Picture: A police officer arrested for an offence/Generic
By STAFF REPORTER
13 April 2026 – Two Police Constables and a Reservist who were arrested for corruption, granted bail. Constable Itumeleng Moseki (39), Constable Fungile Advocate Yelani (28) and Reservist Constable Joseph Themba Tshele (47), working at Klerksdorp Crime Prevention, were granted a R2000 bail each by the Klerksdorp Magistrates’ Court on 31 March 2026 and their case was postponed until 12 May 2026.
The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Adele Myburgh said their court appearance follows their apprehension on 26 March 2026, by members of the Provincial Anti-Corruption Investigation Unit (ACIU). Myburgh said it is alleged the accused targeted foreign businessmen (victims) between December 2025 and March 2026.
“After inspecting their permits/passports and businesses, they would demand money to not arrest them. In one of the cases reported on 12 March 2026, a victim and his family member were allegedly at their shop, when the accused visited them. After the victim could only provide a copy of his passport, he was detained in the police vehicle.
“Furthermore, the accused searched through the shop and stole vape cigarettes. The victim was then transported to the Klerksdorp Police Station and money was demanded from the remaining family member in order to release him. Later the victim was released by the accused after money was handed over to them,” she said.
Myburgh further said the matter was then reported to the ACIU, who established that there was no case reported against the victim. She added that investigations are ongoing and linking the accused to more cases is imminent.
Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, congratulated the ACIU for their meticulous investigation that led to the arrest of the trio. Naidoo expressed his disapproval for the police’s conduct, which he said is dishonest, a theft of public trust and will not go unpunished.
11 April 2026 – The South African National Civic Organisation (SANCO) Interim Provincial Coordinating Committee (IPCC) in North West has announced the appointment of regional committees to coordinate the revival of its structures across the province in a statement issued on Saturday. SANCO IPCC said that the establishment of the interim regional coordinating committees is aimed at uniting, rebuilding and reorganizing effective civic movement structures.
SANCO provincial convenor, Paul Sebegoe said the unity of the civic movement is sacrosanct for SANCO to reclaim its position as a center of influence as well as its historic mission as the vanguard of our communities to advance community struggles for people driven and community centered development. Sebegoe said they will not allow gatekeeping and factionalism, which have weakened them to characterize the unfolding unity process.
“These key resolutions were adopted by the IPCC in its meeting on 9 April 2026 meeting. For the civic movement to achieve this seemingly mammoth and insurmountable task, it would need to work tirelessly to mobilize its grassroot support for civic activism. We will spare no effort to confront unethical conduct such as corruption, including crime threatening our communities, while contributing practical solutions necessary to address rising unemployment affecting our youth as well as urgently fix service delivery challenges across our municipalities.
“The interim regional structures which were constituted based on constitutional principles as well as considerations such as organizational experience, leadership capacity, commitment to unity, gender, geographic spread, representativity, inclusivity and expertise are expected to launch zonal structures in the next week,” he said.
Picture: A Grade 12 learner, Enica Nombela/Facebook
By OBAKENG MAJE
11 April 2026 – A third learner who was hospitalised after being involved in a horrific car accident that claimed the lives of two learners, Remofiloe Mtshengu (15) and Kitso Mathope (16), has succumbed to her injuries. According to the Vryburg High School, a Grade 12 learner, Enica Nombela (18) who was hospitalised since Wednesday, died today.
The school said: “We are deeply saddened to share an update with our school community following the tragic car accident involving a group of our learners earlier this week.
“With great sorrow, we confirm that another one of our learners, Enica Nombela, has sadly passed away after being in hospital since Wednesday. This brings the loss to three of our learners, along with the driver.” the school said.
The school said four learners were travelling to school with private transport from Delareyville when the accident took place. It said it is grateful to share that the fourth learner, Neo Mankwe is recovering well after undergoing an operation at Milpark Hospital in Johannesburg.
“Our hearts are broken. We extend our deepest condolences to the families, friends and loved ones affected by this devastating loss. As a school, we stand together in grief and will continue to offer all the support we can during this incredibly difficult time.
“We kindly ask the community to keep the families and the injured learner in your thoughts and prayers and to respect their privacy as they navigate this tragedy.”
Three learners from Vryburg High School along with their driver (43), died in a horrific car accident. It is alleged that the accident happened in the early hours of Wednesday, 8 April 2026.
The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi said it is reported that four girl learners and their driver, were travelling in their private transport from Delareyville to Vryburg to attend school as it was the reopening of schools for the second term. Motsumi said it is further reported that, approximately 20 kilometres from Vryburg, their vehicle collided with a truck.
“Unfortunately, the crash resulted in the immediate loss of three lives.
