1 July 2025- The South African Police Service (SAPS) said its official website continues to receive large volumes of applications for the Basic Police Learning Development Programme (BPLDP) through its e-recruitment system. In the first 24 hours, the SAPS received in excess of 67 774 applications from various parts of the country.
The SAPS national spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said they are aware that the website is experiencing a delayed response due to traffic volumes. Mathe said the Technology Management Services (TMS) , inclusive of IT experts, are continuously monitoring the influx of applications.
“Applicants are therefore advised to be patient and to continue to refresh the careers page. Applicants are reminded that the closing date is 18 July 2025, and all applications should be submitted via the website portal and not via email,” she said.
Picture: A body of a human being buried in a shallow grave/Generic
By BAKANG MOKOTO
June 2025- A man (55) sentenced to life imprisonment for killing his wife. On 15 April 2022, the accused, Charles Matthys beat his wife, Annamary Matthys (40) to death at their home and buried her in a shallow grave behind a school in Calvinia.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Sergio Kock said the police were alerted by a community member. Kock said the husband was found with blood-stained clothes and subsequently arrested.
“On 27 June 2025, Matthys was sentenced to life imprisonment for murder, one year for assault common, and 6 months for defeating the ends of justice. He was also declared unfit to possess a firearm,” he said.
Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola commended Detective Sergeant Jaco Swartz from Calvinia Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences unit for his meticulous investigation that led to the outstanding Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) sentence. Otola also extended her appreciation for the collaboration with the community and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), state prosecutor, advocate Neshmi Pillay for their role in ensuring that justice is served and to eradicate GBVF from our communities.
Picture:The police engaging with motorists during Operation Shanela/Generic
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
1 July 2025- The South African Police Service (SAPS) said it has enhanced and intensified their efforts in preventing and reducing incidents of burglaries at both residential and business premises through effective visible policing and positive emergency response in terms of dealing with burglaries. However, despite all the preventative efforts and policing of these property related crimes, it remains a priority in the province.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Sergio Kock said if residents encounter a burglary in progress or are a victim of burglary, they prioritize safety above all else. Kock said during a burglary, they should remain calm and think clearly to ensure their safety.
“Avoid confronting the burglar(s) directly, as this can escalate the situation. If possible, find a safe place to hide and stay there until the situation is resolved. After a burglary, kindly contact and report it to the police immediately.
“Prove as much detail as possible. Preserve evidence by avoiding touching or disturbing potential evidence such as fingerprints or DNA, to aid in the investigation. Secure your property and take steps to make your property safe to prevent further incidents,” he said.
He further said people should always have emergency numbers pasted on their fridges in case of an emergency. Kock added that people should install security systems such as alarms and CCTV cameras to deter burglars.
“Secure and ensure doors and windows are fitted with burglar doors/bars and are locked to prevent unauthorized entry. Be aware of your surroundings and stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities. Request neighbours to keep an eye when you are away for an extended stay, especially as it is school holidays.
“Do not open doors or gates for strangers. Do not keep huge amounts of money on your premises. Do not leave bicycles, hose pipes or braai stands in plain sight, as it attracts criminals to your property,” he said.
Kock encouraged individuals to get a watchdog. He said people should never leave cars unlocked or windows open when parked inside or outside your yard.
“Know your neighbours. Verify the details of anyone before you employ them and check authenticity of an employee or contractor before you allow them access to your property. By prioritizing your safety and taking proactive measures, you can minimize the risk of burglary and ensure a swift response in case of an emergency.
“SAPS also urges all residential and business owners to also take responsibility in installing and improving their security measures in an effort to reduce the risk. Remember you can call your local police station or contact the SAPS Crime Stop number 08600 10111,” said Kock.
1 July 2025- A former Highway Driving School instructor, Moatlhodi Matthews Nthutang (64), sentenced to three years imprisonment by the Hartswater Magistrate’s Court for corruption. Nthutang was arrested in March 2021, with a traffic official at Jan Kempdorp after accepting a bribe for driver’s license during a sting operation by the Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation team.
The Hawks spokesperson in Northern Cape, Warrant Officer Nomthandazo Mnisi said during February 2021, they received a tip-off regarding the traffic official and the driving school instructor issuing code 14 driver’s license without proper testing of the candidates. Mnisi said learner’s drivers were instructed to pay an amount of R3 500 for them to receive the driver’s license.
