30 March 2026 – A man (29) who raped a girl (10) was sentenced to life imprisonment by the Ditsobotla Regional Court. The evidence presented in court stated that on 20 October 2018, the victim was playing with a friend in Mooifontein Village when the accused, Motseonageng Phakedi approached them.
The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Anne Magakoe said he produced a sjambok, threatened the children and chased the friend away before dragging the victim to his residence, where he raped her. Magakoe said the incident was reported to police and following thorough investigations, the accused was arrested.
“Phakedi pleaded not guilty on 28 January 2025, but was subsequently convicted on 24 October 2025. The case was investigated by D/Sgt Herbert Makunye attached to the Provincial Serial and Electronic Crime Investigation, whose dedication ensured a successful conviction,” she said.
Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, praised the investigating officer and stakeholders, reaffirming SAPS’ firm stance against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and its commitment to protecting the vulnerable. Naidoo said they welcome the life imprisonment sentence as it shows that justice has been served for the victim.
30 March 2026 – The accused, Tatlhego Dire (33) was sentenced to double life imprisonment the Ditsobotla Regional Court for two separate rape incidents committed in Mareetsane village, near Mahikeng. On 16 January 2013, the victim was walking with her boyfriend in Mareetsane when the accused attacked them, striking the boyfriend with a steel pipe before he fled.
The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Anne Magakoe said Dire then dragged the victim to his residence, where he raped her throughout the night. Magakoe said in a separate incident on 30 October 2011, a victim (25) was walking with a friend to a shop when the accused approached them, stabbed the victim on the head and chased the friend away.
“He then dragged the victim to a nearby place, where he raped her. Dire pleaded not guilty on 18 June 2025, but was subsequently convicted. During sentencing proceedings, the state argued for life imprisonment, emphasising the brutality of the attacks and the serious injuries inflicted on the victims.
“In delivering judgment, Magistrate Ndade Maphango agreed with the state, noting that the accused showed no remorse and that the offences were of a serious and violent nature. The accused was sentenced to life imprisonment on both counts,” she said.
Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, commended the investigating officer, D/Sgt Hebert Mkaunye from the Provincial Serial and Electronic Crime Investigation, whose thorough investigation contributed to the successful conviction. Naidoo stated that this conviction sends a strong message that perpetrators of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) will face the full might of the law.
30 March 2026 – A man (57) has been sentenced to life imprisonment by the Pretoria High Court for killing his wife. On the night of 12 October 2024, the deceased, Theonette Smith and the accused, Peter Johannes Smith were consuming alcohol and celebrating Smith’s new work appointment at their place of residence in Brits.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson, Lumka Mahanjana said while celebrating, an argument ensued between the two and during the argument, the deceased physically assaulted Smith by slapping him. Mahanjana said in response, Smith assaulted the deceased by slapping her multiple times on her head and the deceased fell on the floor and died.
“Thereafter, Smith left the deceased lying on the floor in their living area and went to sleep. The following morning, Smith took the body of the deceased, placed it in his car and dumped the half-naked body of the deceased in a nearby veld.
“Smith then went to the Brits Police Station to report his wife missing and while opening a missing person’s report, a police officer received a phone call from a community member stating that they had found a half-naked body at a veld,” she said.
Mahanjana further said the police then took Smith to the veld and on arrival Smith identified the dead body as his wife. She added that while at the veld, the police noticed blood stains in Smith’s car and requested him to take them to his place of residence.
“On arrival, the police found blood stains on Smith’s couch and living room. Smith was then arrested at his place of residence and has been in custody since the NPA successfully opposed his release on bail.
“During trial proceedings, Smith pleaded not guilty to the charge of murder. However, the state prosecutor, advocate Vusimuzi Tshabalala, presented compelling evidence, including expert testimony from a pathologist, which proved the accused’s guilt beyond reasonable doubt,” said Mahanjana.
She said during sentencing proceedings, the defence requested the court to deviate from imposing the prescribed minimum sentence of life imprisonment, citing that Smith is a first-time offender, had recently secured permanent employment as a teacher and holds a black belt in karate. Mahanjana said the defence further argued that he did not cause any serious injuries to the deceased and that he was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the offence.
“Tshabalala opposed this submission, arguing that Smith was aware of the deceased’s underlying medical condition and had a duty to protect her as his spouse. Instead, he subjected her to violence, ultimately causing her death.
“The state further submitted that Smith demonstrated a lack of remorse, attempted to mislead the police and degraded the dignity of the deceased by disposing of her half-naked body in a veld,” she said.
