11 May 2026 – The acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo said he has noted with appreciation the successful rescue of two monkeys that were allegedly being illegally traded at an auction in Vryburg on Friday morning. Naidoo said according to information received, a wildlife rehabilitation volunteer and farmers attending the auction alerted authorities after discovering that a couple were attempting to sell two tied-up monkeys at a local auction yard.
He further said understanding the urgency of the matter, police were called for assistance. Naidoo added that Warrant Officer Willem Erasmus of the Vryburg K9 Unit responded swiftly to the complaint, proceeded to the scene.
“Erasmus worked together with the wildlife volunteer to secure the animals and apprehend the suspects. The suspects were subsequently fined for the illegal possession and attempted sale of indigenous wildlife.
“The rescued monkeys were placed in safe care pending their transfer to the relevant Nature Conservation authorities at a registered rehabilitation centre,” he said.
Naidoo commended both the community member and the police officer for their decisive actions. He emphasised that this incident demonstrates the importance of collaboration between communities, conservation stakeholders and law enforcement agencies in protecting our wildlife heritage.
“The swift response by Erasmus and the vigilance shown by the wildlife volunteer are highly commendable and that the police remain committed to enforcing laws aimed at protecting indigenous wildlife and urges members of the public to report all forms of wildlife crimes.
“Lastly, he encouraged communities to continue working closely with law enforcement authorities to combat environmental and wildlife-related crimes,” said Naidoo.
Picture: Dr Elias Malindi during graduation/Supplied
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
11 May 2026 – The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi has congratulated the newly-appointed Director of Communication, Dr Elias Malindi on his recent achievement of obtaining a Doctorate of Philosophy (PhD) in Communication. Motsumi said Malindi graduated from the North West University (Mahikeng campus) on Friday.
She further said Malindi brings with him more than 20 years of experience in Communication Services within the department, reflecting a long-standing commitment to excellence and professional growth. Motsumi added that before entering academia, Malindi worked underground in the mining sector for eight years.
“This experience shaped his work ethic and strengthened his determination to pursue higher education. Through commitment and resilience, he progressed academically and ultimately obtained his Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Communication, B.A. (Honours) in Communication before registering for a Master of Arts (M.A.) dissertation in Communication, which he completed in 2013.
“He subsequently enrolled for a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Communication Studies. All of these qualifications were obtained through the North West University (Mahikeng campus),” she said.
Motsumi said the topic for his study was: “Developing a communication framework for the effective dissemination of pandemic-related information in rural areas of the Ngaka Modiri Molema District in South Africa”. She said this study is situated within the field of health communication and the research addresses challenges associated with information exchange in underserved communities during public health crises.
“A qualitative research design was employed, incorporating the perspectives of key stakeholders, including traditional leaders, educational institutions and government departments. The findings reveal that existing communication approaches are often fragmented and inadequately aligned with local contexts.
“The study proposes a contextually relevant framework that integrates community-based structures and culturally appropriate communication strategies. This framework seeks to enhance coordination, improve access to information, and strengthen community responsiveness and resilience during pandemics,” said Motsumi.
Motsumi congratulated Malindi and expressed that his hard work, dedication and commitment to academic excellence serve as an inspiration to many within the education sector. She said Malindi’s achievement is a testament to perseverance, discipline and a passion for lifelong learning.
“His accomplishment not only brings pride to the department, but also demonstrates the importance of continuous personal and professional development. I would like to encourage all our colleagues in the department, not to relax but to develop themselves in their different careers.
“One day they are going to reap the benefits of personal development. Malindi will continue to inspire many employees, who started from humble beginnings and worked their way up through dedication, perseverance, and hard work,” said Motsumi.
She said Malindi’s achievement stands as a testament to perseverance and the transformative power of education. Motsumi said his story reflects a firm belief that one’s background does not determine one’s future.
