30 March 2026 – The police in North West has made significant progress in the investigation of multiple murder cases following a successful suspect raiding operation conducted in the early hours of Friday, 27 March 2026, in Phokeng, which led to the arrest of two suspects aged 44 and 49.
The intelligence-driven operation, carried out at approximately 2am in Freedom Park Informal Settlement, was led by Phokeng Detectives with the support of Public Order Policing (POP) and Bidvest Protea Coin (BPC), which provided aerial drone support.
The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Anne Magakoe said the operation was executed in a controlled and coordinated manner, with police establishing a cordon around the target area and conducting simultaneous entry to minimise escape routes. Magakoe said drone technology was utilised to provide real-time aerial monitoring, enhancing operational effectiveness and officer safety.
“The arrested suspects briefly appeared before the Tlhabane Magistrate’s Court on Monday,” she said.
Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, commended the police for their swift and coordinated response in addressing serious and violent crime.
30 March 2026 – Four accused, Emmanuel Onyia (44), Paul Ezeama (52), Patricia Pillay (31) and Zanele Namo (32) briefly appeared in the Benoni Magistrate’s Court on 30 March 2026, facing multiple drug-related and money laundering charges. The accused were arrested in Gauteng, Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal provinces by members of the North West Hawks and Pretoria-based Hawks’ Tactical Operations Management Section (TOMS).
The Hawks spokesperson in North West, Lieutenant Colonel Tinyiko Mathebula said their arrest emanates from a lengthy investigation conducted by members of the Serious Organised Crime Investigation about a syndicate involved in drug trafficking and money laundering in the North West, Gauteng, Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal provinces.
Mathebula said an extensive investigation culminated in a takedown operation, which was conducted between 27 and 29 March 2026, across three provinces.
“The operation started in Springs and Benoni in Gauteng, where Emmanuel Onyia, an alleged kingpin, was arrested along with his accomplice, Paul Ezeama. A search and seizure operation were conducted at Onyia’s property, where suspected cocaine, CAT, full moon tablets, phenacetin, pots and electronic scales were seized.
“Recovered drugs and chemicals are estimated at R200 000. Pillay and Namo were arrested on Saturday and Sunday in Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal, respectively. They were charged with money laundering after a financial investigation conducted by the Hawks’ Priority Crime Specialised Investigation linked them to Onyia,” he said.
Mathebula further said the accused were remanded in custody and will reappear in the same court on 13 April 2026, for bail application.
Major General Nombuso Khoza, the Provincial Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation in the North West, applauded the team for working diligently to ensure that the accused are brought to justice.
Picture: Bafana Bafana players against Panama/Supplied
By BAKANG MOKOTO
30 March 2026 – Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos praised his players’ display after the South African senior men’s national team was held to a 1-1 draw by Panama during an international friendly match played at a sweltering Moses Mabhida Stadium on Friday night.
The Central Americans were the first to get their name up on the stadium scoreboard after Yoel Barcenas scored the opening goal of the match in the 23rd minute. Panama found the back of the net very much against the run of play after somehow managing to avoid conceding a goal as the hosts laid their goal under siege for long periods.
The irrepressible Oswin Appollis finally found the breakthrough when he levelled matters in the 48th minute with a stunning goal that the Panama goalkeeper did not know much about.
Broos said while Bafana Bafana could not find the winning goal that would have been just reward for the myriad of opportunities they created during the match, he could look back at the players’ delivery during the 90 minutes with satisfaction.
“I think everybody can agree that we played a good game. We dominated Panama for 90 minutes and we only made two mistakes during the game. Their goal, we should have kicked that ball into the stands, but we wanted to do things in a nice way.
“I told the players during halftime that there is nothing wrong with kicking the ball into the stands when they are under pressure. The second chance was in the second half. We had a shot that hit the upright during the second period,” he said.
Bafana Bafana travelled to Cape Town on Saturday morning ahead of their second clash against Panama at the DHL Stadium on Tuesday night.
