Cachalia’s anti-gangsterism plan futile


By REGINALD KANYANE

3 July 2026 – The Democratic Alliance (DA) alleged that the acting Minister of Police, Prof Firoz Cachalia admits that no gang dismantled, despite three months of deployment. DA said Cachalia’s promise of a more targeted second phase of Operation Prosper comes with a deeply troubling admission.

DA spokesperson on Police and Member of Parliament (MP), Lisa Schickerling said after three months of deployment, not a single gang was dismantled. Schickerling further said this is despite the deployment of the SAPS and the SANDF to gang hotspots on the Cape Flats and surrounding areas at an estimated cost of R823 million over 13 months.

“Therefore, we call for intelligence-led policing and specialist gang prosecutions that lead to measurable results of catching and convicting criminals. Communities were promised restored order, disrupted criminal networks and a visible reclaiming of the state’s authority.

“Instead, residents have seen continued shootings, escalating gang violence and little meaningful change in their daily lived reality. While the DA acknowledges that Phase One may have provided limited visible policing and some temporary stabilisation, the facts show that it has failed in its central purpose of weakening organised criminal networks,” she said.

Schickerling added that Cachalia admitted in parliament that no gang was dismantled during the first phase of the operation. She said this is a damning indictment of an intervention that was sold to the public as a serious anti-gang response.

“The reality is that force presence alone does not defeat gangsterism. Without strong crime intelligence, capable detectives, coordinated prosecutors and targeted follow-through against gang leadership, criminal syndicates simply regroup and continue terrorising communities.

“The state cannot keep spending hundreds of millions on deployments that produce statistics on confiscated drugs and arrests, while gang bosses remain in place and neighbourhoods remain under siege,” said Schickerling.

She said they call on Cachalia to ensure that Phase Two is backed by real intelligence capacity, strengthened detective work, specialised anti-gang investigations and prosecutorial coordination that targets criminal leadership rather than just foot soldiers. Schickerling said residents of the Cape Flats do not need another re-announcement of government intent.

“Residents need safer streets, dismantled gangs and a police service capable of delivering lasting results,” she said.

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Picture: Prof Firoz Cachalia

Municipal mayor arrested for contravention of MFMA


By OBAKENG MAJE

3 July 2026 – The mayor of Ubuntu Local Municipality in Victoria West, Cheryl Jantjies was arrested for Contravention of Section 13A of the Pension Funds Act 24 of 1956 and Contravention of Municipal Finance Management Act. Jantjies briefly appeared before the Richmond Magistrate’s Court on 3 July 2026, facing 28 charges.

The Hawks spokesperson in Northern Cape, Lieutenant Colonel Tebogo Thebe said she was arrested earlier this morning by the Hawks Serious Commercial Crime Investigation team. Thebe alleged that during the period of February 2020 and September 2025, Municipal Manager, Synthia Levona Itumeleng (45) and the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Randile Jacobs Shuping in performance of their duties, withheld/delayed payments of municipal workers contributions to third parties which included payments to Consolidated Retirement Pension Fund (CFR).

“The delayed payments accumulated interests which were never paid, despite payment reminders. This action left Ubuntu Local Municipality with a debt of over R200 000. This debt was recently reduced to just under R100 000 in pension funds contributions, thereby contravening Section 13A of the Pension Funds Act 24 of 1956.

“During the raid period, Jantjies served as a mayor where she had a role to oversee the running of the municipality to ensure that the municipality did not fall short of its financial obligations. She was granted R2000 bail and the matter is postponed to 20 August 2026, where she will be joining her co-accused,” he said.

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Mokgosi launch R600m road construction project


By OBAKENG MAJE

2 July 2026 – The North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi, accompanied by North West MEC for Public Works and Roads, Elizabeth Mokua, has officially launched the construction of a 33km road at Pitsedisulejang village in Moses Kotane Local Municipality in the Bojanala Platinum District. The construction of a R600 million multi-year road project includes five major bridges as well as upgrading of the road from gravel to tar.

