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SAPS warns public against online shopping scams

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By AGISANANG SCUFF

22 July 2026 – The police in Northern Cape are urging members of the public to exercise extreme caution when conducting online transactions following a number of reported online shopping scams, particularly in Upington in the ZF Mgcawu District. The police have received several complaints from unsuspecting community members, who were allegedly defrauded after responding to advertisements for various products posted on social media platforms and other online channels.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane said in the reported cases, victims were lured into transferring money for goods advertised online. Shemane said, however, after making payment, the purchased products were never delivered.

“In some instances, the collection addresses provided by the alleged sellers were found to be fictitious or non-existent. SAPS is concerned about the increasing prevalence of online scams and is calling on the public to remain vigilant and to exercise caution when responding to online advertisements, particularly those offering goods at prices that appear too good to be true.

“The members of the public are advised to verify the legitimacy of online sellers before making any payments. Avoid transferring money to unknown individuals without first confirming the authenticity of the seller and the advertised product,” he said.

Shemane further said the public should be cautious of sellers who insist on immediate payment or provide suspicious collection or delivery arrangements. He added that they should verify physical addresses and contact details provided by online sellers.

“Where possible, use secure and reputable online shopping platforms that offer buyer protection. Contact their bank immediately if they suspect that they have fallen victim to an online scam. SAPS further urges members of the public to remain cautious when engaging in online or telephonic communications.

“If in doubt, contact your bank or the police directly for assistance and advice. Members of the public are encouraged to report suspicious activities to their nearest police station, contact the SAPS Crime Stop number on 08600 10111, or submit a report via the MySAPS App,” he said.

Shemane said in cases involving extortion, members of the public can contact the National Extortion Hotline on 0800 911 011. He said the SAPS appeals to communities to remain vigilant and to share information about suspected scams with family members, friends and other community members to prevent others from falling victim to these criminal activities.

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NWU student goes missing

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Picture: Missing Tlotliso Miya/Supplied

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

21 July 2026 – The police in Potchefstroom request the community’s assistance in locating missing Tlotliso Miya (18), who is residing in Die Bult, Dwars Street. The police said Miya is originally from Phuthaditjhaba in the Free State and he is currently a student at North West University (Potchefstroom campus).

The North West police spokesperson, Captain Majang Skalkie said he last spoke with his father telephonically on 2 June 2026, informing him that he would be home around 19 June 2026. Skalkie said, however, he never arrived home.

“A search commenced and extensive investigations were conducted, but police could not locate him. It is unknown what he was wearing at the time of his disappearance. Miya is light in complexion, has a slender build body with black afro hair, a black moustache and a black beard.

“The police request anyone who may have information regarding Tlotliso Miya’s whereabouts to contact the Investigating Officer, Warrant Officer Ithuteng Legotlo on 073 034 7852. Alternatively, they can call their local police station or Crime Stop on ‪08600 10111,” she said.

Skalkie further said anonymous tip-offs can also be communicated via the MySAPS App from smart phones.

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Street vendors and small business operators urged to exercise extreme caution

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Picture: Street vendors and small business operators 

By STAFF REPORTER

29 June 2026 – The Chairperson of the Select Committee on Economic Development and Trade, Sonja Boshoff has called on small business operators and street vendors to exercise extreme caution on 30 June and to avoid exposing themselves to unnecessary danger. Boshoff said the concerns many South Africans have regarding the impact of illegal immigration are genuine and deserve to be heard.

She further said these concerns point to systemic failures that require decisive and lawful action by the government. Boshoff added that, however, no grievance can ever justify vandalism, intimidation, assault or any other form of criminal conduct.

“The constitutional right to protest is fundamental to our democracy, but it must always be exercised peacefully, responsibly and within the confines of the law. The rights of those who protest must be balanced with the rights of others to safety, dignity, freedom of movement and the protection of their property.

“The committee has called on street vendors, particularly foreign nationals operating in affected areas, to avoid confrontation with protesters and to exercise heightened caution until the situation has stabilised,” she said.

