31 August 2026 – A man (29) was sentenced to 8 years imprisonment by the Tlhabane Regional Court for rape. The incident occurred in Tlhabane Township, near Rustenburg.
The North West police spokesperson, Sergeant Kelebogile Morake said the court heard evidence that the victim was with her boyfriend at the time and after consuming alcohol, she went to sleep. Morake said while she was asleep, the accused, Odirile Modise, who was her then boyfriend, questioned her about wearing leggings to bed.
“The accused subsequently forcefully undressed and raped her. The victim reported the matter to the police. The investigating officer ensured that the victim received medical attention and the J88 medical examination confirmed the offence. The accused was subsequently traced and arrested.
“The accused appeared several times before the Tlhabane Regional Court. On Wednesday, he was found guilty of rape and sentenced to eight years imprisonment. He was declared unfit to possess a firearm,” she said.
Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Arthur Adams, welcomed the successful investigation and conviction. Adams commended the Warrant Officer Matshose Christopher Maimela and the prosecution team for their dedication and professional handling of the matter.
“This sentence demonstrates that the SAPS will continue to pursue perpetrators of sexual offences and ensure that victims receive the necessary support throughout the criminal justice process. We encourage victims of sexual offences to report such incidents to the police and not suffer in silence,” he said.
31 August 2026 – The police in Potchefstroom are investigating a case of house robbery and rape following an incident that occurred at a residence in Potchefstroom in 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 suspect gained entry through a broken window.
The North West police spokesperson, Sergeant Kelebogile Morake said the suspect allegedly demanded money and assaulted the victim. Morake said it is further alleged that the suspect raped the victim and took her cellular phone, purse and keys before fleeing the scene.
“The suspect is described as an African male, approximately 20 to 22 years-old with dreadlocks. He was reportedly not wearing a mask and spoke English. The victim was found outside the property by a neighbour and members of the neighbourhood watch after her cries for help were heard.
“Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel were summoned to the scene and the victim was taken to hospital for medical examination. A case of house robbery and rape is being investigated, the suspect is still at large,” she said.
Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Arthur Adams, strongly denounced this senseless and brutal attack. Adams said the detectives are working around the clock to identify and apprehend the suspect.
“They will not rest until justice is served. The police are appealing to anyone who may have information regarding this incident to contact the Investigating Officer, Constable Kefilwe Mashoko on 082 443 8805 or Crime Stop on 08600 10111. Anonymous tip-offs can also be communicated via the MySAPS App,” he said.
30 August 2026 – The Hawks Serious Corruption Investigation continues their efforts to ensure that those involved in the Tembisa hospital saga are brought to book. This is evident in the arrest of a suspect (37) at the OR Tambo International Airport on 28 August 2026, as he returned from overseas.
The Hawks spokesperson, Colonel Katlego Mogale said the suspect is alleged to have been part of the complex investigation into the multimillion tender fraud in the Tembisa Hospital procurement process. Mogale said the allegations in these Tembisa Hospital cases relate to fraud, corruption, forgery and/or uttering, contravention of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) and money laundering.
“It is alleged that certain officials at the hospital colluded with service providers to exploit the Request for Quotations (RFQs) system for procurement transactions below the R500 000 threshold.
“This approach was intentionally employed to circumvent the formal tender process. The suspect is to appear in the Specialised Commercial Crimes Court sitting in the Palm Ridge Magistrate’s Court facing charges related to fraud, corruption and money laundering on 31 August 2026,” she said.
Picture: AK-47 rifle and ammunition seized by the police/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
30 August 2026 — The National Intervention Unit (NIU) in Pretoria has taken down a wanted and dangerous underground illegal mining kingpin during an intelligence-driven tracing operation in Carletonville, Gauteng. The operation was conducted as part of ongoing efforts by the South African Police Service (SAPS) to dismantle illegal mining syndicates and disrupt violent criminal activities associated with illegal mining in the Carletonville area.
The national police spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said the members of the NIU proceeded to a residence on Sunday, where the suspect was believed to be staying. Mathe said upon arrival, the police announced their presence and identified themselves as police officers.
“The suspect responded by pointing an AK-47 assault rifle at the police. The members were compelled to respond with force, resulting in the suspect sustaining fatal gunshot wounds.
“An AK-47 rifle and 125 rounds of AK-47 ammunition were seized at the scene. The deceased suspect was known to police as one of the dangerous illegal mining kingpins operating in the Carletonville area,” she said.
Mathe further said he is believed to have played a central role in the ongoing conflict between two rival illegal mining groups in the area. She added that the SAPS continues to intensify operations aimed at dismantling illegal mining networks, disrupting the activities of criminal syndicates and restoring law and order in communities affected by illegal mining and associated violence.
