Picture: Suspects nabbed for alleged ATM bombing attempts/Supplied
By BAKANG MOKOTO
8 March 2026- On Tuesday morning, the members of the Special Task Force (STF), Hawks’ Tactical Operations Management Section (TOMS) and other role players, arrested seven suspects aged between 30 and 58 in Klerksdorp, who were planning to bomb an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) in Klerksdorp CBD. Their arrest follows a tip-off received by the Hawks’ Tactical Operations Management Section about a planned ATM bombing in Klerksdorp.
The Hawks spokesperson, Colonel Katlego Mogale said the members acted swiftly and arrested the suspects before committing the crime. Mogale said one rifle, one pistol and explosives were recovered.
“The suspects will be charged with possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition, conspiracy to commit crime and possession of suspected stolen motor vehicles. They will appear in the Klerksdorp Magistrates’ Court soon,” she said.
Picture: EFF members hand over two JoJo tanks to residents/Supplied
By AGISANANG SCUFF
8 March 2026- The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in the North West said it will continue to demonstrate its unwavering commitment to improving the lives of the people through practical interventions that restore dignity to communities. EFF said following persistent engagement and advocacy, it successfully intervened in the ongoing water crisis affecting residents of ward 12 in Taung.
EFF Member of Provincial Legislature (MPL) in North West Provincial Legislature (NWPL), Amogelang Matuane said as part of this intervention, the leadership engaged relevant stakeholders and ensured that the community received two JoJo water tanks with a combined capacity of 20 000 litres, which will assist residents who have endured prolonged water shortages. Matuane said this intervention forms part of the EFF’s continued commitment to ensuring that communities have access to basic services such as clean and reliable water.
“Access to water is a fundamental human right. So, it cannot be acceptable that communities in rural areas continue to suffer, while municipalities fail to provide sustainable solutions. The EFF leadership, together with community members, oversaw the installation of the water tanks and ensured that the necessary connections were put in place so that residents can begin benefiting immediately.
“While this intervention provides temporary relief, the EFF remains firm in its call for a permanent and sustainable water supply solution for the people of Taung and surrounding villages. The ongoing water crisis reflects deeper failures in planning, maintenance, and infrastructure investment, which must be urgently addressed,” she said.
Matuane further said they will continue to stand side-by-side with the community of Taung, holding those responsible accountable while advocating for long-term solutions that guarantee water security and dignity for all.
Meanwhile, the North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi said Operation Bulela Metsi remains a critical initiative to fast-track and bolster our efforts of ensuring equitable access to this precious resource. Mokgosi said to date, they have spent close to R300m for water and sanitation projects in Maquassi Hills and the villages of Segakwaneng, Manamakgotheng, Pahalane, Makoshong in Moretele Local Municipality, as well as Kokomeng,
Khudutlou, Molelema and Longaneng in Taung.
“An additional R1 billion has been set aside for ongoing bulk water
supply projects in Madibeng, Ratlou, Mahikeng and Ramotshere Moiloa Local Municipalities,” he said.
8 March 2026- A man (47) was sentenced to 20 years imprisonment by the Pretoria North Magistrate’s Court for rape. The accused, Neil Klein from Cape Town, was sentenced to 15 years imprisonment for the rape of a man (32) and five years’ imprisonment for the attempted rape of a man (43).
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Gauteng, Lumka Mahanjana said Klein was also declared unfit to possess a firearm. Mahanjana said Klein and both victims were residing at a shelter in Akasia at the time of the incidents.
“On 9 July 2023, a victim (43) went to the shelter’s bathroom, where he encountered Klein. Klein threatened the victim, locked the door, and undressed himself. However, the incident was interrupted when someone knocked on the door.
“Four months later, on 5 November 2023, a victim (32) also went to the bathroom, where he encountered Klein. Klein threatened him, instructed him to undress and proceeded to rape him by penetrating his anus,” she said.
Mahanjana further said after the assault, Klein left the victim in the bathroom. She added that immediately after the incident, a victim reported the matter to a woman who worked as a cook at the shelter.