Mahanjana said Tshabalala also read a Victim Impact Statement (VIS) facilitated by Court Preparation Officer Lebogang Lebese, where the daughter of the deceased expressed how her psychological and physical wellbeing has deteriorated after her mother died and that she has lost her support system. She said in delivering judgment, acting Judge Melissa Jordan agreed with the state’s submissions, noting that Smith had abused a position of trust.
“The court found that, as a trained karate practitioner, he possessed the knowledge and capability to inflict harm. The judge further rejected the argument that alcohol influenced his actions, noting that Smith had indicated he would have acted similarly even if sober.
“The court found no substantial and compelling circumstances to justify a deviation from the prescribed minimum sentence and accordingly imposed life imprisonment,” said Mahanjana.
She said the NPA reiterates its commitment to combating Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and ensuring that perpetrators of crimes against vulnerable persons are held accountable. Mahanjana said he was further sentenced to five years imprisonment for defeating the ends of justice.
“The court ordered that the five-year sentence run concurrently with the life sentence,” she said.
30 March 2026 – The Republic of South Africa (RSA) president, Cyril Ramaphosa said this week, they will be welcoming delegates from more than 50 countries to the 6th South Africa Investment Conference (SAIC) in Sandton, Gauteng. Ramaphosa said since its inception in 2018, the SAIC has grown to become a premier global forum for showcasing the attractiveness of investment opportunities in our country to domestic and international investors.
He further said investment conferences play a key role in attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) as high-profile platforms that connect international investors with local opportunities. Ramaphosa added that they also facilitate strong partnerships by bringing together governments, business, banks and development finance institutions.
“As investors look to destinations that have demonstrated resilience in the face of increasingly volatile global financial conditions, South Africa presents a favourable proposition. We are Africa’s largest economy with a diversified industrial base.
“Since we began our first R1.2 trillion investment mobilization drive in 2018, we have secured investment pledges in mining, healthcare, automotive, food and beverage and others, reflecting the sophistication of our economy,” he said.
Ramaphosa said South Africa is also the leading destination for renewable energy investment on the continent, with these investments making up a considerable share of the total pledges made at previous conferences. He said they have a sound policy and regulatory environment, offering certainty to investors at a time when they are just one of many emerging markets across the globe vying for capital.
“We are also a gateway for businesses looking to set up or expand their operations in Africa. Through this conference, as well as the five preceding ones, we will be seeking to build even greater confidence in our country as an investment destination, and to demonstrate our commitment to structural reform, policy certainty and policy execution.
“The green shoots of economic recovery we are experiencing further bolster our position. The macroeconomic outlook has improved. We experienced four consecutive quarters of growth by the end of 2025, national debt has stabilized and more jobs are being created,” said Ramaphosa.
He said last year, their sovereign rating was upgraded for the first time in 17 years and they were removed from the Financial Action Task Force grey list. Ramaphosa said the structural reform agenda being driven through Operation Vulindlela has unlocked progress in electricity, freight logistics, water, telecommunications, and the visa system.
“We have brought load-shedding to an end and are creating a new, competitive electricity market that will ensure energy security and attract investment. The country’s logistics sector is being rapidly modernised, and we are enabling private investment in port and rail operations.
“Among the projects for which we have initiated a Private Sector Participation (PSP) process are the Ngqura Manganese Export Corridor in the Eastern Cape and the Richards Bay Dry Bulk Terminal in KwaZulu-Natal,” he said.
Ramaphosa said last year, they also signed a 25–year concession for the Durban Container Terminal Pier 2, representing R11 billion in private investment. He said a system for third-party access to the freight rail network is in place and 41 freight rail slots have been allocated to private companies.
“We have implemented reforms to the visa regime to attract new skills and promote tourism. These include operationalising the Remote Work Visa, introducing a Trusted Employer Scheme to support major investors, and piloting an Electronic Travel Authorisation system.
“By showcasing the progress and durability of the reform agenda, our goal is to grow the pool of inward investment from businesses and countries that will ultimately be a bridge to new markets, technologies and networks for South Africa,” said Ramaphosa.
30 March 2026 – The police in Bojanala Sub-District 1 conducted a successful Operation Paseka on 28 March 2026, targeting drunk and driving, public disorder and crime prevention in the Cyferskuil and Klipgat policing areas. The police said the operation, which was executed between 2pm and 10pm, resulted in the arrest of seven suspects for drunken driving.
The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Anne Magakoe said in addition, three suspects were charged for drinking liquor in public, while one suspect was charged for public indecency. Magakoe said during the operation, police also searched 35 vehicles and 50 individuals, while intensifying patrols in identified crime hotspot areas.
“The police remain committed to intensifying operations aimed at ensuring safer communities, particularly through the removal of intoxicated drivers from the roads,” she said.