30 August 2026 – The Kimberley Serious and Violent Crimes Unit is appealing to members of the public for information that could assist in the investigation into a house robbery in Herlear, Kimberley. The police said on 9 August 2026, at approximately 8am, an elderly couple both aged 80, were allegedly attacked and robbed at their residence by two armed suspects.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane said the suspects who were wearing balaclavas to conceal their identities, reportedly pointed at the couple with a firearm and robbed them of two cell phones and a bag containing various bank and other cards. Shemane said during the incident, the male victim was assaulted with the firearm and sustained an injury to his head after being struck with the back of the magazine.
“The suspects also fired a shot inside the house before fleeing the scene on foot. The Kimberley Serious and Violent Crimes Unit is urging anyone who may have information that could assist in identifying and apprehending the suspects to come forward.
“The information can be provided directly to the investigating officer, Detective Sergeant Immanuel Jeffries on 082 302 0407 or reported to the nearest police station. Members of the public can also contact SAPS Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or make use of the MySAPS App,” he said.
Shemane further said all information received will be treated with the strictest confidentiality.
30 August 2026 – A man (50) sentenced to 30 years imprisonment for robbery and rape. This comes after a traumatic incident that occurred on 29 November 2018, when a victim (34) was asleep at her residence in Warrenton with her husband and their daughter (2).
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane said the family was awakened by two armed assailants, one of whom was wearing a balaclava and demanded money from the victim’s husband. Shemane said the assailants assaulted him and subjected him to electric shocks using a wire.
“The victim’s husband was then taken to another bedroom, where the couple’s twin daughters were sleeping. Their hands and feet were tied, while the other suspect proceeded to remove valuable items from the house, including a television set and other household possessions.
“Ernest Khoza, who was one of the assailants, forced the victim, who was still carrying her daughter (2) into the main bedroom. He instructed her to put the child down, after which he raped her in the presence of her young daughter,” he said.
Shemane further said the two suspects subsequently fled the scene, and the victim managed to free her husband and daughters before reporting the incident to the police. He added that the case was assigned to Detective Sergeant Desmond Modise of the Provincial Organised Crime Investigating Unit for investigation.
“Through diligent investigative work, the two suspects were traced and arrested in Barkly West on 26 February 2019. One of the suspects was positively identified by the victim and was subsequently prosecuted.
“The second accused could not be linked to the offence and was acquitted. Detective Sergeant Desmond Modise was commended for his professionalism, dedication and commitment throughout the investigation. His efforts in tracing and apprehending the accused ultimately contributed to securing a conviction and a lengthy prison sentence for the heinous crimes committed,” said Shemane.
He said the Frances Baard District management welcomes the conviction and sentencing of Khoza for house robbery and rape. Shemane said Khoza was sentenced to 15 years imprisonment for house robbery and 15 years for rape.
“The sentences will run concurrently with a 5 years sentence previously imposed, resulting in an effective sentence of 25 years’ direct imprisonment,” he said.
Picture: One suspect arrested for dealing in drugs/Supplied
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
30 August 2026 – The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Namakwa District remains relentless in its efforts to combat drug-related crimes and disrupt the illicit trade in narcotics. Through sustained, intelligence-driven operations, the police continue to target individuals involved in the possession, dealing and distribution of drugs within communities across the district.
Recent operations conducted between 26 and 27 August 2026, resulted in the arrest of five suspects on separate occasions with various illicit drugs confiscated. On 26 August 2026 at approximately 4:40pm, the police conducted a stop-and-search operation along the road between Kuboes and Baken.
Namakwa District Police spokesperson, Captain Ivan Charles Magerman said during the operation, two suspects aged 22 and 23, were arrested for dealing in dagga. Magerman said the police confiscated dagga with an estimated street value of R1 200.
“Earlier that day, at approximately 9am, the police in Steinkopf executed a search warrant at a premises in Bergweg. Upon arrival, the police observed a suspect discarding a mandrax tablet onto the floor. A thorough search of the room was conducted, resulting in the discovery of additional mandrax tablets.
“A suspect (37) was subsequently arrested for dealing in drugs. On 27 August 2026, the members of the Public Order Police (POPS), Springbok, were travelling to Komaggas when they observed a person along the road. With his consent, the man was searched, resulting in the discovery of mandrax tablets valued at approximately R300,” he said.
Magerman further said the suspect (31) was arrested for possession of illicit drugs. He added that later the same day, while conducting patrols in Komaggas, POPS members observed another person standing in front of a closed shop.