Mokgosi further said the launch follows his State of the Province Address (SOPA) commitment to find lasting solutions to road infrastructure backlogs in rural and economically depressed communities. He added that, the project is equally confined within the Provincial Growth and Development Strategy, which is aimed at reincarnating economic activities across the four districts of the province and create jobs.

“This is a multi-year road infrastructure project that will link several villages of ward 1 and 2 in Moses Kotane Local Municipality. These villages include Debraak, Dwarsberg, Sesobe and Pitsedisulejang among others.

“These are rural communities that rely on farming as an economic activity and this road will ease the transportation of their produce,” said Mokgosi.

He maintained that the road will also resuscitate economic activities within the tourism industry. Mokgosi said these communities are also in close proximity to Madikwe Game Reserve as well as Pilanesberg National Park.

“I have not doubt that the influx of people into these areas due to flexible mobility will have a multiplier effect in the local economy,” he said.

Mokua has echoed Mokgosi’s sentiment, maintaining that the project will also create much needed jobs for locals and business opportunities for emerging entrepreneurs in the construction sector. She said over R130 million has been set aside for the development of Small, Micro and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) through sub-contracting and supply of material.

“We have made it clear that preference should be given to designated groups such as women, youth and people with disabilities. We must make it possible for these groups to participate meaningfully in our procurement spending,” concluded Mokua.

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Orlando Pirates FC player, Relebohile Mofokeng, joins Royale Union Saint-Gilloise


By REGINALD KANYANE

2 July 2026 – Orlando Pirates Football Club confirmed that it has reached an agreement with Royale Union Saint-Gilloise for the transfer of Relebohile Mofokeng. The club said while the two clubs have concluded negotiations over the transfer fee and structure of the deal, Orlando Pirates can confirm that the move remains subject to Mofokeng passing a medical examination and finalising personal terms with the Belgian Pro League side.

“The Club can also reveal that an agreement in principle between Orlando Pirates and Union Saint-Gilloise was in fact reached before the start of the FIFA World Cup. Both parties made the joint decision to hold off on any public announcement until after the tournament, wanting Mofokeng to focus fully on the World Cup with Bafana Bafana without the distraction of transfer talk and to allow the national team’s historic run to take centre stage.

“No further comment will be made at this time until the process between the player and Royale Union Saint-Gilloise has been fully concluded.”

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Saving Lives Institute to Conclude Youth Month with Hope and Future Plans


By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

2 July 2026- The Saving Lives Institute will conclude Youth Month by reaffirming its commitment to empowering young people through skills development, entrepreneurship, and sustainable agriculture. The Institute said the growing challenges of unemployment and substance abuse continue to affect many young people across South Africa.

The Saving Lives Institute spokesperson, Mercy Mabunda, said recent unemployment statistics indicate that the North West remains among the hardest-hit provinces. Mabunda said that, as a result, the Saving Lives Institute believes that practical interventions are needed to restore hope and create economic opportunities for the youth.

“As part of this commitment, the Institute recently sent two young women to China for a one-month agricultural skills development programme.

“The knowledge and experience they have gained will be shared with young people through a “Each One, Teach One” initiative aimed at promoting agriculture as a viable career and business opportunity,” she said.

Mabunda further said agriculture has the potential to create jobs, improve food security and stimulate local economic development. She added that through this initiative, the Saving Lives Institute intends to encourage communities to make productive use of unused land by establishing food gardens and agricultural projects that can generate income and employment.

“Many young people are emotionally affected by unemployment and the lack of opportunities. This programme seeks to inspire them to become active participants in building their own future through entrepreneurship and agriculture.

“The two participants will return to South Africa on 2 July 2026 and will share their experiences and knowledge with the youth of Lebotloane during a community event on 4 July 2026, at Little Village Sassa Hall,” said Mabunda.