“Two learners and the driver were declared dead at the scene, while the two other learners sustained severe injuries. The deceased learners, Remofiloe Mtshengu (15) and Kitso Mathope (16), were in Grade 9 and 10 respectively, while the seriously injured learners are both in Grade 12.
“We are devastated by the tragic news of the accident. Immediately after receiving the news, I drove to Joe Morolong Memorial Hospital in Vryburg to offer my support to the families and wished learners a speedy recovery,” she said.
Motsumi further said on behalf of the entire department, she wishes to convey their heartfelt and deepest condolences to the families of the bereaved learners and also wish a speedy recovery to those who are still in hospital. She added that to the Vryburg High School community, pray that they remain strong during this difficult time.
“I further urge all drivers who are transporting learners to school, to be extremely cautious on the road. The death of one learner is too many. We cannot allow the lives of our learners to perish on the road like this. These learners were coming to school for the second quarter and we were having so many plans to ensure that they excel in their studies.
“The Wellness Unit from the District Office has already conducted trauma debriefing to the learners and the educators. Psycho social support will also be extended to the affected family members,” said Motsumi.
She said the memorial service and the funeral details of the deceased learners will be released once all the family members have been consulted.
Meanwhile, the North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng sent his deepest condolences to the families of two the deceased. Morweng said the occupants were traveling on N14 road from Delareyville to Vryburg on the first day of the second school quarter when the sedan in which they were traveling collided head on with a truck traveling the opposite direction.
“The truck driver (45), who was travelling alone, was also taken to the hospital with minor injuries. A case of culpable homicide is being investigated,” he said.
Picture: Illegal foreign national nabbed during roadblock/Supplied
By BAKANG MOKOTO
11 April 2026 – A foreign national (39) was arrested during a continued Operation Paseka in the Namakwa District. The police said the suspect was arrested , SAPS members arrested during a roadblock operation conducted on the N7 at Bulletrap on 10 April 2026.
The Namakwa District police spokesperson, Captain Ivan Magerman said during the static roadblock, vehicles were stopped and searched which subsequently led to arrest of the suspect who was found travelling in a taxi. Magerman said he failed to produce a valid passport or any proof of legal residency in the Republic of South Africa (RSA).
“The suspect was subsequently arrested for contravening the Immigration Act and will be detained until he appears in court. The police reassure the communities of the Namakwa District that they are committed to upholding the law and maintaining the safety and security of all residents.
“The community is urged to be the eyes and ears of the police and to report all criminal activities,” he said.
11 April 2026 – The FNB NWU Eagles are ready to step up in the Varsity Cup final against the FNB UP-Tuks in a rivalry battle on Monday 13 April in Tshwane. Coach Burger van der Westhuizen’s side dominated FNB Maties at the Fanie du Toit Sportsgrounds to secure their place in the highly anticipated final.
With preparations in place ahead of the final showdown, the Eagles are hoping to repeat their 2023 Varsity Cup Success, but they have a tough row to hoe. Road to the finals
The Purple Army have enjoyed success since their opening fixture against FNB CUT in Bloemfontein, playing champagne rugby and maintaining a positive squad vibe.
NWU Eagles have won six games, one short of their rivals UP-Tuks. FNB UJ handed the Eagles their first loss of their 2026 Varsity Cup campaign in Johannesburg, while their second defeat came at the hands of FNB Maties in Stellenbosch.
Yet, UP-Tuks’ only defeat came in their round five fixture against the Eagles at the Fanie du Toit Sportsgrounds on 16 March 2026, where their powerful unbeaten run was broken. The Eagles’ only win in Pretoria came in 2023, when they secured a narrow 26–22 victory over Tuks.
“They are a very good team, very physical. It will truly take something special to beat them at their home ground,” said Burger, suggesting that the Eagles are confident of causing an upset in the Jacaranda City.
According to Van der Westhuizen, the Eagles believed they can reach the final thanks to their impressive second-half performance against UCT Ikeys, which saw them come from behind to clinch a 56–53 victory in Potchefstroom.
Head-to-head
Historically, UP-Tuks have dominated, but in recent seasons the Eagles have caught up, winning three of their last four encounters, including the dramatic 30–22 victory in March 2026. The final is expected to be decided by moments that often make the difference in tight games.
Lifting the varsity Cup trophy would mean a great deal for coach Burger and the team.
“It would mean everything,” he said. “Not just for the team, but for the entire town and the NWU community across all three campuses. It would be something truly special for the boys, for their journeys ahead in professional rugby, and for their families and loved ones.”
11 April 2026 – The Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said it welcomes the recent ranking by Bank of America placing South Africa at the top of its regional equity market assessment. GCIS said this recognition represents a strong vote of confidence in South Africa as an attractive and competitive investment destination.
