10 September 2026 – The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomes the life imprisonment sentence imposed by the Eastern Cape High Court in Mthatha on the accused, Lindile Gojana (32) for the premeditated murder of his girlfriend, Xoliseka Mbali. Despite pleading guilty, Gojana attempted to minimise his criminal conduct by admitting only to assault with intent to cause Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH).
The NPA regional spokesperson in Eastern Cape, Luxolo Tyali said, however, through the evidence presented by the prosecution, the state successfully proved that he was guilty of premeditated murder. Tyali said the court heard that the accused and the deceased were in a romantic relationship and lived together at the accused’s family home in the Nothintsila area of Nqeleni.
“On the afternoon of 21 October 2025, the accused had been consuming traditional sorghum beer with his grandmother when the deceased’s former boyfriend walked past their home. Shortly afterwards, the deceased indicated that she wished to go out, which sparked an argument between the couple.
“During the altercation, the deceased jumped out of a window of the rondavel and ran in the direction in which her former boyfriend had been walking. The accused pursued her, caught up with her, and stabbed her multiple times,” he said.
Tyali further said Gojana then forced her back to their room and placed her on a bed. He added that Mbali later succumbed to her injuries. The accused surrendered himself to police later that evening.
“During the trial, the accused submitted a written plea explanation in which he claimed that he had been intoxicated and overcome by anger when he attacked the deceased. The state advocate, Chumile Mkentane led the evidence of the accused’s grandmother and the pathologist who compiled the post-mortem report.
“Their testimony painted a chilling picture of a deliberate and brutal attack, clearly demonstrating the accused’s intention to kill,” said Tyali.
Welcoming the sentence, Acting Director of Public Prosecutions in the Eastern Cape, Advocate Samkelo Mtwana said: “This sentence sends a strong message that perpetrators of violence against women will be held fully accountable for their actions.
“The NPA remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring justice for victims of gender-based violence and femicide, while supporting efforts to eradicate these crimes from our communities.”
Mtwana further said the NPA remains committed to vigorously prosecuting perpetrators of Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) and ensuring that justice is delivered for victims, their families and affected communities.
Picture: Former Crime Intelligence Head, Richard Mdluli
By REGINALD KANYANE
10 September 2026 – The corruption trial involving former Crime Intelligence Head, Richard Mdluli and his co-accused, was postponed to 15 September 2026, to allow the defence and the state to prepare arguments following a challenge to the validity of search warrants issued during the investigative stage of the matter. The state has completed leading its evidence-in-chief through its first witness, a retired investigator from the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) and the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC).
The Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) spokesperson, Henry Mamothame said the witness is currently being cross-examined by the defence. Mamothame said Mdluli, together with former South African Police Service (SAPS) Supply Chain Manager, Heine Barnard and former Chief Financial Officer, Solomon Lazarus, faces charges of corruption, fraud and theft relating to the alleged misuse of the SAPS Crime Intelligence secret service account during the period 2008 to 2012.
“The accused have pleaded not guilty to all charges against them,” he said.
10 September 2026 – The North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Arthur Adams, has commended the Potchefstroom Detectives, Crime Intelligence and Local Criminal Record Centre for their relentless efforts, which resulted in the identification, tracing and arrest of a wanted suspect within 10 days of a case of house robbery and rape being reported. Adams said the incident allegedly occurred at a residence in Potchefstroom during the early hours of Sunday, 30 August 2026.
“It is alleged that a woman (52) was attacked inside her newly-occupied residence after an unknown male suspect gained entry through a broken window. The suspect allegedly demanded money from the victim before assaulting her.
“The suspect, an alleged irregular migrant from Zimbabwe in his early 20’s, was arrested on Wednesday afternoon, 9 September 2026, at a well-known estate in Potchefstroom, where he was reportedly working as a tiler. He further said the suspect is expected to appear before the Potchefstroom Magistrate’s Court on 11 September 2026, facing charges of house robbery and rape,” he said.
Adams further said he would like to commend the members of the community for providing valuable information to the police, following the release of the identikit. He added that the victim assisted the investigation, despite the trauma she had experienced.