30 March 2026- The police in Bojanala District continues to record strong operational successes following coordinated crime-fighting operations conducted between 22 and 29 March 2026, across Rustenburg, Koster, Boitekong, Phokeng, Tlhabane, Dwarsberg and Swartruggens policing areas. The police said operations resulted in multiple arrests for serious and priority crimes, including murder (3), unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition (1), assault GBH (1), bribery (1), and sexual offences (13).
The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Anne Magakoe said the police also recorded 12 arrests for drug-related crimes, 10 for drunken driving, 15 for liquor-related offences, 19 for contravention of the Immigration Act, 28 for public drinking, 3 for public indecency, 11 theft-related crimes and 1 for possession of suspected stolen property. Magakoe said 2 suspects were nabbed for trespassing, 1 possession of housebreaking implements, 2 for contravention of the Road Traffic Act (1), and offences in terms of the Animal Identification Act.
“In addition, roadblock operations contributed to the overall success, with 371 vehicles stopped, 39 warrants of arrest executed, three vehicles impounded, and traffic fines to the value of R36 850 issued,” she said.
Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, commended the police for their dedication and commitment in removing criminals and enforcing the law. Nadioo said the police remain committed to intensifying operations to ensure safer communities across the province.
“The public is encouraged to report crime via the SAPS Crime Stop number 08600 10111 or the MySAPS App,” he said.
Picture: A cow affected by foot and mouth disease/Generic
By STAFF REPORTER
30 March 2026 – The Democratic Alliance (DA) said as Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) continues to spread across Gauteng, farmers are losing their livestock, which is affecting food security. The DA is calling on Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi and MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Vuyiswa Ramokgopa, to empower provincial mayors to establish local FMD command structures aligned with provincial efforts.
DA Gauteng Shadow MEC for Agriculture and Member of Provincial Legislature (MPL) in Gauteng, Bronwynn Engelbrecht said Local Government should actively support roadblocks and livestock movement enforcement. Engelbrecht said the municipal property should be monitored and controlled.
“We call on Lesufi’s government to engage directly with farmers and affected communities and participate in a coordinated, province-wide response strategy. While farmers face uncertainty, rising losses and mounting pressure, those entrusted with local governance are not adequately empowered and involved in containing FMD, which is deeply concerning.
“In stark contrast, District Mayors in the DA-led Western Cape are playing a central and decisive role in combating FMD. Clear strategies have been rolled out to monitor and regulate livestock movement,” she said.
Engelbrecht further said mayors are working alongside law enforcement to enforce biosecurity measures and also participating in joint operational command structures such as the war room established by the Western Cape Government. She added that as part of the Premier’s Coordinating Forum, Western Cape Local Government leaders can provide continuous feedback across all spheres of government and engage directly with farmers and communities to raise awareness.
“This coordinated approach ensures that no level of government operates in isolation and that accountability is maintained at every level.
“Unfortunately for Gauteng residents and farmers, there is no evidence of local government coordinating livestock movement control, no visible municipal enforcement of biosecurity measures, no structured local government participation in a joint command centre and no consistent communication with affected farming communities,” said Engelbrecht.
She said this is alarming given that communal and peri-urban grazing areas account for a significant portion of outbreaks, placing direct responsibility on municipalities to act. Engelbrecht said municipalities are not bystanders in this crisis.
“Under the Animal Diseases Act, they have a clear duty to prevent the spread of controlled diseases, particularly on municipal land and communal land.
“As Lesufi’s lack of direction and leadership, Gauteng’s mayors have not been able to exercise oversight, reinforce compliance, nor take visible responsibility for protecting local agricultural systems,” she said.
Engelbrecht said without active involvement of municipalities, Gauteng’s response remains disjointed, reactive, and ineffective. She said this undermines enforcement, weakens communication and allows the disease to continue spreading unchecked.
“The DA-led Western Cape has demonstrated that a coordinated approach is essential in fighting the spread of FMD. Gauteng must learn from the Western Cape to end this crisis.
“At a time when farmers are fighting to protect their livelihoods, and consumers face rising food insecurity, the cooperation between all spheres of government is not optional but essential,” said Engelbrecht.
27 March 2026 – The much anticipated 9th ANC Regional Conference in the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati Region that was supposed to be held during the weekend at Lysko Primary School near Vryburg, has been postponed. This comes after the Regional Task Team (RTT) failed to receive an authorisation letter to hold a conference from the ANC Secretary-General, Fikile Mbalula’s Office.
