Category Archives: NEWS

A man sentenced to three life sentences imprisonment for raping stepdaughter

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By KEDIBONE MOALETSI

28 January 2026- A man (39) was sentenced to three life terms of imprisonment by the Mogwase Regional Court for the rape of his stepdaughter. The accused was arrested following a case registered at Mogwase Police Station, where he was charged with four counts of rape.

The North West police spokesperson, Constable Thuto Bobelo said according to evidence presented before court, the victim, now 24 years old, reported that she was repeatedly raped (between the age of 13 and 22) by her stepfather from 7 October 2014 until 6 December 2023. Bobelo said the sexual abuse occurred over a period of nine years and on numerous occasions, to the extent that the victim could no longer recall the exact number of incidents.

“In February 2024, the victim bravely reported the matter to the police after she could no longer endure the prolonged emotional and physical trauma. The accused was subsequently arrested and formally charged. On Tuesday, the accused was found guilty and sentenced accordingly.

“He was not found of rape on count one, but found guilty on count 2, 3 and 4, where he was sentenced to life imprisonment each. The court further ordered that Counts 3 and 4 run concurrently with Count 2, resulting in an effective sentence of three life terms of imprisonment,” he said.

Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, congratulated the investigating officer, Sergeant Balungile Makaya and the prosecution, whose commitment and diligence played a critical role in securing this conviction. Naidoo emphasized that perpetrators of sexual offences—especially those who abuse positions of trust within families—will be held fully accountable and be removed from society.

“The sentence reflects the seriousness of sexual violence, particularly those committed against children,” he said.

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Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality shows financial stability

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Picture: The executive mayor of Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality, Motseokae Maje 

By REGINALD KANYANE

28 January 2026- The Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality has been declared a functional municipality. This comes after it has stabilized its financial situation.

The Municipal Manager of Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality, Ronnie Jonas said in recent years, the municipality was regarded as dysfunctional, operating on an unfunded budget and at times had its equitable share grants withheld by the national treasury.  Jonas said the municipality was also placed under section 139 (1) of the constitution.

“The section dictates that when the municipality cannot or does not fulfill an executive obligation in terms of legislation, the relevant provincial executive may intervene.  The provincial treasury department has now removed the municipality from the financial recovery state.

“This as the municipality is now operating on a funded budget. The municipality is also able to utilize its allocated capital grants. We attribute this to hard work and dedication by municipal officials. We have done very well in terms of the first Municipal Infrastructure Grant,” he said.

Jonas further said for the first six months period, the municipality is currently standing at 78% of the allocated amount. He added that with regard to the Water Services Infrastructure Grant (WSIG), the municipality has also tremendously improved and is currently standing at 81% of the allocated grant.

“We are also doing well in terms of the Regional Bulk Infrastructure Grant (RBIG) for the first six months. The municipality is currently standing at 41% of the allocated grant by the national government,” said Jonas.   

Meanwhile, the executive mayor for the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality, Motseokae Maje said the achievements of the municipality are in line with their objectives set, when they resumed office. Maje said they are proud that through these years, they have registered some progress with regard to the achievement of these objectives.

“Amongst others we have seen our municipality technically being removed from a financial recovery to a municipality, now financially stable. We are further proud that we have also improved our delivery capacity. We have realized over the past two years our ability to utilize our conditional grants to the extent that we have been awarded some additional funding during the course of the financial year.

“Authorities within the municipality have also reported a significant improvement on the audit outcomes of the 2025/2026 financial year,” he said.

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A man sentenced to two life sentences for double murder

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By OBAKENG MAJE

28 January 2026- A man (29) from Dithakong village, near Kuruman has been sentenced to two terms of life imprisonment for the brutal murders of his half-sister (33) and her son (11). The accused was further sentenced to 15 years imprisonment for robbery with aggravating circumstances.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Litabe said the sentencing was handed down by the Northern Cape High Court sitting in Kathu on 27 January 2026. Litabe said the tragic incident occurred at Dithakong village on 22 January 2025.

