Category Archives: NEWS

Pastor and accomplices nabbed for tender fraud  

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By OBAKENG MAJE

27 April 2026 – It is alleged that the owner of a construction company was lured to Mmabatho in the North West with promises of securing a tender to install solar geysers. The complainant reportedly met with the suspects, who allegedly posed as officials from a tender committee and the Department of Public Works.

The North West police spokesperson, Sergeant Kelebogile Morake said during the meeting, they demanded undue gratification from the complainant in exchange for securing the tender. Morake said the complainant made payments into the suspects’ bank accounts, but later became suspicious and reported the matter to the North West Provincial Commercial Crime Investigation Unit.

“On 23 April 2026, three suspects were traced and arrested in Potchefstroom, Wolmaransstad, Mahikeng and Mmabatho. Dingaan David Seabe (57), who is also a well-known pastor in Mahikeng, Ernest Thabang Phillips (47), and Wakgale Johannes Mosiane (39) have been charged with tender fraud and appeared before the Mmabatho Magistrate’s Court on 24 April 2026.

“The accused were remanded in custody until 30 April 2026, for a formal bail application. Anyone who can assist the police with information regarding this investigation is requested to contact the investigating officer, Colonel Thebeyagae Molatlhegi on 071 481 2432,” she said.

Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, commended the members for swiftly arresting the trio. Naidoo further urged members of the public and business community to exercise extreme caution when approached with promises of securing tenders, especially where upfront payments or “facilitation fees” are requested. “Legitimate government tender processes are transparent, regulated, and do not require any form of undue gratification to secure contracts. Individuals should verify the authenticity of officials, confirm tender advertisements through official government platforms and avoid making payments into personal bank accounts.

“Reporting suspicious activities promptly to law enforcement can prevent financial loss and assist in bringing perpetrators to justice,” he said.

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36 suspects nabbed during Operation Shanela II

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Picture: 36 suspects nabbed during Operation Shanela II/Supplied 

By STAFF REPORTER

26 April 2026 – With the guidance of the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, Operation Shanela 2 continued on 25 April 2026, into the early hours of Sunday morning, 26 April 2026, to combat illegal activities in Potchefstroom. The police said the area of concern, Walter Sisulu Street, within a section of the CBD known as the Wandelaan, was revisited again as an identified hotspot of illegal immigrants and numerous crimes.

The North West police spokesperson, Sergeant Kelebogile Morake said the operation resulted in the arrest of 36 illegal immigrants, both males and females. Morake said two Nigerian men were taken in on enquiry by the Department of Home Affairs to verify their status.

“Stop and search operations were conducted in and around Potchefstroom area for drugs and unlicensed firearms and ammunition. In two separate incidents in Ikageng Township, near Potchefstroom, a Lesotho national (35), was arrested for allegedly being found in possession of possible illegal substances (Mandrax) to the street value of more than R700.

“Furthermore, a replica firearm, magazine and a weighing scale was seized and the man was also charged for being an illegal immigrant as his passport expired. A man (25) was arrested for possession of suspected illegal substances (Crystal Meth) to the estimated street value of close to R2000,” she said.

Morake further said the multi-disciplinary operation was successfully conducted by members from various units, including the North West Provincial Anti-Gang Unit, Potchefstroom Public Order Policing (POP) and Provincial Communications.

Meanwhile, Naidoo expressed his appreciation towards the members involved for their dedication and cooperation in protecting communities. He added that their commitment to excellence and professionalism reflects positively on the South African Police Service (SAPS).

“We would like to assure the public that police will remain vigilant and steadfast in bringing criminals to justice,” said Naidoo.

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Committee on Community Safety and Transport Management to Convene NTI Inquiry Engagements with Stakeholders

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Picture: The Chairperson of North West Legislature Portfolio Committee on COSATMA, Freddy Sonakile

By BAKANG MOKOTO

27 April 2026 – The Chairperson of North West Legislature Portfolio Committee on Community Safety and Transport Management (COSATMA), Freddy Sonakile, will convene a three-day engagement session with key stakeholders as part of its ongoing inquiry into the affairs of the North West Transport Investment (NTI) SOC Ltd. Sonakile said the meeting will take place at NWPL Committee Room 2 from 28 – 30 April 2026 at 8am.