“She compiled the identikit, which assisted the police in their investigation and subsequently positively identified the alleged suspect during an identification parade.
“Gender Based Violence (GBV) remains a serious concern in our communities, and the South African Police Service will continue to pursue perpetrators relentlessly and ensure that victims receive the support and protection they deserve,” said Adams.
He commended this survivor for her remarkable courage and resilience, despite the trauma she endured. Adams also urged communities to continue working with the police by providing information that can assist them in bringing perpetrators of Gender Based Violence to justice.
Picture: DA to embark on oversight visit to Rooigrond Maximum Correctional Centre/Generic
By BAKANG MOKOTO
10 September 2026 – The Democratic Alliance (DA) in North West said eight officials face contemplated suspension, after a repeat escapee allegedly cut through the burglar bars of a single cell at a maximum-security correctional centre in Rooigrond, near Mahikeng. The DA said, however, accountability must extend beyond frontline staff to systemic failures.
DA provincial leader and Member of Provincial Legislature (MPL) in North West Provincial Legislature, Freddy Sonakile said, they will conduct an oversight visit to Rooigrond and escalate its findings to the Minister of Correctional Services. Sonakile said they demand answers after Edward Khomotso Madiba, a convicted offender serving a 20-year sentence, escaped from Rooigrond Maximum Correctional Centre, near Mahikeng on Sunday.
“According to the Department of Correctional Services (DCS), Madiba was being held in the single-cell section while facing a further charge relating to a previous escape when he allegedly cut through the burglar-bar door of his cell and escaped from the facility.
“Eight officials have been served with notices of contemplated suspension pending the outcome of the investigation. This is not a routine prison escape. A maximum-security correctional centre should be one of the most secure environments in the country,” he said.
Sonakile further said a repeat escapee being held in a single cell should have been subject to heightened security measures. He added that, yet he allegedly cut his way through the cell door and walked out.
“We welcome the full-scale investigation announced by DCS, but it must establish more than who was on duty when the escape happened. It must determine whether deteriorating infrastructure, inadequate security equipment, staffing shortages, poor maintenance, failures in supervision or management decisions contributed to the breach.
“If frontline officials fail in their duties, they must be held accountable. But if the investigation reveals systemic failures that made an escape possible, accountability must reach those responsible for the management, maintenance and security of the facility,” said Sonakile.
He said this is particularly concerning given the South African Human Rights Commission’s July 2026 investigation into police stations and correctional centres in the North West, which raised broader concerns about the condition and functioning of these state facilities. Sonakile said they will therefore not allow this incident to be treated as an isolated failure by individual officials.
“As DA North West Provincial Leader, I will invite a DA Member of Parliament responsible for correctional services to join me on an oversight visit to Rooigrond Maximum Correctional Centre in the coming week.
“The visit will assess the physical condition of the facility, security infrastructure, staffing and operational challenges, with the findings to be escalated through DA representatives in the National Assembly to the Minister of Correctional Services,” he said.
Sonakile said there are also critical questions that DCS must answer. He said what additional security measures were implemented after Madiba’s previous escape and how was his risk profile assessed after he was recaptured?
“How was he able to access or use equipment capable of cutting through a cell door? Were the condition of the cell and its security infrastructure previously reported? Was staffing and security resources at Rooigrond adequate?
“Who was responsible for ensuring that the facility remained secure and fit for purpose? South Africans should not have to wonder whether convicted dangerous offenders can simply cut their way out of maximum-security prisons. The country deserves to know how Madiba’s escape was possible in the first place — and who must answer for it,” said Sonakile.
He said they will pursue those answers through every available oversight mechanism. Sonakile said correctional facilities exist to protect the public and keep convicted offenders securely in custody.
“When the walls, doors, security systems or management of those facilities fail, the public is put at risk. The Minister of Correctional Services must ensure that Rooigrond and correctional facilities across the North West are secure, properly maintained and adequately equipped to do the job they are entrusted to do,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Department of Correctional Services (DSC) National Commissioner, Samuel Thobakgale said: “We can confirm that escaped offender, Edward Khomotso Madiba is back in custody. Madiba, who escaped from Rooigrond Maximum Correctional Centre near Mahikeng on 6 September 2026, was apprehended within 72 hours. The National Tracing Team was activated within hours of the escape and, supported by technology and law-enforcement partners, tracked the escapee through several locations in the North West, including Borakalalo Game Reserve, Lebotloane and Damonsville, before he was arrested at a flat in Brits.
