14 June 2026 – A multi-disciplinary police team conducted Operation Shanela II high-density operations in the Rietfontein policing area. The operation involved the police from Rietfontein SAPS, the Provincial Border Police, Rietfontein Port of Entry, Witdraai SAPS, Gemsbok Port of Entry and Tweerevieren Port of Entry.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane said on 12 June 2026, the police executed search and seizure warrants at two identified premises suspected of being involved in drug dealing. Shemane said at the first premises, police found a man (18) in possession of drugs with an estimated street value of R25 750.
“The suspect was arrested for dealing in drugs. At the second identified premises, the police discovered drugs with an estimated street value of R19 500. An inquiry docket was opened and a man 55), including two women aged 27 and 61, were taken in for questioning after drugs were found on the premises.
“The police in the ZF Mgcawu District will continue with operations aimed at removing drugs from communities and ensuring safer streets,” he said.
Picture: Some of drugs confiscated by the police/Supplied
By BAKANG MOKOTO
14 June 2026 – The police attached to Upington Crime Prevention, together with Community in Blue (CIP) patrollers, conducted foot patrols in Basson and Mark streets in Upington on 12 June 2026, when they noticed a suspicious vehicle. The police approached the vehicle and instructed the occupant to alight.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane said a search of the suspect yielded no illicit items. Shemane said the police subsequently searched the vehicle and discovered suspected drugs concealed inside.
“A foreign national (29) was arrested for possession of drugs. The police also confiscated the white Toyota Corolla allegedly used in the commission of the crime. The suspect is expected to appear in court soon on charges of possession of drugs,” he said.
Meanwhile, the ZF Mgcawu District Police Commissioner, Major General Monica Sebili, commended the police for their vigilance and commitment in ensuring that drug peddlers are removed from communities and that illegal substances are kept off the streets.
Picture: Police conducting a search in one of the shops/Supplied
By STAFF REPORTER
14 June 2026 – The concerted efforts by the police to assert the authority of the state across the five districts of the Northern Cape during Operation Shanela II High Density Operations, conducted from 8 until 14 June 2026, resulted in the arrest of 678 suspects for various offences. During the intelligence-driven and the multi-disciplinary disruptive operations, the police executed vehicle control points (VCPs), stop-and-search operations, roadblocks, tracing operations for wanted suspects, foot and vehicle patrols, visibility patrols at taxi ranks, malls and shopping complexes, compliance inspections, and visits to farms and mines.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane said at VCPs and roadblocks conducted throughout the province, the police stopped and searched 8003 vehicles and searched 16 785 persons. Shemane said compliance inspections were conducted at second-hand goods dealers, liquor outlets, scrapyards, formal and informal businesses, as well as farms and mines.
“Twelve unlicensed liquor premises were closed for non-compliance. The police also confiscated alcoholic beverages, cash believed to be the proceeds of crime, cell phones, copper cables, dangerous weapons and drugs during the operations.
“In collaboration with community policing structures, awareness campaigns were conducted with specific focus on the observation of Youth Month,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, applauded the multi-disciplinary law enforcement teams for their professionalism and unwavering commitment during the execution of the operations. Otola also expressed her appreciation to community structures and members of the public for their continued support in assisting the police in the fight against crime.
“We encourage the communities to participate in the “Rate Our Service” online survey to assist the South African Police Service (SAPS) in improving service delivery.
14 June 2026 – The Democratic Alliance (DA) leader, Geordin Hill-Lewis, who is also Cape Town mayoral candidate thanked the people of Cape Town for placing their trust in him and in the DA. Hill-Lewis thanked every resident who has worked with them, challenged them, held them accountable, reported faults, joined neighbourhood watches, picked up litter, started businesses, volunteered in communities and kept believing that Cape Town can become even better.
He further said a city is not built by concrete and steel, but by its people. Hill-Lewis added that Cape Town is a city full of wonderful people.
“The best part of my day is meeting and chatting with the residents of this city. As soon as I get out of my office and into the streets, I feel the warm hearts of Capetonians. I love listening to their stories, sharing a meal together, hearing what is working and what isn’t working, and laughing together.