“Since October 2024, the committee has been conducting a comprehensive fact-finding process into governance, financial, and operational challenges affecting NTI. This includes matters relating to the business rescue process, contractual obligations, financial management, and decisions taken by various role players.

“The upcoming engagements form part of the final phase of the inquiry and will include appearances by identified stakeholders, affected parties, and relevant entities. These sessions aim to provide a platform for submissions, clarification of outstanding issues, and to ensure that all relevant persons are afforded an opportunity to be heard before the committee concludes its work,” he said.

Sonakile further said the outcomes of these engagements will inform the committee’s final report and recommendations to the North West Provincial Legislature on interventions required to address the challenges at NTI and strengthen oversight, accountability, and service delivery within the transport sector.

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Ad Hoc Committee on Mkhwanazi allegations to meet on housekeeping matters

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Picture: Soviet Lekganyane

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI  

27 April 2026 – The Ad Hoc Committee to investigate allegations made by the KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi is expected to meet tomorrow evening to discuss housekeeping matters, including correspondence from the Busisiwe Mkhwebane Foundation, Sarah-Jane Trent, as well as access to the Inspector-General of Intelligence’s report. The committee will also be presented with a draft report on its work thus far.

According to the chairperson of the committee, Soviet Lekganyane, the meeting will be held on the virtual platforms and YouTube. Lekganyane said the committee documents can be found on: https://www.parliament.gov.za/ad-hoc-committee-gen-mkhwanazis-allegations.

“The meeting will be held on Virtual Platform/YouTube on Tuesday at 5pm. Parliamentary committees are open to the media and the public. Journalists wishing to cover these meetings (including receiving links to virtual meetings) should send their cell phone numbers to Mlindi Mpindi on email mmpindi@parliament.gov.za for inclusion in the Parliamentary Communications Services WhatsApp Group, where such information is shared.

“Journalists must send these requests using their official email addresses (no private emails). Members of the public may follow sittings live on Parliament TV (DStv Channel 408), via live stream on Parliament YouTube channel and Twitter page on the links below,” he said.

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SCOPA focuses on municipal audit outcomes

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Picture: Embattled Ditsobotla Local Municipality

By REGINALD KANYANE

27 April 2026 – The Standing Committee on Public Accounts (SCOPA) said it will strengthen its oversight on municipalities this week, by receiving several briefings from the Auditor-General of South Africa (AGSA) on the latest audit outcomes of municipalities and the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) on investigations. The briefings mark the beginning of SCOPA’s second term program for this year, with municipalities identified as a key priority until the third term.

SCOPA chairperson Songezo Zibi said on 28 April 2026, the AGSA will brief SCOPA on the 2024/25 municipal audit outcomes that will cover four metros. Zibi said the briefings will focus on municipalities such as Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality, Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality, Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality and eTthekwini Metropolitan Municipality.

“On Wednesday, the SIU will brief the committee on both completed and ongoing investigations at municipalities such as Masilonyana Local Municipality, Mahikeng Local Municipality, Ditsobotla Local Municipality, Matlosana Local Municipality

JB Marks Local Municipality, Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality and Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality,”

“This includes Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality, eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality, Umsunduzi Local Municipality and Maluti-A-Phofung Local Municipality,” he said.

Zibi further said the briefings will be followed by oversight engagements and deliberations with the respective municipalities on issues arising from the AGSA and SIU briefings.

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Armed robbery leaves two people dead

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Picture: Sergio “Search” Gomes and his wife, Marlene “Ma-Totobola” Gomes/Facebook

By OBAKENG MAJE

27 April 2026 – A dedicated task team has been deployed following a double murder and business robbery case reported in Mahikeng. The police said this decisive intervention follows a complaint received by police regarding a shooting incident in Golfview on the night of Friday, 24 April 2026.

The North West police spokesperson, Sergeant Kelebogile Morake said upon arrival at the scene, the police observed bloodstains on the pavement and discovered the body of a female, Marlene “Ma-Totobola” Gomes lying on the ground. Morake said the preliminary investigations revealed that her husband, Sergio “Search” Gomes had also been shot and had already been transported to hospital.

“Both victims were allegedly being shot by unknown suspects. Later that same night, the husband succumbed to his injuries at hospital. It is reported that the couple rushed from their main residence after being alerted that their son was being robbed at their business.

