A man sentenced to 20 years imprisonment for raping his aunt


By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

14 October 2026- The police in the Namakwa District has welcomed the sentencing of a man (27) to 20 years imprisonment for rape, commending the investigating officer for conducting a thorough investigation that led to his conviction. Namakwa District police spokesperson, Captain Ivan Magerman, said the incident occurred on 20 December 2025, when a woman (48) was at her residence on Oorlogskloof Farm in Nieuwoudtville.

Magerman said the suspect, who is the victim’s nephew, arrived at her residence, where he attacked and raped her before fleeing the scene. He said the victim received assistance from a neighbour and the incident was subsequently reported to the police.

“The case was assigned to Detective Constable Gregory Settley, whose thorough and dedicated investigation led to the suspect’s arrest and the successful gathering and linking of evidence to secure a strong case in court.

“On 12 October 2026, the accused, Jakobus Kotze, pleaded guilty to rape and was sentenced to 20 years imprisonment,” he said.

Magerman said the court further ordered that the accused’s name be entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders in terms of Section 50 of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act 32 of 2007.

In terms of Section 103(1) of the Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000, the accused was also declared unfit to possess a firearm.

The Namakwa District Police Commissioner, Brigadier Schalk Andrews, commended Settley for his professionalism and commitment to ensuring justice for the victim. Andrews added that the SAPS remains committed to fighting Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF).

“We urge victims of such crimes to report incidents at their nearest police station so that perpetrators can be brought to justice,” he said.

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Police address road safety and bullying


Picture: The Namakwa District police spokesperson, Captain Ivan Magerman, accompanied by Pastor Marsha Baard from Employee Health and Wellness, appeared on Radio NFM with Robin-Lee Milford/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

17 February 2026- The Namakwa District police spokesperson, Captain Ivan Magerman, accompanied by Pastor Marsha Baard from Employee Health and Wellness, appeared on Radio NFM with Robin-Lee Milford on the weekly “Meet and Greet” programme. Magerman said the purpose of the engagement was to extend sincere appreciation to the Namakwa community for their meaningful participation in the recent prayer sessions held along the N7 national route.

“The prayer initiative focused on promoting road safety and honouring the memory of those who tragically lost their lives on the roads. The support received from the community during this initiative, led by SAPS in collaboration with Radio NFM, was overwhelming and deeply appreciated.

“During the programme, we also addressed the issue of bullying in schools, highlighting the importance of safeguarding the moral well-being of learners. A heartfelt appeal was made to learners to uphold positive values and respectful conduct within the school environment,” he said.

Magerman further said it was further announced that SAPS will visit another school in Carolusberg to engage directly with learners on bullying and related behavioural concerns. He added that they conveyed the SAPS’ concern regarding the increasing incidents of malicious damage to property, identified as a trending crime in the district and often linked to domestic violence-related matters.

“SAPS in the Namakwa District remain committed to working collaboratively with communities, schools and stakeholders to address crime and promote safety across the district,” said Magerman.

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Police’s ‘Meet and Greet’ commences at Radio Kaboesna


By OBAKENG MAJE

15 February 2026- The police in Northern Cape said the first airing of the “Meet and Greet” programme in Calvinia was featured on the Midday Magic program on Radio Kaboesna on 12 February 2026. The police said the program was hosted by a radio presenter, JR and was joined by the Namakwa District Head of Corporate Communication, Captain Ivan Magerman, alongside the Station Commander of Calvinia SAPS, Lieutenant Colonel Andries Du Plessis.

Magerman said: “The officers gave an overview of their seasoned careers in the South African Police Service as an introduction to the listeners.

“Lieutenant Colonel Du Plessis assured the public that schools in Calvinia remain safe and emphasized that the CPF and its sub-structures are functioning effectively.”

He further took the community into his confidence by affirming that crime is under control and expressed gratitude to residents for their active participation in the fight against crime. Magerman encouraged community members to register as informers to strengthen efforts against drug-related crimes and burglaries.

“We commend the enthusiastic participation of listeners, noting the well-considered questions posed and the constructive engagement during the program.

“In addition, we introduced the Radio Kaboesna – SAPS Helpdesk, a platform where community members can raise concerns about policing, ask questions, and share positive feedback regarding the work of local police officers,” added Magerman.

In his absence, the Namakwa District Commissioner, Brigadier Schalk Andrews, extended his sincere appreciation to the Station Management of Radio Kaboesna for their continued support in the fight against crime through radio outreaches.

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