“It is alleged that the accused went to the deceased’s residence to demand money. When his request was refused, he asked for food and waited while the deceased prepared a meal. While waiting, the accused sent the deceased’s son to a nearby shop to buy cigarettes.

“Once the child had left, the accused demanded that the deceased give him a bank card that belonged to his stepmother. When she refused, he became violent, dragged her to the bedroom and fatally stabbed her in the neck. After the attack, he searched the house, found the bank card, locked the house, and fled the scene,” he said.

Litabe further said while on his way home, the accused realised that the child had not yet returned from the shop. He added that the accused went back to the house and waited.

“Upon the child’s return, the accused killed him in a similar manner. He then locked the house and left the scene again. Three days later, the mother of the deceased visited the residence and discovered the bodies inside the house in an advanced state of decomposition. The police were immediately alerted.

“Cases of murder and robbery with aggravating circumstances were registered at Bothitong Police Station and the matter was assigned to Detective Constable Katlego Tom. Through intensive investigations and information received, police identified the accused as the prime suspect,” said Litabe.

He said the accused was arrested four days after the incident and was found in possession of the bank card he took from the deceased, her cell phone and blood-stained clothing. Litabe said the accused remained in custody until sentencing.

“In addition to the two life sentences, the accused was sentenced to 15 years imprisonment for robbery with aggravating circumstances and was declared unfit to possess a firearm. He will serve the full term of the sentences imposed,” he said.

Meanwhile, the acting John Taolo Gaetsewe District Police Commissioner, Brigadier Kenneth Baloyi, commended Detective Constable Tom for his dedication and professionalism. Baloyi congratulated Tom for the outstanding work and for ensuring that justice is served for the innocent lives that were taken in such a brutal manner.

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North West Police Commissioner condemns Wesley Kgang’s alleged actions

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Picture: Wesley Kgang

By BAKANG MOKOTO

27 January 2026 – The acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo condemned the alleged attack on a traffic officer in the strongest possible terms. This comes after the Member of Mayoral Committee (MMC) at Matlosana Local Municipality and former ANCYL spokesperson, Wesley Kgang (36), who is out on R1000 bail, was nabbed for the alleged drunk and driving, resisting arrest, assault of a traffic official and malicious damage to property.

Kgang’s court appearance stems from an incident reported on 24 January 2026, at around 6:30am. It is alleged that traffic officials were busy with routine patrols, when they spotted a black sedan vehicle in Leask Street in Klerksdorp, driving in the wrong direction (facing oncoming traffic).

According to the police, the female traffic official stopped and approached the driver, who appeared to be under the influence of liquor. The police said furthermore, upon interviewing the driver and informing him of his arrest, he became aggressive and attacked the female official.

“Her colleagues intervened and the suspect’s resistance escalated until the police were called, who restrained him. During the confrontation, the female official sustained an injury on her left hand.

“Lastly, while on the way to a health facility to draw blood samples, Kgang allegedly hit and broke the window of the traffic vehicle, but a blood sample was ultimately taken from him,” he said.

Naidoo said Kgang made a brief appearance before the Klerksdorp Magistrate’s Court on 26 January 2026, and his matter was remanded until 18 February 2026, for further investigation. He urged all those who are entrusted with enforcing the law to be vigilant in the execution of their duties to avoid being injured when dealing with violent and aggressive suspects.

Meanwhile, Kgang who vehemently denied that he was behind the wheel, has since apologised for his actions.  

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SAPS members honour senior citizens

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Picture: SAPS members visit Huis Harmony Old-Age Home/Supplied

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

27 January 2026- The police in Namakwa District together with Employee Health Wellness (EHW) and members from Auxiliary Services visited Huis Harmony, an old age home with 42 elderly residents. The visit was as a gesture of appreciation and respect for the wisdom and perseverance of the senior citizens.

The Namakwa District police spokesperson, Captain Ivan Magerman said the event commenced with a prayer session led by Pastor Marsha Baard, setting a dignified tone for the day. Magerman said the SAPS members then shared moments of joy with the residents, serving refreshments and engaging in light entertainment.

