Three suspects nabbed during Operation Phakisa

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Picture: Three suspects nabbed during Operation Phakisa/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

28 September 2026 – A multi-agency law enforcement operation along the Namakwa coastal areas has resulted in several arrests, the seizure of drugs worth approximately R98 500 and the confiscation of illicit cigarettes valued at R390 323. The South African Police Service (SAPS) in collaboration with various law enforcement and government departments, conducted Operation Phakisa from 22 to 26 September 2026, targeting Kleinzee, Port Nolloth, Alexander Bay, Hondeklip Bay and Koingnaas.

The operation brought together SAPS specialised units and partner departments, including the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Department of Home Affairs, Department of Agriculture, Environmental Affairs, Rural Development and Land Reform, as well as Customs. The integrated operation focused on addressing criminal activities and ensuring compliance with legislation governing coastal activities.

Law enforcement teams conducted searches and inspections at harbours, launching sites, mining areas, camping sites, fish shops and restaurants. A total of 100 vehicles and 166 individuals were searched, while multiple vessels were also inspected.

Vehicle Check Points (VCPs) were conducted to enhance police visibility and ensure compliance across the targeted areas.

According to the Northern Cape police spokesperson, Colonel Cherelle Ehlers the operation yielded several successes, including the arrest of two individuals for contraventions of the Immigration Act and one suspect for contravening the Refugees Act. Ehlers said fines amounting to R4 400 were issued for contraventions of the National Road Traffic Act, while a further R4 700 in fines was issued for violations of the Marine Living Resources Act.

“Fish valued at approximately R1 500 was also seized in connection with contraventions of the Marine Living Resources Act Three suspects were arrested for drug-related offences following the seizure of drugs with an estimated street value of R98 500.

“A significant amount of cash, believed to be the proceeds of crime, was also confiscated, while illicit cigarettes valued at approximately R390 323 were seized and handed over to Customs for further handling,” she said.

The Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, commended all SAPS members and participating law enforcement and government departments for their commitment and collaborative efforts in ensuring the success of the operation. Otola emphasised that sustained and integrated multi-agency operations are critical in disrupting criminal activities, enforcing compliance with legislation and protecting communities, natural resources and legitimate economic activities along the province’s coastal areas.

“The police in Northern Cape would continue working closely with law enforcement and government partners to address criminality, ensure compliance with the law and protect communities and coastal resources.

“Those who engage in criminal activities would be identified and dealt with within the ambit of the law. The Northern Cape SAPS and its partners reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening integrated policing operations and maintaining a visible and effective law enforcement presence throughout the province,” she said.

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A man sentenced to 15 years imprisonment for murder

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Picture: A close-up of man holding knife smeared with blood and still dripping/Generic

By OBAKENG MAJE

28 September 2026 – A 36-year-old man, Brian Klaase, has been sentenced to 15 years imprisonment for the murder of Reagan Austin Losper (25) in Vioolsdrift, near the Namibian border. Klaase was sentenced by the Springbok Regional Court on 23 September 2026, following a thorough investigation by Warrant Officer Elridge Losper, formerly attached to the Vioolsdrift Detectives.

According to Namakwa District police spokesperson, Captain Ivan Magerman, the incident occurred on 27 April 2024, when an argument broke out near a shop in Vioolsdrift after Klaase demanded money he had given the deceased to buy cigarettes. Magerman said when the deceased indicated that he had no money, the accused became enraged, produced a knife and repeatedly stabbed him.

“The deceased attempted to defend himself and fled towards the police station, but collapsed on the N7 National Road, where he succumbed to his injuries. He was declared dead at the scene after sustaining a fatal stab wound to the neck.

“The investigation, led by Warrant Officer Losper, ensured that crucial evidence was secured, contributing to the successful conviction and sentencing of the accused. The accused admitted that he had not acted in self-defence, that his life was not in danger and that his actions were unlawful and punishable by law,” he said..

Magerman further said the accused remained in custody after abandoning his bail application.

