10 September 2026 – The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomes the life imprisonment sentence imposed by the Eastern Cape High Court in Mthatha on the accused, Lindile Gojana (32) for the premeditated murder of his girlfriend, Xoliseka Mbali. Despite pleading guilty, Gojana attempted to minimise his criminal conduct by admitting only to assault with intent to cause Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH).
The NPA regional spokesperson in Eastern Cape, Luxolo Tyali said, however, through the evidence presented by the prosecution, the state successfully proved that he was guilty of premeditated murder. Tyali said the court heard that the accused and the deceased were in a romantic relationship and lived together at the accused’s family home in the Nothintsila area of Nqeleni.
“On the afternoon of 21 October 2025, the accused had been consuming traditional sorghum beer with his grandmother when the deceased’s former boyfriend walked past their home. Shortly afterwards, the deceased indicated that she wished to go out, which sparked an argument between the couple.
“During the altercation, the deceased jumped out of a window of the rondavel and ran in the direction in which her former boyfriend had been walking. The accused pursued her, caught up with her, and stabbed her multiple times,” he said.
Tyali further said Gojana then forced her back to their room and placed her on a bed. He added that Mbali later succumbed to her injuries. The accused surrendered himself to police later that evening.
“During the trial, the accused submitted a written plea explanation in which he claimed that he had been intoxicated and overcome by anger when he attacked the deceased. The state advocate, Chumile Mkentane led the evidence of the accused’s grandmother and the pathologist who compiled the post-mortem report.
“Their testimony painted a chilling picture of a deliberate and brutal attack, clearly demonstrating the accused’s intention to kill,” said Tyali.
Welcoming the sentence, Acting Director of Public Prosecutions in the Eastern Cape, Advocate Samkelo Mtwana said: “This sentence sends a strong message that perpetrators of violence against women will be held fully accountable for their actions.
“The NPA remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring justice for victims of gender-based violence and femicide, while supporting efforts to eradicate these crimes from our communities.”
Mtwana further said the NPA remains committed to vigorously prosecuting perpetrators of Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) and ensuring that justice is delivered for victims, their families and affected communities.
Picture: DA to embark on oversight visit to Rooigrond Maximum Correctional Centre/Generic
By BAKANG MOKOTO
10 September 2026 – The Democratic Alliance (DA) in North West said eight officials face contemplated suspension, after a repeat escapee allegedly cut through the burglar bars of a single cell at a maximum-security correctional centre in Rooigrond, near Mahikeng. The DA said, however, accountability must extend beyond frontline staff to systemic failures.
DA provincial leader and Member of Provincial Legislature (MPL) in North West Provincial Legislature, Freddy Sonakile said, they will conduct an oversight visit to Rooigrond and escalate its findings to the Minister of Correctional Services. Sonakile said they demand answers after Edward Khomotso Madiba, a convicted offender serving a 20-year sentence, escaped from Rooigrond Maximum Correctional Centre, near Mahikeng on Sunday.
“According to the Department of Correctional Services (DCS), Madiba was being held in the single-cell section while facing a further charge relating to a previous escape when he allegedly cut through the burglar-bar door of his cell and escaped from the facility.
“Eight officials have been served with notices of contemplated suspension pending the outcome of the investigation. This is not a routine prison escape. A maximum-security correctional centre should be one of the most secure environments in the country,” he said.
Sonakile further said a repeat escapee being held in a single cell should have been subject to heightened security measures. He added that, yet he allegedly cut his way through the cell door and walked out.
“We welcome the full-scale investigation announced by DCS, but it must establish more than who was on duty when the escape happened. It must determine whether deteriorating infrastructure, inadequate security equipment, staffing shortages, poor maintenance, failures in supervision or management decisions contributed to the breach.
“If frontline officials fail in their duties, they must be held accountable. But if the investigation reveals systemic failures that made an escape possible, accountability must reach those responsible for the management, maintenance and security of the facility,” said Sonakile.
