Picture: Illicit cigarettes to the value of R259 000 confiscated/Supplied
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
17 February 2026- The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Port Nolloth has recorded a significant success in the ongoing fight against illicit trade. While en route to conduct a community awareness campaign in Sizamile, the acting Station Commander and a member on duty identified a delivery truck suspected of transporting illicit cigarettes into Port Nolloth.
The Namakwa District police spokesperson, Captain Ivan Magerman said the vehicle was subsequently stopped and searched with the consent of the driver. Magerman said the police found 912 cartons of an array of cigarettes during the search.
“Customs officials arrived shortly thereafter and confirmed the total value of the seized goods at R259 886,80. The cigarettes were confiscated, booked in as evidence and formally handed over to Customs for further processing.
“This successful interception demonstrates SAPS’ unwavering commitment to protecting communities and ensuring that criminal enterprises find no safe haven in Port Nolloth or the broader Namakwa District,” he said.
17 February 2026- The Portfolio Committee on Basic Education and the Select Committee on Education, Science and Creative Industries today held a joint meeting to receive a briefing on the 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) outcomes, as well as the Second Chance Matric Programme aimed at candidates who did not meet the criteria in their initial examinations.
The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Basic Education, Joy Maimela said that given the overall performance of an 88% pass rate, the committees once again commend the learners who sat for the examinations, as well as the Department of Basic Education (DBE), educators and the broader school community that supported the class of 2025 to reach these heights. Maimela noted that the sector has demonstrated maturity and a full recovery from the COVID-19 period, when the pass rate dropped to 76%.
“This was indeed a very worrying factor. However, the current pass rate is something we must applaud, and this sustained improvement is commendable.
“However, committees cannot shy away from examining critiques about the quality of the outcomes produced. We must continue interrogating not only access and pass rates, but also the quality of the performance,” she said.
Maimela further said during the meeting, the committees heard that the number of learners achieving admission to Bachelor studies increased from 337 158 in 2024 to 345 857 in 2025, representing an increase of 8 699 learners. She added that the DBE indicated the need for deeper engagement with the Department of Higher Education and Training and higher education institutions regarding the capacity to accommodate these learners.
“The DBE further reported a significant decrease in the performance of learners who are social grant recipients, from 86.06% in 2024 to 77.70% in 2025. The department indicated that it will make representations to the Department of Social Development to extend the child support grant beyond the age of 18 for learners who are still in school.
“Umalusi raised concerns about repeated non-compliance by the DBE in administering the examinations. These include inconsistencies in the execution of roles and responsibilities prescribed for invigilators, evidence of complicity by some invigilators during writing sessions, cases of candidates found in possession of unauthorised materials in examination rooms, and instances of group copying detected during the marking phase,” said Maimela.
She said Umalusi also highlighted inconsistencies in the execution of roles and responsibilities by contracted security personnel at marking centres, as well as the persistent annual occurrence of examination irregularities, including group copying. Maimela said regarding the latest group copying incident in the 2025 NSC examinations, the committees heard that Umalusi’s investigation confirmed that the leak was contained to approximately 40 candidates out of a total cohort of around 600 000 candidates who wrote the examinations in the three affected subjects: Physical Sciences (204 957 candidates), Mathematics (254 413) and English Home Language (135 090).
“The DBE said that its investigation has been finalised and that a report will be submitted to the Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube, by 24 February 2026.
“The department is still awaiting the forensic audit report. It assured the committees that the alleged suspect has been suspended and that disciplinary proceedings are imminent. Umalusi further assured the committees that, should additional learners be identified through ongoing investigations, the law permits the cancellation of certificates even after they have been issued,” she said.
Maimela said the committees are aware that some educators and principals discourage learners from taking pure Mathematics in an effort to protect school pass rates.
“This practice must be condemned, as it makes progression to tertiary institutions very difficult for learners. We request a written report from the DBE on concerns raised by Umalusi regarding repeated non-compliance in the administration of examinations,” she said.