“Madiba has been transferred to Kgoši Mampuru II C-Max Correctional Centre, where he remains in custody. There is nowhere to run and nowhere to hide. Offenders who escape from the lawful custody, will be traced, apprehended and returned. Those who assist them will face the law.”
Thobakagle said the matter does not end with the arrest. He said the internal investigation into the circumstances of the escape continues and eight officials remain suspended pending the outcome of due process.
“Where wrongdoing, negligence or failure to comply with procedures is established, appropriate action will be taken. The department thanks its National Tracing Team, law-enforcement partners and all who contributed to the successful apprehension,” said Thobakgale.
10 September 2026 – A Zimbabwean woman, Lister Nkomo (43) was sentenced to an effective 30 years direct imprisonment for the murders of her two young children. Nkomo was convicted on two counts of murder in the Johannesburg Regional Court following the deaths of her two-year-old daughter and seven-month-old son on 3 June 2023.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Gauteng, Magaboke Mohlatlole said evidence presented before the court revealed that Nkomo contacted her sister on the day of the incident and informed her that she was in trouble at a park in Empire Park, Parktown. Mohlatlole said she further disclosed her intention to take her own life along with those of her children.
“Alarmed by the call, the sister immediately alerted their father, who rushed to the scene and found the children unresponsive. Paramedics declared both children dead at the scene. Nkomo was transported to hospital, where she survived after receiving medical treatment for poisoning.
“Investigations conducted by Sergeant Mangokoana established that both children had been poisoned. Post-mortem examinations, together with toxicology analyses, confirmed that the children died after ingesting Terbufos, a highly toxic substance commonly found in certain pesticides and rat poison and capable of causing death in humans,” she said.
Mohlatlole further said following the presentation of the state’s case, Nkomo elected not to testify or present evidence in her defence. She added that the court subsequently found her guilty on both counts of murder.
“In delivering judgment, the court described the offences as particularly serious, noting that Nkomo had taken the lives of her own children. The court further found no evidence of remorse, observing that she continued to deny responsibility for the crimes, including during the compilation of the pre-sentence report,” said Mohlatlole.
She said the acting Regional Court Prosecutor, Terry Hlongwane argued that no substantial and compelling circumstances existed to justify a departure from the prescribed minimum sentence for murder. Mohlatlole said the state submitted that the gravity of the offences, coupled with the vulnerability of the victims, warranted a significant custodial sentence.
“The court agreed with the state’s submissions and sentenced Nkomo to 15 years’ direct imprisonment on each count of murder, ordering that the sentences run consecutively. She was accordingly sentenced to an effective 30 years direct imprisonment.
“In addition, the court declared Nkomo unfit to possess a firearm and unsuitable to work with children in terms of the Children’s Act 38 of 2005. The court further directed that her name be entered into the National Child Protection Register,” she said.
Welcoming the outcome, Mohlatlole further said the NPA said the sentence reflects the seriousness with which the criminal justice system treats crimes committed against children and underscores the principle that those who prey on the most vulnerable members of society will be held accountable. She added that the NPA remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting children and ensuring that perpetrators of serious and violent crimes are successfully prosecuted.
“Justice for vulnerable victims remains a priority, and the NPA will continue to pursue appropriate sentences in cases involving crimes against children,” said Mohlatlole.
10 September 2026 – The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomes the sentences imposed by the Garankuwa Magistrate’s Court on three accused, Thapelo Ngwenya (31), Sfiso Maseko (34), and Ntsindiso Mtunzini (34), following their convictions for murder, robbery with aggravating circumstances, and related offences arising from a series of so-called “Sganai” scam incidents that targeted unsuspecting members of the public. Ngwenya and Maseko were each sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder of Piet Masilo, a member of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF).