Boshoff said the unofficial deadline of 30 June, set by anti-illegal immigration activists, has generated significant public attention, with demonstrations taking place across parts of the country over the past two months. She said while the frustrations expressed by many communities cannot simply be dismissed, any attempt to take the law into one’s own hands must be unequivocally condemned.

“The current situation highlights the urgent need for the government to demonstrate that immigration laws are being enforced consistently, fairly and without fear or favour. Government must communicate a clear and credible plan beyond the 30 June deadline.

“Failure to do so will create risks, uncertainty and allow legitimate public concerns to be exploited by opportunists or political actors seeking to incite instability,” said Boshoff.

She also called on the South African Police Service (SAPS) to uphold the constitution by acting professionally, impartially and without political interference. Boshoff said the police have a constitutional duty to protect every person within South Africa, to facilitate lawful and peaceful protest, and to act decisively against violence, intimidation, looting and criminality, regardless of who is responsible.

“Lawful protest must never be obstructed, but equally, the rule of law must prevail, and those who commit criminal acts must be held accountable. We urge all South Africans to act responsibly and peacefully.

“Our democracy is strongest when the constitution is respected, the law is applied equally and grievances are addressed through lawful processes rather than violence. South Africa must remain a country governed by the rule of law, where public order and human dignity are protected without exception,” she concluded.

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McKenzie hails Bafana Bafana over World Cup display

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Picture: Bafana Bafana players against Canada

By OBAKENG MAJE

29 June 2026 – The Minister of Sport, Art and Culture, Gayton McKenzie said it is with enormous pride and a heart full of gratitude that he congratulates Bafana Bafana on completing what has been the most ‘extraordinary’ chapter in the history of South African football. McKenzie said Bafana Bafana is knocked out and the pain of a late goal in Los Angeles will sting for a long time.

He further said, however, no result and final scoreline can take away what this team has given the country over the past three weeks. McKenzie added that Bafana Bafana reached the knockout rounds of a FIFA World Cup for the first time in their history.

“In their fourth World Cup appearance, after exits in 1998, 2002 and on home soil in 2010, these young men did what no South African team has ever done before. They made it through and that is not a small thing. That is history that cannot be erased, written in the gold and green on the world stage in front of billions of people.

“I also want to take this moment to congratulate Canada on a well-deserved victory, and to extend the Ministry’s congratulations to all three host nations – the United States, Canada, and Mexico – for the outstanding manner in which they have staged this tournament. This has been a World Cup that has captured the imagination of the world and the hosts deserve enormous credit for that,” he said.

McKenzie said they have been made to feel at home in both Mexico and the USA, who opened their arms to South Africa and showed them great love. He said they will never forget it.

“The manner in which this team qualified made it even more remarkable. Written off after a 2–0 defeat to Mexico in the opening match, they showed character, resilience, and tactical intelligence to draw with Czechia and, in what many will rightly describe as one of the greatest nights in our football, beat South Korea 1–0 to book their place in the Round of 32.

“That victory, earned by Thapelo Maseko’s 63rd-minute strike, lifted South Africa from fourth to second place in the group and announced our arrival on the global knockout stage. I want to pay special tribute to coach Hugo Broos. When the final whistle blew against South Korea,” said McKenzie.

He said Broos collapsed to the turf as the bench flooded the pitch. McKenzie said that image captured his years of work, belief, sacrifice and love for this team and this country.

“Coach, you have earned your place in the history of South African sport. What you have built here is something that will endure long after this tournament. I must also pay tribute to the South African Football Association (SAFA) for its commitment to this campaign.

“Results like these are the fruit of sustained investment in players, coaching staff, and the development of the game. To Ronwen Williams, who led from the front and commanded the goalkeeper’s jersey with authority and calm. To Teboho Mokoena, whose penalty against Czechia proved nerve when it mattered most,” he said.

McKenzie said Bafana Bafana player Thapelo Maseko is a young man whose personal story of setback and comeback must inspire them all. He said at the FIFA World Cup, he scored the goal that made history.

