SA beauty pageant, Gofaone Keretetse ready for the bigger stage  

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Picture: Model and beauty pageant, Gofaone Keretetse  

By OBAKENG MAJE 

29 September 2025- To be a successful model, one needs to have a fierce character, professional attitude and work ethics beyond glittering gowns and radiant smiles. Fortunately, a South African model and beauty pageant, Gofaone Kitso Keretetse (20), possesses all that. Keretetse, who was born and bred in Khibitswane village, near Taung, is taking the entertainment industry by storm after finding her niche. 

A model and a beauty pageant in her own right, Keretetse is the finalist of Face Of Devotion competition that will take place at Johannesburg City Hall on 13 December 2025. She is currently a student at the Central University of Technology (CUT) in the Free State, pursuing her career in Education. 

“I am a compassionate, empathetic and inspirational young woman. Dignity and respect are what I value most. I firmly believe in a core principle of Ubuntu that says, “Motho Ke Motho Ka Batho Ba Bangwe”, which is loosely translated as, a person is a person through others, as it was correctly articulated by the late Archbishop Desmond Tutu. 

“My modelling journey started at the age of 10 after I attended one of my sister’s pageant competitions. I later participated in other pageants like Miss St Paul’s, Miss Heritage North West, Miss Ba Ga Maidi and Face Of Devotion South Africa,” said Keretetse. 

She was also crowned as Pinagare High School’s prom queen. Keretetse is currently the Face of Devotion Free State 2025 ambassador, which geared her to the national stage to represent the Free State province. 

“Being a model is more than walking on a stage and showing your beauty. Being a model means having good leadership skills and willing to lose self in the service of others. There are no requirements needed for one to be a model. 

“All you need is your confidence, communication and leadership skills and being persistent. As a student at the CUT, I believe that education is the key to success. I believe that education opens doors to new opportunities, improves socio-economic prospects and empowers the youth to become active citizens,” she said. 

Keretetse further said education plays a significant role in shaping the world, fostering creativity and promoting personal growth. She added that she sees herself as a qualified pedagogical practitioner after five years. 

“I also see myself embarking on community related projects and grooming aspiring models and beauty pageants. I believe that, in the world that we live in, women are given enough opportunities within society. Even though women are empowered, that seems to create despondency to certain individuals.

“However, I believe that women are not celebrated enough as they are supposed to. Women are the future leaders of the world. Remember, when you empower a woman, you empower the whole community. It is disheartening to see women living in fear due to the abuse they are subjected to,” said Keretetse. 

She said despite the living conditions that women are finding themselves living in, they should stand firm and fight against injustices. Keretetse said those who would like to vote for her, there are voting packages, for R50 which is equal to 10 votes, R100 to 20 votes, R200 to 50 votes, R300 to 80 votes, R500 to 150 votes and R1000 to 400 votes. 

“They can transfer their votes to: FNB Business 

Account Number: 63164524936

Branch Code: 250655

Reference: FDSA22. 

“It is requested that you send your proof of payment to 0632186945 after voting,” she said. 

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1267 suspects nabbed during Operation Shanela II

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

By AGISANANG SCUFF

29 September 2025- Focusing on enhanced crime prevention and combating, the weekly Joint Law Enforcement operations under Operation Shanela II, conducted between 22 and 28 September 2025, across the province led to the apprehension of 1267 suspects. Through the execution of actions such as vehicle check points (VCPs), stops and searches, foot and vehicle patrols, compliance inspections at second-hand dealers, scrapyards, recyclers, private security, firearm dealers, formal and informal businesses and farms, 1777 copper cables, 82 fireworks, five explosive gels, five electric detonators, tobacco products, liquor and drugs such as dagga, cocaine, crystal meth, tik and mandrax were seized.

The North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said moreover, the operations resulted in the apprehension of 76 illegal migrants. Mokgwabone said 456 out of the 1 267 arrests were for wanted suspects who were linked to the crimes committed through forensic DNA leads.