Picture: The North West MEC for DEDECT, Bitsa Lenkopane/Facebook
By REGINALD KANYANE
11 May 2026 – The North West MEC for Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), Bitsa Lenkopane has intensified its environmental compliance and enforcement programme aimed at addressing illegal dumping, non-compliant landfill sites, environmental pollution and municipal failure to enforce waste management by-laws across the province. Lenkopane said this forms part of her department’s declared 18-day provincial environmental compliance marathon, which has already commenced in the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality, where environmental compliance inspections and assessments are currently underway.
She further said to date, between two and three municipalities within the district have already been covered, with multiple illegal dumping hotspots, non-compliant waste sites, and areas of environmental concern identified for further intervention and enforcement action. Lenkopane added that the programme focuses not only on municipal compliance, but also on the responsibilities of citizens, businesses and communities in curbing illegal dumping and protecting the environment.
“The department has observed with serious concern the continued deterioration of waste management systems in certain municipalities, the uncontrolled growth of illegal dumping sites, and the increasing environmental and public health risks associated with these practices.
“Of particular concern is the direct linkage between unmanaged waste sites, rodent infestation, flies, and harmful organisms that contaminate communities, shops, storage facilities, and food handling areas, contributing to food safety risks and incidents of food poisoning,” she said.
Lenkopane said illegal dumping and poor waste management practices are further contributing to environmental degradation, pollution and climate change pressures, while undermining the constitutional right of communities to a clean and healthy environment. She said her department reiterates that municipalities have a direct legal responsibility to implement and enforce waste management bylaws, maintain compliant landfill operations, and ensure proper waste disposal systems within their jurisdictions.
“We have instructed the department to strengthen inspections, compliance monitoring, and enforcement measures in terms of the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA) and the National Environmental Management: Waste Act. The department will intensify environmental compliance inspections, enforcement of landfill licensing conditions and monitoring of municipal waste management systems.
“This includes identification of illegal dumping hotspots, compliance verification against Integrated Waste Management Plans, issuing of directives and compliance notices and recommendations for enforcement action where violations persist,” said Lenkopane.
She said municipalities found to be operating unlawful or non-compliant landfill sites or municipalities failing to act against illegal dumping and environmental pollution, may face consequences in terms of environmental legislation. Lenkopane said the province is entering a new phase of environmental enforcement and accountability.
“The culture of neglect, uncontrolled dumping, and failure to enforce by-laws cannot continue. We further emphasised that while DEDECT remains committed to providing intergovernmental relations support, technical assistance and environmental compliance guidance to municipalities, this support must not be interpreted as a substitute for municipal accountability.
“The department will support municipalities where support is required, but municipalities must execute their constitutional and legislative responsibilities. Where there is continued disregard for environmental compliance obligations, the department will not hesitate to act within the provisions of the law,” she said.
Lenkopane said the department confirmed that the 18-day compliance marathon will continue across other districts of the province as part of a broader environmental compliance, public awareness and waste management intervention programme under the “Matlakala ke Zaka” campaign. She said communities are encouraged to work together with government in reporting illegal dumping activities and protecting the environment for present and future generations.
Picture: A bridge between Taung and Reivilo submerged
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
11 May 2026 – Multiple Districts in the Northern Cape have been affected by extreme weather conditions hence the police are appealing to residents to implement safety measures during this period and also to be vigilant and alert. The police said floods, ice and snow have been observed in the John Taolo Gaetsewe, Pixley Ka Seme, ZF Mgcawu and Frances Baard Districts.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Colonel Cherelle Ehlers said the motorists and residents are urged to exercise extreme caution. Ehlers said motorists should reduce speed and increase following distance to allow for adequate reaction time in case of sudden stops or changing road conditions.
“Use headlights at all times to enhance visibility and ensure your vehicle is visible to others. Ensure windshield wipers are functioning properly to maintain clear visibility. Avoid puddles and standing water, which may conceal potholes.
“Be cautious of large vehicles that may reduce your visibility due to spray. Stay alert and avoid distractions while driving. If necessary, pull over safely. Adhere to additional road signs indicating road closures and the use of alternative routes,” she said.