Picture: The Provincial House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders/Supplied
By STAFF REPORTER
30 March 2026 – The North West Provincial Government (NWPG) has reiterated its dedication to bolstering traditional leadership’s position and recognising this role as a central pillar of governance, land stewardship and socio-economic development. This follows pronouncements made by the North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi during the official opening of the Provincial House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders for the 2026/2027 term, held at the Lowe Chambers in Mahikeng.
The prestigious ceremony, presided over by Chairperson Kgosi Thari Maotwe, brought together Members of the Executive Council (MECs), Traditional Leaders, Mayors, and other key stakeholders, marking a significant moment in the province’s governance calendar.
Delivering the keynote address, Mokgosi emphasised the importance of traditional leadership in shaping the province’s developmental agenda. He further said they are deliberately repositioning traditional institutions from being peripheral stakeholders to becoming primary partners in economic transformation, investment facilitation, and sustainable development.
“Our traditional leaders remain enablers of our socio-economic trajectory, particularly as custodians of our land. We have announced bold interventions aimed at unlocking the economic potential of land under traditional authorities.
“They include the transfer of qualifying properties from the North West Development Corporation (NWDC) to traditional leaders. For a prolonged period, NWDC has held assets located on land under the jurisdiction of traditional leaders, without these assets generating meaningful economic returns for the rightful landowners,” he added.
Mokgosi said this intervention is aimed at restoring control, ownership and economic dignity to traditional communities. He said they will also ensure that these properties are not merely transferred, but are actively revitalized through structured investment facilitation.
Mokgosi also announced initiatives to ensure that communities directly benefit from provincial resources. He said these include the commercialisation of provincial parks, where traditional authorities and communities will participate as equity partners.
“This approach represents a shift from exclusionary conservation models to one that recognises communities as co-owners and beneficiaries.
“Over R90 million has been allocated for the refurbishment of traditional council offices and chambers, while additional investments will go towards tools of trade, including vehicles, laptops and mobile devices,” said Mokgosi.
He said the Traditional Councils were encouraged to utilise their monthly allocation of R100 000 effectively to strengthen administrative capacity and service delivery. Mokgosi said addressing key challenges affecting rural communities, the government’s focus on improving road infrastructure, water provision, housing and agricultural development.
“We believe the upgraded road network will enhance access to essential services such as clinics, schools and community facilities, while also creating over 3000 job opportunities through labour-intensive methods,” he said.
30 March 2026 – The South African Football Association (SAFA) said it has suspended four members of the National Executive Committee (NEC) with immediate effect. SAFA said this comes following a resolution taken by the Emergency Committee on 13 March 2026.
SAFA president Danny Jordaan said this decision was subsequently ratified by the NEC on 21 March 2026, through a round-robin process. Jordaan said Gladwyn White, Monde Montshiwa, Orapeleng Setlhare and Emma Hendrick, have been formally issued with notices of suspension pending the outcome of disciplinary hearings.
“During their suspension, the individuals will lose all membership rights and are prohibited from engaging in any SAFA-related activities, including contact with other members, accessing SAFA premises and systems, or performing official duties.
“The association confirms that the necessary disciplinary processes will be initiated and conducted without unnecessary delay, in line with SAFA’s governance frameworks and commitment to transparency and accountability,” he said.
Jordaan further said SAFA remains steadfast in ensuring that all matters of governance are handled with integrity, while safeguarding the interests of South African football at all levels. He added that beyond governance matters, the association continues to prioritise football development.
“Several junior and senior national teams are currently in camp as part of ongoing football development and preparation programmes for participation in international tournaments,” said Jordaan.
Picture: Minister of Department of Water and Sanitation, Pemmy Majodina
REGINALD KANYANE
30 March 2026 – The Minister of Water and Sanitation, Pemmy Majodina will on Tuesday, release the Green Drop Report alongside progress reports on the Blue Drop and No Drop programmes. Majodina is also expected to provide a comprehensive update on South Africa’s drinking water quality, service provision and wastewater management.