“Radio NFM joined the occasion, capturing the stories of the elderly and broadcasting them to the wider community, ensuring their voices and experiences are heard and celebrated. A special message was delivered by the District Commissioner, Brigadier Schalk Andrews who stated that, it is a great honour for us to be with you today at Home Harmony.

“Their wisdom, their life experiences and their perseverance are treasures beyond measure. As SAPS, we wish to express our appreciation and respect. With this small gesture of gratitude, the offering of necessities and a bit of entertainment, we want to remind you that you never stand alone,” he said.

Meanwhile, Andrews said their beloved elders are the foundation of the community and they carry them in their hearts. He said may this day bring them joy and may their togetherness strengthen them all.

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SASSA beneficiaries can complete biometric verifications at local offices

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27 January 2026- The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) in Mpumalanga is encouraging all R370 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant beneficiaries who do not have data or a smartphone or laptop to visit their nearest SASSA local offices for assistance. 

In a statement on Tuesday, the agency said that all its offices are equipped to support beneficiaries with biometric identity verification with kiosks, official laptops and guest Wi-Fi.

“The agency is doing this to ensure that all qualifying beneficiaries receive their grant at the right time, to avoid unnecessary delays and eliminate frustrations,” Acting Regional Executive Manager, Xolela Mpambani, said. 

Mpambani further explained that SRD grant applications may be declined where the system detects a source of income through external databases, including financial institutions. 

Beneficiaries whose applications are declined have the right to appeal the decision if they are not satisfied with the reasons provided on the system.

SASSA has also warned beneficiaries to safeguard their personal information, cautioning that scammers often target vulnerable grant recipients. Beneficiaries are advised not to share sensitive details and to always verify the identity of anyone requesting their information. – SAnews.gov.za

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Gauteng Department of Education refutes budget cut claims

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Picture: The Gauteng MEC for Education, Matome Chiloane

By REGINALD KANYANE

27 January 2026- The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) said it unequivocally rejects and refutes claims that it has cut funding to Quintile 5 schools by 64%. The department said these claims are false, misleading, and reckless and represent a deliberate distortion of information.

 The Gauteng MEC for Education, Matome Chiloane said at no point has the department implemented a 64% reduction in school funding. Chiloane said accordingly, an interim funding realignment process was implemented, which was necessitated by severe budget reductions imposed by National Treasury, which have affected all provinces across the country.

“Previously, the GDE explicitly outlined the rationale, scope, and timing of the adjusted funding levels for Quintile 5 schools, effective from 1 April 2026, in line with the National Norms and Standards for School Funding gazetted by the Department of Basic Education (DBE).

“Schools were formally notified through indicative budget allocation certificates issued in September 2025, providing ample notice and transparency. The department further clarified that this process does not constitute a budget cut, but rather realignment to nationally prescribed adequacy rates, particularly correcting the historical funding of certain Quintile 5 fee-paying schools,” he said.

Chiloane further said the current funding arrangement is a temporary stabilisation intervention designed to keep the system functional and compliant while the department manages a R444 million shortfall in the current financial year and a projected R160 million shortfall over the 2026 MTEF period. He added that despite these constraints, the GDE has prioritised the protection of classrooms, ensured that teaching and learning continue uninterrupted and honoured its commitments to Learning and Teaching Support Material (LTSM) payments in full and on time.

“It must be stated clearly and without ambiguity, Gauteng’s financial pressures are the direct result of national budget cuts. The Department of Basic Education (DBE), under the leadership of the Democratic Alliance (DA), is fully aware of the funding pressures facing provinces, including Gauteng.

“The DBE has been repeatedly engaged on these matters, yet meaningful relief has not materialised, leaving provinces to absorb the impact. Attempts to deflect responsibility onto provinces, while ignoring the role of national departments in both policy-setting and budget allocations, are misleading and irresponsible,” said Chiloane.

He said the sudden outrage being manufactured by the DA is therefore disingenuous and politically opportunistic. Chiloane said it is dishonest to accuse provinces of cutting school funding, while remaining silent about the national budget cuts imposed by the National Treasury.

