‘Police officer swaps his badge for the holy cloth’


By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

2 October 2025- The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Sergio Kock bids farewell to the organisation after 24 years of loyal and dedicated service. Kock will be transitioning full time into the ministry at TD Church in Kimberley to leverage his skills and passion for serving humanity in a new capacity.

He further said this calling aligns his heart for people with his faith, still enabling him to make a meaningful impact in his community. Kock added that he is thankful for the lessons learned, the triumphs celebrated, and the challenges overcome during his time in law enforcement.

“These experiences will undoubtedly enrich my ministry, allowing me to serve with empathy, wisdom, compassion and the love of Christ. As I embark on this new chapter, I’m eager to bring hope, healing, and support to those in need to experience the love of Jesus Christ and be disciples to change their world.

“I’m excited to work closely with our church community, schools, PG13, rehabs, government and NGO’s in serving as a vessel of God’s love and grace. I’d also like to express my deepest appreciation to everyone who has supported me throughout my career, especially my family, church, Brigadier Mashay Gamieldien and our marvellous communications team (unfortunately too many to mention but everyone is included in love),” said Kock.

He said as he swapped the camera and pen for his continuous walk with God in His Word and he truly looking forward to staying connected to all of them as he begins this new journey. Kock said may God bless the community, and may his love guide them all.

Meanwhile, the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola and the Provincial Management wish Kock success on his new journey. Otola said they deeply appreciate the dedication, positivity, professionalism and meaningful contributions he has made in strengthening the image of the organization.

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Report any acts of extortion to police


By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

19 September 2024- The Northern Cape police said extortion has been an emerging crime trend as communicated in the media recently and it has become an overwhelming and challenging reality that has infiltrated the communities and businesses. Against this backdrop, the Northern Cape police spokesperson, Colonel Cherelle Ehlers said the police together with civil society, business and the community at large, must join hands and unite in combatting, preventing and exposing incidents of extortion.

Ehlers said extortion is a criminal offence, where an individual illegally obtains money, property, or services from another person by threatening harm or using coercive measures. She further said these threats can involve physical violence, property damage, accusations of crime, or exposure of sensitive information. 

“Common types of extortion are blackmail, protection rackets, cyber extortion and financial extortion. Staying informed about the tactics used by extortionists and taking precautions can help you protect yourself and others from becoming victims. 

“Never hesitate to seek help, if you are being extorted. If you suspect acts of extortion, contact legal or law enforcement professionals immediately. Protect yourself by staying alert for any suspicious or threatening demands,” said Ehlers.

She added that individuals should not react impulsively to threats, keep records of all communications and demands, report any instances of extortion immediately to the authorities and protect sensitive information online with strong passwords and encryption.

“Know the signs of extortion, such as request for money or services without a legitimate reason, the use of intimidation, including verbal threats of menacing actions, urge or pressure tactics to force compliance and offering to withhold harm only in exchange for something of value.

“Protect yourself and report incidents to the SAPS Crime Stop number – 08600 10111. Stop the scourge and report extortionists,” said Ehlers.

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Seven suspects nabbed in Pampierstad for alleged possession of drugs, firearms 


By OBAKENG MAJE 

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Molefi Shemane said the police confiscated drugs with an estimated value of R11 580 and money believed to be the proceeds of crime.

“The multi-disciplinary team of Operation Vala Umgodi led disruptive operations in Pampierstad. The police received a tip-off regarding drugs, firearms, and suspicious activities taking place at certain identified premises in Pampierstad.

“All arrested suspects are expected to appear in the Pampierstad Magistrate’s Court soon,” said Shemane. 

Meanwhile, the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, applauded the police’s hard work and thanked community members for working together with the police in the fight against drugs in the district. 

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