Ehlers further said people should ensure that all fires in fireplaces are extinguished and heaters are switched off before going to bed. She added that they should never sleep with burning candles and refrain from using “Umbolas” inside their houses.
“Leave a door or window partially open when using a fuel fired heater to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Install smoke alarms and test whether they are in a working condition. Take extra care when cooking, especially with gas and open fires.
“Do not overload multi-plugs and wall sockets with heating appliances. Switch off electric blankets at night and rather opt for extra warm blankets during winter. Do not splash water on oil or grease that caught fire in your cooking pan as this spreads the fire. Rather, use a fire extinguisher,” said Ehlers.
She urged residents to keep matches, lighters and other flammable liquids out of the reach of children. Ehlers said when cooking, they should keep flammable items like curtains, oven gloves and paper towels far away from burners and stoves.
“Use portable air conditioners safely and with extra care. If your residence catches fire, get out, stay out, call for help, and never re-enter your burning house for pets or personal belongings. Keep heaters away from flammable or combustible materials.
“Never dry wet or damp clothes or fabrics on an electric heater. Follow updated weather alerts on media platforms. Be responsible, conscientious and safe at all times,” she said.
11 May 2026 – The embattled Republic of South Africa (RSA) president, Cyril Ramaphosa said the recent violent protests and criminal acts directed at foreign nationals in parts of the country do not represent the views of South Africa’s people nor reflect the government’s policy. Ramaphosa said these are the acts of opportunists who are exploiting the legitimate grievances, particularly those of the poor, under the false guise of ‘community activism’.
He further said some of these people are assuming functions that only state officials are permitted to perform, including stopping people to check identification and conducting searches of private property. Ramaphosa added that such lawlessness will not be tolerated, regardless of who the perpetrators or victims are.
“At the same time, as a society, we need to deal decisively – and within the law – with the challenge of illegal immigration, which risks our social stability, governance and national security. Undocumented migration places strain on healthcare, housing and municipal services, particularly in poor communities.
“It distorts the labour market. In a country with high unemployment, some employers are exploiting undocumented, cheaper foreign labour over hiring citizens and paying them legal wages. Not only is this fuelling social tension, it is actively undermining our labour protection regime and eroding the hard-won rights of workers,” he said.
Ramaphosa said in tackling illegal migration, they are balancing the constitutional and international obligations with safeguarding national security. He said the Border Management Authority (BMA) and the Defence Force are strengthening border security and combating illicit cross-border activity.
“We commend the BMA for successfully intercepting some 450 000 people trying to enter South Africa illegally in the past financial year. As we strengthen our borders, we continue to reform our migration and citizenship framework.
“We are stepping up workplace enforcement against employers who hire undocumented foreign nationals in violation of labour and immigration laws. We announced in the State of the Nation Address that we would be hiring up to 10 000 inspectors through the Department of Labour and Employment to ensure that our labour and immigration laws are adhered to,” said Ramaphosa.
He said they continue to arrest and deport undocumented foreign nationals in accordance with the law as they take forward the fight against corruption within the immigration system. Ramaphosa said this is a society-wide challenge in which the private sector and government should all play a constructive part.
“South African citizens who collude with undocumented foreign nationals in fake marriages, the illegal sale of state-subsidised housing or accepting bribes to facilitate access to social services only deepen the problem. Many South Africans are exploiting undocumented labour in households and in the informal sector.
“As a country, we must reject attempts to damage our country’s international reputation and to undermine the solidarity that has defined South Africa’s relations with the rest of Africa since the dawn of democracy,” he said.
Ramaphosa said since 1994, they have actively advanced a culture of human rights, all the while deepening the cause of African integration, cooperation and solidarity. He said they have a strong refugee protection framework that prioritises integration of persons displaced by conflict, war and persecution.
“Refugees are not confined to camps, as happens in some other countries. In South Africa, they are able to live in communities, participate in the economy and access services like healthcare and education.