“The man was searched and found in possession of Tik (crystal methamphetamine). The suspect (42) was arrested for possession of drugs. The police in Nababeep received intelligence regarding a taxi travelling from Cape Town towards Springbok. Acting swiftly on the information, the members intercepted the vehicle at approximately 11:30am on 27 August 2026.
“During the search, suspected dagga with an estimated street value of R1250 was discovered and a suspect was arrested for possession of drugs. All arrested suspects are expected to appear in the respective courts soon,” said Magerman.
He said these operations form part of the ongoing efforts by SAPS Namakwa to dismantle the illicit drug trade and prevent narcotics from reaching communities. Magerman said the district continues to employ intelligence-led policing, targeted stop-and-search operations, patrols and searches to identify and disrupt criminal activities.
“The operations further support the SAPS Reset Agenda, which places emphasis on strengthening policing, improving operational effectiveness, enhancing accountability and responsiveness, and ensuring that police resources are directed towards addressing the most pressing crime threats faced by communities,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Namakwa District Police Commissioner, Brigadier Schalk Andrews, commended the police involved in the operations for their vigilance and commitment to disrupting the illegal drug trade.
“These successful operations demonstrate that our members remain vigilant and committed to keeping drugs out of our communities. We will continue to use intelligence-driven policing and focused operations to identify those who deal in and distribute illegal substances.
“Our message to drug dealers and other criminals is clear. There is no place for you in Namakwa. We will continue to disrupt your criminal activities and bring those responsible before the courts,” said Andrews.
He said the police in Namakwa further call on community members to continue working with the police by providing information about suspected drug dealing and other criminal activities. He said information can be reported to the police or anonymously through the appropriate SAPS crime reporting channels.
30 August 2026 – The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Northern Cape continues to intensify its crime-fighting efforts in support of the SAPS Reset Agenda. The agenda places renewed emphasis on professional policing, enhanced operational effectiveness, intelligence-led crime prevention, improved investigations, strengthened community partnerships and decisive action against criminality.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Colonel Cherelle Ehlers said these intensified policing interventions follow the recent release of the Quarter 1 Crime Statistics for the 2026/2027 financial year, covering the period from 1 April to 30 June 2026. Ehlers said the statistics provide important indicators of the crime challenges facing the Northern Cape and reinforce the need for targeted, sustained and intelligence-led interventions across identified crime hotspots and areas of concern.
“In response, the Northern Cape SAPS continues to mobilise available resources through Operation Shanela II, including disruptive operations led by senior officers under Operation Basadi. These efforts are conducted in collaboration with community structures, other law enforcement agencies, government departments and key stakeholders.
“From 24 to 30 August 2026, intelligence-led operations conducted throughout the province resulted in the arrest of 391 suspects for various offences. The operations were specifically aimed at disrupting criminal networks, preventing crime and enhancing police visibility in communities,” she said.
Ehlers further said interventions included stop-and-search operations, Vehicle Check Points (VCPs), roadblocks and high-visibility patrols. She added that during these operations, a total of 11 453 individuals and 4747 vehicles were stopped and searched.
“The police also intensified efforts to locate and apprehend wanted suspects who had been evading arrest or failing to appear in court. Detective-led tracing operations resulted in the apprehension of 204 wanted suspects, contributing to the Reset Agenda’s objective of strengthening the criminal justice value chain and ensuring that offenders are brought before the courts.
“The Northern Cape SAPS continues to prioritise crimes that have a direct and significant impact on communities. Drug-related crime remains a key operational priority with 95 suspects arrested for drug-related offences during the reporting period,” said Ehlers.
She said substantial quantities of drugs were also confiscated during the operations. Ehlers said contact-related crimes, including murder, rape, attempted murder, assault with intent to cause Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH) and common assault, continue to receive focused attention.
“A total of 78 suspects were arrested in connection with contact-related offences. These interventions are informed by crime intelligence and the analysis of crime patterns and trends identified through the Quarter 1 crime statistics.
“The approach is aimed not only at responding to crimes after they occur, but also at proactively disrupting the conditions, individuals and networks that facilitate criminal activity. As part of the integrated policing approach, compliance inspections were conducted in collaboration with relevant authorities at liquor outlets, second-hand goods dealers, scrapyards, recycling facilities, firearm dealerships, and formal and informal businesses,” said Ehlers.
She said these interventions resulted in the closure of 26 unlicensed liquor outlets found to be operating in contravention of applicable legislation and regulations. Ehlers said during stop-and-search and other disruptive operations, the police also confiscated alcohol and dangerous weapons, thereby removing potential instruments of violence from communities.