The Department of Water and Sanitation, Wisane Mabasa said the Blue Drop, Green Drop and No Drop Certification programmes are key regulatory tools of the department, designed to drive excellence and accountability across municipalities. Mabasa said these incentive-based programmes assess performance in drinking water quality, wastewater treatment, as well as water conservation and demand management.
“The Green Drop Report will provide an in-depth evaluation of wastewater management across municipalities, while the Blue Drop and No Drop progress reports will track improvements and ongoing challenges in drinking water quality and water use efficiency.
“Together, these reports will deliver a clear, evidence-based snapshot of how municipalities are meeting their constitutional obligations to provide reliable water and sanitation services,” she said.
Mabasa further said they will also recognise high-performing Water Services Authorities, identify areas of concern and outline targeted interventions to strengthen regulation and support struggling municipalities. She added that as the sector regulator under the National Water Act and the Water Services Act, the department has steadily strengthened its oversight through these programmes, first
introduced with the Blue Drop and Green Drop Reports in 2008 and later expanded with the No Drop programme in 2014.
“The release of these reports marks a critical moment for transparency, accountability and the
ongoing effort to secure safe and sustainable water services for all South Africans.
“The event will take place at Banquet Hall, Steve Tshwete Local Municipality in Mpumalanga, on Tuesday at 9am,” said Mabasa.
30 March 2026 – The accused, Mogotsi Kushumane (48) was sentenced to four life terms imprisonment by the Molopo Regional Court for multiple rape incidents committed between 2013 and 2016. Kushumane was convicted for a series of violent sexual offences committed in Mmabatho and surrounding areas, where victims were attacked in separate incidents.
The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Anne Magakoe said in some cases, victims were accosted while with companions. Magakoe said in others, they were lured or overpowered before being sexually assaulted.
“Through meticulous investigation and the utilisation of forensic DNA evidence, the accused was positively linked to the crimes. He subsequently pleaded guilty to all charges. The court sentenced Kushumane to four life terms of imprisonment, which will run concurrently.
“He was also declared unfit to possess a firearm and his name will be entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders,” she said.
Magakoe further said the case was investigated by D/Sgt Lorraine Semunza attached to Provincial Serial and Electronic Crime Investigation, whose diligence and commitment were instrumental in securing the conviction.
Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, commended the investigating officer and all role players involved, stating that the sentence sends a strong message that perpetrators of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) will face the full might of the law.
30 March 2026 – A man (29) who raped a girl (10) was sentenced to life imprisonment by the Ditsobotla Regional Court. The evidence presented in court stated that on 20 October 2018, the victim was playing with a friend in Mooifontein Village when the accused, Motseonageng Phakedi approached them.
The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Anne Magakoe said he produced a sjambok, threatened the children and chased the friend away before dragging the victim to his residence, where he raped her. Magakoe said the incident was reported to police and following thorough investigations, the accused was arrested.
“Phakedi pleaded not guilty on 28 January 2025, but was subsequently convicted on 24 October 2025. The case was investigated by D/Sgt Herbert Makunye attached to the Provincial Serial and Electronic Crime Investigation, whose dedication ensured a successful conviction,” she said.
Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, praised the investigating officer and stakeholders, reaffirming SAPS’ firm stance against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and its commitment to protecting the vulnerable. Naidoo said they welcome the life imprisonment sentence as it shows that justice has been served for the victim.
30 March 2026 – The accused, Tatlhego Dire (33) was sentenced to double life imprisonment the Ditsobotla Regional Court for two separate rape incidents committed in Mareetsane village, near Mahikeng. On 16 January 2013, the victim was walking with her boyfriend in Mareetsane when the accused attacked them, striking the boyfriend with a steel pipe before he fled.
The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Anne Magakoe said Dire then dragged the victim to his residence, where he raped her throughout the night. Magakoe said in a separate incident on 30 October 2011, a victim (25) was walking with a friend to a shop when the accused approached them, stabbed the victim on the head and chased the friend away.