“Upon hearing about the incident, the victim (43) also disclosed what had happened to him. The matter was reported to the police on the same day, and Klein was arrested at the shelter the following day.
“In court, Klein pleaded not guilty, claiming that a victim (43) had falsely accused him because he owed him money. However, the state prosecutor, Advocate Given Twala, presented compelling evidence, including testimony from both victims, which proved Klein’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt,” said Mahanjana.
She said during sentencing proceedings, Klein, through his legal representative, asked the court to deviate from imposing the prescribed minimum sentence, citing his difficult upbringing, limited education due to epilepsy and his circumstances of living on the streets of Pretoria Central before being accommodated at the shelter. Mahanjana said, however, Twala argued that Klein had committed very serious offences and showed no remorse, as he continued to plead not guilty despite overwhelming evidence.
“He further submitted that Klein’s previous convictions for attempted rape and indecent assault had not deterred him from committing similar offences.
“Twala also highlighted that Klein had targeted vulnerable men who were trying to rebuild their lives while staying at the shelter, forcing them to relive traumatic experiences by testifying about sexual assault committed by another man,” she said.
Mahanjana said the state, therefore, argued that no substantial and compelling circumstances existed to justify deviating from the prescribed minimum sentence.
Picture: The North West MEC for DEDECT, Bitsa Lenkopane with Head of Department, Relebohile Mofokane/Supplied
By REGINALD KANYANE
8 March 2026- The North West MEC for Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), Bitsa Lenkopane said consumers across the province continue to face challenges, particularly with second-hand motor vehicles that are sold with hidden mechanical defects, undisclosed histories or faults that only become apparent shortly after purchase. Lenkopane said these practices leave many consumers with unexpected repair costs, ongoing financial burdens and unnecessary hardship.
She further said as a government, it is their responsibility to ensure that businesses operate fairly and that consumers are protected from unfair and unjust trade practices. Lenkopane added that the North West Provincial Consumer Affairs Court continues to play a critical role, which continues to provide relief to consumers through dispute resolution, mediation and the enforcement of consumer protection legislation.
“There was a recent case where the court ruled in favour of a consumer, who had purchased a defective motor vehicle. Following an investigation and mediation process by the Consumer Affairs Office, the court ordered that the sale agreement be cancelled and that the consumer be refunded the purchase price.
“This case demonstrates that the Consumer Affairs Court remains a vital platform for justice, ensuring that suppliers are held accountable and that consumers receive redress when their rights are violated,” she said.
Lenkopane said her department will intensify compliance inspections in the motor industry through collaborative efforts with stakeholders, including SAPS, MIOSA and other national regulators, to ensure that dealerships comply with consumer protection legislation and that unsafe or defective vehicles are not sold to communities. She said in addition to enforcement efforts, DEDECT will continue to expand consumer education and awareness campaigns across the province, particularly targeting vulnerable and rural communities, to ensure that consumers are informed about their rights and the mechanisms available to report unfair practices.
“Consumers are also urged to exercise responsible consumer behaviour by reading and understanding contractual agreements before signing and by reporting defective goods within the six-month statutory period provided for in the Consumer Protection Act.
“A progress made in advancing consumer rights, promoting consumer confidence and fostering a culture of responsible consumer behaviour. This year’s celebration is held
under the theme: “Consumers’ Right to Receive Goods that are Free from Defects,” said Lenkopane.
She said the province is placing particular focus on challenges faced by consumers in motor vehicle transactions, especially in the purchase of second-hand vehicles. Lenkopane said it is important to educate consumers about their rights and responsibilities when purchasing goods or entering into contractual agreements.
8 March 2026- The National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA) said it continues to demand that the immediate and overriding priority for the shareholders and the leadership of Ekapa Mining, a diamond mine operating in Kimberley, Northern Cape to do everything humanly possible to retrieve the bodies of the workers who were trapped underground following the recent mudslide. NUMSA said it is deeply dismayed by the liquidation announcement by Ekapa Mining.
NUMSA General Secretary, Irvin Jim said this decision comes before the retrieval of the bodies of the five workers who remain trapped underground. Jim said such an action is profoundly insensitive to the grieving families of the deceased and demonstrates a callous disregard for the broader workforce of approximately 1200 employees whose livelihoods now hang in the balance.