“South Africa continues to play its part in deepening regional economic integration and travel. Last year alone, visitors from African countries accounted for just over 8 million of a total of 10.5 million tourist arrivals,” said Ramaphosa.
He said South Africa invests significantly in strengthening academic, cultural and institutional ties with the rest of Africa through hosting students and academics from Africa in their universities, through people-to-people exchanges and through their hosting of the Pan-African Parliament. Ramaphosa said their demonstrated commitment to deepening African integration and solidarity should not be undermined by isolated acts of criminality.
“South Africa is not unique in confronting the pressures associated with undocumented migration. Many countries across the world, including in Africa, are themselves grappling with similar tensions. This calls for cooperation and understanding between countries on the continent and further afield.
“Like every other country in the world, we will continue asserting our sovereign right to regulate migration, secure our borders and enforce our laws. We must make it clear that there is no place in South Africa for xenophobia, ethnic mobilisation, intolerance or violence,” he said.
Ramaphosa said everyone in South Africa is bound by the same laws and they are committed to ensuring that they are respected and upheld by citizens and foreign nationals alike.
11 May 2026 – A primary school general worker in Mamelodi West, near Pretoria, Muthi Lazarus Ratlhogo (62), was sentenced to two life imprisonment for rape. This comes after Ratlhogo convicted for two counts of rape of a learner (7).
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson, Lumka Mahanjana said the court further ordered that his name be added on the National Register for Sex Offenders and declared him unfit to possess a firearm. Mahanjana said Ratlhogo worked as a gardener at the school.
“On 9 July 2019, shortly after the victim was dropped off at school with her brother and before other learners had arrived, Ratlhogo called the child to the school storeroom. He locked the door, placed two small chairs together, instructed her to lie down, and raped her. He warned the child not to tell anyone.
“On 11 July 2019, during break time, Ratlhogo again called the minor victim, took her to the storeroom and raped her for the second time. That same evening, the child’s mother noticed she was limping and walking with difficulty. Upon questioning, the child broke down and disclosed that the school gardener had raped her,” she said.
Mahanjana further said the matter was immediately reported to the police and Ratlhogo was arrested on 12 July 2019. She added that the minor victim was taken to the NPA’s Thuthuzela Care Centre (TCC) in Mamelodi, where she received comprehensive support, including medical, psychological, and legal assistance.
“In court, Ratlhogo pleaded not guilty and denied the offences. However, the State Prosecutor, Mpho Monyane, presented strong evidence, including the testimony of the child and her mother, which proved the State’s case beyond a reasonable doubt.
“During sentencing proceedings, Ratlhogo pleaded for leniency because of his age and that he is taking chronic medication. Prosecutor Mpho Monyane, however, argued for two life sentences, emphasising the seriousness of the offences, the gross breach of trust, and the fact that Ratlhogo showed no remorse,” said Mahanjana.
She said Monyane highlighted that as a school employee, he was in a position of trust and was expected to protect learners, yet he violated a child twice and stole her innocence.
Magistrate Mthimunye agreed with the state and found no substantial and compelling circumstances to deviate from the prescribed minimum sentence. He noted Ratlhogo’s lack of remorse and imposed two life sentences.
Meanwhile, the acting Director of Public Prosecutions, Advocate Marika Jansen van Vuuren, commended the dedication of Prosecutor Mpho Monyane, Investigating Officer Warrant Officer Maloma, and Case Manager at the Mamelodi TCC, Advocate Linda van Schalkwyk, for their role in securing the conviction and sentence. She reiterated that combating Gender-Based Violence remains a top priority for the NPA.
Picture: One of firearms confiscated by the police/Supplied
By STAFF REPORTER
11 May 2026 – The Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation in collaboration with the North West Provincial Illicit Mining Task Team, Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Tactical Response Team, Potchefstroom Explosives Unit, Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Crime Intelligence, Klerksdorp Local Criminal Record Centre and SSG Security arrested three suspects aged between 35 and 42, for alleged unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition. It is alleged that the suspects were arrested on 8 May 2026, at a hostel in Orkney.