Namakwa District Police Commissioner, Brigadier Schalk Andrews, commended Losper for his dedication and meticulous investigative work, which contributed to ensuring that justice was served and that the accused received the prescribed minimum sentence of 15 years imprisonment. Andrews reaffirmed SAPS’ commitment to conducting thorough investigations into violent and serious crimes and ensuring that perpetrators are brought before the courts to face the consequences of their actions.

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Two arrested for UIF fraud 

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Unemployment Insurance Fund

22 September 2026- The Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) has welcomed the arrest of two Eastern Cape women in connection with an alleged R1.1 million fraud case involving UIF funds.

The two women appeared in the Gqeberha Specialised Commercial Crime Court, following their arrest by the Hawks for their alleged part in the scheme.

“[One of the women] was employed by the Department of Employment and Labour within the Employer Services Section. Her responsibilities included the capturing, verification, and filing of employer declaration of employees’ forms, commonly known as UI-19 forms, on benefits files.

“The investigation alleged that prospective UIF claimants were assisted with claim forms and other documentation, despite some allegedly not meeting the requirements to receive benefits.

“It is further alleged that arrangements were made in certain instances for bank accounts through which proceeds from fraudulent claims could be received,” the Department of Employment and Labour said in a statement.

Furthermore, the Hawks found discrepancies which were “subsequently identified during an audit by the department, after which the matter was referred for further investigation”.

The two suspects are alleged to have acted together in arranging and executing the scheme.

“We welcome the work of the Hawks in pursuing allegations of fraud involving UIF funds. Every rand lost through fraudulent activity is a resource that should have been available to support workers who legitimately depend on the Fund.

“We will continue to cooperate with law-enforcement authorities to ensure that allegations of wrongdoing are thoroughly investigated and that those found to have acted unlawfully are held accountable,” UIF Commissioner Thulani Tshefuta said.

The two were released on R2000 bail each and the matter has been postponed to 5 October 2026 for legal representation.

“The UIF views the arrest as an important step in strengthening accountability and protecting the Fund’s resources, which are intended to provide social protection to eligible workers and their families during periods of unemployment and other qualifying conditions. The UIF is committed to working closely with law-enforcement agencies to investigate the financial misconduct that threatens the integrity of the Fund.

“The Fund has strengthened its measures to detect and prevent fraudulent claims and transactions, while continuing to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to safeguard UIF resources. The Fund remains committed to ensuring that UIF resources are protected and reach the workers and beneficiaries who are legitimately entitled to them at their moment of need,” the department said.

The public, employers and broader stakeholders are urged to report suspected fraudulent activities involving UIF benefits through the Department’s Anti-Fraud Hotline on Telephone Number 0800 601148 or email: fraud@labour.gov.za. – SAnews.gov.za

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DEDECT to host compliance engagement

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Picture: North West MEC for DEDECT, Bitsa Lenkopane

By STAFF REPORTER

22 September 2026 – The North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT) in collaboration with Chinese Business Association will host a Business Compliance Engagement at the Mmabatho Convention Centre on 23 September 2026. The engagement will be led by the North West MEC for Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism, Bitsa Lenkopane and is aimed at strengthening compliance with legislation prescripts among Chinese entrepreneurs operating businesses across the province.

Lenkopane said the engagement forms part of the department’s ongoing efforts to promote lawful, compliant and responsible business practices, while strengthening cooperation between government regulators and the business community. She further said approximately 100 Chinese business owners from across the province are expected to attend the engagement, which will provide practical information on the legislative and regulatory requirements governing their operations.

“Key areas of focus will include lawful entry and residence in South Africa, business licensing and registration requirements, liquor licensing, compliance in the hardware and spaza shop sectors, wholesale and distribution requirements, the sale of compliant goods, food safety standards, SABS requirements, ICASA compliance, labour and employment legislation, and SARS requirements.

“Representatives from various regulatory institutions will provide presentations and engage directly with business owners. These include the Department of Employment and Labour, Department of Home Affairs, South African Police Service (SAPS), South African Revenue Service (SARS), National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS), and the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA),” said Lenkopane.

She added that the engagement will also create a platform for business owners to raise compliance-related challenges, seek clarity on regulatory requirements and engage government institutions on practical measures to ensure that their businesses operate within the law. Lenkopane said the engagement will commence at 9am.

