Counterfeit goods worth R260m confiscated

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Picture: The police confiscate counterfeit goods/Supplied

By BAKANG MOKOTO

29 September 2025- The South African Police Service (SAPS) together with its crime-fighting partners said, they continue to record commendable progress in dismantling the illegal trade in counterfeit and illicit goods across the country. Within a week, police seized counterfeit goods valued at more than R260 million during multiple takedown operations in North West.

The North West police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Amanda van Wyk said more than 100 shops in and around Coligny, Klerksdorp, Lichtenburg, Mahikeng, Potchefstroom, Rustenburg, Ventersdorp and Zeerust, were identified and targeted between 15 and 24 September 2025.  Van Wyk said from these operations, police confiscated over 86 000 counterfeit items that include designer branded clothing, sports apparel, footwear, bags, caps, toys, and consumables.

“The police also confiscated counterfeit medicines valued at more than R45 000, along with illicit cigarettes and liquor. The integrated operations were led by the National Counterfeit and Illicit Goods Unit, supported by Public Order Policing and Crime Prevention Units in North West as well as major role players such as the South African Revenue Service (SARS) Customs Division and brand protectors,” she said.

Van Wyk further said acting under the authority of the Counterfeit Goods Act, 1997, custom officials and brand protectors play a crucial role in identifying, verifying, and detaining counterfeit items. She added that the Act protects intellectual property rights by prohibiting and preventing the trade in and manufacturing of counterfeit goods.

“These recent operations form part of ongoing national efforts to disrupt organised criminal networks, protect legitimate businesses, and safeguard the public from potentially harmful products,” said van Wyk.

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Lesotho national sentenced to two life terms imprisonment for rape

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

29 September 2025 – A man (40) was sentenced to two life terms imprisonment by the Potchefstroom Regional Court for rape. The convict was sentenced for raping his girlfriend in January 2023, at Ikageng Township, near Potchefstroom.

The North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said consequent to registration of the case that was investigated by the Potchefstroom Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) unit, the accused, Elias Tsetla, was arrested three days later. Mokgwabone said after failing to prove his legal status in the country, Tsetla, who is from Lesotho, was further charged with contravention of the Immigration Act, 2002.

“Evidence was led in court that the girlfriend, then aged 28, arrived home and found the boyfriend who accused her of having affairs with other men. Following the exchange regarding the accusations, the convict assaulted and twice raped her.   

“Although he pleaded not guilty, the accused, who has been in custody since his arrest, was found guilty and sentenced to two life terms imprisonment for two counts of rape, sentenced to three months imprisonment or to pay a fine of R3000 for violation of Immigration Act,” he said.

He further said the court ordered that the accused’s name be entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders.

Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General Dintletse Molefe, welcomed the sentences. Molefe and the Director of Public Prosecutions, Dr Rachel Makhari extolled Warrant Officer Jaco Jonker, the state prosecutor, advocate Annecke Du Toit and everyone who played a critical role to ensure that the conviction is secured as part of the entities’ commitment to deal firmly with violence against women and children.

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‘Sleeping with learners is wholly inappropriate and despicable’

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Picture: A pregnant learner/Generic

By REGINALD KANYANE

29 September 2025 – The Select Committee on Education, Science and the Creative Industries has expressed alarm about allegations that educators impregnated learners and paid them for termination. The committee said it was concerning that so many alleged incidents of sexual violations of learners are being discussed in retrospect on social media platforms.

The Chairperson of the Committee, Makhi Feni, condemned these alleged incidents and called on professional bodies to follow up and act accordingly. Feni said learners who have been violated in this manner must come forward and report these incidents to the police.

“South Africa’s legislative framework criminalises this act, and so does the Code of Conduct for Educators. We are shocked by the revelations on social media, and so many women are attesting to such statements. That calls for a proper investigation and appropriate sanction, even if it is retrospective. Educators cannot feast on our children when we’ve entrusted them with custodianship.

“Allegations had surfaced pointing to what appears to be a pervasive silent culture in Eastern Cape schools. Several women came out in support and even alleged that it has become “normal practice” for educators to pay learners to terminate pregnancies,” he said.

Feni further calls on the South African Council for Educators to follow up on the alleged incidents, where schools and suspected educators had been named. He added that they call on learners and parents to come forward and report these alleged incidents, even if they were approached as relationships.

“Sleeping with learners is wholly inappropriate and despicable. We, therefore, frown upon such acts. All educators have a parental responsibility when children are in their care,” said Feni.

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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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