GCIS acting spokesperson, Nomonde Mnukwa said this endorsement by a leading global financial institution reflects the underlying resilience and sophistication of South Africa’s financial system. Mnukwa said despite a challenging global environment, their financial markets continue to demonstrate stability, depth and strong regulatory oversight, reinforcing South Africa’s position as a trusted hub for investment on the African continent.
“This ranking serves as further evidence that the economic reforms undertaken by government are yielding positive results. Ongoing efforts to stabilise energy supply, improve logistics, and strengthen fiscal management are contributing to renewed investor confidence and improved market performance.
“We are also encouraged by the recent investment commitments totalling R889,8 billion announced through the 6th South Africa Investment Conference (SAIC), which signal growing domestic and international confidence in the country’s economic trajectory,” she said.
Mnukwa further said these commitments underscore the tangible progress being made to unlock growth and create an enabling environment for investment. She added that government calls on investors, both local and international, to take note of these positive developments and to partner with South Africa in driving inclusive economic growth.
“There are significant opportunities across key sectors of our economy, and we remain committed to ensuring policy certainty, structural reform, and a conducive business environment.
“South Africa is open for business, and this latest recognition affirms that the country remains a compelling destination for investment,” said Mnukwa.
Picture: A Polo Vivo driver died in a car accident/Supplied
By REGINALD KANYANE
10 April 2026 – The North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng has expressed disappointment and concern over an incident of blatant disregard for road safety regulations. This comes after a fatal accident between Swartruggens and Rustenburg on the N4, in the early hours of Thursday.
Morweng said according to initial reports, a Botswana male national driving a truck allegedly made a u-turn on a hill road with clear barrier lines. He further said as a result, a Polo Vivo driving in the opposite direction collided with the truck.
“As a consequence, the driver of the Polo Vivo was certified dead on the scene. We extend condolences to the bereaved family and cautions motorists against lawlessness and reckless driving. It is unfortunate that this incident is the second in the province this week to claim a life.
“We have always said that one life lost on our roads is one too many. I therefore extend my most humble condolences to the families that have lost their loved one due to this occurrence. Regrettably, this comes a week after the activation of our Easter Road Safety Campaign,” he added.
Morweng said their message has always been clear. He said let the drivers share the roads responsibly.
“This also means adhering to all rules of the road, avoiding distractions and prioritising safety over convenience. A case of culpable homicide has been opened at the Swartruggens Police Station,” said Morweng.
Picture: North West MEC for Health, Sello Lehari and newly-appointed Head of Department, Dr Thami Matshego/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
10 April 2026 – The North West MEC for Health, Sello Lehari has officially introduced and welcomed the newly-appointed Superintendent General (Head of Department), Dr Thami Matshego during a Departmental Executive Committee meeting held in Rustenburg. Lehari said Matshego’s appointment by the North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi, marks a significant milestone for the department as it strengthens leadership and governance to improve health service delivery across the province.
“We express confidence in Matshego’s capabilities, highlighting her strong academic background and extensive leadership experience in both provincial entities and local government. We are confident that Matshego’s appointment marks a new chapter of stability, leadership and progress for the department.
“She brings a wealth of experience and a strong academic foundation that positions her well to lead the transformation of our health system,” he said.
Lehari further emphasised the importance of unity and collaboration within the department during this transition. He added that they are handing over the new Superintendent General to the management and equally entrusting the management to her leadership.
“This calls for mutual respect, teamwork and a shared commitment to improving healthcare services for our people. Matshego holds a B Tech in Environmental Health, a Master of Public Health specialising in Occupational and Environmental Health, and a PhD in Environmental Management focusing on climate change adaptation.
“Her professional experience includes serving as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the North West Parks and Tourism Board, as well as executive roles in Mogale City and Rand West City Local Municipalities, among others,” said Lehari.
He also took the opportunity to acknowledge and thank senior executives who have acted in the position of Superintendent General, including Dr Madipuo Tlhogane, Mokhutshwane-Kaudi, Jannie De Beer, and Polaki Mokatsane, for ensuring stability and continuity within the department during the transition period. He said the department has committed to ensuring a structured handover process, led by acting Superintendent General, Mokatsane, as well as a comprehensive orientation and induction programme to support Matshego in her new role.
In her remarks, Matshego underscored the importance of a unified vision and results-driven leadership. She said they need to have a shared purpose, which will help them achieve what they are here for.
“I am result-driven. I am not good at speaking, but more at showing the works of my hands. Building institutional capacity and working with everyone to advance this purpose is one of my strengths. We committed to strengthening the department’s performance by focusing on key areas requiring attention.