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SAPS Lieutenant General to appear in court for sexual offences

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Picture: SAPS’ Lieutenant General arrested for rape

By BAKANG MOKOTO

22 September 2026 – The acting National Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane has welcomed the arrest of a senior police officer (59) holding the rank of Lieutenant General on charges relating to sexual offences. The arrest was effected on 21 September 2026, by members of the Commission Recommendations Task Team (CRTT).

Dimpane said the senior officer faces charges relating to the alleged sexual grooming of a girl (16) between July and August 2026, as well as the alleged rape of a woman (18). She further said the alleged rape is reported to have occurred at a hotel in Sandton in May 2026.

“The senior officer is expected to appear before the Randburg Magistrate’s Court on 22 September 2026. We strongly condemned the alleged conduct, particularly in the context of the country’s ongoing fight against Gender-Based Violence and femicide (GBVF).

“I would also like to emphasise that members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) have a heightened responsibility to protect women and children from violence, abuse and exploitation,” added Dimpane.

She said the police officers are entrusted with protecting women and children. Dimpane said they cannot themselves be implicated in conduct that undermines this responsibility.

“As the country continues to confront the scourge of gender-based violence and femicide, there can be no room for anyone within the police service who is alleged to abuse their position or violate the rights of women and children.

“The fight against GBVF must begin with accountability within the ranks of the police. Our commitment to combating GBVF must apply equally within our own organisation. Rank, position or seniority cannot place anyone above the law,” she said.

Dimpane said where credible allegations of criminal conduct are brought against a police officer, they must be investigated without fear or favour. She said that SAPS will continue to take decisive action against members who are suspected of criminal conduct, while respecting due process and the independence of the criminal justice system.

“The arrest demonstrates that SAPS will not shield members facing serious allegations of criminal conduct, irrespective of their rank or position,” concluded Dimpane.

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Ramaphosa to deliver keynote address during Heritage Day celebration

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

22 September 2026 – The Republic of South Africa (RSA) president, Cyril Ramaphosa will lead the 2026 National Heritage Day celebrations on 24 September 2026, at Rosemoor Stadium in Thembalethu, George, Western Cape. The National Heritage Day celebration will be held under the theme: “Celebrating Our Living Heritage: Strengthening the Ties That Bind Us”, highlighting the role of living heritage in promoting national unity, social cohesion, Ubuntu and a shared sense of belonging.

Ramaphosa spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya said the National Heritage Day is observed annually on 24 September and provides an opportunity for South Africans to recognise, celebrate and reflect on the country’s diverse cultural heritage. Magwenya said the theme underscores the importance of living heritage in strengthening social cohesion and nation-building, while recognising communities as custodians of heritage and promoting dialogue, mutual understanding and a shared sense of belonging.

“The National Heritage Day is the culmination of the month-long Heritage Month activities. September was declared Heritage Month in 1995, providing an opportunity for South Africans to reflect on the country’s shared history, celebrate its cultural diversity and strengthen a collective sense of belonging grounded in the constitutional values of human dignity, equality, non-racialism, non-sexism and Ubuntu.

“As part of the month-long Heritage Month programme, provinces and heritage institutions undertook and continue to embark on activities that promote community participation, education, cultural expression and the transmission of heritage knowledge across generations,” he said.

Magwenya further said South Africa’s heritage landscape has been shaped by a history of colonial dispossession and apartheid-era exclusion, which marginalised indigenous cultures, knowledge systems and forms of cultural expression. He added that since the advent of democracy, the country has progressively reoriented the heritage sector towards inclusivity, redress and cultural democracy.

“This approach is reflected in constitutional protections, as well as policy and legislative frameworks that recognise cultural participation, living heritage and Indigenous Knowledge Systems. This year’s activities included the Living Human Treasures and Heritage Custodians Recognition Programme, which recognises individuals who preserve and transmit Indigenous Knowledge and cultural practices.