The Hawks spokesperson in North West, Lieutenant Colonel Tinyiko Mathebula said their arrest followed a tip-off received regarding alleged illegal miners who were suspected to be in possession of firearms. Mathebula said a multidisciplinary operation was conducted and resulted in the arrest of three suspects after they were found in possession of unlawful firearms and ammunition.
“Seven other suspects aged between 35 and 45, who are believed to be Lesotho and Mozambican nationals were arrested for contravention of the Immigration Act of 13 of 2002,” he said.
Meanwhile, the North West Provincial Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, Major General Nombuso Khoza has applauded the team’s sterling efforts in ensuring that the proliferation of illegal firearms is curbed.
11 May 2026 – The accused, William Kgomotso Mampye (54) appeared in the Specialised Commercial Crime Court sitting in Motswedi on Friday, facing charges of fraud and defeating the ends of justice. Mampye was arrested on 7 May 2026, by the Rustenburg-based Serious Corruption Investigation.
The Hawks spokesperson in North West, Warrant Officer Nkosinathi Ndlovu said it is alleged that in September 2020, SAPS members attached to Skilpadshek Border Post received information about a truck that was transporting illicit cigarettes to Mozambique. Ndlovu said the team reportedly intercepted the truck and upon searching it, where packs of cigarettes were found.
“The police reportedly requested the driver to produce import declaration documents of the cigarettes, which he failed to do. He was subsequently placed under arrest and the truck with consignment was seized and detained in the South African Revenue Service’s storage facility.
“Reports indicate that the accused, who was a SARS employee at the time, unlawfully disposed of the seized cargo and the detained suspect from the SARS facility. Following his court appearance, the accused was granted R20 000 bail and his matter was remanded to 19 June 2026,” he said.
11 May 2026 – The corruption case against Dr Malusi Gigaba together with former Group Chief Financial Officer (GCFO), Anoj Singh, former Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of Transnet, Brian Molefe, former Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Siyabonga Gama and Thamsanqa Jiyane who was the Chief Procurement Officer (CPO), appeared before the Gauteng Division of the High Court sitting in Johannesburg, where it was postponed to 10 July 2026 for consultations.
The Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) spokesperson, Henry Mamothame said these consultations will be between the representatives of the accused wherein they are expected to finalise on the comparison of the docket disclosed by the NPA’s IDAC, which the court ordered that it should be completed before 30 July 2026. Mamothame said the state and the legal representatives of the accused further agreed that a formal timeline will be submitted to court by 15 May 2026, for pretrial issues, that includes applications for further particulars, can be agreed on and for trial dates to be determined.
“The indictments served on the accused relate to the period in which Transnet engaged in the process of acquiring locomotives to expand and modernise the country’s rail infrastructure, during which the tender processes were flouted, and three contracts were irregularly awarded to provide Transnet with 95, 100 and 1064 locomotives in three different contracts, resulting in a loss of billions of rands for Transnet,” he said.
11 May 2026 – The accused, Japhta Thabiso Khoele (47) appeared in the Brits Magistrate’s Court on 8 May 2026, facing charges of robbery with aggravating circumstances. It is alleged that on 5 May 2026, a security official was accosted by four armed suspects after he had collected cash from a supermarket in Brits.
The Hawks spokesperson in North West, Warrant Officer Nkosinathi Ndlovu said the suspects allegedly fired shots injuring the security official on his leg before fleeing with an undisclosed amount of cash. Ndlovu said an investigation led the Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation to Letlhabile village in Brits, where one suspect was arrested after he was caught setting alight a vehicle that was used as a getaway during robbery.
“Upon conducting a search, the Hawks allegedly found R20 000 in cash and police reflective jackets in possession of the suspect. The accused was remanded in custody and his matter was postponed to 15 May 2026 for bail application,” he said.
The Guardian 