Picture: SAFA Technical Director Molefi Ntseki/Supplied
By REGINALD KANYANE
16 February 2026 – The South African Football Association’s (SAFA) Technical Department will host a National Teams Identity Workshop that will be attended by all the men’s and women’s national team coaches next week. The workshop will be held at SAFA House in Nasrec in the South of Johannesburg from 18-20 February 2026, and SAFA Technical Director Molefi Ntseki will lead the programme.
Ntseki said all the national team coaches will make presentations during the workshop, including the Under-15, the Under-17, Under-20 and the senior South African national team mentors. He said Desiree Ellis is the only coach who will not attend in person as Sasol Banyana Banyana will be participating in the COSAFA Women’s Championship in Polokwane, Limpopo from next week.
“The team went into camp on 13 February 2026, and the tournament will be held in Polokwane from 18 February – 1 March 2026. The various coaches will make presentations during the three days of the workshop and even though Dr Desiree Ellis will not be present, she will join us online.
“FIFA representatives and other invited guests will be in attendance, and we are looking forward to an incredible engagement,” he said.
Picture: The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism, Mpho Khunou/Facebook
By OBAKENG MAJE
16 February 2026- The North West Legislature Portfolio Committee on Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism has resolved to convene a meeting with the North West Development Corporation (NWDC), the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) and other relevant stakeholders to solicit detailed findings on the status of the Christiana All Seasons Resort. This resolution follows an oversight visit conducted by the committee at the Christiana All Seasons Resort to assess progress since the facility was acquired by the NWDC in 2015.
The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism, Mpho Khunou said during the visit, the committee raised serious concerns regarding the uncertainty surrounding the full extent of the land purchased by the NWDC, including discrepancies linked to the original auction process. Khunou said the committee further noted with concern that the department did not conduct an audit of the resort’s assets nor adequately account for the company’s obligations relating to maintenance and upgrading of the facility, as stipulated in the initial lease agreement.
“The department had previously entered into a lease agreement with a company trading as 360 Degrees, which concluded in November 2023 and was subsequently converted into a month-to-month contract. The committee observed that no asset audits were conducted during either the initial lease period or the month-to-month arrangement.
“In response, the committee advised the department to urgently conduct a comprehensive audit of all assets associated with the resort. The committee also engaged with local SMMEs, who raised concerns regarding the poor state of maintenance and upgrading of the facility, particularly the damaged fencing between the resort and an adjacent game farm,” he said.
Khunou further said the compromised fencing has reportedly resulted in wildlife straying onto the N12 national road, posing a serious risk to motorists. He added that the committee further interacted with representatives from 360 Degrees, who provided a guided tour of the facility and presented a detailed report on renovations undertaken.
“However, the company also raised concerns regarding the lack of clarity on the full extent of the property acquired during the auction from the original owner—an issue similarly highlighted in the SIU’s preliminary findings. Following deliberations, the committee also considered medium- to long-term plans for the future of the resort, including the possible transfer of the facility to the North West Parks and Tourism Board for management and operation.
“We believe that a final decision on the long-term future of these assets cannot be delayed any further. The Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT) must act decisively and resolve this matter expeditiously,” said Khunou.
15 February 2026 – The accused, Elrico Bradley Leroy Hartebees (30) of Niekerkshoop in the Northern Cape will spend 15 years behind bars after he was recently found guilty of rape by the Griekwastad Regional Court. On 24 November 2023, the victim was on her way to visit her boyfriend when she was suddenly attacked from behind by an unknown man.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Litabe said the victim screamed for help as the accused allegedly pushed her to the ground. Litabe said she subsequently lost consciousness and was raped.
“Two passersby heard the victim’s cries for help and rushed to the scene, where they intervened and came to her rescue. Upon their arrival, they identified the accused and immediately notified the police.
“A case of rape was registered at the Niekerkshoop Police Station for further investigation. The matter was allocated to Detective Constable Dineo Mogaladi of the Prieska Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit,” he said.
Litabe further said following the victim’s medical examination, Hartebees was arrested. He added that the accused appeared in court on several occasions, where he pleaded not guilty to the charge.
“After thorough investigations conducted by Detective Constable Mogaladi and compelling testimony presented by the complainant and the two witnesses, the court found him guilty as charged.
“The court subsequently sentenced the accused to 15 years’ imprisonment and declared him unfit to possess a firearm,” said Litabe.