“We will identify areas that need improvement and give them the necessary attention to ensure that we deliver better outcomes for our communities. I would also like to express my support for key departmental programmes championed by the MEC,” she said.
Mashego said she is impressed by programmes such as Re Bona ka Matlho, Kopano ke Matla, and the Tshela ka Itekanelo campaign. She said these are initiatives she fully supports as they align
9 April 2026 – The owner and former midwife of You and Me Midwife-led Maternity Care, Yolande Maritz Fouchee (48) from Murrayfield was found guilty of culpable homicide of 9 days-old Noah Von Kloeg, 6 counts of assault, fraud, employment of an unqualified person, and 5 counts of assault involving a legal duty by the Pretoria High Court. Between 2019 to 2020, Fouchee would administer functions as a midwife, such as running pregnancy check-ups for pregnant women and assisting them to give birth at Fouchee’s practice in Murrayfield.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Gauteng, Lumka Mahanjana said during the pregnancy and birthing process of those women, Fouchee would overlook pregnancy complications in respect of her patients and not refer them to the appropriate specialists. Mahanjana said Fouchee would also say to the pregnant women that she is capable of performing normal to low-risk birthing.
“During the birthing process, Fouchee would offer the pregnant mothers water mixed with Cytotec or Oxytocin in order to induce and augment their labour without their knowledge. On 3 April 2019, one of the victims’ labour was induced.
“She gave birth and 9 days later, her baby died due to the complications overlooked by Fouchee. In 2020, Fouchee was reported to the South African Nursing Council (SANC) by the victims and criminal cases against her were opened at Silverton police station. After an investigation by the police, Fouchee was arrested on 24 June 2024, at her place of residence,” she said.
Mahanjana further said in court, Fouchee pleaded not guilty to the charges preferred against her and denied committing the offences. She added, however, the state prosecutor, Adv Jennifer Cronje, presented compelling evidence by Fouchee’s daughter, the victims and Professor Priya Soma-Pillay, as well as Professor Izelle Smuts, both experts from Steve Biko Academic Hospital who compiled detailed medical reports about ante-natal care, labour and delivery as well as neonatal emergency care proved the state’s case beyond reasonable doubt.
Meanwhile, the acting Director of Public Prosecutions in Gauteng, Advocate Marika Jansen Van Vuuren, commended Cronje for her work and said that such cases set precedence that medical officials are not above the law and that they too can be criminally prosecuted. Van Vuuren hopes that this judgement provides some justice and closure to the victims and their families.
“The matter has been postponed to 25 May 2026 for sentencing proceedings,” she said.
Picture: A driver and two learners died in a horrific accident/Facebook
By OBAKENG MAJE
9 April 2026 – Two learners from Vryburg High School along with their driver (43), died in a horrific car accident. It is alleged that the accident happened in the early hours of Wednesday, 8 April 2026.
The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi said it is reported that four girl learners and their driver, were travelling in their private transport from Delareyville to Vryburg to attend school as it was the reopening of schools for the second term. Motsumi said it is further reported that, approximately 20 kilometres from Vryburg, their vehicle collided with a truck.
“Unfortunately, the crash resulted in the immediate loss of three lives. Two learners and the driver were declared dead at the scene, while the two other learners sustained severe injuries. The deceased learners, Remofiloe Mtshengu (15) and Kitso Mathope (16), were in Grade 9 and 10 respectively, while the seriously injured learners are both in Grade 12.
“We are devastated by the tragic news of the accident. Immediately after receiving the news, I drove to Joe Morolong Memorial Hospital in Vryburg to offer my support to the families and wished learners a speedy recovery,” she said.
Motsumi further said on behalf of the entire department, she wishes to convey their heartfelt and deepest condolences to the families of the bereaved learners and also wish a speedy recovery to those who are still in hospital. She added that to the Vryburg High School community, pray that they remain strong during this difficult time.
“I further urge all drivers who are transporting learners to school, to be extremely cautious on the road. The death of one learner is too many. We cannot allow the lives of our learners to perish on the road like this. These learners were coming to school for the second quarter and we were having so many plans to ensure that they excel in their studies.
“The Wellness Unit from the District Office has already conducted trauma debriefing to the learners and the educators. Psycho social support will also be extended to the affected family members,” said Motsumi.
She said the memorial service and the funeral details of the deceased learners will be released once all the family members have been consulted.
Meanwhile, the North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng sent his deepest condolences to the families of two the deceased. Morweng said the occupants were traveling on N14 road from Delareyville to Vryburg on the first day of the second school quarter when the sedan in which they were traveling collided head on with a truck traveling the opposite direction.
“The truck driver (45), who was travelling alone, was also taken to the hospital with minor injuries. A case of culpable homicide is being investigated,” he said.
The Guardian 