“The Department of Basic Education, under the Democratic Alliance, is fully aware of the financial challenges confronting Gauteng and other provinces, yet these challenges remain unresolved. If there is a petition to be delivered, it should be delivered to the Department of Basic Education, which is responsible for national funding norms and allocations, and which the DA itself leads.

“Provinces cannot be scapegoated for implementing national policy under constrained budgets that we do not control. The GDE remains committed to transparent communication, equitable funding and the protection of public education in Gauteng,” he said.

Chiloane said the GDE will not allow misinformation to undermine confidence in the public schooling system or be distracted from the real issue, the urgent need for sustainable national funding solutions.

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Hydroponic dagga worth R336 000 seized

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Picture: Dagga found concealed in a courier vehicle/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

27 January 2026 – A multi-disciplinary team comprising of the South African Police Service (SAPS), Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Department of Agriculture, Environmental Affairs, Rural Development and Land Reform, SANParks, Delivered Duty Unpaid and Customs, embarked on Operation Phakisa activities in the region of Namakwa from 22 until 26 January 2026.

The police said these targeted operations were executed with the aim of addressing criminal activities that are highly prevalent within the marine environment of the Northern Cape.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Litabe said the SAPS Specialised Units, including K9, Crime Intelligence, Radio Technical, Search and Rescue, Highway Patrol, Vehicle Crime Investigative Unit and Border Policing, in partnership with their counterparts from other departments, worked together in a concerted effort to conduct disruptive actions within the District of Namakwa during the operations.

Litabe said actions that were executed, included search operations, visits to launching pads, camping sites, mining areas, aquaculture farms, patrols and compliance inspections in Port Nolloth, Alexander Bay, Kleinzee, Groenriviermond, Sandkop/Rooikoppies and Hondeklipbaai.

“Two suspects were arrested for the contravention of the Immigration Act 13 of 2002 while nine fines to the value of R7200, were issued for the contravention of the National Traffic Act. Three fines amounting to R3 100 were issued for contravention of the Marine Living Resources Act 18 of 1998.

“The operations also resulted in the seizure of Hydroponic dagga with an estimated street value of R336 000 that was found concealed in packages transported by a courier company. Other marine life seized, included undersized fish species to the value of R2000,” he said.

Litabe further said Vehicle Check Points (VCPs) also resulted in numerous vehicles and persons being stopped and searched. He added that sea patrols were also conducted along the shorelines of Port Nolloth and Alexander Bay by the SAPS Water wing.

Meanwhile, the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, commended the collaborative efforts by the different departments in an attempt to clamp down on marine related crimes and to stamp down the authority of the state along the shoreline and coastal areas of the province.

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Probe over ‘sale’ of human body parts at Moses Kotane Hospital

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Picture: Moses Kotane Hospital

By KEDIBONE MOALETSI

26 January 2026- The North West Department of Health said it has noted allegations circulating on social media made by a member of the GATVOL Lobby Group concerning Moses Kotane District Hospital. Today, the North West Health MEC for Health, Sello Lehari, visited the facility to meet with hospital management, members of NEHAWU, as well as representatives from GATVOL Lobby Group in a bid to probe all allegations raised against the hospital.

Lehari further said the hospital was constructed at a time when traditional boiler systems were being phased out nationally due to their high operational costs, inefficiency, energy consumption, and environmental impact and maintenance challenges. He added that in line with national directives on eco-friendly and modern health technology, the hospital relies on a heat pump system for the provision of hot water.

“The heat pump system has experienced intermittent malfunctions and due to its complexity, requires specialised service providers, including water treatment and reticulation expertise.

“The Provincial Infrastructure Delivery and Technical Services (IDTS), has commissioned consultants to conduct a comprehensive assessment and develop a bill of quantities to enable the tender process,” said Lehari.

He said this intervention is anticipated to be implemented in the 2026/27 financial year. Lehari said in the interim, the hospital has procured hydroboils and urns for all wards as a temporary measure to ensure continuity of service.

“The hospital remains committed to upholding patient dignity and quality of care by procuring consumables and supplies on a monthly and quarterly basis. In instances where there are delays in deliveries, the hospital collaborates with neighbouring health facilities to ensure that patients’ basic needs are met.