“Every young person in South Africa who has been told they are finished and that their moment has passed must know your name and your story. To every player in our squad: South Africa sees you and we thank you. We are proud of each of you – not just for the moments of glory, but for the moments no one saw: the early mornings, the doubts you needed to overcome and the commitment to your country.

“The manner of our exit, so close to extra time, will always be painful. But this is sport, and the margins at the top level are small, and they are brutal. What we must take from this, and what the Ministry of Sport, Arts and Culture is committed to facilitating, is that the lessons from this campaign are properly captured, honestly assessed and used to build on what has been achieved,” said McKenzie.

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Four suspects nabbed during drug busts in Schweizer Reneke

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Picture: Four suspects nabbed for dealing in drugs

By STAFF REPORTER

7 June 2026 – Four suspects including three Nigerian nationals, are expected to appear before the Schweizer Reneke Magistrate’s Court on 8 June 2026, following two separate drug-related arrests carried out by police this week. According to the information, the first arrest was made on 4 June 2026, after the police received information about suspected drug dealing activities in Schweizer Reneke.

The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Adéle Myburgh said the police obtained a search warrant and proceeded to an address in Van Wyk Street. Myburgh said, however, the suspects were located at the local taxi rank.

“They were escorted back to the property, while the officers conducted a search. During the operation, police allegedly discovered a variety of drugs such as mandrax, dagga and crystal meth. The police also seized dangerous weapons and metal items, including pieces of copper cable.

“A South African man (29) and a Nigerian national (35) were arrested at the scene. The police said preliminary investigations confirmed that the Nigerian suspect is legally in South Africa. In a separate incident on Saturday evening, 6 June, members conducting Operation Shanela stopped and searched a silver Hyundai in Impala Street,” she said.

Myburgh further said during the search, police allegedly found crystal meth concealed beneath the front passenger seat. Two Nigerian men aged 32 and 38, were immediately arrested. She added that the driver of the vehicle also faces an additional charge of driving under the influence of alcohol.

“The arrests come after ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to curb drug trafficking and related crimes in the Mamusa area,” said Myburgh.

Meanwhile, the latest arrests follow growing community pressure for tougher action against drug dealers. Last week, community members, the Ipelegeng Community Patrollers, the South African Communist Party (SACP) and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), gathered outside the Schweizer Reneke Magistrate’s Court in support of anti-drug initiatives when four other suspects appeared on similar charges.

These accused, Sello Lekgetho and Kgotla Ditira, as well as Nigerian nationals, Aloysious Ukokwa and Israel Ugwazi are facing charges relating to the possession of and dealing in drugs. The two Nigerian nationals remain in custody and are awaiting a bail ruling later this month on 23 June 2026.

Lekgetho and Ditira will make another court appearance on Monday and Tuesday.

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A case against Masemola and co-accused postponed

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Picture: Suspended National Police Commissioner, Fannie Masemola in court

By REGINALD KANYANE

15 May 2026 – The suspended National Police Commissioner, General Fanie Masemola, joined Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala and 16 others at the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court on four charges relating to the alleged irregular awarding of a contract to Medicare 24 Tshwane District. The matter was postponed to 26 June 2026, for further investigations and to disclose the docket to the accused.

The Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) spokesperson, Henry Mamothame said the consultations with Matlala have been concluded, however, new information has emerged from these consultations compelling further investigation by the state. Mamothame said the state committed to disclose the docket to the accused by 26 June 2026 and to amend the charge sheet following the inclusion of Masemola in the matter.

“A request by Matlala’s attorney to have him kept at Kgosi Mampuru Correctional Facility for the second phase of consultations to unfold and be completed timeously was granted.

“Their charges are linked to the alleged irregular awarding of a contract, valued at approximately R228 million, to Medicare 24, a company owned by Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala,” he said.

Mamothame further said Masemola is facing four charges of Contravening the Public Finance Management Act (PMFA), while Matlala and others are facing charges of corruption, fraud and money laundering.