The Pixley ka Seme District Police Commissioner, Major General Nomana Mtukushe, commended Detective Constable Mogaladi and the Prosecutor, for their dedication and professionalism, which led to the successful prosecution of the case.
15 February 2026 – The police in the Namakwa District said they have note with profound sadness the recent loss of five lives in three separate culpable homicide incidents within the district. The police said on 12 February 2026, at approximately 9am, community members across the Namakwa District gathered at various town entrances in a coordinated prayer initiative to promote road safety and to honour the memory of the deceased.
The Namakwa District police spokesperson, Captain Ivan Magerman said participants were dressed in black as a symbol of mourning and remembrance. Magerman said the gathering served as a unified call for greater responsibility and heightened awareness among all road users.
“The tragic incidents have deeply affected families and communities within the district. Personnel of the Namakwa District Commissioner’s office was joined by Station Commanders, SAPS members, Radio NFM, the Traffic Department, community leaders, and church representatives.
“This includes Community Policing Forum (CPF) structures, the Department of Health, the Department of Social Development, the Department of Transport, Safety and Liaison, Blue Patrollers, emergency medical services and various non-governmental organisations in support of the initiative,” he said.
Magerman further said the police in collaboration with the Traffic Department and other relevant stakeholders, will continue to intensify the enforcement of road traffic legislation and conduct ongoing operations aimed at enhancing road safety throughout the Namakwa District.
Meanwhile, the Namakwa District Police Commissioner, Brigadier Schalk Andrews, emphasised that road safety remains a shared responsibility and called upon all motorists, pedestrians and community members to exercise caution, comply with traffic regulations and prioritise the preservation of human life. Andrews expressed appreciation to all stakeholders and community members for their unity and cooperation during this period of mourning.
Picture: Challenges faced by CPFs addressed during training /Supplied
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
15 February 2026- The Northern Cape Provincial Office of Proactive Policing successfully hosted a two-day Community Police Forum (CPF) Training Session in Upington in the ZFM District on 11-12 February 2026. The training was facilitated by the Upington HRDC with the Social Crime Coordinator of Kakamas SAPS, Constable Itumeleng Mahura.
The ZFM District police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Omphile Masegela said the session was officially opened with a prayer by the Secretary of Upington CPF, Pastor Anthony Oor. Masegela said the ZFM District Police Commissioner, Major General Monica Sebili, welcomed attendees and addressed members on the challenges and shortcomings encountered within their respective CPF structures.
“She encouraged members to remain committed and dedicated in executing their duties. The Provincial Head of Proactive Policing, Brigadier Irene Kopeledi, outlined the purpose of the training session and acknowledged the presence of the Secretariat for Police, Director Dirkie Jasson from the Department of Transport Safety and Liaison.
“Jasson, presented the draft funding model of the CPF. The CPF members, accompanied by the Social Crime Coordinators, were afforded an opportunity to raise questions and concerns from their respective station areas, which were addressed during the session,” she said.
Masegela further said the Provincial Chairperson of the CPF Board, Clement Baai, delivered the vote of thanks. She added that, Baai expressed appreciation for the attendance and urged members to share the knowledge gained with fellow CPF members in their respective areas.
Picture: Persons of interest in a murder case/Supplied
By REGINALD KANYANE
15 February 2026- The Galeshewe Serious and Violent Crimes Unit are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying three persons of interest in connection with the murder of a man (37) that occured in Captain Matsie Street, Kagisho in Galeshewe Township, near Kimberley on 1 January 2026 at approximately 4:54am. It is alleged that the deceased was fatally stabbed several times on the upper body.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane said three persons of interest have been described as Sesotho speaking and believed to be between the ages of 20 and 38 years old. Shemane said the police urge anyone with information that can help with the investigation and tracing of the persons of interest to contact the investigating officer, Detective Sergeant Garcia Bitterbos on 082 469 1744 or SAPS Crime Stop number on 08600 10111 or contact the nearest police station or make use of the MySAPS App.
“All information will be treated with the strictest confidentiality,” he said.
Picture: Namakwa police officers visiting Radio Kaboesna/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
15 February 2026- The police in Northern Cape said the first airing of the “Meet and Greet” programme in Calvinia was featured on the Midday Magic program on Radio Kaboesna on 12 February 2026. The police said the program was hosted by a radio presenter, JR and was joined by the Namakwa District Head of Corporate Communication, Captain Ivan Magerman, alongside the Station Commander of Calvinia SAPS, Lieutenant Colonel Andries Du Plessis.
