritage and promoting dialogue, mutual understanding and a shared sense of belonging.
“The National Heritage Day is the culmination of the month-long Heritage Month activities. September was declared Heritage Month in 1995, providing an opportunity for South Africans to reflect on the country’s shared history, celebrate its cultural diversity and strengthen a collective sense of belonging grounded in the constitutional values of human dignity, equality, non-racialism, non-sexism and Ubuntu.
“As part of the month-long Heritage Month programme, provinces and heritage institutions undertook and continue to embark on activities that promote community participation, education, cultural expression and the transmission of heritage knowledge across generations,” he said.
Magwenya further said South Africa’s heritage landscape has been shaped by a history of colonial dispossession and apartheid-era exclusion, which marginalised indigenous cultures, knowledge systems and forms of cultural expression. He added that since the advent of democracy, the country has progressively reoriented the heritage sector towards inclusivity, redress and cultural democracy.
“This approach is reflected in constitutional protections, as well as policy and legislative frameworks that recognise cultural participation, living heritage and Indigenous Knowledge Systems. This year’s activities included the Living Human Treasures and Heritage Custodians Recognition Programme, which recognises individuals who preserve and transmit Indigenous Knowledge and cultural practices.
“Other activities included intergenerational heritage dialogues, school heritage programmes, Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Heritage Symposia, and museum heritage education programmes. These initiatives provided platforms for communities, heritage practitioners, traditional leaders, cultural workers, artists, Indigenous Knowledge holders, learners and young people to engage with and celebrate South Africa’s diverse heritage,” said Magwenya.