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Missing helicopter found with occupants unharmed

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Picture: A missing chopper found/Supplied 

By REGINALD KANYANE

8 April 2026 – The South African Police Service (SAPS) said the helicopter that went missing on Monday with four occupants, including the pilot, has been successfully located this morning with all individuals found alive and unharmed. The group, which includes two SAPS investigators, along with an Environmental Crime Investigator, had safely landed in a remote area on Monday.

The national police spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said, however, as they attempted to navigate through the thick bush, they could not find the chopper. Mathe said following their rescue, it has been confirmed that all the occupants are safe.

“The chopper disappeared on Monday during an investigation after a report was brought to the attention of law enforcers that there was a carcass discovered in the Kruger National Park, hence the probe to find out circumstances thereof.

“A report indicates that the team departed in the morning around 9am and did not return as anticipated. Some efforts to establish communication with the helicopter crew yielded no results due to poor signal and it is suspected that the chopper could have been flying low,” she said.

Mathe further said all attempts to reach them via their mobile phones and other means were unsuccessful. She added that it was only in the evening that it was realised that something was wrong, prompting immediate action to locate them.

“In response to the situation, another helicopter equipped with night vision capabilities, alongside drones, was swiftly deployed to assist in the search efforts. Unfortunately, due to poor weather conditions, the helicopter had to be withdrawn. “However, the drones continued their search throughout the night,” said Mathe.

Meanwhile, the acting Mpumalanga Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, remarked that the committed members were carrying out their duties even on a day that is recognized as a holiday in the country.

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‘Accident exposes deed scholar transport failures’

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Picture: Learners involved in an accident/Screengrab

By BAKANG MOKOTO

17 February 2026- The North West Provincial Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Community Safety and Transport Management has expressed serious concern following the recent school bus accident involving learners in Coligny, noting that the incident reflects deeper systemic failures within the province’s scholar transport system. The committee said it notes the North West Department of Community Safety and Transport Management’s  briefing last week, following the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) report and its assurances regarding inspections, monitoring and enforcement.

The Chairperson of North West Provincial Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Community Safety and Transport Management, Freddy Sonakile said, however, the committee’s own oversight visit conducted two weeks ago in the Dr Ruth Mompati District, revealed unroadworthy vehicles, weak operational controls and troubling gaps in accountability. Sonakile stated that the accident must be treated as a warning sign rather than an isolated incident.

“This accident is not an isolated event. It confirms what the committee witnessed during oversight, that the rot in the scholar transport system runs deep and requires urgent structural correction. The committee further raised concern that some findings during oversight point to possible departmental complicity in irregular practices, adding that any conduct of a criminal nature must be investigated and acted upon without delay.

“In this context, the committee supports the department’s intention to terminate and restart the current scholar transport contract, but stresses that a simple change of operators will not be sufficient. We cannot solve a systemic safety problem by merely changing contractors. The entire contracting model, monitoring framework and accountability chain must be rebuilt to place learner safety at the centre,” he said.

Sonakile further said the committee emphasised that any new Service Level Agreements must include a mandatory vetting of operators, subcontractors and all drivers, proper regulation of driver working conditions to prevent unsafe practices and uniform provincial safety and operational standards. He added that this includes strict departmental adherence to payment schedules, regular and independently verified roadworthy testing and automatic contract revocation for non-roadworthy vehicles.

“There should be penalties for school principals or officials who authorise transport, despite known non-compliance. Learner transport is not just another government service, but is about the safety of children. Where vehicles are unsafe, contracts must fall.

“Where officials ignore non-compliance, accountability must follow. The committee will continue exercising strict oversight over the department and all corrective processes to ensure that the scholar transport system is restored to a safe, lawful and fully accountable standard,” said Sonakile.

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Multilingualism makes NWU distinctive

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Picture: North West University (NWU) Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Prof Linda du Plessis/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

17 February 2026 – North West University (NWU) Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Prof Linda du Plessis said the term ‘multilingualism’ can often be used as window-dressing to obscure a lack of commitment to their national inclusivity. Du Plessis said, however, proclaiming a commitment to multilingualism is very different from being an active participant in the promotion of multilingualism.

