Ikhwezi Tasmica Joint Venture appointed as new bus operator

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Picture: Ikhwezi Tasmica Joint Venture buses/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

1 October 2025- The North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng said the previous operator’s contract was terminated due to repeated violations of the Service Level Agreement (SLA). Morweng said despite being contracted to operate 133 buses, the operator consistently provided only 55 buses, a mere 40% of the required capacity.

He further said this left many passengers stranded, as scheduled routes and trips could not be adequately serviced. Morweng added that his department engaged extensively with the operator before the termination by holding several intervention meetings and issuing numerous letters in an attempt to resolve the challenges.

“Unfortunately, the situation did not improve. On 21 November 2024, a termination notice was issued, giving the operator three months to improve services. Instead of recovery, service delivery continued to decline until operations collapsed entirely.

“Consequently, in accordance with the SLA, the contract was formally terminated on 5 March 2025. As a caring government, we could not allow communities, who rely solely on this service to continue suffering. In engagements with employees, bus drivers reported being instructed to overload buses and to drive vehicles with serious mechanical defects, including faulty brakes, thereby endangering passengers’ lives,” he said. 

Morweng said commuters echoed similar frustrations, citing unreliable service, unsafe conditions, and financial losses when monthly tickets could not be honoured. He said the Commuter Forum also submitted a memorandum highlighting these grievances.

“Following the termination, the department initiated a process to appoint a new operator in line with Supply Chain Management (SCM) guidelines. This process was delayed by court challenges from the previous operator, but after a protracted legal battle, the North West High Court dismissed their appeal on 26 September 2025, confirming the department’s right to proceed.

“Today, I am pleased to officially introduce the new operator for commuter services in the Ngaka Modiri Molema District: Ikhwezi Tasmica Joint Venture. This operator has the capacity to provide safe, reliable, and efficient commuter transport ensuring passengers are neither stranded nor overloaded. As I have previously committed, the new operator has been engaged and agreement reached that priority will be given to former employees of Atamelang,” said Morweng. 

He said their absorption will occur in three phases. Morweng said current employees are still in service, former employees who resigned under financial pressure and those dismissed under questionable circumstances.

“The operator committed that training for drivers, ticket sellers, and other staff will commence as a matter of urgency. Employer/Employee committees have been formed to ensure smooth transition. Services will be introduced in phases, beginning with high volume critical routes in and around Mahikeng, Lichtenburg, and Zeerust.

“I appeal to commuters for patience, as all routes will eventually be restored once depots and facilities are fully secured. At present, the Mahikeng depot remains under Atamelang’s ownership, while the Lichtenburg depot has been destroyed, leaving Lehurutshe as the only secured facility,” he said. 

Morweng said he wishes to express his gratitude to the taxi industry for stepping in and assisting communities during this transition. He further calls for continued cooperation between the bus and taxi industries, as they complement one another.

“We rely on SANTACO leadership to nurture this partnership going forward. Ladies and Gentlemen, the resumption of the commuter service in the Ngaka Modiri Molema District marks a new beginning for reliable public transport in our Province. We are committed to restoring dignity, safety and efficiency for all commuters,” said Morweng.

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Five suspects arrested for drug-related crimes

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Picture: Some of the cables seized by the police/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

1 October 2025- The police in Northern Cape said their continued determination to eradicate illegal activities resulted in the arrest of five suspects for tampering with essential infrastructure and drug-related offences in the Pixley Ka Seme and John Taolo Gaetsewe Districts respectively. The police said in the early hours of Wednesday, 1 October 2025, police in De Aar intercepted a vehicle along a farm road after a tip-off regarding possible illegal activities.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Molefi Shemane said a vehicle, which matched the description provided to the police, was stopped and searched. Shemane said inside, the police discovered copper cables, gloves, and multiple cutting tools.

“Three men, including a foreign national aged between 35 and 38, were arrested. The copper cables, valued at approximately R30 000, as well as the vehicle believed to have been used in the commission of the crime, were confiscated.

“Meanwhile, in Sunrise in the Pixley Ka Seme District, on 30 September 2025, police acted on information about a vehicle suspected of transporting drugs. The vehicle was spotted, stopped and searched,” he said.

Shemane further said they were found in possession of the suspect, leading to the arrest of the foreign national (37) and the vehicle being confiscated. He added that in a separate incident in the John Taolo Gaetsewe District also on 30 September 2025, police followed up on intelligence regarding drug sales at a premises in Magojaneng village, Mothibistad.