17 February 2026- Parliament has expressed heartfelt condolences on the passing of Rev Jesse Jackson, a distinguished civil rights leader, global advocate for justice, and a steadfast voice for equality and human dignity. Jackson’s lifelong commitment to advancing civil rights, social justice and economic inclusion inspired millions across the world and resonated deeply with South Africa’s own struggle for freedom and equality.
The National Assembly (NA) spokesperson, Moloto Mothapo said Jackson’s unwavering advocacy for peace, dialogue and human rights contributed to the global movement against discrimination and oppression and bonds of solidarity among nations striving for justice. Mothapo said Africa remembers with appreciation Jackson’s consistent support for the anti-apartheid struggle and his efforts to promote international awareness of the injustices faced by oppressed communities.
“His legacy serves as a reminder of the enduring importance of principled leadership, courage and compassion in advancing democratic values. On behalf of the people of South Africa and Parliament, the Presiding Officers extend sincere sympathies to his family, loved ones, colleagues and all those whose lives were touched by his leadership and service.
“May his soul rest in peace, and may his enduring legacy continue to inspire generations in the pursuit of justice, equality and human dignity,” he said.
17 February 2026- The North West Housing Corporation (NWHC) has launched a Revenue Enhancement and Debt Collection Campaign to assist beneficiaries in regularising their accounts and securing legal ownership of the houses they occupy through the issuing of title deeds. The campaign seeks to correct a long-standing misconception that government houses are free.
The NWHC CEO, Sello Mogodiri emphasised that the properties under its management are not RDP houses, but rental stock inherited from the former Bophuthatswana government. Mogodiri said these properties were transferred to the corporation with a mandate to manage rental housing, generate revenue and enable occupants to become lawful homeowners once their financial obligations have been met.
“Established in 1982 as the Bophuthatswana Housing Corporation, the entity was restructured and renamed after 1994 to align with the North West Provincial Government. Although it faced financial challenges leading to its closure in 2009, it was successfully resuscitated in 2014 with a clear mandate to restore financial sustainability, collect outstanding debts, and assist qualifying beneficiaries to obtain title deeds.
“The campaign is developmental, not punitive. It aims to encourage settlement of outstanding balances, regularise occupancy records, resolve legacy account issues, and secure ownership for qualifying occupants.
Many original beneficiaries were elderly, and in numerous cases their children or grandchildren now occupy the properties without formal ownership,” he said.
Mogodiri further said the corporation calls on current occupants and families of deceased beneficiaries to come forward and engage. He added that securing a title deed provides legal ownership, protects families from disputes, and allows property to be passed on to future generations.
“Improved revenue collection will also enable the NWHC to invest in new housing programmes and continue serving communities sustainably,” said Mogodiri.
Picture: Learners involved in an accident/Screengrab
By BAKANG MOKOTO
17 February 2026- The North West Provincial Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Community Safety and Transport Management has expressed serious concern following the recent school bus accident involving learners in Coligny, noting that the incident reflects deeper systemic failures within the province’s scholar transport system. The committee said it notes the North West Department of Community Safety and Transport Management’s briefing last week, following the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) report and its assurances regarding inspections, monitoring and enforcement.
The Chairperson of North West Provincial Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Community Safety and Transport Management, Freddy Sonakile said, however, the committee’s own oversight visit conducted two weeks ago in the Dr Ruth Mompati District, revealed unroadworthy vehicles, weak operational controls and troubling gaps in accountability. Sonakile stated that the accident must be treated as a warning sign rather than an isolated incident.
“This accident is not an isolated event. It confirms what the committee witnessed during oversight, that the rot in the scholar transport system runs deep and requires urgent structural correction. The committee further raised concern that some findings during oversight point to possible departmental complicity in irregular practices, adding that any conduct of a criminal nature must be investigated and acted upon without delay.
“In this context, the committee supports the department’s intention to terminate and restart the current scholar transport contract, but stresses that a simple change of operators will not be sufficient. We cannot solve a systemic safety problem by merely changing contractors. The entire contracting model, monitoring framework and accountability chain must be rebuilt to place learner safety at the centre,” he said.
