Author: MIL-OSI Publisher

The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Northern Cape has recorded significant operational successes during the 2025/2026 Festive Season Operation, which resulted in the arrest of 4 178 perpetrators for serious and priority crimes.

The Festive Season Operation was implemented to ensure the safety and security of residents and visitors across the province.

The operation which commenced on 1 October 2025, and concluded on 31 January 2026, focused on intensified crime prevention, visible policing, road safety enforcement, coordinated multi-disciplinary operations and awareness campaigns across all five districts in the province.

Through the dedication and commitment of SAPS members, supported by law enforcement partners and community policing structures, the suspects were arrested for various crimes including murder, attempted murder, robbery, rape, sexual assault, assault with the intent to cause grievous bodily harm, burglary and drug related crime.

Detectives throughout the province conducted tracing operations and apprehended several wanted suspects who have been evading the law. The suspects were wanted in connection with serious crimes including rape, burglary, armed robbery and hijacking.

The police operations resulted in the confiscation of 183 illegal firearms and ammunition, 1 663 dangerous weapons and a substantial number of drugs and alcohol.

Copper cable, counterfeit goods, illicit cigarettes, livestock, tools and electronic equipment were also seized.

“Actions included the successful execution of roadblocks, stop-and-search operations and vehicle checkpoints and increased police visibility in identified crime hotspots,” the police said in a statement.

In total 145 089 persons and 69 553 vehicles were stopped and thoroughly searched.

“During this period 90 897 compliance inspections were conducted at firearm dealers, liquor outlets, recyclers, second hand goods dealers and scrap metal dealers in the province, which subsequently resulted in the closure of 225 unlicensed liquor premises.

“During high visibility patrols law enforcement conducted visits to ATM’s and banks, shopping malls, tuck shops, farms, filling stations, holiday resorts, taxi ranks and mining areas.

“Road safety operations also yielded positive results, with thousands of vehicles stopped and searched, unroadworthy vehicles removed from the roads, and 86 motorists arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol,” the police said.

Approximately 6000 fines were issued for various traffic violations.

During this period, the new academic year also started which seen various Back-to-School campaigns held in the districts to ensure the safety and security of learners, educators and students at schools and learning institutions.

The Provincial Commissioner of the Northern Cape, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola applauded SAPS members for their tireless efforts, unwavering commitment and professionalism throughout the festive season.

“The success of this operation is a direct result of teamwork, dedication and the strong partnership between the police, other law enforcement agencies and our communities. We remain firm and committed to sustaining this momentum to ensure safer communities beyond the festive period,” said Otola.

The police also commended the public for their cooperation and adherence to the law, which contributed significantly to the overall success of the operation.

The SAPS reiterated its commitment to continue proactive policing and crime prevention initiatives to ensure the safety and security of all residents in the Northern Cape. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Government has congratulated Professor Vukosi Marivate on the recommendation by the United Nations Secretary-General to appoint him as a member of the Independent International Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence.

In a statement on Thursday, government said Professor Marivate of the University of Pretoria was recommended alongside 40 leading experts from across the world, drawn from diverse disciplines and recognised for their significant expertise in artificial intelligence and related fields.

“The panel will be the first global, fully independent scientific body dedicated to closing the AI knowledge gap and assessing the real-world impacts of artificial intelligence across economies and societies,” said the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS).

It added that the panel will play a critical role in helping the global community distinguish fact from fiction, and science from misinformation, by providing an authoritative, unbiased reference point.

According to the United Nations, the Independent International Scientific Panel on AI serves as the first global scientific body on Artificial Intelligence (AI), bringing together leading experts to assess how AI is transforming lives. 

“The 40 nominees recommended by the Secretary-General were identified from among applicants to an open call that resulted in over 2,600 applications from more than 140 countries, ensuring world-class expertise,” said the United Nations.-SAnews.gov.za

 

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The eThekwini Municipality has intensified its efforts to combat cable theft, leading to the successful conviction of perpetrators involved in crimes targeting municipal infrastructure.

The municipality said the convictions highlight the Energy Management Directorate’s continued commitment to protecting municipal infrastructure and ensuring reliable service delivery to residents.

In a recent case, a 53-year-old man, who was employed as a contractor staff member, was convicted in the Durban Magistrate’s Court for possession of suspected stolen property, including electricity cables and a streetlight belonging to the municipality.

The arrest occurred in 2023 during a coordinated operation that involved an inspection of a scrap dealer’s premises where stolen municipal property was discovered.

Further investigations led to additional inspections, which uncovered two rolls of eThekwini Municipality cables, additional streetlight components, and evidence of illegal cable processing at the suspect’s residence.

Director of the Energy Management Directorate, Philani Shange, expressed disappointment at the involvement of a contractor staff member in such criminal activities.

“It is disheartening to witness individuals who are contracted to assist the Municipality in delivering essential services choosing to engage in theft instead. Their actions not only undermine the integrity of our workforce but also hinder our efforts to improve service delivery to our communities,” Shange said.