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A man nabbed for dealing in drugs


By BAKANG MOKOTO

2 July 2026 – The members of the Namakwa District Task Team, while conducting crime prevention patrols as part of the anti-illegal immigrants operations, acted swiftly on a tip-off received regarding alleged drug dealing at a premises in Swartbooi Street, Vaalwater Bergsig. Upon arrival, the police found a man on the premises.

A search and seizure operation was conducted, leading to the discovery of suspected tik , as well as cash believed to be the proceeds of drug sales.

The Namakwa District police spokesperson, Captain Ivan Captain Magerman said a suspect (25), was arrested and is expected to appear in the Springbok Magistrate’s Court for dealing in drugs. Magerman said the police remain resolute in its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all inhabitants during this period.

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Action SA to pay a courtesy visit to the ailing former Bafana Bafana coach, Shakes Mashaba


By STAFF REPORTER

2 July 2026 – The Action SA president, Herman Mashaba will pay a courtesy visit to former Bafana Bafana coach and legend, Shakes Mashaba. Mashaba said this visit is intended to offer him and his family support and extend their well wishes as he battles illness.

“The visit forms part of Action SA’s commitment to recognising a patriotic South African who ha s contributed significantly to the country’s globally recognised sporting heritage.

“He has been an inspiration to millions of South Africans through his outstanding service to the development of the country’s robust soccer culture,” he said.

Mashaba further said, like many fanatics of the game, he left a lasting impression on the president during the 1970s. He added during the dark days of Apartheid, Mashaba made his debut at Orlando Pirates and finessed his skill to become a star player of the revered Buccaneers.

“The news of coach Mashaba’s medical condition came to my attention through social media. Now more than ever, Mashaba deserves our care, support and appreciation during this period of his life.

“Action SA extends its gratitude to the Mashaba family for granting with him and wishes him much-needed strength. Also for giving us permission to stand in solidarity with them,” said Mashaba.

Meanwhile, the President’s delegation is comprised of Action SA Gauteng Member of Legislature, Emma More, Action SA Joburg Caucus Leader, Marcel Coutriers , and Joburg MMC Candidates, Sarah Wissler , Zandile Dabula and Nandi Ndaba. The visit will take place at 2 Hantam Avenue , Helderkruin, Roodepoort, Johannesburg on Thursday at 1pm.

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Monna o tshwere ka nama ya kgomo kwa Dryharts


Ka OBAKENG MAJE

1 Phukwi 2026 – Monna wa dingwaga di le 37 o tshwerwe mabapi le ditatofatso tsa go tshola nama ya Kgomo e go belaelwang e utswitswe. Go begwa fa batlhankela ba sepodisi ba ne ba tsweletse ka tiro ya bone ya go parega dijanaga kwa tselakgolo ya N18 gaufi le motse wa Dryharts, mono Taung, fa kgwedi ya Seetebosigo e ne e tlhola matsatsi a le 30 ka ura ya bo lesome nngwe bosigo, fa ba ne ba emisa mokgweetsi wa sejanaga sa modiro wa Toyota Conquest se se podudu ka mmala.

Sebueledi sa sepodisi mono Bokone Bophirima, Sarasanta Majang Skalkie are batlhankela ba sepodisi ba ne ba phuruphutsha sejanaga seo, mme ba fitlhela nama ya kgomo e apesitswe ka kobo mo butung ya sejanaga se. Skalkie are monna o, o ne a shadikanya matlho fa a bodiwa gore o tsaya kae nama e kana-kana.

“Batlhankela ba sepodisi ba ne ba tshwara monna yo le go mo latofatsa ka bogodu jwa nama e go belaelwang fa e utswilwe.

“Sepodisi se boloditse dipatlisiso le go batlana le mong wa kgomo eo. Gape, dipatlisiso di tsweletse mabapi le go tlhomamisa fa monna o, a sa amane le bogodu jwa leruo,” Skalkie wa tlhalosa.

Monna o, o solofetswe go tlhagelela ka boripa kwa kgotlhatshekelo ya Taung mo letsatsing la kamoso.