“The union regards this announcement as an inhumane and reckless attack on workers. The decision to pursue liquidation was taken without meaningful engagement with NUMSA or with the government.
“This is particularly disturbing given the existing hardships faced by workers at Ekapa Mining. Over 300 workers have already been subjected to layoffs, and for the past five months workers of Ekapa Mining have not received their salaries,” he said.
Jim further said workers did not receive their February 2026 salaries, which were due on 25 February 2026. He added that the families of the trapped workers, who are now presumed deceased, have not received any financial support from the company during this devastating period.
“NUMSA notes with serious concern that Ekapa Mining has applied for an interim liquidation order on an ex parte basis. It is the union’s considered position that Business Rescue proceedings would be a far more appropriate and responsible mechanism to safeguard the interests of all stakeholders, particularly workers.
“NUMSA has formally engaged the company’s legal representatives, proposing that Ekapa opt for Business Rescue instead of liquidation. Unfortunately, this proposal was rejected,” said Jim.
He said despite this rejection, NUMSA is continuing to engage with relevant stakeholders and is exploring all legal avenues available to protect its members at Ekapa, inclusive of the families of the five workers who are now presumed deceased, to ensure that fairness prevails and that workers are not left destitute. Jim said they reserve their rights and the rights of their members in terms of the law and they may have no option, but to initiate Business Rescue proceedings itself in the best interests of job security of all workers at Ekapa.
On Wednesday, the Northern Cape High Court sitting in Kimberley, gave the mine an order to a provisional liquidation pending a final decision on 17 April 2026.
The Northern Cape Premier, Dr Zamani Saul said: “The provision liquidation decision is a serious setback. It is a tragedy on top of a tragedy. We are now sitting with five workers trapped in the mud in a shaft at the mine.
“We are also having 1100 workers who have been thrown in the streets, unemployed. They do not know where their next meal will come from, which means this is a tragedy on top of another tragedy.”
Saul said his government will give each miner a R3000 voucher and R10 000 each to the families of trapped miners.
8 March 2026- The former ANC Member of Parliament (MP), Vincent Smith was sentenced to seven years imprisonment by the Johannesburg High Court after reaching a plea and sentence agreement with the state. Judge Mohamed Ismail presided over the matter and accepted the plea and sentence agreement in terms of Sec 105A of the Criminal Procedure Act, as presented by the state and confirmed by Smith on record.
The Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) spokesperson, Henry Mamothame said Ismail remarked on the considerations he had to make, especially that the accused was a lawmaker entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring that the laws of the country are upheld. Mamothame said he described corruption as a scourge that has reached alarming levels, and needs to be addressed decisively.
“Smith pleaded guilty to charges that include the Contravening Section 7 of the Prevention and Combating of Corrupt Activities Act 12 of 2004 (PRECCA), fraud, money laundering and the Contravention of the Tax Act.
“He was subsequently sentenced to 12 years on each of the counts, with each suspended for five years on condition that he does not commit similar offences during the suspension period. Smith will effectively spend seven years in prison for his actions,” he said.
Mamothame further said the conviction relates to the corruption and fraud charges in his personal capacity, as well as in his capacity as a sole director and shareholder of Euroblitz 48, to which he failed to disclosed to the Registrar of parliamentary members’ interest, the gratification that he received from BOSASA, pursuant to the corrupt activities with which he, Euroblitz 48 and Agrizzi were charged for. He added that Smith further failed to disclose the taxable income of Euroblitz between March 2009 and July 2018, totalling to approximately R28 million.
“Charges against Euroblitz were however withdrawn. The NPA’s IDAC remains committed to ensuring that state capture matters are dealt with and that the courts hold those accountable for their alleged criminality,” said Mamothame.
Meanwhile, the National Director of Public Prosecutions, Advocate Andy Mothibi said: “In as much as the trial took longer than anticipated to be finalized, the wheels of justice finally got in motion and the rule of law upheld.