“Upon entering the business premises, located not far from the house, they encountered the suspects at the entrance. According to one of the robbery victims, six unknown suspects wearing masks and armed with firearms had entered the premises while they were inside the lounge,” she said.

Morake further said the suspects allegedly forced the victims to lie on the floor, threatened and assaulted them. She added that they then proceeded to rob them of several cell phones, an undisclosed amount of cash, a laptop, and the keys to a Ford Ranger, which was later used as a getaway vehicle.

“On Saturday morning, 25 April 2026, the stolen Ford Ranger was recovered abandoned in Magogoe village. Some of the stolen cell phones were also found discarded in the veld in the same area,” said Morake.

Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General Rayno Naidoo has since assigned the Provincial Murder and Robbery Unit to continue with investigations and to track down those responsible. Naidoo said the police investigations are ongoing and no arrests have been made at this stage.

“Members of the public who may have information that could assist the police investigation are urged to contact Lieutenant Colonel Kotu on 079 897 1801, their nearest police station, or call Crime Stop on 08600 10111. Anonymous tip-offs can also be submitted via the MySAPS App on smartphones,” he said.

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Illegal immigrates nabbed during Operation Shanela II

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Picture: Illegal immigrates nabbed during Operation Shanela II/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

April 2026 – The acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo led Operation Shanela II on 24 April 2026, in response to concerns raised by Potchefstroom community members regarding numerous crimes reported in Walter Sisulu Street, within a section of the CBD known as the Wandelaan. The operation resulted in the arrest of 29 illegal immigrants (both males and females), various licensed liquor outlets in and around Potchefstroom were also inspected to verify compliance with liquor licensing regulations, stop and search were conducted around the taxi rank for drugs and unlicensed firearms and ammunition.

Naidoo said the operation was successfully conducted by members from various units, including the North West Provincial Anti-Gang Unit, Potchefstroom Public Order Policing (POP) and Provincial Communications. He further commended the community for providing valuable information that led to the success of the operation.

“Furthermore, we appreciate the courage and cooperation of community members who continue to work closely with the police. We would like to emphasise that crime can only be effectively addressed when communities and law enforcement stand united.

“Operations such as Shanela will continue to ensure that those involved in criminal activities are brought to book and to restore a sense of safety in our communities,” added Naidoo.

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Ramaphosa to lead Freedom Day National Commemoration

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Picture: RSA president, Cyril Ramaphosa

By REGINALD KANYANE

25 April 2026- The Republic of South Africa (RSA) president, Cyril Ramaphosa will on 27 April 2026, lead the national Freedom Day Commemoration to be held in the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality in Bloemfontein, Free State. Ramaphosa said Freedom Day 2026 marks the 32nd anniversary of South Africa’s first democratic elections held on 27 April 1994 and stands as a testament to the country’s journey towards democracy, justice, equality and human dignity.

“Freedom Day 2026 is commemorated under the theme, “Freedom and the Rule of Law: Thirty Years of Democratic Citizenship. The commemoration highlights three decades since the adoption of the Constitution and underscores the importance of constitutional supremacy, the rule of law, and democratic citizenship in shaping South Africa’s future.

“This year’s national event takes place within the context of several significant national milestones, including the 30th anniversary of the adoption of the Constitution, 70 years since the Women’s March if 1956, and 50 years since the Soweto youth uprising,” he said.

Ramaphosa further said milestones continue to shape South Africa’s democratic journey by inspiring continued transformation. He added that, Freedom Day commemoration will bring together all organs of state and all three spheres of government, alongside representatives from civil society and various sectors, in a unified national celebration of the country’s democratic progress.

“Freedom Month provides an opportunity for South Africans to reflect on the gains of democracy, honour the sacrifices of those who fought for freedom, and recommit to building a united, inclusive and just society. It also serves as a platform to promote active citizenship, deepen understanding of constitutional rights, and strengthen social cohesion, particularly among young people.

“The commemoration will feature ceremonial elements, including participation by the South African National Defence Force, adding to the significance of the national occasion,” said Ramaphosa.

He will lead the Freedom Day Commemoration at Dr Rantlai Molemela Stadium in Bloemfontein, Free State at 10am.