“I am standing here today with deep humility and a full heart. Four and a half years ago, we set out with a simple mission. To be the City of Hope for all. To show every person that they do not have to give up on the dream that South Africa can work,” he said.
Hill-Lewis said to demonstrate that no one needs to accept that the only direction their country can go, is backwards. He said they can go forwards.
“No matter how tough our problems are, we can solve them, step by step in the right direction. Our love for Cape Town and her people, our love for this country, made us determined to prove that we could be hopeful again.
“Nearly five years later, we can feel a deep sense of pride in the city we are building. Cape Town is by no means perfect and there is still so much to do. But we are showing the whole country what a working city looks like – for everyone. The candle of hope we have lit in Cape Town has become a torch lighting the way across South Africa – from Joburg to Emfuleni, to Ekurhuleni, to Tshwane, Umngeni and every corner of our country,” said Hill-Lewis.
He said everywhere people are saying, if that can happen in Cape Town, it can happen here too. Hill-Lewis said when he sees thousands of children playing happily in all the swimming pools, they have fixed in places like Mitchells Plain, or Langa, or Gugs, or Bellville. My heart is full of joy.
“When I see teenagers in Manenberg and Mandela Park and Atlantis and Bishop Lavis playing on newly rebuilt sports fields of the highest and best quality, I know we have taken Cape Town forward for all. When a young lady named Deidre called in on the radio with emotion in her voice to say she had just got her first job, I know that we are bringing hope to people who had once lost faith in the system.
“When I meet an Auntie right here in Hanover Park and she tells me that whenever something happens, it is always Cape Town Law Enforcement officers that arrive first – always professional and always helpful – then I know we are helping make Cape Town safer,” he said.
14 June 2026 – A joint meeting of three parliamentary oversight committees on Friday received a briefing from the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) on the state of readiness for the 2026 Local Government Elections (LGE) and the voter registration weekend scheduled for 20 and 21 June 2026. The Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs, the Portfolio Committee on Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs and the Select Committee on Security and Justice met with the IEC to assess progress on voter registration and the IEC’s operational readiness.
The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Dr Zweli Mkhize said the committees emphasised the need for clear communication to educate the public about the electoral system. Mkhize said the committees also emphasised that educational communication must be in all indigenous languages, including sign language, to educate, inform and raise awareness about the electoral system.
“We welcome the presentation and Parliament should continue to receive regular updates on public attitudes towards elections and trust in institutions. It is something that we, as parliamentarians, must constantly work on and find ways of improving, to increase the level of trust and confidence of the public.
“However, members raised questions about the online voter registration process, including reported delays and challenges with the one-time pins (OTPs). The committee noted that the commission must consider the practical reality that some citizens who require online registration services may not have functional cell phones and, therefore, may be unable to receive the OTPs needed to complete registration,” he said.
Mkhize said this matter must be treated as a community concern and asked the IEC to apply its mind and return for further engagement. He added that members also engaged with the IEC on voter management devices and on previous system challenges, especially where connectivity was limited.
“The IEC should continue addressing technical and logistical issues that may create uncertainty. The confidence that we must all have in the system requires that it is beyond question. The handling and security of election materials also formed part of the engagement.
“Members asked the IEC to provide further information on how election materials are transported, stored, accounted for and secured. The committees noted the IEC’s explanation that some security arrangements must be handled carefully to avoid creating additional risk,” said Mkhize.
The Chairperson of the Select Committee on Security and Justice, Jane Mananiso, welcomed the engagement, emphasising the importance of the briefing ahead of the registration weekend during Youth Month.
“It is important that we target the youth to register. It is important to include the youth, older persons, persons with disabilities and rural areas. The committees noted the IEC’s assessment that planning for the local government elections on 4 November is taking place in one of the most challenging pre-election climates in the past three decades.
“The environment is one marked by public pessimism, frustration, declining trust in institutions and a growing disengagement from formal democratic processes,” she said.
Mananiso said the committees also asked the IEC to regularly update Parliament on matters before the courts that may affect public perception and trust. She said the members also asked to be updated regularly on the situation in areas, where there are boundary disputes following the ward delimitation process, as this may affect voter registration and participation.