“The hospital continues to provide care in line with the Batho Pele Principles, the Patient Rights Charter, and the Service Charter,” he said.

Lehari said in 2025, Moses Kotane District Hospital was visited by two National Portfolio Committees, both of which expressed satisfaction with the hospital’s cleanliness and overall service standards. He said in addition, during the Tshela ka Itekanelo campaign activities held on 17 December 2025, the Bakgatlha Tribal Authority publicly expressed satisfaction with the services rendered by the hospital.

“The management remains open to constructive feedback and encourages members of the community to report specific service gaps to allow for prompt corrective action.

“The North West Department of Health operates within a highly regulated environment where the handling, storage, and disposal of human tissue are strictly governed by the National Health Act, the Human Tissue Act, and the National Environmental Management: Waste Act,” said Lehari.

He said these legislations clearly prescribe the classification, handling, storage and disposal of healthcare risk waste. Lehari said the department has appointed a licensed service provider for healthcare risk waste management and the hospital participates fully in this contract, while continuously monitoring compliance.

“The department remains committed to providing safe, dignified and quality healthcare services to all communities it serves. We have appointed an investigative team to probe all allegations made against the hospital.

“The team is expected to commence with the investigation on 27 January 2026, and table a preliminary report to the acting Superintendent General at the end of February 2026,” he said.

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MMC at Matlosana Local Municipality, Wesley Kgang who is facing drunk and driving case out on bail

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Picture: The MMC for Economic Development at Matlosana Local Municipality, Wesley Kgang/Facebook

By OBAKENG MAJE

26 January 2026- The Member of Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Economic Development at the Matlosana Local Municipality and a former ANCYL spokesperson, Wesley Kgang (36), has been arrested for alleged drunken driving, resisting arrest, assault on traffic official and malicious damage to property.

It is alleged that on 24 January 2026 at around 6:30am, the traffic officials were busy with routine patrols when they spotted a black sedan vehicle in Leask Street driving while facing the oncoming traffic. It is alleged that the female traffic official stopped and approached Kgang, who allegedly appeared to be under the influence of liquor.

The North West police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Sam Tselanyane said furthermore, upon interviewing Kgang for his actions and informed of his arrest by the officials, he became aggressive and started attacking the female officials. Tselanyane said it was then that the male officials tried to intervene and resistance escalated up until the police were called and Kgang was restrained.

“In due process the female official sustained an injury on her left hand. It is alleged that, while on the way to the health facility to draw blood samples, the suspect hit and broke the window of the traffic vehicle.

“The suspect was eventually taken to Stilfontein Health Centre to draw blood and resistance continued and ultimately taken to the Stilfontein Police Station and the blood sample was ultimately taken from him,” he said.

Kgang briefly appeared before Klerksdorp Magistrate’s Court today. His case was postponed until 18 February 2026, for blood sample results and the potential charges to be added.

Kgang, who sincerely apologised to the community and ANC, was granted a R1000 bail.  

“I wish to state that I have noted the video that has gone viral and widely shared on various media platforms. The video has caused great concern rightly so given the fact that I am a public representative.

“Circumstances and facts surrounding the incident were ventilated in a competent court of law today. Further details and updates on the matter will be shared in due course. I wish to unreservedly apologise to the community of Matlosana, my family and my organisation for the unfortunate occurrence,” he said.

Kgang said he further wishes to categorically state that he will fully-cooperate with the law enforcement agencies and the justice system to establish the facts surrounding the incident. He said no one is above the law, including himself as a public representative hence his willingness to fully cooperate and abide with the legal processes that will be ensuing pertaining to this matter.

“I am a mere human being like anyone else with fallibility, which I take full responsibility for and commit to do better in my conduct henceforth. Beyond this statement, I humbly request not to further give commentary on the matter until the matter is finalised, facts are established and concluded by the court of law,” said Kgang.

Meanwhile, the executive mayor of Matlosana Local Municipality, Fikile Mahlope is mum on the matter as he did not respond to The Guardian Newspaper’s media inquiry before publishing this article.  

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