“The arrests, among others, included 25 suspects for rape and attempted rape, 289 for assault with the intent to do Grievous Bodily Harm and common, 26 for burglary, business and residential, 34 for murder and attempted murder, 48 for driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, 29 for possession of drugs, and 31 for illegal dealing in liquor.

“In Dr Kenneth Kaunda District, four suspects aged between 31 and 51, are expected to appear in the Stilfontein Magistrate’s Court for possession of suspected stolen goods. The suspects were arrested in the early hours of Friday morning, 26 September 2025, by Stilfontein Visible Policing and Potchefstroom Flying Squad members on the N12 (Stilfontein/Potchefstroom) road,” he said.

Mokgwabone further said the police were on patrol when they noticed an overturned white Chana bakkie and went to investigate. He added that on arrival, they discovered copper cables hidden in the nearby bushes.

“The members also spotted a suspicious Ford Ranger vehicle in the vicinity. As they approached the vehicle, it sped off, leading to a chase. The vehicle stopped after a few kilometres due to an apparent breakdown. A search conducted led to the discovery of suspected stolen copper cables in the bakkie and all three suspects, along with the driver of the Chana bakkie, were apprehended after failing to account for the copper cables.

“The copper cables, which were identified as those of Telkom, are valued at R290 000. Still in the District, a security officer in Klerksdorp arrested a suspect on Monday, 22 September 2025, after being found in possession of a bundle of signal cables,” said Mokgwabone.

He said the suspect, who was also found in possession of an axe and a spade, was handed over to the police and is facing charges of tampering with and damage to essential infrastructure.

Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General Dintletse Molefe, welcomed the arrests, which she said will positively contribute towards the reduction of crime and ensuring general safety in the province as we approach a safer festive season.

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A prayer for fallen police officers

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Picture: Police officers in a prayer for fallen police officers/Supplied

By BAKANG MOKOTO

29 September 2025- On Monday at around 8am, the police in Namakwa, hosted a prayer service at the District Office in Springbok. The prayer service was led by Chaplain Marsha Baard of the Employee Health and Wellness section, who delivered a powerful message.

Baard said: “On duty with God’s strength, boots on the ground with the sound of God’s army. Special prayers were offered to a member who is currently admitted in hospital in Cape Town and in remembrance of fallen members who made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of our country.

“The service was also graced with the attendance of Colonel Diketso Lekgwathi, Acting District Commissioner, who commended and appreciated the unity and spiritual strength shown by all members present.”

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NWU to host colloquium honouring Professor John Makhene

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Picture: Professor John Makhene

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

29 September 2025- The North West University (NWU) said it is proud to announce a colloquium in honour of Professor John Makhene, the founding vice-chancellor of the former University of Bophuthatswana, now the NWU. The university said the event will take place on 3 October 2025, at Mmabatho Palms Hotel, Mahikeng.

The NWU Communications Manager (Mafikeng campus), Oscar Mosiane said this prestigious colloquium will celebrate Makhene’s enduring legacy as a pioneering academic, transformative leader and fierce advocate for accessible and inclusive education during one of the most pivotal periods in South African higher education history. Mosiane said the event will be held under the theme: “Academic Leadership as a Catalyst for Transformative Change”.

“The programme will include keynote tributes from senior academics and public sector leaders, panel discussions reflecting on the academic and historical significance of Makhene’s leadership and personal reflections from colleagues, former students and family.

“This includes a multimedia exhibition and cultural performances. The colloquium will provide a platform to reflect critically on the development of higher education in South Africa, acknowledge Makhene’s foundational leadership role and explore the future of ethical, transformative academic leadership in our country and on our continent,” he said.

Mosiane further said Makhene laid the foundation for an institution that grew into one of the most respected universities in South Africa. He added that as the NWU, they continue to walk the path he helped

to forge, one rooted in equity, excellence, and access,” said Mosiane.