The RTT coordinator in the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati region, Walter Mabogola said in a letter that the decision has been taken pending the release of letter of authorisation to hold the conference, final verification report and final NDRC verdicts which is within the competency of the office of the Secretary General.
“This notice serves to notify the above-mentioned leadership, branches of ANC and support staff that the 9th regional conference of Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati region has been postponed until further notice.
“This decision has been taken pending the release of letter of authorisation to hold the conference, final verification report and final NDRC verdicts, which is within the competency of the office of the Secretary General,” he said.
Mabogola further said the leadership has unreservedly apologised to the branches and members of the ANC
in the region for any inconvenience this might have caused. He added that, the date of the envisaged regional conference will be determined and announced as soon as all the outstanding issues of compliance are resolved.
“The leadership has thanked all the members, branches and RTT members for all the efforts made in ensuring that the region prepares for the envisaged 9th regional conference.
25 March 2026- The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has provided an update on an independent forensic investigation into irregularities in seven contracts awarded for the refurbishment and extension of the service life of the agency’s legacy rolling stock fleet.
The investigation by Webber Wentzel Attorneys was commissioned to probe the General Overhaul (GO) Programme contracts signed in 2022.
The programme was launched as a strategic bridging solution to maintain commuter rail services during the transition from the legacy yellow fleet of trains to the new Gibela Electric Multiple Units (EMUs).
Its purpose was to ensure a safe and uninterrupted transition from old to new rolling stock.
“In April 2024, PRASA received a written complaint from a GO contractor alleging irregularities in how the programme was being administered.
“Rather than dismissing the complaint or handling it internally, together with project management concerns, we acted decisively: within one month of receiving the complaint, PRASA formally engaged Webber Wentzel Attorneys to conduct an independent investigation,” the agency said on Tuesday in a statement.
On 29 November 2024, Webber Wentzel presented its preliminary findings to the PRASA Group CEO.
This was presented as a ‘Draft Report’, which is standard practice for a forensic investigation.
A draft was provided to allow PRASA to review its contents, verify factual accuracy, and enable affected parties to respond before findings are finalised.
PRASA’s current position on the GO Programme is as follows:
Payments to contractors implicated in overcharging have been frozen pending the outcome of the invoice review.
Contractors against whom material breach has been established are being formally terminated — some are no longer part of the programme, and two are currently on 30-day notice.
Strengthened financial management and internal control systems are being implemented for the GO Programme.
“PRASA has instructed specialist legal counsel to pursue the civil recovery of funds overpaid to contractors. Independent expert analysis has confirmed significant overcharging across multiple contractors, with the full quantum of recoverable funds still being quantified as part of the ongoing civil and disciplinary processes.”
The disciplinary and criminal proceedings that are a prerequisite for formal recovery action are actively progressing.
Formal disciplinary proceedings — including charges of bribery, corruption, fraud, financial misconduct and policy violations — were instituted against the implicated employees before they departed from the organisation.
“In both cases, the employees concerned chose to resign after disciplinary processes had been formally initiated. Additional disciplinary proceedings affecting other employees are underway. Resignation does not constitute exoneration, nor does it extinguish liability — criminal, civil or otherwise.
“The referral of implicated individuals’ conduct to the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), and the pursuit of civil recovery proceedings, are not contingent on continued employment status. These processes are active and ongoing,” PRASA said. –SAnews.gov.za
Picture: Radio NFM presenter, Robin-Lee and Namakwa District spokesperson, Captain Ivan Magerman/Supplied
By STAFF REPORTER
25 March 2026- The police in Northern Cape said as the Easter weekend approaches, an increase in road traffic is expected and efforts must be intensified to curb contraventions of the Road Traffic Act and related lawlessness. The police said during the ‘Meet and Greet’ session on Radio NFM with Captain Ivan Magerman, hosted by Robin-Lee, provided a meaningful platform to advocate for safer roads across the Namakwa District during the upcoming Easter period.
Magerman said during the engagement, they conveyed an on-air message issued by the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Otola, who emphasised that road safety remains a priority during the Easter holidays.
Meanwhile, the Namakwa District Police Commissioner, Brigadier Schalk Andrews, highlighted the harsh realities of road fatalities, including the sentencing of an accused to six years imprisonment for culpable homicide.
“This serves as a stark reminder that reckless and negligent behaviour on the roads carries serious legal consequences. The vital role that law enforcement agencies, in collaboration with Community Policing Forum (CPF) structures, will play in ensuring safer roads throughout the Easter period.
“Prepare and plan your journeys responsibly this Easter weekend. Do not drink and drive, obey all traffic laws, and prioritise safety at all times. Let us celebrate Easter, not mourn it. Drive to arrive alive.” He said.
The Guardian 