“Nthutang was later found guilty and sentenced, whereas the traffic officer was acquitted,” she said.
Meanwhile, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation Provincial Head in the Northern Cape, Major General Steven Mabuela, congratulated his members including the prosecution team for their resilience in solving cases.
1 July 2025- The police in Northern Cape said its management has noted a surge in online scams and fraud that pose significant challenges to society and the management of crime. The police said the safety hints can be observed and practiced to ensure that unsuspecting victims do not fall victim to these scams.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Timothy Sam urged individuals to always exercise extreme caution when purchasing goods online. Sam further said they should always use reputable sites and verify details.
“Unscrupulous fraudsters lure unsuspecting victims through false advertisement. Be discreet in making payments via transfers or deposits before viewing. Always conclude a transaction in person after verifying the seller’s details.
“Be aware of persons walking behind you, as scammers are able to scan or tap cards from back pockets of victims. Don’t share your banking details, card and pin with anyone,” he said.
Sam further said the people should be aware of imposters, fraudsters who impose themselves as police officers, pastors, government officials and more, who would call inviting you to an interview, conference, seminar, revival service and so forth. He added that people should be discreet in providing information to such characters.
“Remember, online fraud and scam is deceptive by nature. So, be careful of misleading information, that is meant to trick one into parting ways with your hard earned money and or personal information,” said Sam.
30 June 2025- The South African Police Service (SAPS) said it has launched its much anticipated e-Recruitment drive on its official website for 5 500 aspiring police officers to join its ranks. SAPS said for the first time in the history of the existence of the organisation, the SAPS is utilising an Electronic Recruitment System, through which youth from all walks of life, can submit their applications to be considered for the entry level Police Trainee posts.
The police national spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said the shift to a digital platform is expected to reduce paperwork, curb corruption and nepotism and prevent lost applications. Mathe said will also enhance fairness, efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and improve the integrity and speed of the recruitment process.
“The nationwide recruitment drive begins on 30 June 2025, with online applications closing on 18 July 2025. It targets young men and women aged 18 to 35 to join as police trainees for the 2025/2026 financial year.
“Qualifying young men and women without criminal records and/or pending criminal cases are encouraged to apply by visiting http://www.saps.gov.za/careers then select the e-Recruitment portal from the drop down menu,” she said.
Mathe further said it is worth mentioning that the SAPS will implement a targeted recruitment process to identify and consider applicants with specific skills and/or qualifications, i.e., Graduates in Law, Policing, Criminology, Law Enforcement, Forensic Investigation, and Information Technology, for placement in the specialised environments such as the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), Detective and Forensic Services as well as Crime Intelligence (CI).
She added that, to ensure that the SAPS enlist disciplined, energetic, intelligent, physically and mentally fit individuals, dedicated to serving their country through Policing, applicants will be subjected to a rigorous selection process, which entails: psychometric, integrity, physical fitness assessments and fingerprint/vetting screening as well as medical evaluations.
“Successful recruits will undergo nine-month-long training at the SAPS training academies nationwide and receive a monthly stipend of R4 500.
“The organisation said in the last three years, the SAPS Project 10 000, an initiative led by the Republic of South Africa (RSA) president, Cyril Ramaphosa to bolster crime prevention efforts, has led to the recruitment and training of 30 393 young people between the ages of 18 and 35 as fully-fledged police officers,” said Mathe.
She said there are currently 5 500 young people in SAPS academies who are training to become fully-fledged police officers. Mathe said some will graduate in August 2025, while the rest will graduate in December 2025.
“The application process is free of charge, and no position within the SAPS is for sale. Applications must be submitted exclusively through the official SAPS website portal,” she said.
2025 – The police in Dwarsberg are requesting community assistance in locating a missing elderly woman, Tlhomphego Juliet Mokoka (85), of House No 10036, Vaal River Section, Sesobe village in Madikwe, outside Rustenburg. The police said according to information, Mokoka was last seen by her grandchild on 29 June 2025.
The North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said a search was conducted with the assistance of the Local Community Police Forum (CPF) and Traditional Councillors around Dwarsberg policing precinct and all leads were followed up, but that did not yield positive results. Mokgwabone said at the time of her disappearance, she was wearing a brown skirt, brown jersey, brown flat shoes and a pink beanie.