According to du Plessis, it is imperative that South Africa’s higher education institutions realise that multilingualism is more than policy compliance. She said it is a critical life skill in an interconnected, multicultural and digitally driven world.

“To study in a multilingual environment equips students and staff with adaptability, cultural intelligence, empathy, and cognitive flexibility. It nurtures the ability to engage across differences, which is a competency increasingly demanded in workplaces, research collaborations, and civic life.

“In this sense, multilingualism prepares graduates not only for employment, but for leadership in diverse societies. In this regard, the NWU has distinguished itself as an institution where multilingualism is not only embraced but incorporated into its many facets,” said du Plessis.

She further said at the NWU, multilingualism is not an abstract ideal. Du Plessis added that it is a lived institutional commitment.

“Our functional multilingual policy ensures that, where possible and not restricted by resources or regulatory factors, classes are offered in more than one language, specifically Afrikaans and English, while materials and communication are provided in the other official NWU languages, namely Setswana and Sesotho, wherever possible.

“In doing so, we move beyond symbolic recognition of languages and actively embed multilingualism in teaching, learning, communication, and community engagement, while taking into account the diversity and multiplicity of our students and staff,” she said.

Du Plessis said they also ensure that they demonstrate their multilingual commitment across their communication platforms, including websites, and by supporting their deaf staff and students through the provision of South African Sign Language (SASL). She said the Language Directorate was founded to ensure that multilingualism is prioritised both institutionally and operationally.

“The Directorate provides a coordinated and structured approach to language planning, implementation, and monitoring across faculties and divisions. By embedding multilingualism into governance structures, academic processes, and student support systems, the Language Directorate reinforces the understanding that language is central to academic excellence, equity, and institutional transformation.

“We note how the rise of multilingualism is embraced both by national and multinational organisations. The United Nations’ Multilingualism Matters campaign and the planned launch of the UNESCO Global Roadmap on Multilingualism in the Digital Era in December 2025 signal a renewed international commitment to language equity,” she said.

Du Plessis said since the adoption of the UN General Assembly’s Multilingualism Resolution in June 2022, momentum has continued to build worldwide. She said this global movement affirms what South Africa’s Constitution (Section 6(4)), the Official Languages Use Act (2012), and the 2020 Language Policy Framework for Public Higher Education Institutions have long recognised: language equity and respect for all official languages are essential to dignity, inclusion, and meaningful participation.

“At the NWU, we take this responsibility seriously. We have expanded our official languages to four — English, Afrikaans, Setswana, and Sesotho — and continue to invest in multilingual teaching, terminology development, interpreting and translation services, and accessible language learning opportunities for staff and students.

“Progress since the approval of faculty and support unit language plans in 2019 has been encouraging, particularly in advancing Setswana and Sesotho as languages of learning and teaching. However, the development of African languages for scholarship and innovation remains an ongoing priority requiring sustained investment and collaboration,” said du Plessis.

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A murder and attempted murder case against The Meat Brother’s Pub owner, Tshwaro Mangwegape postponed

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Picture: The Meat Brother’s Pub owner, Tshwaro Mangwegape

By OBAKENG MAJE

11 November 2025- A murder and attempted murder case against The Meat Brother’s Pub owner, Tshwaro Mangwegape (41), was postponed to 19 and 23 January 2026 by the Taung Regional Court. The trial was supposed to commence on Monday, however, it is alleged that the defence lawyer is off sick.

Mangwegape who is out on a R5000 bail, is accused of shooting and killing the NWU Soccer Institute player, Undivile “Vilo” Mdi (28) and injuring his friend, Aobakwe Ernest Kokwe (33).

On 17 December 2023, Mdi and Kokwe were amongst patrons who visited The Meat Brother’s Pub that was full to capacity. It is alleged that Mdi and Kokwe went outside and the security guards refused them entry on their return because the area was packed to capacity. Mdi and Kokowe allegedly tried to gain entry forcefully, but Mangwegape allegedly pulled out a gun and shot at them.

Mdi was fatally shot, while his friend was rushed to the hospital with terrible gunshot wounds. The injuries led to Kokwe’s leg being amputated.

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