“I commend the prosecution team involved in the matter.”
Picture: One of blocked RDP houses project/Generic
By BAKANG MOKOTO
8 March 2026- North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi has acknowledged that several challenges have hindered progress in fulfilling the housing mandate in the province, including budget cuts, a growing housing backlog and stalled or blocked projects. Mokgosi, who was delivering the 2026 State of the Province Address (SOPA), told the North West Provincial Legislature (NWPL) that, despite these challenges, progress is being made.
“To date, the provincial government has spent R30 million to complete 215 housing units that were previously abandoned by contractors in areas such as Lethabong, Glaudina, Sekhing and Kgomotso.
“This intervention will be extended to Tshunyane village in Mahikeng, where a contractor was appointed in January. Moreover, the Department of Human Settlements has so far spent R1.2 billion of its total R1.3 billion budget allocation on multi-year housing projects,” he said.
Mokgosi highlighted that the government remains mindful of the push-and-pull factors shaping development in distressed mining towns, particularly the shortage of adequate housing. He further said in response, they have committed over R500 million towards the construction of 1148 housing units in Madibeng, Moses Kotane and the City of Matlosana Local Municipalities.
“Additionally, bulk infrastructure has been installed on more than 1800 sites. Regarding the eradication of asbestos roofs, the provincial asbestos removal programme is progressing well, with R43 million allocated for implementation in Madibeng, JB Marks, Mahikeng and Ditsobotla Local Municipalities.
“Underscoring the significance of ensuring security of tenure and orderly regularisation. The government will dispose of 288 state-owned houses built on tribal land, prioritising current lawful occupants,” added Mokgosi.
He said these properties are located across the Bojanala, Ngaka Modiri Molema and Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati Districts. Mokgosi said the Department of Human Settlements has committed to spending 80% of its allocation on unblocking stalled projects, including multi-year developments across the province, the eradication of mud houses, military veterans’ housing, rural and urban housing projects, asbestos roof removal, bulk infrastructure installation, the title deeds programme and the resolution of blocked projects.
“The remaining 20% will be directed towards new housing developments,” said Mokgosi.
Picture: Former COPE leader, the late Mosiuoa Lekota
By AGISANANG SCUFF
8 March 2026- Republic of South Africa (RSA) president, Cyril Ramaphosa has declared that the late former Minister of Defence and leader of the Congress of the People (COPE), Mosiuoa Terror Lekota will be honoured with a Special Official Funeral Category 2 on 14 March 2026. Lekota, who served the nation as a struggle activist, inaugural Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, Premier of the Free State, Minister of Defence, and co-founder of the Congress of the People (COPE), passed away on 4 March 2026, at the age of 77.
Ramaphosa reiterates his deep condolences to the Lekota family, the COPE and Lekota’s comrades and associates across the political spectrum. He has paid tribute to Lekota as “a patriot, freedom fighter, and servant of the people whose life story is closely intertwined with their journey of struggle and the realisation of democracy.
“We honour him especially for his principled dedication to non-racialism during our struggle and in a liberated South Africa. We deeply value his service to his home province, where he served as Premier and to our Armed Forces and our national security, in his role as Minister of Defence.
“Reflecting the nation’s appreciation, we have declared that Lekota will be accorded a Special Official Funeral Category 2 which will take place in Bloemfontein on Saturday, 14 March 2026,” said Ramaphosa.
He said the funeral will feature ceremonial elements provided by the South African Police Service (SAPS). Ramaphosa has directed that the National Flag be flown at half-mast at all flag stations from 7 until 14 March 2026.
The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on International Relations and Cooperation, Supra Mahumapelo sent his condolences to the family, friends and members of the COPE party on the passing of Lekota. Mahumapelo said Lekota has left behind a legacy of activism and service.
“His name is synonymous with courage, resilience and dedication to the people of South Africa. As a veteran of the anti-apartheid struggle, Lekota’s life has been a testament to the power of conviction and the pursuit of justice.
“His contributions to the fight against apartheid, including his time on Robben Island, are a testament to his unshakeable resolve. As a leader, Lekota has inspired countless individuals to join the struggle for freedom and equality,” he said.