“She is dark brown in complexion with round close together eyes and flat forehead, approximately 1.2 m tall, black hair and weighs 68kg. The missing granny suffers from Alzheimer’s disease.
“Anyone who may have information regarding her whereabouts is requested to contact the Investigating Officer, Sergeant Kelefilwe Simon Rampete on 071 251 0200 or call the South African Police Service (SAPS) Crime Stop number: 08600 10111,” he said.
Mokgwabone further said anonymous tip-offs can be communicated via the MySAPS App.
30 June 2025- The Pretoria Specialised Commercial Crimes Court has sentenced Ralton Christopher Fischer (44), a former Human Resources Manager at New Hope School — a school catering for learners with special educational needs to 12 years’ imprisonment. Of which six years are suspended for five years, on condition that Fischer is not convicted of fraud or theft during the period of suspension.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Gauteng, Lumka Mahanjana said Fischer was convicted on 11 counts of fraud of over R6 million, committed between July 2018 and April 2022 while employed at the school. Mahanjana said Fischer’s duties included managing payments to staff members employed by the School Governing Body (SGB) and not by the Gauteng Department of Education.
“During this period, Fischer fraudulently made 11 payments into multiple bank accounts registered in his name, including accounts at ABSA, Standard Bank, Discovery Bank, Nedbank, Bidvest, FNB, and Capitec.
“The fraud came to light when Fischer scanned and sent documents to a colleague, requesting that they be forwarded to his personal email. The colleague noticed irregularities and raised the alarm,” she said.
Mahanjana further said a preliminary investigation uncovered payments to non-existent (ghost) employees. She added that the matter was reported to the police and Fischer was arrested on 4 April 2023.
“Fischer pleaded guilty, claiming he used the stolen funds to feed his gambling addiction and purchase a VW Golf GTI valued at R150 000.
“He further asked the court to impose a sentence of correctional supervision or a wholly suspended sentence. He cited his responsibilities as a father to four minor children, two of whom live with disabilities,” said Mahanjana.
She said the NPA remains unwavering in its commitment to protecting vulnerable communities, particularly children with special needs. Mahanjana said this case highlights the organisation’s zero tolerance for white-collar crime, especially when committed by individuals who abuse positions of trust.
“Stealing from a school that serves learners with disabilities is both morally and legally indefensible. The court’s firm sentence affirms that such betrayal will be met with the full force of the law.
“The NPA welcomes the outcome as a clear statement that those who exploit public institutions will be held accountable,” she said.
The state prosecutor, advocate Abram Machitela, argued for a custodial sentence, citing the seriousness of the offence, the abuse of a position of trust, and the lack of remorse shown by the accused. Machitela emphasised that Fischer’s actions directly prejudiced the school and its vulnerable learners, many of whom use wheelchairs and rely on specialised support.
“The school also suffered tax liabilities exceeding R500 000 due to Fischer’s criminal conduct,” he said.
Meanwhile, Magistrate Du Preez agreed with the prosecution, finding that Fischer’s crimes were not merely driven by addiction, but also by selfishness and greed. Du Preez said the court noted Fischer’s lack of genuine remorse and that his guilty plea was primarily due to the strength of the state’s case.
“So, I conclude that only a direct term of imprisonment is appropriate under the circumstances,” he said.
Picture: Graduates marching against high rate of unemployment
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
30 June 2025 – The Portfolio Committee on Women Youth and Persons with Disabilities said it has informed the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) that there is an urgent need for the agency to enhance its effectiveness in combating youth unemployment and to ensure that its programmes reach out to the most marginalised young people across the country.
The committee raised concerns about youth development initiatives, the appointment of a new board, and the overall effectiveness of the NYDA in addressing the challenges faced by young people in South Africa.
The Chairperson of the Committee, Liezl van der Merwe said the committee received a briefing from the agency on its annual performance plan and strategic objectives for the 2025/26 financial year. Van der Merwe said during the briefing, the committee expressed a serious concern regarding the high youth unemployment rate and highlighted the need for the NYDA to implement strategies that are aimed at creating job opportunities for young South Africans.
“They also called for the agency to forge partnerships with local municipalities. The committee also engaged the agency on the delayed appointment of the agency’s new board. Members of the committee voiced their frustration over the absence of a permanent board and urged the executive authority to expedite the appointment process to ensure continuity in youth development initiatives.