“The committees resolved that further engagement with the IEC will be necessary as preparations continue,” said Mananiso.
Meanwhile, the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs, Mosa Chabane, welcomed the information shared. Chabane said the committees will consider an oversight visit during a future registration weekend, where and when possible, to assess implementation on the ground.
14 June 2026 – The North West MEC for Health, Sello Lehari has welcomed another significant milestone in the advancement of specialised healthcare services following the successful performance of a complex Mitral Valve Replacement surgery at the Klerksdorp-Tshepong Hospital Complex (KTHC) on 11 June 2026. Lehari said the procedure which saved the life of a patient, Mosemanegape Jacobs (36) from Vryburg, marks a major breakthrough in the provision of highly specialised tertiary healthcare services within the province and further strengthens Klerksdorp-Tshepong Hospital Complex’s position as a leading centre of clinical excellence.
He further said as the province prepares for the establishment and operationalisation of the Desmond Tutu Medical School, Klerksdorp-Tshepong Hospital Complex is expected to play a central role as a primary teaching and training platform for future healthcare professionals. Lehari added that the successful execution of such highly specialised procedures demonstrates the growing clinical capacity and readiness of the institution to support advanced medical training and service delivery.
“Mitral Valve Replacement is a sophisticated cardiac surgical procedure performed to replace a damaged mitral valve with an artificial valve. The surgery is often required when the valve becomes narrowed or leaks, preventing efficient blood circulation and placing significant strain on the heart.
“Jacobs was initially assessed and prepared for surgery by the hospital’s cardiology team led by Dr Chiweza and Dr Zacharia. The five-hour operation was successfully performed by a multidisciplinary Cardiothoracic Surgery Team led by Dr Tumi Taunyane from Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital and the University of the Witwatersrand, together with Cardiothoracic Surgeon, Dr Manzini and Registrar Dr Walters,” he said.
Lehari said the anaesthetic team consisted of Dr Mallier, Dr Leeba and Dr Machabe, supported by experienced theatre nursing personnel and a wide range of support services. He said the patient is currently recovering in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Tshepong Hospital, where he remains in a stable condition, fully conscious and successfully weaned off life-support systems.
“We would like to congratulate the medical team and described the achievement as a clear indication of the province’s commitment to expanding access to specialised healthcare services closer to communities.
“This successful operation represents much more than a medical breakthrough. It demonstrates the growing capacity of our public healthcare system to deliver highly specialised and life-saving interventions within the province,” said Lehari.
He said it is exactly the kind of progress they need as they prepare Klerksdorp-Tshepong Hospital Complex to serve as a key training platform for the future Desmond Tutu Medical School. Lehari said they are building a healthcare system that not only treats patients, but also develops the next generation of healthcare professionals.
“Most importantly, this achievement means that patients from areas such as Vryburg and other parts of the province can increasingly access advanced treatment closer to home, reducing the burden of travelling hundreds of kilometres to facilities outside the province,” he said.
The Deputy Director-General for Hospitals and Specialised Services, Polaki Mokatsane said the procedure demonstrates the success of ongoing investments in specialised healthcare services and multidisciplinary clinical collaboration. Mokatsane said the successful completion of a complex cardiac surgery of this nature is evidence that their hospitals are steadily expanding their specialised service offerings.
“It reflects the dedication of our healthcare professionals, the effectiveness of our partnerships with centres of excellence, and the strategic investments being made to strengthen tertiary healthcare services in the North West province.
“Every milestone of this nature contributes to our broader objective of ensuring that patients receive quality specialised care within the province, while supporting the academic and training environment required for a modern medical school,” he said.
Meanwhile, the CEO of Klerksdorp-Tshepong Hospital Complex, Thulane Madonsela, praised the collective efforts of all staff members involved in the patient’s care journey.
“This achievement belongs to every member of the Klerksdorp-Tshepong Hospital Complex family. From the cardiologists, surgeons, anaesthetists and theatre nurses to the porters, clerks, perfusionists, radiographers, radiologists, health technology personnel and support staff, every individual played an important role in making this life-saving operation possible.