“A search of the premises led to the arrest of a female (20) after drugs with an estimated value of R2500, were found in her possession, along with an undisclosed amount of cash.

“The SAPS remains resolute in its commitment to the eradication of drugs and other illegal activities in our communities,” said Shemane.

He said the police commend the role of community members who continue to partner with law enforcement by reporting suspicious activities.

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Be wary of abuse against elderly persons

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Picture: Older persons celebration

By AGISANANG SCUFF

1 October 2025- The South African Poloce Service (SAPS) in Northern Cape said today marks the 35th anniversary of the United Nations in declaring, recognising, and honouring worldwide the contributions of older persons.

The SAPS said in South Africa, the commemoration forms part of the Older Persons Week and Social Development Month, observed annually to demonstrate the nations commitment to caring for the most vulnerable in society.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Molefi Shemane said they remain committed to protecting and upholding the rights of older persons. Shemane said the growing abuse against older persons is a social concern and has many forms.

“Abuse such as violence, lack of access to services, physical abuse, psychological abuse, financial abuse and neglect, need to be addressed.

“The SAPS is obliged and mandated by the Constitution and the Older Persons Act, 2006, to ensure the protection of all elderly persons and dealing effectively with the plight of older persons by empowering and protecting them,” he said.

Shemane further said. SAPS members must provide elderly persons who are victims of crime with the necessary protection, assistance and support. Hadded that elderly abuse manifests in many ways and forms.

“It is found not only at home and the community but also in institutions and facilities that accommodate the elderly. Abuse can be the result of a single act or may continue over a period of time.

“Abuse can be accidental or a deliberate act. An abuser may be a relative, a partner, a caregiver, a volunteer, a neighbour, a friend, or even a stranger,” said Shemane.

He said abuse can occur at any place such as at home, in a care home, in hospital, in sheltered housing, in supported living centers, at care centers and other day services or public places. Shemane said elderly are important pillars of society and continue to play useful roles in society by sharing their wisdom and experience with society.

“Since elder abuse is often conducted by those who have access to older persons as caregivers or relatives, it tends to be under-reporter.

“The safety hints must be taken into consideration. To install handrails, non-slip mats, and remove tripping hazards. To use walkers, canes, or wheelchairs to prevent falls,” she said.

Shemane said individuals should regularly check in with family and friends to prevent isolation. He said they should also educate elderly persons on common scams targeting seniors.

“To consider investing in a medical alert . To encourage participation in senior centers for socialization and activities.

“To curb elderly abuse, a multi-agency approach and community-based partnerships is needed, in order to effectively safeguard the elderly with government departments such as the Department of Social Development, the Department of Health and those in the criminal justice system and civil society organizations for the successful conviction in cases which involve elderly abuse,” she said.

Shemane said anyone Anyone who suspects that an older person is being abused or has suffered abuse-related harm is urged to report the matter to the nearest police station or immediately call SAPS Crime Stop number on 08600 10111 or use the MySAPS app or report to a social worker.

He said all information received will be treated confidentially.

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Legal action on the card against the contractor amid delays on D206 road project

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Picture: The construction road project that links Matsheng and Molelema 

By OBAKENG MAJE

1 October 2025- The residents of Matsheng and Molelema said the delays on the R112 million D206 road project continues to have a negative impact on their livelihoods. One of the residents who refused to be named for fear of reprisal said their roads are inaccessible and that makes it hard for them to access essential public services, hospitals and schools.

He said their living conditions have declined as they continue to be subjected to poor service delivery.

“When you look at Molelema, you just see dejection. No booming businesses here. We only have DIY that is owned by the same individual who was supposed to construct the D206 road.

“All roads that lead to town are in shambles, especially during the rainy season. We just wonder why the North West Department of Public Works and Roads continues giving the contract to the same individual who previously failed us,” he said.

In 2021, a road construction project worth over R65 million was brought to a grinding halt after the department terminated the contract of the contractor, Daddy Tong of Botong Nkolele JV Construction over the obligation dispute. The budget allocation was increased to R85 million, but the project continued to be marred by challenges.

In 2023, the budget was increased to R112 million, but a road construction project that was supposed to transform the lives of the residents was hit by the delays again.  

Meanwhile, the North West Department of Public Works and Roads spokesperson, Mmakgori Tong said: “The department notes public concern regarding the delays and lack of activity on the D206 road project between Matsheng and Molelema. The department appointed a CIDB 9CE graded contractor with the required technical strength and capability to execute the project.