Kgabagare, mokomishinara wa sepodisi wa nama-o-sa-tshwere mono Bokone Bophirina, Major General Ryno Naidoo, o akgotse batlhankela ba sepodisi sa seteishene sa Pudimoe ka go nna pudi matseba. Naidoo are go botsha fa sepodisi se ikemiseditse go lwa kgatlhanong le bogodu jwa leruo.

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Baagi ba kopane le masepala mabapi le tlhokego ya metsi


Setshwantsho: Baagi ba ga metsi/Facebook

Ka OBAKENG MAJE

1 Phukwi 2026- Baagi ba ba farologaneng go ralala Taung, ba tlhotse ba gwantetse kwa dikantorong tsa setheo se se neelanang ka metsi sa Magalies Water mono Taung, mabapi le tlhokego ya metsi. Baagi ba, ba kaile fa ba tshimolotse go itemogela tlhokego ya metsi ka ngwaga wa 2021, fela puso e itshetse moriti o tsididi.

Go ya ka moeteledipele wa baagi, Pearl Nkonyana, ba tlhotse ba kopane le meiyara-khuduthamaga wa masepala wa sedika wa Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati go tla ka tharabololo mabapi le se. Nkonyana are kopano ya bone e nnile le maungo, ebile metsi a tswa mo di karolong dingwe tsa motse.

“Jaaka baagi, re itumetse gore metsi a be a tswa. Ke lobaka le le leele re ntse re itemogela tlhokego ya metsi. Masepala wa sedika wa Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati o tlhalositse fa tlhokego ya metsi e amilwe ke go tsenngwa ga dipeipe tse dintsha, fela re le baagi ga ise re tsamae re bone seo se direga.

“Mme pele ga moo, masepala one wa kaya fa tanka ya rona e sa tlhole e kgone go tlala. Ba tlhalositse fa tanka eo, e sa kgone go fitlhelela seelo se se rileng, mme seo se tlhola matsapa gore baagi botlhe ba fitlhelele metsi,” Nkonyana wa tlhalosa.

Nkonyana are fela se se makatsang ke gore, ba iponetse metsi fela morago ga kopano ya bone le bathati ba masepala. Are ba ka netefatsa gore peipe e e ntseng e na le mathata a go thubega ke e fa thoko ga sekolo sa Sebitlwane fela.

“Re dula re bolelelwa ka go senyega ga mafaratlhatlha metlha e fa re tshwanetswe gore re neelwe metsi. Re belaela fa tlhokego ya metsi e ka tswa e bakiwa ke mokgwa o wa go neela baagi metsi ka di tanka kgotsa water tankering.

“Ra itse bathati ba masepala ba ka se dumalane le ntlha e, ebile ba tla sireletsana, gonne ke baja-mmogo. Se sengwe se se makatsang ke gore, masepala o tlhalositse fa o setse o rekile ditanka tse dingwe tse dintsha. O beeletsa jang mo ditankeng, mme o re mafaratlhatlha a neelang baagi metsi a siame?” Nkonyana wa botsa.

Are tlhokego ya metsi e amile matshelo a bone. Nkonyana re go na le bagolo ba ba sa kgoneng go ya go ga metsi ka di kereibaye, gonne ba setse ba godile.

“Gape, go na le tulo nngwe mo thoko ga Mphothulo, kwa baagi ba gang metsi teng. Fa ke ne ke le foo, mme mongwe o mpoleletse fa a sa kgone go reka metsi, mme ke ka moo a gang metsi a nowang le ke di phologolo.

“Jaanaong, ekare re setse re tshelela mo nakong ya tlhaolele. Re ikuela go masepala go netefatsa fa re bona metsi ka metlha yotlhe, gonne metsi ke tshwanelo ya moagi mongwe le mongwe,” Nkonyana wa tlhalosa.