“He then dragged the victim to a nearby place, where he raped her. Dire pleaded not guilty on 18 June 2025, but was subsequently convicted. During sentencing proceedings, the state argued for life imprisonment, emphasising the brutality of the attacks and the serious injuries inflicted on the victims.
“In delivering judgment, Magistrate Ndade Maphango agreed with the state, noting that the accused showed no remorse and that the offences were of a serious and violent nature. The accused was sentenced to life imprisonment on both counts,” she said.
Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, commended the investigating officer, D/Sgt Hebert Mkaunye from the Provincial Serial and Electronic Crime Investigation, whose thorough investigation contributed to the successful conviction. Naidoo stated that this conviction sends a strong message that perpetrators of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) will face the full might of the law.
30 March 2026 – A man (57) has been sentenced to life imprisonment by the Pretoria High Court for killing his wife. On the night of 12 October 2024, the deceased, Theonette Smith and the accused, Peter Johannes Smith were consuming alcohol and celebrating Smith’s new work appointment at their place of residence in Brits.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson, Lumka Mahanjana said while celebrating, an argument ensued between the two and during the argument, the deceased physically assaulted Smith by slapping him. Mahanjana said in response, Smith assaulted the deceased by slapping her multiple times on her head and the deceased fell on the floor and died.
“Thereafter, Smith left the deceased lying on the floor in their living area and went to sleep. The following morning, Smith took the body of the deceased, placed it in his car and dumped the half-naked body of the deceased in a nearby veld.
“Smith then went to the Brits Police Station to report his wife missing and while opening a missing person’s report, a police officer received a phone call from a community member stating that they had found a half-naked body at a veld,” she said.
Mahanjana further said the police then took Smith to the veld and on arrival Smith identified the dead body as his wife. She added that while at the veld, the police noticed blood stains in Smith’s car and requested him to take them to his place of residence.
“On arrival, the police found blood stains on Smith’s couch and living room. Smith was then arrested at his place of residence and has been in custody since the NPA successfully opposed his release on bail.
“During trial proceedings, Smith pleaded not guilty to the charge of murder. However, the state prosecutor, advocate Vusimuzi Tshabalala, presented compelling evidence, including expert testimony from a pathologist, which proved the accused’s guilt beyond reasonable doubt,” said Mahanjana.
She said during sentencing proceedings, the defence requested the court to deviate from imposing the prescribed minimum sentence of life imprisonment, citing that Smith is a first-time offender, had recently secured permanent employment as a teacher and holds a black belt in karate. Mahanjana said the defence further argued that he did not cause any serious injuries to the deceased and that he was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the offence.
“Tshabalala opposed this submission, arguing that Smith was aware of the deceased’s underlying medical condition and had a duty to protect her as his spouse. Instead, he subjected her to violence, ultimately causing her death.
“The state further submitted that Smith demonstrated a lack of remorse, attempted to mislead the police and degraded the dignity of the deceased by disposing of her half-naked body in a veld,” she said.
Mahanjana said Tshabalala also read a Victim Impact Statement (VIS) facilitated by Court Preparation Officer Lebogang Lebese, where the daughter of the deceased expressed how her psychological and physical wellbeing has deteriorated after her mother died and that she has lost her support system. She said in delivering judgment, acting Judge Melissa Jordan agreed with the state’s submissions, noting that Smith had abused a position of trust.
“The court found that, as a trained karate practitioner, he possessed the knowledge and capability to inflict harm. The judge further rejected the argument that alcohol influenced his actions, noting that Smith had indicated he would have acted similarly even if sober.
“The court found no substantial and compelling circumstances to justify a deviation from the prescribed minimum sentence and accordingly imposed life imprisonment,” said Mahanjana.
She said the NPA reiterates its commitment to combating Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and ensuring that perpetrators of crimes against vulnerable persons are held accountable. Mahanjana said he was further sentenced to five years imprisonment for defeating the ends of justice.
“The court ordered that the five-year sentence run concurrently with the life sentence,” she said.
The Guardian 