“The SAPS recognises the role that alcohol abuse, substance abuse and the availability of dangerous weapons can play in fuelling contact-related and other serious crimes. Consequently, these areas remain integral to the province’s crime-prevention and enforcement strategy.
“The Reset Agenda also recognises that sustainable crime reduction cannot be achieved by the police alone. The Northern Cape SAPS therefore continues to strengthen partnerships with Community Policing Forums, community structures, traditional and local leadership, government departments, non-governmental organisations and other stakeholders,” she said.
Ehlers said during the reporting period, several community outreach programmes and awareness campaigns were conducted as part of Women’s Month activities. She said these initiatives focused on raising awareness of crime prevention, Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF), strengthening community participation and encouraging members of the public to work with the police to create safer communities.
Meanwhile, the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, emphasises that the release of the Quarter 1 crime statistics should not be viewed solely as a reflection of crime levels, but also as a tool for refining policing interventions and ensuring that resources and operational activities are directed towards areas and crimes requiring the greatest attention. Otola said the Northern Cape SAPS remains committed to implementing the SAPS Reset Agenda through disciplined, visible, intelligence-led and community-centred policing.
“The organisation will continue to strengthen its crime-prevention, investigation, forensic and victim-support capabilities while ensuring that perpetrators are pursued relentlessly and brought before the courts.
“The Reset Agenda requires us to remain agile, accountable and responsive to the crime challenges identified through our crime statistics. We will continue to strengthen our operational footprint, disrupt criminal activities and work with our communities and partners to create safer communities throughout the Northern Cape,” she said.
Otola said the Northern Cape SAPS further calls on communities to continue providing information about criminal activities and wanted suspects through the appropriate SAPS channels. She said community intelligence remains an essential component of effective policing and information supplied by members of the public enables police to conduct targeted and intelligence-led operations.
“The Northern Cape SAPS remains resolute in its commitment to Reset, Refocus and Reinforce its policing approach, ensuring that crime-fighting efforts remain focused, professional, intelligence-led and responsive to the needs of the people of the province,” said Otola.
Picture: Some of drugs that were confiscated by the police/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
30 August 2026 – A man (31) was arrested by the police in Namakwa for drug dealing and illegal liquor trading on 28 August 2026. The suspect was arrested during intelligence-driven operations.
The Namakwa District police spokesperson, Captain Ivan Magerman said the incident took place in Hondeklip Bay. Magerman said the police seized drugs worth approximately R1 200 and suspected proceeds of dealing.
“In a separate incident, the police in Sutherland seized illegal liquor valued at approximately R16 290 and tik at an illegal liquor outlet. A suspect was arrested and released on a warning to appear in court. In Nieuwoudtville, the police seized illegal liquor worth approximately R2 310 at an illegal shebeen.
“A man (37) was arrested and released on a warning for selling liquor without a licence. On 29 August 2026, the police in Fraserburg arrested a man (29) after finding mandrax tablets and R2 268 suspected to be proceeds of drug dealing. He is expected to appear in the Fraserburg Magistrate’s Court,” he said.
Magerman further said Operation Shanela II also included patrols, roadblocks, stop-and-search operations and compliance inspections across the district. He added that they commend the police for their efforts and urged the public to report suspected criminal activity.
“Namakwa SAPS will continue working with communities and stakeholders to combat drugs, illegal liquor outlets and other crime,” said Magerman.
Picture: The North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Virginia Tlhapi
By REGINALD KANYANE
28 August 2026 – The North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Virginia Tlhapi will address learners during the Provincial Road Safety Schools Debate as part of the Department’s activities of the Thuntsha Lerole Service Delivery Programme. The annual Road Safety Schools Debate provides learners from different schools across the Province with an opportunity to take to the podium and robustly deliberate on ways to improve and enhance road safety in the province and the country at large.
Tlhapi said the aim of this initiative is to educate learners and instill a culture of road safety, as well as awareness of traffic rules, through learners’ active participation in the debate. She said in this way, the department is making a deliberate effort to address the underlying challenges relating to road safety.
“The Department of Community Safety and Transport Management in partnership with the Road Traffic Management Cooperation (RTMC) and in collaboration with the Department of Education, continues to conduct the Road Safety Schools Debate Project annually.
“The project is one of the National flagship programmes implemented by all Provinces and culminates in the National Road Safety Debate hosted by the Department of Transport,” said Tlhapi.
She further said the competition starts at district level as a buildup progressing to the provincial level and ultimately to the national competition .
“I will address the learners and present awards in recognition of learners’ participation and achievements in the competition.
“This year’s Provincial Road Safety Schools Debate Project will be held at the North West Provincial Legislature Chamber today at 9am,” she said.
The Guardian 