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A call for multi-disciplinary committee to represent people of MAGOG

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Picture: The Chairperson of the Select Committee on Public Petitions and Executive Undertakings, Ofentse Mokae

By BAKANG MOKOTO

25 April 2026 – The Select Committee on Public Petitions and Executive Undertakings held a follow-up engagement yesterday at Magog village in Umzumbe, KwaZulu-Natal with M.K. Sithole and other relevant stakeholders yesterday, following a report the committee tabled in December on the petition brought before it by Sithole (Petitioner) and family.

The committee said the petitioner (Sithole), approached the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) regarding an alleged environmental degradation and exposure to dust, noise and blasting, reported structural damage to nearby homes, alleged health impact on residents and alleged violations of cultural and human rights arising from grave disturbance and relocation. The committee heard from the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment that SA Lithium is required to ensure compliance with the National Environmental Management Act.

The Chairperson of the Select Committee on Public Petitions and Executive Undertakings, Ofentse Mokae said it also heard that the department has noted a lack of accredited data, an absence of meteorological reports, that the environmental management system at the site is inadequate and that the department will fully support the community to ensure compliance by SA Lithium. Mokae said according to the petitioner, a multi-disciplinary committee must be formed to oversee the implementation of the report.

“The committee must be constituted by professionals from engineering, healthcare, education fields, and there must be representatives from the community. The Department of Minerals, Resources and Energy called for compliance with the mining laws and regulations.

“The Department of Human Settlements reported that land for the relocation of some of the households in the area should be purchased and that the department will work speedily to ensure that the implementation of relocation takes place with minimal disruption especially to the lives of the people,” he said.

Mokae further said the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs reported that work has started in the exhumation of some of the graves and that the graveyard will be relocated to an area within Magog. He added that the committee also heard that the residents demand compensation and have assigned that responsibility as an urgent task to the multi-disciplinary committee.

“Furthermore, the residents have called on the multi-disciplinary committee to establish the compensation fund to ensure that equitable compensation is paid to all the affected residents.

“All the stakeholders have agreed to implement the recommendations of the committee’s report and that a multi-party and multi sectoral committee will be formed to undertake the implementation,” said Mokae.

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Gauteng Premier, Panyaza Lesufi welcomes Nkwashu’s apology

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Picture: Gauteng Premier, Panyaza Lesufi

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

25 April 2026 – A policeman, Brigadier Abraham Nkwashu has apologised to the Gauteng Premier, Panyaza Lesufi. This comes after Nkwashu alleged that Lesufi interfered with the transfer of J50 arrest warrant dockets during his appearance at Mandlanga Commission.

However, Nkwashu issued an apology to Lesufi saying that the statement was regrettable and reckless.

“I want to offer my sincere and full apology for the statement I made before the Madlanga Commission about the transfer of the J50 arrest warrant dockets. When I appeared before the Commission, in response to a question by Commissioner Madlanga on whether the Premier had any legal authority to issue a directive on the transfer of the dockets, I stated that I did not know of any legal authority that allowed you to issue a directive for the transfer of those dockets.

“I regret that my words created the impression that you acted improperly, engaged in political interference, or behaved unethically. All available facts confirm that there was a mix-up of different issues and that you were never involved in the transfer of the dockets,” he said.

Nkwashu further said he never meant to harm Lesufi’s reputation or his respected record as a leader. He added that he sincerely sorry for any embarrassment or hurt his remarks may have caused him.

“I respect your position and your commitment to lawful and accountable governance,” said Nkwashu.

Meanwhile, in a statement, Gauteng Provincial Government spokesperson, Elijah Mhlanga said Lesufi welcomed Nkwashu’s apology. Mhlanga said Lesufi has noted the apology issued by Nkwashu following his remarks made earlier this week at the Madlanga Commission.

“The Premier welcomes and accepts the apology, conveyed through Nkwashu’s legal firm, in the spirit in which it has been offered. He affirms the importance of accountability, professionalism, and respect in all public engagements, particularly in formal processes such as commissions of inquiry.

“Having considered the matter and the subsequent apology, the Premier regards the issue as resolved and closed. Accordingly, the Office of the Premier will not be making any further comment on this matter. The Gauteng Provincial Government remains committed to upholding the principles of integrity, cooperative governance, and constructive engagement in all its interactions,” he said.

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