By BAKANG MOKOTO
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.
The Guardian 