“However, in the 2024/25 financial year, the province experienced cash-flow challenges, which regrettably impacted payments to contractors. The situation led to the suspension of work on the D206 road project in January 2025, as the contractor cited delayed payments.”

Tong said the outstanding invoice was settled in March 2025. She further said in terms of GCC clause 5.11.5, once payment is made following a suspension on the basis of non-payment, the contractor is obliged to resume work within seven days.

“Subsequent to receipt of payment, the contractor failed to proceed with construction works on site, despite continuous engagements and correspondence from the department.

“At present, the department is pursuing contract enforcement processes and exploring all available legal and administrative remedies to address what constitutes a breach of contract by the contractor,” added Tong.

She said the department remains committed to ensuring that this important road project is completed and delivered for the benefit of the affected communities. Tong said they will continue to take all necessary steps to enforce compliance and restore progress on site.

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Mosadi wa kwa Rooiwal o tshwerwe poo ke mapodisi a eseng a nnete

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Ka OBAKENG MAJE

1 Diphalane 2025- Sepodisi sa Taung se batlisisa kgetsi ya go thopa ka dikgoka le go tshwarwa poo ka sethunya. Se, se tla morago ga gore mosadi wa dingwaga di le 49, a kgorogelwe ke banna ba le babedi ba ba sa itsiweng ka Mosupulogo.

Sebueledi sa sepodisi mo sedikeng sa Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati, Warrant Officer Tryphosa van Rooyen, are motswasetlhabelo, Puseletso Sylvia Tapa (49) wa kwa motseng wa Rooiwal, gaufi le Taung, one a tsamaya mo mmileng fa a ne a kgorogelwa ke sejanaga se se neng se na le banna ba le babedi mo teng. Van Rooyen are banna ba, ba ile ba mo laela fa e le batlhankela ba sepodisi, mme ba shupa fa ba batlisisa kgetsi nngwe ya go tshwara poo.

“Banna ba, ba ile ba laela Tapa fa ele mmelaelwa mo kgetsing eo, mme ba mo pateletsa go tsena mo sejanageng. Go begwa fa ba ile ba leba le ene kwa tikwatikweng ya marekelo ya Taung, kwa ba ileng ba fitlha ba mo shupa ka sethunya le go mo tseela karata ya banka.

“Go begwa fa ba ile ba ya go goga madi a sa itsiweng kwa bankeng ya motswa-setlhabelo, pele ga ba ka go mo latlhela kwa nageng kwa Extension 6. Ga gona ope o tshwerweng go fitlha ga jaana, mme dipatlisiso di tsweletse,” van Rooyen wa tlhalosa.

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Police need your assistance in locating missing Jakoba

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Picture: Missing woman, Sebokaeng Gladys Jakoba

By REGINALD KANYANE

1 October 2025- The police in Mmabatho request the community’s assistance in locating a missing woman, Sebokaeng Gladys Jakoba (55), who is residing at Morwatshetlha village, in Mahikeng. Jakoba was last seen by her brother on 9 September 2025, at around 8:30am when she left home to deposit stokvel money at a bank in Mahikeng.

The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Adele Myburgh said she never returned back home. Myburgh said a search was conducted around the village and at her place of work.

“An extensive investigation yielded no positive results. At the time of her disappearance, she was wearing an orange dress with black dots, a blue and green doek on her head and she was carrying a hand bag.

“She is dark in complexion with black eyes, a tall and slim build body, with short black hair. Anyone with information regarding her whereabouts can contact the Investigating Officer, Sgt Golekane Senokwanyane on 079 897 1873,” she said.

Myburgh further said alternatively they can also contact their local police station or Crime Stop on ‪08600 10111. She added that anonymous tip-offs can also be communicated via the MySAPS App from their smartphone.

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Sepodisi se batlana le Maria Lucky Basadi Dichaba

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Setshwantsho: Maria Lucky Basadi Dichaba

Ka BAKANG MOKOTO

1 Diphalane 2025- Sepodisi sa kwa Ganyesa se ikuela go baagi go ba thusa go batlana le mosadi wa dingwaga di le 33, eleng Maria Lucky Basadi Dichaba. Go begwa fa Dichaba yo o dulang kwa motseng wa Dipudi teng kwa Ganyesa, a ile a nyelela fa kgwedi ya Lwetse e ne e tlhola matsatsi a le 8.