“At Klerksdorp-Tshepong Hospital Complex, we do not simply replace heart valves; we restore lives, dignity and hope. We remain committed to providing compassionate, quality and patient-centred healthcare services to the people of the North West,” he said.
Madonsela said the department extends its appreciation to the surgical teams, support personnel and collaborating specialists whose expertise and commitment contributed to the successful outcome of the operation. He said the latest breakthrough further reinforces Klerksdorp-Tshepong Hospital Complex’s growing reputation as a centre of excellence capable of delivering advanced tertiary and specialised healthcare services while supporting the province’s vision of strengthening academic medicine and healthcare innovation.
Picture: The deceased, Masego Moshweu-Moile/Facebook
By OBAKENG MAJE
14 June 2026 – A woman (39) was allegedly stabbed to death in Lonely Park, near Mahikeng. According to the police, on 12 June 2026, at approximately 5:10pm, they were called to a house following a complaint related to domestic violence.
The Ngaka Modiri Molema District police spokesperson, Sergeant Sipho Taliwe said upon arrival at the scene, the police found family members and Emergency Medical and Rescue Services (EMRS) personnel, who had already certified the victim, Masego Moshweu-Moile dead. Taliwe said Moshweu-Moile was reportedly discovered by a family member after several attempts to contact her went unanswered.
“The family member then proceeded to the residence and found all doors locked and windows closed. After searching for keys, she located a bunch of keys inside a parked vehicle within the yard. She managed to unlock the main door, but found the bedroom door locked.
“She subsequently searched the house for the key, located one, and unlocked the bedroom door. Upon entering the room, she allegedly discovered the deceased lying motionless in a pool of blood. It is further alleged that the deceased and her husband had been involved in a confrontation earlier that morning,” he said.
Taliwe further said the husband was later involved in a collision with a truck on Nelson Mandela Drive, near a shopping mall. He added that the husband is currently hospitalised and receiving medical treatment.
“The police investigations are ongoing. Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is urged to contact Mahikeng SAPS or Crime Stop on 08600 10111. The community is urged to refrain from spreading unverified information on social media platforms and to allow the police to establish and verify all facts as part of the ongoing investigation,” said Taliwe.
14 June 2026 – A man (32) was sentenced to 12 years imprisonment by the Ganyesa Regional Court for attempted murder. The conviction stems from an incident in which the accused, Mogomotsi Nogane stabbed Mamikie Gouws (30) with a sharp object.
The North West police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Sam Tselanyane said the evidence brought before the court indicated that on 29 July 2025, the victim was asleep at her home when the accused broke a window pane and entered her bedroom. Tselanyane said upon entering the room, Nogane produced a sharp object and stabbed the victim several times before fleeing through the same window.
“The victim identified the assailant as Nogane. Subsequently, the police and Emergency Medical Rescue Services (EMRS) were summoned to the scene. The victim was transported to a local hospital, where she was admitted with multiple stab wounds to the head and upper body.
“A case of attempted murder was registered and referred to the Provincial Serial and Electronic Crime Investigation (SECI) Unit for further investigation. A search for the suspect was launched and Nogane was subsequently apprehended and charged,” he said.
Tselanyane further said the police successfully opposed bail, resulting in the accused remaining in custody from the time of his arrest until his sentencing.
Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, commended the investigating officer, Detective Constable Teko Montwedi and the prosecuting team for their dedication and professionalism in ensuring that justice was served. Naidoo added that the South African Police Service (SAPS) in the province remains committed to combating Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) and will continue to act decisively against perpetrators of such crimes.
14 June 2026 – The Basadi in Music Awards (BIMA) celebrates five years of championing, recognising and empowering women in music, the organisation is proud to announce the appointment of a distinguished Advisory Board comprising some of Africa’s most accomplished leaders across music, media, business, governance, fashion, healthcare and the creative industries.
BIMA said this appointment marks a significant milestone in the evolution of the Basadi in Music Awards can as the platform continues to expand its influence beyond South Africa and strengthen its position as a leading Pan-African platform dedicated to celebrating and advancing women in music.