In addition to this recent conviction, two other individuals were sentenced late last year for related offences. A 44-year-old man was found guilty of possessing suspected stolen electricity cables and received a three-year prison sentence, wholly suspended for five years.

In a separate case, a 32-year-old man was convicted of tampering with essential infrastructure and sentenced to six years’ imprisonment, with half of the sentence suspended for five years.

“The Energy Management Directorate continues to work closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure that perpetrators of infrastructure theft are brought to justice, reinforcing the message that such criminal activities will not be tolerated,” Shange said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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The Electoral Commission (IEC) on Thursday announced its countrywide Online Voter Registration Campaign, marking a key milestone in preparations for the upcoming 2026 local government elections and expanding access to voter registration for millions of South Africans.

The campaign went live this week across media platforms, calling on eligible South Africans to register online, update their voter details and verify their registration status ahead of election day later in the year.

In 2021, the Electoral Commission introduced the online portal, a self-service voter registration system – which has proven effective among eligible South Africans. 

It enables citizens to register, update and verify their details remotely, significantly improving the accessibility, efficiency and integrity of the voter registration process.

This year alone, the portal recorded 26,743 newly registered voters, bringing the total number of registered voters to 27,718, 204. 

The highly sought-after youth demographic now accounts for 7,756,911 registered voters, underscoring the urgent need to intensify efforts to mobilise young people ahead of the 2026 local government elections.

Acting Chief Electoral Officer, George Mahlangu, says the Electoral Commission is stepping up efforts to empower all voters, particularly young people, to actively participate in South Africa’s democratic and electoral processes.

“We urge all eligible South Africans to register online, and those already registered to verify and, where necessary, update their address details. In the 2026 municipal elections, you register where you live and vote where you are registered. 

“This ensures voters can continue to shape the affairs of their communities by participating in elections in the wards where they ordinarily reside,” Mahlangu said.

Furthermore, the Electoral Commission is intensifying voter registration and civic education initiatives at institutions of learning nationwide, reinforcing civic and democracy drives aimed at young people.

Eligible South Africans aged 16 years and older, with a valid identity document, can register to vote or update their details on the online portal.

Go to www.registertovote.elections.org.za – the process is quick, safe and easy. Voters will only be permitted to vote at the voting station where they are registered. It is therefore essential that voters ensure their registration details, including their voting district and voting station, are correct and up to date ahead of Election Day. – SAnews.gov.za

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By Themba Thobela

Beijing, China – South Africa’s Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Tau, is leading a high-level delegation to Beijing, China, for the Joint Economic Trade Commission (JETC), where he is meeting with his Chinese counterpart, Minister of Commerce Wang Wentao.

The move underscores the importance of the strategic economic relationship between the two nations. 

The two Ministers have signed the China-Africa Economic Partnership Agreement (CAEPA), a landmark deal set to grant South African exports duty free access to the Chinese market while boosting investment into South Africa’s economy. 

The engagement comes at a time when South Africa is seeking to deepen its trade partnerships, expand market access for local products, and attract investment to support economic growth and industrial development. 

China remains South Africa’s largest trading partner, and the JETC provides a vital platform for both countries to review progress, address challenges and identify new opportunities for collaboration.

The visit signals a renewed focus on strengthening bilateral trade ties, particularly in sectors that are key to South Africa’s economic recovery and long-term development agenda. 

Discussions between the two Ministers are centered on advancing deeper economic cooperation, enhancing trade flows, and promoting value-added exports from South Africa.

The South African delegation includes senior government officials and senior managers from the Industrial Development Corporation and the South African Bureau of Standards, reflecting the significance of the commission and the breadth of issues under consideration. 

The talks covered areas such as industrialisation, infrastructure development, agricultural trade, green energy, and technology exchange.

In recent years, trade between South Africa and China has grown steadily, with China serving as a major destination for South African minerals, agricultural products and manufactured goods. 

At the same time, South Africa imports a wide range of machinery, electronics and consumer goods from China. While the relationship has delivered substantial economic benefits, South Africa has been working to address trade imbalances and to promote greater diversification of exports.

Minister Tau’s visit is therefore focused not only on maintaining strong trade volumes but also on ensuring that the partnership supports South Africa’s industrial policy goals. 

A key priority is expanding access for value-added South African products in the Chinese market, including processed foods, manufactured goods and high-quality agricultural produce.

The Joint Economic Trade Commission provides an important forum for resolving trade-related issues and ensuring that agreements reached at previous meetings are implemented. It also allows both countries to identify new sectors for cooperation and to strengthen institutional ties between their respective trade and industry departments.

During the engagement, Tau emphasised the importance of collaboration that supports inclusive growth and sustainable development. 

South Africa is seeking partnerships that will boost local manufacturing, create jobs and contribute to skills development, while also encouraging Chinese investment in sectors that have strong potential for expansion.

China’s role as a major investor in infrastructure and industrial projects across Africa makes it a critical partner for South Africa. 

Discussions at the JETC are expected to explore opportunities for increased investment in logistics, energy and industrial parks, as well as cooperation in emerging sectors such as renewable energy and digital technology.