Sonakile further said the committee emphasised that any new Service Level Agreements must include a mandatory vetting of operators, subcontractors and all drivers, proper regulation of driver working conditions to prevent unsafe practices and uniform provincial safety and operational standards. He added that this includes strict departmental adherence to payment schedules, regular and independently verified roadworthy testing and automatic contract revocation for non-roadworthy vehicles.
“There should be penalties for school principals or officials who authorise transport, despite known non-compliance. Learner transport is not just another government service, but is about the safety of children. Where vehicles are unsafe, contracts must fall.
“Where officials ignore non-compliance, accountability must follow. The committee will continue exercising strict oversight over the department and all corrective processes to ensure that the scholar transport system is restored to a safe, lawful and fully accountable standard,” said Sonakile.
Picture: Police conducting patrol and search/Supplied
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
17 February 2026- The Frances Baard District Illicit Mining Task Team continues to demonstrate its commitment to combating the scourge of illegal mining and drug trafficking in the district. A multi-disciplinary Illicit Mining Task Team, led by Crime Intelligence, conducted coordinated operations in Galeshewe and Roodepan in Kimberley on Tuesday.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane said the information regarding drugs allegedly being sold at identified premises was operationalised. Shemane said armed with search warrants, members executed raids at the identified suspected drug outlets.
“The operation resulted in the arrest of four suspects aged between 38 and 58, for dealing in drugs. The police confiscated mandrax tablets, crystal methamphetamine and dagga with an estimated combined street value of R20 000.
“During the operation, police also confiscated drugs, dangerous weapons, cell phones, alcoholic beverages, and a substantial amount of cash believed to be proceeds of crime,” he said.
Shemane further said the police also conducted vehicle checkpoints (VCPs), during which 36 vehicles were stopped and searched. He added that 78 persons were searched.
“The South African Police Service will continue to intensify efforts to combat illegal mining and drug-related activities. Communities are encouraged to report criminal activities to their nearest police station, contact the SAPS Crime Stop number on 08600 10111, or make use of the MySAPS App. All information received will be treated with the strictest confidentiality,” said Shemane.
Picture: The Namakwa District police spokesperson, Captain Ivan Magerman, accompanied by Pastor Marsha Baard from Employee Health and Wellness, appeared on Radio NFM with Robin-Lee Milford/Supplied
By REGINALD KANYANE
17 February 2026- The Namakwa District police spokesperson, Captain Ivan Magerman, accompanied by Pastor Marsha Baard from Employee Health and Wellness, appeared on Radio NFM with Robin-Lee Milford on the weekly “Meet and Greet” programme. Magerman said the purpose of the engagement was to extend sincere appreciation to the Namakwa community for their meaningful participation in the recent prayer sessions held along the N7 national route.
“The prayer initiative focused on promoting road safety and honouring the memory of those who tragically lost their lives on the roads. The support received from the community during this initiative, led by SAPS in collaboration with Radio NFM, was overwhelming and deeply appreciated.
“During the programme, we also addressed the issue of bullying in schools, highlighting the importance of safeguarding the moral well-being of learners. A heartfelt appeal was made to learners to uphold positive values and respectful conduct within the school environment,” he said.
Magerman further said it was further announced that SAPS will visit another school in Carolusberg to engage directly with learners on bullying and related behavioural concerns. He added that they conveyed the SAPS’ concern regarding the increasing incidents of malicious damage to property, identified as a trending crime in the district and often linked to domestic violence-related matters.
“SAPS in the Namakwa District remain committed to working collaboratively with communities, schools and stakeholders to address crime and promote safety across the district,” said Magerman.
Picture: NTI employees marched to the North West Provincial Legislature over unpaid salaries/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
17 February 2026- The North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng met with NTI employees this morning and committed to ensure that they will be paid this week. The North West Provincial Legislature precinct was this morning blockaded with buses by the Northwest Transport Investment (NTI) employees due to unpaid salaries by the entity.