“Other activities included intergenerational heritage dialogues, school heritage programmes, Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Heritage Symposia, and museum heritage education programmes. These initiatives provided platforms for communities, heritage practitioners, traditional leaders, cultural workers, artists, Indigenous Knowledge holders, learners and young people to engage with and celebrate South Africa’s diverse heritage,” said Magwenya.

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Picture: RSA president, Cyril Ramaphosa

IDAC warns public of imposter posing as Acting Investigating Director

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Picture: IDAC acting Investigating Director, Advocate Ntuthuzelo Vanara

By REGINALD KANYANE

22 September 2026 – The Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) has warned members of the public about an impostor allegedly pretending to be its acting Investigating Director, Advocate Ntuthuzelo Vanara. The imposter is reportedly using Vanara’s name and image to solicit critical information relating to a matter before court.

IDAC spokesperson, Henry Mamothame said it has established that the telephone number being used does not belong to Vanara. Mamothame said the matter was brought to the attention of the acting Investigating Director by law enforcement officers.

“The information on the imposter’s conduct was brought to the attention of Vanara by law enforcement officers. The matter would be referred to the police for investigation. We urge members of the public to remain vigilant and avoid falling victim to the alleged criminal conduct.

“Members of the public are urged to be vigilant and not to fall victims of criminality by the imposter. IDAC strongly condemned the conduct and said Vanara remains focused on the IDAC Reset Project, which is aimed at reforming the organisation and strengthening public trust as it continues to fulfil its mandate of fighting corruption,” he said.

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Two poachers sentenced to 11 years in prison

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By OBAKENG MAJE

22 September 2026 – Two men convicted of multiple poaching-related offences in the Kruger National Park have each been sentenced to 11 years imprisonment by the Skukuza Regional Court. Ephraim Bheki Siwela (43) and Kobus Simon Sambo (40) were convicted on seven counts, including trespassing in a national park, possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number, unlawful possession of a firearm, possession of a firearm for the commission of an offence, conspiracy to commit an offence, unlawful possession of ammunition and possession of a dangerous weapon.

The case dates back to 30 May 2021, when suspicious movement was detected in the Pretoriuskop Section of the Kruger National Park. Aerial surveillance was deployed and investigators tracked two sets of footprints.

Field rangers later discovered a firearm and hunting knives before finding Siwela and Sambo hiding in nearby vegetation. Investigations subsequently established that the footwear worn by the accused matched the footprints being tracked.

During the trial, both accused pleaded not guilty.

The state prosecutor, Lot Mgiba, led evidence from the park’s Technology Operations Manager and presented expert evidence linking the footprints to the accused’s footwear. Ballistic analysis also linked the recovered firearm to the accused.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Mpumalanga, Monica Nyuswa said the sentence demonstrates the importance of coordinated efforts in combating wildlife crime. Nyuswa said this successful prosecution highlights the effectiveness of coordinated anti-poaching operations and demonstrates the value of collaboration between conservation authorities, law enforcement agencies, and prosecutors in combating wildlife crime.

“The sentence sends a strong message that people involved in poaching and related criminal activities will face serious consequences. The NPA remains committed to protecting South Africa’s wildlife heritage and ensuring that perpetrators of environmental and wildlife crimes are held accountable through the criminal justice system.  

“The court imposed various sentences on the accused, with several of the sentences ordered to run concurrently with the eight years sentence for possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number,” she said.

Nyuswa further said the three-year sentence for trespassing was ordered to run consecutively, resulting in an effective 11 years imprisonment sentence for each accused. She added that the court also declared both men unfit to possess firearms.

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A man sentenced to 18 years for raping his cousin

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By STAFF REPORTER

22 September 2026 – A man (27) has been sentenced to 18 years imprisonment by the Pietermaritzburg Regional Court after being convicted of raping his cousin (9) in the Mpumuza area of Pietermaritzburg in December 2020. The accused was 21 years-old when the offence was committed and that he and the complainant lived with their grandmother.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Kwazulu-Natal, Natasha Ramkisson-Kara said on the day of the incident, the two were alone at home while their grandmother was at work. Ramkisson-Kara said although they slept in separate rooms, the accused entered the child’s bedroom and raped her before threatening to kill her if she disclosed what had happened.