Magerman said: “The officers gave an overview of their seasoned careers in the South African Police Service as an introduction to the listeners.
“Lieutenant Colonel Du Plessis assured the public that schools in Calvinia remain safe and emphasized that the CPF and its sub-structures are functioning effectively.”
He further took the community into his confidence by affirming that crime is under control and expressed gratitude to residents for their active participation in the fight against crime. Magerman encouraged community members to register as informers to strengthen efforts against drug-related crimes and burglaries.
“We commend the enthusiastic participation of listeners, noting the well-considered questions posed and the constructive engagement during the program.
“In addition, we introduced the Radio Kaboesna – SAPS Helpdesk, a platform where community members can raise concerns about policing, ask questions, and share positive feedback regarding the work of local police officers,” added Magerman.
In his absence, the Namakwa District Commissioner, Brigadier Schalk Andrews, extended his sincere appreciation to the Station Management of Radio Kaboesna for their continued support in the fight against crime through radio outreaches.
Picture: Police visit a local school to create awareness against bullying/Supplied
By STAFF REPORTER
15 February 2026- The police said bullying can be defined as unwanted, aggressive behaviour that involves a real or perceived power imbalance, where repeated actions cause harm, fear, or distress to another person. The Springbok Station Commander, Colonel Moses Lekgwati and his members, conducted an awareness program at a high school in Springbok, focusing on the impact of bullying and the importance of creating a safe and supportive learning environment.
The Namakwa police spokesperson, Captain Ivan Magerman said program included engaging and interactive speeches, which were creatively turned into fun activities to help learners better understand and remember the importance of the subject. Magerman said the program actively participated, showed enthusiasm and commitment throughout the session.
“The police commended the school management, educators, and learners for their cooperation and dedication in making the program a success.
“Emphasis was placed on participation which reflects the strength of the community in addressing issues that affect young people,” he said.
15 February 2026- A man (19) from Pella was found guilty of raping his friend (15) by the Pofadder Regional Court on 10 February 2026. The accused was alleged to have been friends with the victim for a long time, but they began a sexual relationship in December 2022.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Thabo Litabe said in January 2025, the victim fell pregnant and her mother was notified by the Northern Cape Department of Health. Litabe said the matter was reported to the police and the suspect was subsequently arrested.
“He pleaded guilty to the charges and appeared before court on several occasions after the case was assigned to Detective Constable Franklin Afrikaner of Pofadder Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit.
“The court also found him guilty of statutory rape and sentenced him to five years imprisonment, which was wholly suspended for five years on condition that he is not found guilty of the same offence within that period,” he said.
Litabe further said the accused was declared unfit to possess a firearm.
Meanwhile, the Namakwa District Commander, Brigadier Schalk Andrews commended the investigating officer for securing a conviction. Andrews reiterated that crimes committed against women and children will not be tolerated and perpetrators will be harshly dealt with.
15 February 2026- A man (33) was sentenced to five years imprisonment by the Pofadder Regional Court for sexual assault. On 24 June 2024, at approximately 00:30, the accused arrived at his sister’s residence and requested accommodation for the night.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Litabe said the accused’ sister initially indicated that there was limited space and insufficient bedding. Litabe said, however, after he persistently pleaded with her, she agreed to allow him to stay over.
“He was permitted to sleep in close proximity to her minor daughter. During the night, the child woke her mother and alleged that the accused had inappropriately touched her private parts.
“When confronted, the accused requested to step outside, allegedly to relieve himself. He then fled the scene and did not return” he said.
Litabe further said a case was subsequently registered and allocated to Detective Sergeant John Rowan Nortje of the Pofadder Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit for further investigation. He added that the investigation led to the arrest of the accused, who appeared in the Pofadder Regional Court on several occasions.
“The court found the accused guilty of sexual assault. He was sentenced to five years imprisonment, wholly suspended for five years. In addition to his conviction, the court declared him unfit to possess a firearm and ordered that his name be entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders,” said Litabe.
Meanwhile, the Namakwa District Commander, Brigadier Schalk Andrews, commended the investigating officer for his hard work in ensuring that justice was served.
The Guardian 