Kgabagare, majoro-khuduthamaga wa masepala wa sedika sa Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati, Motseokae Maje are: “Porojeke ya go isa metsi kwa motseng wa Khibitswane, e fedile. Re tlhotse re kopane le baagi, mme le bone ba iponetse gore madutelo a bone a pompile metsi go fitlha go diperesente di le 76 go fitlha ga jaana.

“Dikgaolo dingwe tsa motse di tsweletse go amogela metsi. Re ba tlhaloseditse gore re tlile go a pompa ka iketlo, gonne mafaratlhatlha ao, a lobaka a sena metsi. Kamoso re tlile go ya go tipa (disinfection) madutelo a kwa motseng wa Cokonyane, mme ka Labone, re ya go tipa a kwa Taung a a neelang baagi ba motse wa Ditshilong metsi.”

Maje are mo bekeng e e tlang, ba tla be ba tsenya tirisong dipeipe tse di isang metsi kwa Ditshilong. Are ba tlile go kopana le baagi ka Laboraro wa beke e e tlang go ba neela pegelo e feletseng.

“Baagi ba latofatsa bakgweetsi ba dilori tse di neelanang ka metsi ka go rekisa metsi ao. Fela ntlha eo, re ile ra kopa masepala o mogolwane wa Taung go samagana le yone gonne bakgweetsi bao ke badiri ba masepala o,” Maje wa tlhalosa.   

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Without policy reform, Cabinet reshuffle will change nothing, Mr President – IRR


Picture: RSA president, Cyril Ramaphosa

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

1 July 2026 – The Republic of South Africa (RSA), president Cyril Ramaphosa will be making changes to the national executive following consultation with the leadership of the Democratic Alliance as a member of the Government of National Unity (GNU). Ramaphosa said these changes will affect the Ministries of Agriculture, Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Trade, Industry and Competition, Electricity and Energy, Higher Education, and Water and Sanitation.

“I will in line with Section 91(3)(b) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa (“the Constitution”) appoint Willem Aucamp as the Minister of Agriculture, David Maynier as Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment.

“Furthermore, in accordance with Section 93(1)(a) of the Constitution, I will appoint John Steenhuisen as Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Alexandra Abrahams as Deputy Minister of Electricity and Energy, Jack Bloom as Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation, and Yusuf Cassim as Deputy Minister of Higher Education,” he said.

Ramaphosa further said in the vacant Ministry of Social Development, he has appointed Dina Pule as the Minister of Social Development in accordance with Section 91(3)(b) of the Constitution. He wished all the incoming Ministers and Deputy Ministers well in their roles.

However, the Institute of Race Relations (IRR) said appointing new ministers without reforming their policy mandate will do nothing to reduce South Africa’s 60% youth unemployment, lift the growth rate above the paltry average of 1% or raise fixed investment from the current 15% of GDP to anywhere near the world average of 26%.

IRR Economic policy analyst and research coordinator, Anlu Keeve argues that South Africa has rotated a great many individuals through its ministries over three decades, while the transformation agenda guiding their policy has remained constant – and debilitating. Keeve said new ministers operating under the old policy mandate will simply produce the old outcomes.

“Fixed investment has remained below 15% of GDP against a world average of 26%, growth since 2008 has averaged little more than 1%, and youth unemployment stands at 60%. Competent administrators executing a poverty-perpetuating policy framework will still perpetuate poverty.

“Drawing on the founding paper of its Blueprint for Growth series, the IRR calls on the President to measure his new ministers against five growth-oriented benchmarks such as secure property rights, free markets over state direction, labour markets open to employment, a depoliticised and capable state and economic growth as the overriding policy priority,” she said.

Keeve further said Ramaphosa may reshuffle his cabinet as often as he judges necessary. She added that but a reshuffle that leaves the current policy architecture untouched will produce the same results, only with different signatures on the same documents.

“The IRR asks the President to apply a single test to his cabinet. Whether the policies each minister pursues are calculated to raise investment, employment, and growth,” said Keeve.

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