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One person nabbed for Contravention of the Immigration Act  

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Picture: One person nabbed during Operation Phakisa/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

29 September 2025- The Law enforcement stepped up the battle against marine related crimes through the implementation of Operation Phakisa across the coastal areas of the Namakwa District from 24 until 28 September 2025. Targeted operations were conducted in Port Nolloth, Kleinzee, Hondeklip Bay, Koingnaas, Groenrivier, Waterfall, Brazil and Alexander Bay.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Colonel Cherelle Ehlers said several South African Police Service (SAPS) units, in collaboration with officials from the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, the Department of Home Affairs, Customs, Traffic and SANParks, executed a coordinated response to address criminal activities affecting the marine environment.

Ehlers said this multi-agency operation resulted in the arrest of one individual for the contravention of the Immigration Act and fines, totalling R15 400 were issued.

“Offences included violations of the Road Traffic Act 93 of 1996, and breaches of the Marine Living Resources Act 18 of 1998. Disruptive actions carried out during the operation included stop-and-search actions, high-visibility foot and vehicle patrols, and vehicle check points. In total, 322 individuals and 151 vehicles were thoroughly searched.

“Seizures included limpets, fish fillets, mussels and tools believed to be used in the commission of crimes to the estimated value of R3 340. Compliance inspections were also conducted at harbours, launching sites, slipways, fish processing establishments, restaurants and campgrounds to ensure adherence to applicable laws and regulations,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, reaffirmed that the continued success of such operations relies on sustained collaboration between law enforcement agencies and the community.  Otola assured the public that decisive action will remain focused on combating marine-related crimes and also protecting the fauna and flora of the Namakwa region specifically and thereby strengthening the safety and security within affected communities.

“Information can be shared anonymously via the MySAPS app or by contacting the Crime Stop hotline at 08600 10111,” said Ehlers.

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Tlhapi to lead Provincial Heritage Day Celebrations in Mokgalwaneng village

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Picture: The North West MEC for Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation, Virgina Tlhapi

By OBAKENG MAJE

29 September 2025- The North West MEC for Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation, Virgina Tlhapi, will close the heritage month activities with the Provincial Heritage Day Celebrations on 30 September 2025, at Tlhaalapitse Primary School in Mokgalwaneng village, in Moses Kotane Local Municipality.  Tlhapi said the event will be celebrated under the theme: “Celebrating the lives of our heroes’ and heroines who laid down their lives for our freedom”, which invites all South Africans to reflect on and honour the sacrifices made by those who fought for liberation and freedom of our country.

She further said the purpose of the Provincial Heritage Month Celebrations seeks to celebrate their rich cultural diversity and foster pride in the traditions, languages and practices that defines their collective identity. Tlhapi added that the event aims to showcase the government’s commitment to protecting cultural resources and promoting inclusive cultural expressions as part of sustainable development.

“Various government services such as Gender-Based Violence (GBV) walk, wreath laying at the grave of Disake Dikeme, who is one of the local struggle icons, aerobics and self-defence exhibitions, which will be led by me, accompanied by Kgosi of Bakgatla ba Kgafela Traditional Authority, mayor of Moses Kotane Local Municipality and Bojanala District Municipality mayor.

“Mokgalwaneng with its 32 surrounding villages had activities held as Heritage Day build-up.  On 23 September 2025, we had Heritage through libraries in Bloemhof. On 24 until 26 September 2025, we had the Provincial Indigenous Games in Rustenburg and Oral History Colloquium in Mogwase on 25 to 26 September 2025,” she said.

Tlhapi said on 27 September 2025, they had a Batlharo Boo Tokwane Ba ga Masibi Cultural Event in Disaneng village, near Mahikeng.  She said the Provincial Heritage Day Celebrations will commence at 8am.

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Long serving employees to be honoured

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Picture: North West MEC for Social Development, Sussana Dantjie

By OBAKENG MAJE

25 September 2025- Long serving employees in the North West Department of Social Development will be honoured for their dedication, loyalty, and contributions to service delivery on 26 September 2025. The departmental award ceremony which will be graced and officiated by the North West MEC for Social Development, Sussana Dantjie and aims at acknowledging employees who have served the department for 10 to 40 years in various disciplines.