He said Lekota showed the ability to serve and lead with integrity. Mahumapelo said he also served on the Portfolio Committee of International Relations and Cooperation with diligence and commitment.
8 March 2026- The North West University (NWU) said it is proud to announce the appointment of internationally acclaimed marathon champion, Tete Dijana, as a protection officer at its Mahikeng Campus, effective 1 April 2026. Dijana, a three-time Comrades Marathon champion, has become a symbol of endurance, discipline, humility and excellence in South Africa and beyond.
His remarkable athletic achievements have inspired millions, and his journey reflects resilience and determination of the highest order.
The NWU principal and vice-chancellor, Prof Bismark Tyobeka, welcomed Tete to the NWU community.
“We are deeply honoured to welcome Tete to the NWU family. His appointment reflects our belief that excellence is not confined to titles or accolades, but is embodied in character, discipline and service.
“Dijana’s presence at our Mahikeng Campus has and will continue to inspire both staff and students, reminding us that greatness and humility can walk hand in hand. The appointment is testament to the NWU’s commitment to recognising and embracing individuals who exemplify the university’s core values of responsibility, integrity, accountability and perseverance,” he said.
Tyobeka further said while Dijana’s achievements on the international athletics stage have brought immense pride to the nation, his new role affirms the dignity of work and the university’s appreciation for every member of its community who contributes to a safe and enabling learning environment. He added that protection officers are the custodians of safety on our campuses.
“They are often the first point of contact for students and visitors. To have an individual of his stature join this critical function is both a privilege and a powerful statement about service and community.
“Endurance and excellence are not values reserved for the athletics arena alone but are foundational to the life of an academic institution. Universities, like marathon runners, operate in the realm of endurance,” said Tyobeka.
He said academic success requires sustained focus, intellectual stamina, resilience in the face of complexity, and the courage to pursue excellence over the long distance. Tyobeka said Dijana’s journey mirrors the discipline, perseverance and consistency that define scholarly achievement.
“His presence among us symbolises the alignment between athletic endurance and academic excellence — both demand commitment, sacrifice and an unwavering pursuit of purpose.
“While Dijana is employed as a protection officer, the NWU would, without doubt, leverage on his athletics skills and experience, and involve him in the development of student athletes for high-performance sport, especially athletics,” he said.
Tyobeka said the NWU looks forward to formally welcoming him when he assumes his duties on 1 April 2026.
8 March 2026- The excitement of the Betway Premiership S’bonise & Win campaign continued in Polokwane as supporter Maria Mokgahlane walked away with R50 000 during the Dial Up fixture between Polokwane City and Orlando Pirates at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium on Wednesday evening. Mokgahlane became the eighth Dial Up winner of the season, with the prize doubled courtesy of her active Betway account.
The Betway Premiership S’bonise & Win campaign rewards supporters who show up to matches proudly dressed in their club colours, turning their passion for the game into a chance to win. Dial Up fixtures take the experience even further, giving fans the opportunity to win bigger prizes and enjoy special matchday moments.
Following the announcement, Mokgahlane expressed her gratitude, sharing that part of her winnings will go towards finishing the construction of her crèche, a project that had come to a standstill due to financial constraints. She further said the prize will help ensure the project can finally be completed, something she described as a meaningful step for both her and the children in her community.
Betway Squad member, Hlompho Kekana was also in attendance to hand over the cheque, adding to the excitement and celebration on the night. Kekana said moments like this are what make campaigns like S’bonise & Win so special.
“Seeing supporters rewarded in this way and hearing how the winnings will make a real difference in their lives is incredibly meaningful. It shows how powerful football can be in bringing positive change to communities,” he added.
With eight Dial Up winners now confirmed, attention now turns to Rustenburg, where the next Betway Premiership S’bonise & Win Dial Up fixture will take place as Orbit College FC take on Mamelodi Sundowns on Monday evening, continuing the campaign’s mission to bring even more excitement to the matchday experience. Fans are encouraged to join the conversation using #BetwayPrem and #BetwaySboniseAndWin.
The Guardian 