“The complainant reported the matter to her mother a week later when she came to fetch her for the school holidays. The matter was subsequently reported to the police and the child was referred to the Edendale Thuthuzela Care Centre for medical and psychosocial support.

“During the trial, the state prosecutor Nosipho Kunene-Ngcobo led evidence from the complainant and her mother, who was the first person to whom the child disclosed the rape. The Victim Impact Statements (VIS) prepared by the complainant and her mother were also presented to the court, with assistance from Court Preparation Officer, Nokuvela Mlotshwa,” she said.

Ramkisson-Kara further said the child continues to experience the psychological effects of the offence. She added that the complainant described the psychological trauma she continues to endure, stating that she no longer feels like a complete human being.

Ramkisson-Kara said the victim’s mother told the court that the incident had profoundly affected her daughter’s emotional wellbeing, resulting in behavioural changes and negatively affecting her studies. She said the court deviated from the prescribed minimum sentence of life imprisonment, finding that the accused’s youthfulness at the time of the offence, together with the principle of proportionality, constituted substantial and compelling circumstances.

Ramkisson-Kara said the accused was sentenced to 18 years imprisonment and declared unfit to possess a firearm. She said the court further ordered that his name be entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders and the National Child Protection Register.

“The NPA remains committed to combating sexual offences and Gender-Based Violence (GBV). This commitment is reinforced through the continued expansion of the Thuthuzela Care Centre network, which has grown from 55 centres in 2020/21 to 66 centres currently operating across the country.

“The centres provide integrated medical, legal and psychosocial services to survivors of sexual violence, supporting a victim-centred response while contributing to the prosecution of offenders and reducing secondary victimisation,” said Ramkisson-Kara.

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A man sentenced to 25 years for raping stepdaughter

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

22 September 2026 – A man (46) was sentenced to 25 years imprisonment by the Botshabelo Regional Court for rape. This comes after he raped his stepdaughter (15) in Botshabelo, Free State.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in the Free State, Mojalefa Senokoatsane said the accused cannot be identified in order to protect the dignity, privacy and identity of the victim, who was a minor when the offence was committed. Senokoatsane said he is the father to the victim’s older sister.

“The Botshabelo Regional Court heard that on the night of 14 November 2024, the accused arrived at the victim’s home and asked for a blanket. After the victim opened the window and showed him where the blanket was kept, he entered the house instead.

“He later entered the victim’s bedroom and raped her before warning her not to tell her older sister. The following morning, the accused again entered the victim’s bedroom. The incident was witnessed by his granddaughter (11), who encouraged the victim to report the matter.

“The victim initially struggled to disclose the rape because of fear. She later revealed what had happened after family members noticed that she was emotionally distressed and questioned her,” he said.

Senokoatsane further said the court found the state’s witnesses credible and reliable. He added that the court found the state witnesses to be credible, reliable and consistent in their accounts.

“The victim’s evidence was corroborated in material respects by the accused’s own admissions. During sentencing proceedings, the state prosecutor, Kelley Mthwalo argued that the accused had occupied a position akin to that of a father figure in the victim’s life and had failed in his duty to protect and care for her.

“A Victim Impact Statement compiled by Melissa Mphulenyane was also presented to the court, detailing the emotional and psychological impact of the offence on the victim. The court found substantial and compelling circumstances to justify deviating from the prescribed minimum sentence and sentenced the accused to 25 years’ direct imprisonment,” said Senokoatsane.

He said the NPA welcomed the sentence and commended the prosecutor, investigating team and other role-players involved in securing justice for the victim. Senokoatsane said the outcome demonstrates that perpetrators of sexual offences, particularly those who abuse positions of trust within families, will be held accountable for their actions.

He also commended the victim for her courage in reporting the offence and participating in the criminal justice process, despite the trauma she endured. Senokoatsane said the NPA remains committed to prosecuting sexual offences and all forms of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) without fear, favour, or prejudice.

Senokoatsane said the NPA would continue working to ensure that victims and survivors are treated with dignity, protected throughout the criminal justice process and afforded access to justice.

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