The founder of Basadi in Music Awards, Hloni Modise-Matau said the BIMA Advisory Board serves as a distinguished collective of industry leaders, creatives, executives and advocates who provide strategic guidance, insight, and support to advance the mission of the organisation. Modise-Matau said the Board plays a critical role in safeguarding the integrity, credibility and long-term vision of the Awards by offering expertise on industry trends, governance, stakeholder engagement and opportunities for growth.
“Through their collective experience, members help ensure that the Awards continue to celebrate, elevate, and empower women across all sectors of the music industry. As ambassadors of the Basadi in Music Awards, Advisory Board members will champion the recognition of women’s achievements, promote inclusivity and excellence, strengthen industry partnerships, and support initiatives that drive meaningful change within the South African and African music landscape.
“The Advisory Board’s contribution ensures that the Basadi in Music Awards remains a respected and impactful platform dedicated to honouring the remarkable women who shape, influence, and transform the music industry,” she said.
Modise-Matau further said the Board brings together a remarkable collective of women whose expertise, leadership, and influence have shaped industries, inspired communities, and contributed meaningfully to Africa’s cultural and economic landscape. She added that their role will be to provide strategic guidance, industry insight, and leadership as BIMA enters its next chapter of growth, impact and continental expansion.
“This announcement comes on the heels of another major milestone for the organisation. Following the closure of nominations for the 2026 Basadi in Music Awards, BIMA recorded its highest number of nominations since inception, demonstrating the growing reach of the platform and the increasing recognition of women making significant contributions to the music and entertainment industries across Africa.
“Nominees for the 2026 Basadi in Music Awards will be officially announced later this month. The BIMA Advisory Board comprises Yvonne Chaka Chaka, who is affectionately known as the “Princess of Africa”. Chaka Chaka is one of the continent’s most celebrated music icons, philanthropists and humanitarians,” said Modise-Matau.
She said with a career spanning more than four decades, Chaka Chaka has used her platform to champion education, health advocacy, women and youth empowerment, becoming one of Africa’s most respected cultural ambassadors and global voices. Modise-Matau said another board member is Dr Linah Ngcobo, who is a legendary South African music icon, pastor, cultural leader and community builder with over 40 years of influence in music, ministry and mentorship, known for principled leadership and nurturing generations across the creative and social sectors.
“Other members include Dr Mpho Phalatse, Janine Starkey, Dr Kina Nhlengethwa, Lerato Matsoso, Penny Bouwer, Antos Stella, Yolanda Sangweni, Lala Tuku, Sibu Mabena and Manaileng Maphike. The establishment of the Advisory Board represents a defining moment in the organisation’s journey.
“As we celebrate five years of the Basadi in Music Awards, we are intentional about building a sustainable institution that will continue to champion women in music for generations to come. This Advisory Board brings together extraordinary leaders whose collective experience, wisdom and passion for Africa will help guide the next chapter of our growth,” she said.
Modise-Matau said they are honoured to have these remarkable women walk this journey with them as they continue creating opportunities, driving impact and elevating women across the music and creative industries.
14 June 2026 – A man (27) was sentenced to life imprisonment by the Mmabatho Regional Court for raping a minor. According to the complainant, who is the minor’s mother, 1 March 2025, she was at her residential place at Magogoe Tshepang village, near Mahikeng when the accused, Dipogisano George Morwe who is affectionately known as Malome, came to her and allegedly told her that he had sexual intercourse with her daughter (14) and he was afraid of being arrested, hence he confessed to her.
The North West police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Sam Tselanyane said on 4 March 2025, the victim told her mother about the incident. Tselanyane said she indicated that she went to Malome’s place to ask for water.
“Furthermore, Malome allegedly offered her a beer and thereafter slept with her. The matter was reported to the police and a case of rape was registered and referred to Mmabatho Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit (FCS).
“The investigation led to the arrest of Morwe. The police successfully opposed bail and the accused was kept in detention until his sentencing. The court also heard that the accused was previously convicted of the same crime and he served 10 years imprisonment,” he said.
Tselanyane further said the court ordered that the name of the accused be entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders (NRSO) and he was also declared unfit to possess a firearm.
Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, welcomed the sentencing and applauded the investigating officer, Detective Warrant Officer Kenneth Ntshekane and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for the sterling job.
The Guardian 