He said this is particularly concerning given the South African Human Rights Commission’s July 2026 investigation into police stations and correctional centres in the North West, which raised broader concerns about the condition and functioning of these state facilities. Sonakile said they will therefore not allow this incident to be treated as an isolated failure by individual officials.
“As DA North West Provincial Leader, I will invite a DA Member of Parliament responsible for correctional services to join me on an oversight visit to Rooigrond Maximum Correctional Centre in the coming week.
“The visit will assess the physical condition of the facility, security infrastructure, staffing and operational challenges, with the findings to be escalated through DA representatives in the National Assembly to the Minister of Correctional Services,” he said.
Sonakile said there are also critical questions that DCS must answer. He said what additional security measures were implemented after Madiba’s previous escape and how was his risk profile assessed after he was recaptured?
“How was he able to access or use equipment capable of cutting through a cell door? Were the condition of the cell and its security infrastructure previously reported? Was staffing and security resources at Rooigrond adequate?
“Who was responsible for ensuring that the facility remained secure and fit for purpose? South Africans should not have to wonder whether convicted dangerous offenders can simply cut their way out of maximum-security prisons. The country deserves to know how Madiba’s escape was possible in the first place — and who must answer for it,” said Sonakile.
He said they will pursue those answers through every available oversight mechanism. Sonakile said correctional facilities exist to protect the public and keep convicted offenders securely in custody.
“When the walls, doors, security systems or management of those facilities fail, the public is put at risk. The Minister of Correctional Services must ensure that Rooigrond and correctional facilities across the North West are secure, properly maintained and adequately equipped to do the job they are entrusted to do,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Department of Correctional Services (DSC) National Commissioner, Samuel Thobakgale said: “We can confirm that escaped offender, Edward Khomotso Madiba is back in custody. Madiba, who escaped from Rooigrond Maximum Correctional Centre near Mahikeng on 6 September 2026, was apprehended within 72 hours. The National Tracing Team was activated within hours of the escape and, supported by technology and law-enforcement partners, tracked the escapee through several locations in the North West, including Borakalalo Game Reserve, Lebotloane and Damonsville, before he was arrested at a flat in Brits.
“Madiba has been transferred to Kgoši Mampuru II C-Max Correctional Centre, where he remains in custody. There is nowhere to run and nowhere to hide. Offenders who escape from the lawful custody, will be traced, apprehended and returned. Those who assist them will face the law.”
Thobakagle said the matter does not end with the arrest. He said the internal investigation into the circumstances of the escape continues and eight officials remain suspended pending the outcome of due process.
“Where wrongdoing, negligence or failure to comply with procedures is established, appropriate action will be taken. The department thanks its National Tracing Team, law-enforcement partners and all who contributed to the successful apprehension,” said Thobakgale.
Picture: NWU students exploring many career opportunities that exist in the football industry/Supplied
By BAKANG MOKOTO
10 September 2026 – For many aspiring footballers, the dream is to make it onto the pitch as a player. At the North West University (NWU), however, students are being encouraged to look beyond playing and explore the many career opportunities that exist in the football industry.
The North West University (NWU) Football Club spokesperson, Oscar Mosiane said through the NWU Football Officials Development Programme, the university is creating opportunities for students to learn the laws of the game, gain practical match-day experience and develop the skills needed to pursue football officiating as a potential career pathway. Mosiane said the initiative forms part of the broader commitment of the NWU to using sport as a platform for holistic student development.
“While player and coaching development remain important components of football, the programme recognises that competent and knowledgeable officials are equally essential to ensuring that matches are conducted fairly, professionally and in accordance with the laws of the game.
“Since its introduction, the programme has made encouraging progress, providing students with valuable exposure to the world of football officiating. It is envisioned that the initiative will develop into a sustainable pathway through which students can progress from learning the fundamentals of refereeing to gaining practical experience and, ultimately, officiating at higher levels,” he said.