The NPA regional spokesperson in North West, Lindiwe Mabasa said in addition, Ngwenya received a combined sentence of 60 years imprisonment for four counts of robbery with aggravating circumstances, while Maseko was sentenced to a combined 75 years imprisonment for four counts of robbery with aggravating circumstances and the unlawful possession of a firearm. Mabasa said Mtunzini was sentenced to 15 years imprisonment for robbery with aggravating circumstances.
“The convictions and sentences stem from a series of “Sganai” scam incidents committed between 2021 and 2022. The accused operated as part of a syndicate that allegedly used fraudulent advertisements on Facebook Marketplace to lure unsuspecting victims under the guise of legitimate sales transactions.
“Victims were directed to predetermined locations where they were robbed of their valuables. One of the incidents occurred on 28 November 2021, when Masilo travelled with his wife and five-year-old daughter to purchase an ice-cream machine advertised for sale. Upon arriving at the location provided by the accused, he realised that he was being robbed and a confrontation ensued,” she said.
Mabasa said during the incident, he was fatally wounded. She further said the accused fled the scene after stealing his belongings.
“In another incident on 21 January 2022, a victim travelled to Winterveldt to purchase a music system advertised on Facebook Marketplace. After arriving, he was instructed by the accused that a relative would collect him and take him to the location where the transaction would be concluded.
“Instead, he was transported to another location, where he was confronted by three men, one of whom was armed with a firearm. The victim was robbed of his vehicle, cellular phone, bank cards, and R6 200 in cash,” she added.
Mabasa said a further R1 500 was withdrawn from his bank account after the accused forced him to disclose his bank card PIN. She said on 28 February 2022, another victim and his girlfriend travelled to Winterveldt to purchase CDJs and a sound mixer advertised on the same online platform.
“After being directed to an alternative location, they were confronted by unknown men who demanded money from them. The couple was robbed of their vehicle, cellular phones, bank cards, a ring, cash amounting to R13 200, and other valuables.
“In a further incident on 11 March 2022, the accused allegedly employed the same modus operandi to lure another victim through a Facebook Marketplace advertisement for a music system. While discussing the purported sale, an unknown man emerged and pointed a firearm at the victim,” said Mabasa.
She said the accused demanded money, cellular phones, bank cards, and PIN codes before robbing him of his possessions and a further R5 250. Mabasa said the investigation eventually led police to Mtunzini’s residence on 23 March 2022.
“With his consent, officers searched the premises and discovered a 9mm pistol and one live round of ammunition for which he could not produce a licence. He was arrested, while the other accused were subsequently apprehended and remained in custody until the finalisation of the case,” she said.
Mabasa said the NPA remains steadfast in its fight against violent crime, organised criminal activity, and online fraud schemes that target unsuspecting members of the public. She said the successful prosecution of this matter demonstrates the NPA’s commitment to ensuring accountability for serious offenders and securing justice for victims and their families.
State Prosecutor Rodger Mareume argued that the offences demonstrated a blatant disregard for human life and public safety. Mareume submitted that the accused had preyed on unsuspecting victims through carefully orchestrated online scams and that the murder of Masilo, committed in the presence of his wife and young daughter, underscored the severe impact of their criminal conduct.
“The accused’s actions constituted a gross violation of the constitutional right to life and urged the court to impose a severe sentence to punish the offenders and deter similar crimes, particularly given the prevalence of “Sganai” scams in the jurisdiction,” he said.
In sentencing, the court agreed with the State and found that, in respect of Ngwenya and Maseko, there were no substantial and compelling circumstances justifying a departure from the prescribed minimum sentence. The court accordingly imposed life imprisonment for the murder of Masilo, together with the additional sentences for robbery and related offences.
Welcoming the outcome, the Director of Public Prosecutions in the North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, commended Investigating Officer Siphiwe Tshabalala and Prosecutor Rodger Mareume for their dedication and diligence in securing the convictions and sentences.
“This sentence demonstrates the commitment of law enforcement agencies and the NPA to ensuring that criminal networks that prey on unsuspecting and vulnerable members of society are brought to justice.