Morweng met the employees accompanied by acting Head of Department (HOD), Molefi Morule, acting NTI CEO, Dr Ntlhopeng Dikobe and Chief Director for Transport Operation, Patrick Mohono. He said the meeting was also attended virtually by General Secretary of the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU), Solly Phetoe, General Secretary of the South African Transport and Allied Workers Union (SATAWU) and NTI recognised worker union, Jack Mazibuko.
“We have committed that a one-month salary will be processed by the department on or before Friday 20 February 2026. Further engagements to find a permanent solution to the NTI salary debacle will be embarked upon by all stakeholders,” he said.
Picture: Liquor traders marched to the North West MEC for DEDECT, Bitsa Lenkopane’s office in Mahikeng/Supplied
By STAFF REPORTER
17 February 2026- The North West MEC for Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism, Bitsa Lenkopane has today formally received a memorandum from liquor traders who marched to the department’s offices in Mahikeng to raise concerns on the on the North West Liquor Licensing Act 06 of 2016, which came into effect in April 2025. Lenkopane said the key issue raised is an increase in the annual renewal fees to R2000.
She further said the memorandum submitted by representatives of liquor traders operating in Mahikeng and the surrounding areas, outlines several key concerns, including an increase in licence renewal fees, a request to extend the renewal deadline, financialsupport measures for traders, and clarity on the transitional arrangements provided for in the new legislation. She added that the traders have given the her 48 hours to provide a formal response.
“We acknowledge the concerns raised and confirmed government’s commitment to constructive engagement and due process. We appreciate the orderly manner in which the liquor traders have exercised their constitutional right to engage with the government.
“I will be consulting with the Liquor Board and the management of the department to ensure that we make an informed, fair and responsible decision in responding to the issues raised in the memorandum within the stipulated timeframe,” said Lenkopane.
Lenkopane emphasised that the consultative process is critical to ensure that any response considers legislative requirements, the sustainability of the liquor industry, and the broader public interest. She further reaffirmed that the implementation of the North West Liquor Licensing Act is aimed at strengthening regulation, promoting responsible trading, and ensuring the sustainability and transformation of the liquor industry to contribute the economy of the province.
“The department will ensure that liquor traders are in compliant with business legislative prescripts to able to access government support programmes for creation of jobs to the people of the North West.
“The department has urged all stakeholders to allow the engagement process to unfold and has reiterated its commitment to transparency, fairness, and cooperative governance,” she added.
Picture: A Toyota Fortuner and a CIT vehicle set alight/Supplied
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
17 February 2026- The police have launched an investigation following a Cash-In-Transit robbery that occurred at approximately 4:40pm on 16 February 2026, in Old Geelhout Park, Rustenburg. It is alleged that security personnel were travelling in a cash-in-transit vehicle along Kremetart Street when a Toyota Fortuner travelling in the opposite direction collided with the driver’s side door of the cash-in-transit vehicle.
The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Adele Myburgh said the vehicle was forced to stop and was subsequently blocked by a Toyota Hilux (Legend) double cab bakkie. Myburgh said approximately 15 armed suspects allegedly overpowered the security officers and instructed them to unlock the doors.
“The guards were removed from the vehicle, dragged a short distance away from the cash vehicle and made to lie face down on the ground. One armed guard was disarmed while the suspects gained access to the vehicle and stole an undisclosed amount of cash.
“The suspects allegedly set alight both the cash-in-transit vehicle and the Toyota Fortuner used in the collision. Several shots were fired during the incident. The suspect fled the scene and no injuries were reported,” she said.
Myburgh further said the investigations are ongoing and no arrests have been made at this stage.
Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, urged members of the public to report serious crimes immediately and cautioned that suspects involve in such crimes are dangerous and should not be confronted. Naidoo said anyone with information that could assist the investigation is requested to contact their nearest police station, Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or submit information anonymously via the MySaps App on their smartphone.
The Guardian 