The North West Social Development spokesperson, Petrus Siko said of strategic importance, the planned ceremony is meant to boost employee morale, increase productivity, and reinforce the values of integrity and excellence within the public service.  Siko said the long service award ceremony is being held during public service month under the theme: “Professionalising the Public Service to Build Trust and Restore Confidence in Government” underscoring the urgent need to strengthen the capacity, integrity, and performance of the public service as a critical lever for improving service delivery and rebuilding citizen confidence in state capacity.

“More than 173 employees will receive long service awards at a ceremony scheduled for Friday, 26 September 2025 at the Mmabatho Convention Centre at 10 am,” he said.

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Media engagement session and tourism excursion

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Picture: Ottoshoop Caves

By AGISANANG SCUFF

25 September 2025 – Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality together with Mahikeng Local Municipality will be hosting a Media Engagement Session on Service Delivery, held under the theme: “Strengthening Collaboration for Improved Service Delivery through the District Development Model (DDM)”.

The Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality spokesperson, Lehlohonolo March said this important engagement will be a platform where municipalities within the district share progress, challenges and collaborative solutions in alignment with the District Development Model (DDM) approach, while engaging directly with the community through media and stakeholders. March said as part of Tourism Month celebrations, the municipality will take the media on a guided excursion to explore its must-visit attractions to experience the rich history, culture and adventure that define their district.

“The engagement will take place at Ottoshoop Caves on 30 September 2025 at 8am,” she said.

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397 title deeds to be issued to rightful beneficiaries

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Picture: Abandoned RDP houses/Generic

By AGISANANG SCUFF

25 September 2025- The Minister of Human Settlements, Thembi Simelane and the North West MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs, Oageng Molapisi, will issue 397 title deeds to the rightful owners at Mothutlung village, near Brits. Simelane spokesperson, Tsekiso Machike said the handover marks a significant step in the Department of Human Settlements’ ongoing commitment to eliminate the national title deed backlog, an initiative poised to unlock over R200 billion in asset value for fully subsidised government houses across the country.

Machike said the North West has for this financial year targeted to deliver 6718 title deeds across the province, contributing to the national goal of 80 000 deeds by 2029.  He further said to accelerate this effort, Simelane and Molapisi, have re-launched the Title Deeds Fridays Campaign, a nationwide drive aimed at mobilising all stakeholders to support the title deeds restoration programme.

“The campaign seeks to restore dignity, strengthen tenure security, and promote economic empowerment for beneficiaries. The event will also be attended by the executive mayor of Bojanala District Municipality, Dikeledi Mthangeni and mayor of Madibeng Local Municipality, Douglas Maimane. 

“We will start with door-to-door delivery of title deeds to three senior citizens in Extension 1 and 2 in Mothutlung at 10am. Then at 10:30am, we will have community engagement and title deeds handover at Mothutlung Community Hall,” added Machike.  

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PIT payer who was arrested for ‘failing’ to submit his PIT returns granted R10 000 bail   

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

25 September 2025 – The accused, Tshepiso Johannes Letselela (50) appeared before the Mmabatho Magistrate’s Court today on six counts of fraud, following his arrest by the Hawks’ Serious Commercial Crime Investigation Unit. Letselela, a registered Personal Income Tax (PIT) payer, allegedly failed to submit his PIT returns to SARS for the period 2017 to 2022.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in North West, Sivenathi Gunya said despite several telephonic reminders from SARS on 23 October 2023, as well as written notices, he neglected to comply with his obligations. Gunya said his non-submission of tax returns and non-declaration of income caused SARS a financial prejudice exceeding R1.6 million.

“Letselela was granted bail of R10 000 under strict conditions. He is required to report to the Johannesburg Police Station once a month and must notify the investigating officer should he change his residential address in Centurion. The matter was postponed to 13 November 2025 for a regional court date,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Director of Public Prosecutions in the North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, and the acting Hawks Head in the North West, Brigadier Georgia Moos, commended the collaborative efforts between the NPA, SARS, and the DPCI, which ensured the accused’s swift arrest and court appearance. Makhari said they stressed the importance of enforcing compliance with South Africa’s tax laws to safeguard public funds and uphold the rule of law.

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