“These offenders robbed innocent victims of their property and, in the most tragic instance, took the life of an innocent person in pursuit of greed. We commend the investigation and prosecution teams for their unwavering dedication in bringing this matter to finality,” she said.
10 September 2026 – The police in Phokeng request the community’s assistance in locating Paballo Thipe (18), from Mamerotse, near Phokeng. Thipe was last seen by her landlord on Saturday afternoon, 18 July 2026 at the Platinum Village.
The North West police spokesperson, Sergeant Kelebogile Morake said a vigorous search was conducted in the township and the surrounding areas, without any positive results. Morake said it is unknown what she was wearing at the time of her disappearance.
“She is dark in complexion, tall with a well-built body, brown eyes and short, black hair. She has a burning scar on one of her hands. The police request anyone who may have information regarding Thipe’s whereabouts to contact the Investigating Officer, Warrant Officer Magdeline Molefinyana on 082 496 9628 or 014 566 1861.
“Alternatively, call your local police station or Crime Stop on 08600 10111. Anonymous tip-offs can also be communicated via the MySAPS App from your smartphone,” she said.
10 September 2026 – The North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Arthur Adams will host the annual provincial commemoration service to honour and remember police officers, who died in the line of and on duty during the 2025/2026 financial year. Adams said the province will be commemorating the life of Constable Gift Mota (25) of Phokeng Crime Prevention.
“The commemoration service will be officiated by the North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Virginia Tlhapi. The event will be held at Memorial Site, Westpol Square Building, Potchefstroom on Sunday at 10am,” he said.
10 September 2026 – The police in Mothibistad are requesting the assistance to locate the missing man, Willem Louw (26). Louw was reported missing by his sister on 9 September 2026.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Captain Nomvuyo Makoloi said, according to information, Louw went missing from their home in Ncwelengwe village on 5 September 2026, at approximately 8:45pm, after he left the house. Makoloyi said he has not been seen since then.
“He was last seen wearing a black tracksuit pants and black jacket with white sneakers. Anyone with information or may know where Louw might be is requested to contact the Investigating officer, Warrant Officer Moholeng on 0824161095 or 0731761653.
“The public is reminded that there is no waiting period to report a person missing. All information will be treated confidentially,” she said.
10 September 2026 – A man was sentenced to 10 years imprisonment by the Pofadder Regional Court for rape on 9 September 2026. The accused, Nazeed Pienaar also affectionately known as China was convicted of rape following an incident that occurred on 29 March 2025, at approximately 2:50am, when a victim (46) was allegedly raped at her residence in Pella, while sleeping on the veranda.
Namakwa District police spokesperson, Captain Ivan Magerman said Constable Thabang Mokgethe of the Pofadder Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit, who was on standby at the time, responded swiftly to the complaint and commenced with the necessary investigative processes. Magerman said the accused was arrested on 30 March 2025, and subsequently released on bail on 7 April 2025.
“Through a thorough and diligent investigation conducted by Mokgethe, sufficient evidence was presented before the court, resulting in the accused being found guilty of rape on 12 June 2026. He was sentenced to 10 years imprisonment.
“In addition to the custodial sentence, the court declared Pienaar unfit to possess a firearm in terms of the Firearms Control Act. His name was ordered to be entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders, and he was further declared unfit to work with children,” he said.
Meanwhile, the acting Namakwa District Police Commissioner, Colonel Moses Lekgwati, commended Mokgethe for his commitment, professionalism and meticulous investigative work, which ultimately contributed to securing the conviction and sentence. Lekgwati reiterated that the SAPS remains resolute in its efforts to combat gender-based violence and crimes committed against women, children and other vulnerable persons.
“This sentence sends a clear and unequivocal message that perpetrators of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) will not be allowed to act with impunity. The SAPS in Namakwa District remains committed to ensuring that perpetrators are relentlessly pursued, arrested and brought before the courts to face the full might of the law.
“The SAPS further encourages victims of GBV and sexual offences to report such incidents to the police and to seek the necessary support and assistance. Every report is treated seriously and will be investigated with the utmost professionalism and sensitivity,” he said.
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