31 October 2025- A man (27) was sentenced to 12 years imprisonment for the murder of his fellow countryman. On 7 September 2024, the victim, Tsietsi Motlaopa (32), a Lesotho national, was at the accused Tumisang Maleke’s residence in Cassel village when an argument broke out between the two men.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Merapelo Pilane said the altercation escalated into a physical confrontation during which the accused stabbed the victim in the upper body with a sharp object. Pilane said the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel later declared Motlaopa dead on the scene.
“The matter was reported to the Bothithong Police Station and the suspect was swiftly arrested. He was charged with murder and Detective Constable Lucky Mabuthwane was assigned to investigate the case. His diligent work and successful opposition to bail ensured that the accused remained in custody until sentencing.
“The court ultimately found Maleke guilty and sentenced him to 12 years for murder with an additional 2 years for contravention of Immigration Laws and also declared unfit to possess a firearm,” he said.
Meanwhile, the acting John Taolo Gaetsewe District Police Commissioner, Brigadier Kenneth Baloi, commended Mabuthwane for his commitment and thorough investigative efforts that led to the successful conviction.
Picture: A man jailed for killing his girlfriend/Generic
By REGINALD KANYANE
29 October 2025- A man (39) was sentenced to 25 years imprisonment by the Northern Cape High Court sitting in Kathu for killing his girlfriend. On 11 January 2025, the victim, Lerato Cathrine Ntaolang (34), was visiting the accused, Thabiso Juel Sekamoeng at his residence in Dithakong village when an argument ensued.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Merapelo Pilane said during the altercation, Sekamoeng struck the victim on the head with a sharp object and fled the scene, leaving her in a pool of blood. Pilane said the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel later declared the victim dead on the scene.
“The incident was reported to the Bothithong Police Station, and the suspect was swiftly arrested and charged with murder on the same day. Detective Constable Lucky Mabuthwane was assigned to investigate the case. Through his meticulous investigation, bail was successfully opposed, and the accused remained in custody throughout the trial. The court subsequently convicted and sentenced him to 25 years of direct imprisonment. He was further declared unfit to possess a firearm,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola has welcomed the lengthy prison sentence. Otola commended Mabuthwane for his thorough investigation and dedication, which ensured the swift finalization of the case.
“There is a need for communities to break the silence on Gender-Based Violence (GBV) to prevent the unnecessary loss of lives and ensure that perpetrators face the full might of the law,” she said.
10 June 2025- A girl (13) was allegedly mauled by the dogs in Vryburg. It is alleged that, the victim, Remoratile Maphike, was attacked by the dogs of the suspects, Anneme Bam-Smith (42) and Raynold Izak van Niekerk (46), after entering the yard, to get to the residence, where they rented a room with her family.
The Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Tryphosa van Rooyen said, following the attack, Remoratile was taken to hospital for medical attention.
“The suspects were summoned and are attending court. The case was investigated, then taken to prosecution for a decision, hence the suspects were summonsed.
“Their next court date is on 17 June 2025,” said van Rooyen.
Meanwhile, one of the residents only known as Ndede Uncle Dee said the upcoming court case set for 17 June 2025, highlights the urgent need for accountability in cases of dog attacks, particularly those involving vulnerable individuals such as children. Ndede Uncle Dee said a young girl, who remains severely injured after being mauled by two dogs, is at the centre of this case, which has drawn attention to the responsibilities of dog owners under South African law.
“Both accused, believed to be the owners of the dogs involved in the incident, have been charged under Section 1 to 6 of the Animal Matters Amendment Act 42 of 1993.
“This legislation serves to protect the public from reckless and irresponsible pet ownership, emphasizing that owners must take necessary precautions to prevent their animals from causing harm,” he said.
Ndede Uncle Dee further said the allegations against the accused reflect a serious disregard for these legal obligations. He added that, despite the charges, both individuals have been released on warning, raising concerns about the message this sends regarding the seriousness of dog attacks and the responsibilities of pet owners.
“The law clearly states that owners are liable for any injuries caused by their dogs, and it is imperative that we hold them accountable to ensure the safety of our communities.
“The young victim, whose identity is being protected, continues to suffer from the physical and emotional consequences of this attack. Her injuries have not only caused immense pain and suffering but have also resulted in significant financial burdens for her family,” said Ndede Uncle Dee.
He said medical bills, ongoing treatment, and psychological support are just a few of the costs that her parents are now facing as they seek to help their daughter recover. Ndede Uncle Dee said South African law provides a framework for addressing such incidents.
“This includes strict liability. Dog owners are held strictly liable for injuries caused by their dogs, regardless of whether they were aware of the dog’s aggressive tendencies.
“Owners are required to ensure that their dogs are properly restrained and controlled at all times to prevent harm to others. Failure to comply with these duties can result in criminal charges, fines, and civil liabilities,” he said.
Ndede Uncle Dee said this case serves as a critical reminder of the need for responsible pet ownership and the enforcement of laws designed to protect citizens. He said they call upon the community to support the young victim and her family as they navigate this challenging time and they urge the judicial system to take the necessary steps to ensure justice is served.
“As we approach the court date, we encourage the public and media to remain engaged and informed about this case and the broader implications for animal control and public safety in South Africa,” said Ndede Uncle Dee.
14 November 2024- A woman (25) was sentenced to five years imprisonment by the Postmasburg Magistrate’s Court for assaulting her ex-boyfriend with a bottle. On 28 January 2024, the accused, Jocellyn Koopman assaulted her ex-boyfriend with a bottle at a club in Lime Acres.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Molefi Shemane said armed with a protection order, the victim, Poloko Madito (31), reported the incident to the police and the accused was subsequently arrested. Shemane said the case was assigned to Detective Constable Desmond Thabang Madito and guided by Emmauel Muruba of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA).
“The accused was convicted and sentenced in the Postmasburg Magistrate’s Court to five years imprisonment wholly suspended for five years,” he said.
Meanwhile, the ZF Mgcawu District management applauded the investigating officer and the prosecution team for securing the conviction and sentencing of a domestic violence perpetrator and assured the public that the policing and investigating of domestic violence related crimes remains a priority for the police.
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