Mosiane further said beyond knowledge of the laws of football, participants are exposed to skills that are valuable both on and off the field. He added that these include decision-making, communication, leadership, teamwork, confidence and the ability to manage different match situations under pressure.
“These skills are particularly important in modern football, where officials are required to make quick and informed decisions while communicating effectively with players, coaches and fellow officials.
“The programme also seeks to create a progression pathway for students who demonstrate an interest in and commitment to officiating. Through continued training, mentorship and practical exposure, students can potentially progress into local football structures and pursue opportunities at higher levels of the game,” said Mosiane.
Meanwhile, Thabo Raborifi from the Sports Department shared the same sentiments. Raborifi said the the programme is focused on creating meaningful opportunities for students to develop in the football environment.
“This programme is about creating opportunities for our students to learn, develop and grow in football beyond simply being players. We are encouraged by the progress we have made so far and we believe that with continued support, the programme can grow into a strong pathway for developing quality football officials who can go on to serve in local football associations and the ABC Motsepe League.
“Our vision is to empower students with practical opportunities and the confidence to build a future in football officiating. We acknowledge the contribution of student leadership structures to the initiative, particularly the support provided by residence officer Sabelo Mlangeni, whose involvement has helped strengthen student participation in the programme.
“For the NWU, the value of the initiative extends beyond the development of individual officials. It also provides an opportunity for the university to strengthen relationships with football stakeholders and contribute to the development of the sport in the North West,” he said.
Raborifi said the university hopes that some of the officials developed through the programme will eventually serve in local football associations and the ABC Motsepe League, contributing to the availability of knowledgeable, confident and professionally prepared officials in the regional football ecosystem. He said the initiative is also an important reminder that a career in football does not necessarily mean becoming a professional player.
“The football industry offers a wide range of opportunities, including officiating, coaching, sports administration, sports management, media, marketing and event management.
“As the Football Officials Development Programme continues to grow, the NWU remains committed to creating opportunities that enable students to discover and pursue these different pathways. By investing in the development of football officials, the university is not only helping students acquire practical skills and experience, but is also contributing to the broader growth and professionalisation of football in the region,” said Raborifi.
He said the programme demonstrates the belief of the NWU that sport is more than competition – it is a vehicle for learning, leadership, opportunity and lifelong development.
Picture: NCOP members during project oversight visit/Supplied
By BAKANG MOKOTO
24 August 2026 – Members of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) have commended the North West Department of Human Settlements for the progress made on the Tshunyane Housing project during an oversight visit on Tuesday as part of the NCOP Provincial Week. In 2010, the department appointed two contractors to construct 250 units across several villages around Mahikeng.
The North West MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), Oageng Molapisi said 40 of these houses were allocated to Tshunyane village, however, both contractors breached their contract terms by abandoning the site before completing the work. Molapisi said in 2022/2023, the department subsequently enlisted the services of the National Home Builders Registration Council (NHBRC) to conduct structural integrity assessments of all incomplete and blocked projects.
“The assessments were aimed at determining the extent of the outstanding work and to advise the department on appropriate remedial action. NHBRC recommended that all incomplete structures be demolished, including those in Tshunyane, as the structures had been exposed to adverse weather conditions for an extended period.
“The department appointed a contractor in January 2026 to demolish 38 foundations and 2 wall plates in Tshunyane village, at a cost of R799 200 00. The demolition process has already commenced and the contractor has started laying the foundations. The contract for construction is R8.7 million, with the project expected to be completed by the end of November 2026,” he said.
Molapisi further said the department will conduct an investigation with the intention of recovering funds from the previous contractors and implementing consequence management against the officials involved. He added that during the oversight visit, the department committed to providing members of the NCOP with regular progress reports on the Tshunyane housing project.
“We would like to assure the members of the NCOP that the department would closely monitor the project and submit regular reports to the NCOP until its completion. The department would also provide support to the contractor to ensure that the project is completed on time for the benefit of the community,” said Molapisi.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The Guardian 