Sebueledi sa sepodisi mono Bokone Bophirima, Colonel Adéle Myburgh are Dichaba o ile a tsamaya fa kgwedi ya Lwetse e ne e tlhola matsatsi a le 8, ka ura ya 12:30, mme a tlhalosa fa a leba kwa Ganyesa. Myburgh are fela Dichaba ga boela gae ka letsatsi leo.  

“Go ile ga bolodiwa letsholo-patlo kwa motseng o, fela ga gwa nna le nko e tswang lemina. Ka nako e a neng a nyelela ka yone, one a apere borokgwe jo bo pududu, ka sekipa se se pinki, le di tekkie tse ditshweu.

“Go begwa fa Dichaba e le motho o montsho ka mmala, mme a na le matlho a lefifi. O bokete jwa mmele jwa 70kg, mme o seemo sa go fitlha go 1.4m. Dichaba o na le moriri wa se-Afrika o montsho, o be o nna mokhutswane,” Myburgh wa tlhalosa.

Myburgh are mongwe le mongwe o a ka tswang a na le tshedimosetso mabapi le kgang e, a ka letsetsa mmatlisisi wa kgetsi e leng, Sergeant Elliot Assegai mo dinomorong tsa mogala tsa 082 416 0968. Myburgh are kgotsa ba ka letsetsa seteishene se se gaufi sa sepodisi mo nomorong ya mogala ya ‪08600 10111.

“Tshedimosetso nngwe le nngwe e tla tsewa jaaka ya sephiri,” Myburgh wa tlhalosa.

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A fraud case against ANC LET coordinator, Moreotsile Olifant and co-accused postponed

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Picture: ANC Local Election Team coordinator in Taung Sub-region, Moreotsile Israel Olifant/Facebook

By OBAKENG MAJE

1 October 2025- A fraud case against the ANC Local Election Team coordinator in Taung Sub-region, Moreotsile Israel Olifant (50) and Expanded Public Works Program (EPWP) coordinator in the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District, Malane Abraham Letsapa (45), has been postponed to 20 November 2025, by the Vryburg Commercial Crimes Court.

Olifant and Letsapa were arrested by The Hawks’ Corruption Team in Taung and Vryburg on 16 August 2025.

The Hawks spokesperson in North West, Lieutenant Colonel Tinyiko Mathebula said the reports indicate that, in December 2020, Dr Ruth Mompati District Municipality approved the implementation of the Presidential Stimulus Project (PSP) under the Department of Public Works and Roads’ EPWP. Mathebula said the project was allegedly intended to be rolled out in Matsheng and Tlapeng villages in the Greater Taung Municipality, which involved cutting of trees and grass along the main road leading to and from the two villages.

“It is alleged that the Oliphant facilitated the process of head hunting beneficiaries, while Letsapa processed claims for payment of beneficiaries for a period of three months. Investigation revealed that no services were rendered, resulting in the department suffering a loss of over R87 000.

“The accused made an urgent bail application on 17 August 2025, in the North West High Court sitting in Mahikeng and they were granted R2000 bail each,” he said.

Meanwhile, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in North West, Sivenathi Gunya said: “The matter was postponed until 20 November 2025, for defense consultation.”

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Mthethwa described as committed youth leader during the struggle for liberation

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Picture: Former Cabinet Minister, the late Nathi Mthethwa

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

1 October 2025- The National Assembly (NA) speaker, Thoko Didiza and the Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP), Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane, have expressed profound sadness at the passing of former Cabinet Minister and long-serving Member of Parliament (MP), Nkosinathi Mthethwa. The NA said Mthethwa, who was serving as South Africa’s Ambassador to France, passed away yesterday in Paris, France.

Didiza further said Mthethwa’s passing is a great loss not only to his family, friends and comrades, but also to the country he dedicated his life to serving. She added that as a committed youth leader during the struggle for liberation, Mthethwa carried his passion for justice and empowerment into the democratic era, where he played a pivotal role as part of the second term of Parliament.

“Over nearly three decades, he served the nation with distinction as Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Minerals and Energy, Chief Whip of the ANC, Minister of Police, and Minister of Arts and Culture, later Sport, Arts and Culture.

“Throughout his career, he embodied the values of accountability, humility and service. His tireless efforts to uplift young people, promote cultural identity, and strengthen democratic institutions will remain his enduring legacy,” said Didiza.

Mtshweni-Tsipane shared the same sentiments. She said parliament extends its deepest condolences to Mthethwa’s wife, children, extended family, colleagues, comrades and the African National Congress (ANC).

“May his soul rest in peace,” said Mtshweni-Tsipane.

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