“The committee also stressed the need to fill vacancies within the NYDA. The committee argued that the vacant positions are vital for improving the agency’s capacity to deliver on its mandate,” she said.
Van der Merwe further said the committee urged the agency to prioritise the recruitment of skilled personnel to better serve the youth and enhance the effectiveness of its programmes. She added that the committee expressed its concern on how the existing vacancies impact ongoing initiatives and the agency’s overall goals.
“Members requested a timeline on when these positions would be filled. In addition to these concerns, the committee asked for detailed information regarding the NYDA’s outreach programmes and their effectiveness.
“Members sought clarity on the frequency and scope of outreach initiatives, as well as the metrics used to measure their success. It requested the agency to provide a comprehensive report on the outcomes of the previous outreach efforts, including any challenges faced and lessons learned,” said van der Merwe.
She said funding was another matter that arose during the discussions. Van der Merwe said the committee addressed the agency’s funding sources and financial management.
“Members requested a detailed breakdown of the donor-funded income and the Presidential Youth Employment Fund, questioning how effectively these funds are being utilised to achieve the intended outcomes.
“The committee emphasised the need for transparency in financial reporting. Furthermore, the committee urged the agency to ensure that funds are directed towards impactful programmes that benefit young people,” she said.
Van der Merwe said the committee requested reports from the NYDA include a detailed breakdown of the donor-funded income. She said this includes the Presidential Youth Employment Fund, the segregated data regarding the impact of youth programmes, specifically demographics such as gender and disability and clarity on the operational strategies and outreach initiatives being implemented, especially in rural communities.
Picture: A squatter camp along river banks/Generic
By REGINALD KANYANE
30 June 2025- The Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation, Sello Seitlholo said he commits to lead a sustained response to the growing infestation of invasive alien vegetation at Vaalkop Dam in Rustenburg. As part of his two-day oversight working visit from 27 to 28 June 2025, Seitlholo announced the establishment of a multi-stakeholder working group and declared his personal commitment to overseeing the complete removal of the infestation from the dam.
He further stated his intention to propose that water pollution be declared a national crisis, warning that South Africa can no longer afford to treat pollution as a localised or isolated problem. Seitlholo added that this move is necessary to unlock the urgency, coordination and resources required to protect the country’s already stressed water systems.
“I am taking personal responsibility to ensure that the infestation at Vaalkop Dam is eradicated. We cannot allow pollution and negligence to cripple our water systems any further. I will also be proposing that water pollution be declared a national crisis.
“It is time we recognise that this threat affects the health, economy, and future of our nation. The infestation, primarily caused by water hyacinth and Salvinia minima, has seriously impacted the operations of the Vaalkop Water Treatment Works, threatening water abstraction, treatment capacity, and regional water supply,” he said.
Seitlholo said it has been worsened by heavy rainfall, which carried high concentrations of nutrients from upstream sources into the dam. He said these include discharges from wastewater treatment plants, agricultural runoff, urban drainage, and pollution from informal settlements and mining activities.
“Nutrients from bottom sediment recirculation have also been added to the dam’s ecological load. The combination of historically low water levels, the presence of invasive seeds and nutrient flooding created ideal conditions for the aggressive spread of the aquatic weeds.
“We would like to issue a stern warning to municipalities that are failing to meet their wastewater management responsibilities. Let me be very clear, municipalities that continue to pollute our rivers and dams with untreated waste are directly contributing to the destruction of our water resources,” said Seitlholo.
He said this negligence will not be tolerated. Seitlholo said the department will intensify compliance monitoring and where wrongdoing is found, there will be serious consequences.
“My planned working group will bring together the Department of Water and Sanitation, Magalies Water, affected municipalities, environmental scientists and other critical partners. The group will assess the scale of the infestation, recommend both immediate and long-term interventions and oversee the implementation of recovery plans for the dam and surrounding systems.
“This initiative is part of a broader departmental effort to strengthen environmental enforcement, restore infrastructure resilience and address the growing national threat posed by pollution and invasive species,” he said.
Seitlholo said since assuming office nearly a year ago, he had led numerous oversight inspections across the country, confronting issues of water pollution and infrastructure failure head-on. He said he had consistently called for accountability and improved service delivery.
“We will soon announce a set of coordinated and strategic national interventions to tackle the pollution of South Africa’s water sources and restore the health of critical water ecosystems,” said Seitlholo.
The Guardian 