The meeting also reflects the broader strategic relationship between South Africa and China, which extends beyond trade to include political, cultural and educational exchanges. As members of BRICS, both countries share an interest in promoting cooperation among developing economies and strengthening South-South partnerships.

Minister Wang Wentao welcomed the South African delegation, noting the longstanding ties between the two countries and the importance of maintaining open and constructive dialogue. 

He highlighted China’s commitment to expanding trade and investment cooperation with South Africa, particularly in areas that support economic transformation and development.

For South Africa, the visit represents an opportunity to reinforce its position as a key trade partner on the African continent. 

By strengthening economic ties with China, the country aims to enhance its role as a gateway for trade and investment into Africa, while also ensuring that local industries benefit from increased cooperation.

Stakeholders back home will be watching closely for outcomes that can translate into tangible economic gains. Increased market access for South African products, new investment commitments and progress in addressing trade barriers could all have a positive impact on economic growth and employment.

The commission also serves as a platform to promote collaboration between businesses in both countries. Strengthening links between South African and Chinese companies can lead to joint ventures, technology transfer and expanded production capacity, all of which are essential for building a more resilient and competitive economy.

As global economic conditions continue to shift, strengthening strategic partnerships has become increasingly important. The engagement in Beijing demonstrates South Africa’s commitment to proactive economic diplomacy and its determination to secure new opportunities for growth through international cooperation.

Minister Tau’s leadership of the delegation underscores the government’s focus on advancing trade relations that deliver real benefits for the country. 

By engaging directly with Chinese counterparts and strengthening institutional partnerships, South Africa is positioning itself to take full advantage of one of its most important global economic relationships.

The outcomes of the Joint Economic Trade Commission are expected to lay the groundwork for future collaboration, deepen trust between the two countries, and support South Africa’s broader vision of inclusive economic development. 

Through sustained engagement and targeted cooperation, both nations stand to benefit from a partnership that continues to evolve and expand in scope and impact. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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The Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, has unveiled the state-of-the-art Umphakathi Mall Smart Driver’s Licensing Testing Centre (DLTC) in Randfontein, within the Rand West City Local Municipality.

The launch of the centre marks a significant milestone in the Gauteng Provincial Government’s ongoing programme to modernise Driver’s Licensing Testing Centres across the province.

The facility is designed to redefine vehicle and driver licensing services by enhancing customer experience through the use of smart technologies, improved infrastructure, and streamlined operational processes.

“The opening of the Umphakathi Mall Smart Licensing Centre demonstrates our commitment to building a capable, responsive, and people-centred transport system.

“We are modernising our DLTCs to ensure that residents can access dignified, efficient, and reliable services closer to where they live, while strengthening road safety and regulatory compliance across Gauteng,” the MEC said on Thursday.

Gauteng currently operates a network of DLTCs across all five corridors of the province, playing a critical role in road safety, regulatory compliance, and efficient service delivery.

The Department of Roads and Transport has prioritised the upgrading and expansion of these centres to address persistent challenges such as long waiting times, limited accessibility, and ageing infrastructure.

Smart Licensing Centres form part of this broader reform agenda, introducing modern, secure, and customer-centric environments that improve turnaround times while safeguarding the integrity of licensing systems.

The establishment of the Umphakathi Mall Smart Licensing Centre also advances the province’s commitment to expanding access to quality public services, particularly in townships, informal settlements, and hostels (TISH).

By locating licensing services within a community-based commercial hub, the department aims to bring services closer to residents and reduce the cost and inconvenience associated with long-distance travel to traditional DLTCs.

As part of ongoing service delivery improvements, the department has planned the rollout of additional Smart Licensing Centres across key development corridors in Gauteng.

This initiative seeks to further reduce waiting times, clear service backlogs, and improve overall accessibility to licensing services, particularly in high-demand areas.

The centre operates from Monday to Saturday from 08h00 to 17h00 and on Saturdays, from 9 am to 3pm. – SAnews.gov.za

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Deputy President Paul Mashatile has paid tribute to Bishop Dr John Bolana for being a pillar of strength within communities and a valued social partner in the collective effort to build a united and compassionate nation.

Bolana, the fifth Bishop of the Bantu Church of Christ (Ibandla Lika Krestu LaBantu), passed away on Tuesday, 03 February 2026, in Gqeberha, in the Eastern Cape.

Since his appointment by President Cyril Ramaphosa to champion social cohesion and nation-building initiatives, the Deputy President has engaged positively and constructively with the Bishop, working closely with interfaith leaders to strengthen unity, moral regeneration, and social solidarity across the country.

“With profound sorrow and a deep sense of both personal and national loss, I wish to extend, on behalf of the Government and the people of South Africa, our heartfelt condolences on the passing of a spiritual giant and a committed nation builder.

“Bishop Bolana provided unwavering spiritual guidance, moral clarity, and compassionate service to the church and broader society for many decades. His leadership reflected faith in action, rooted in love, dignity, and service to others,” the Deputy President said on Thursday.

He further acknowledged that Bolana’s counsel and ecumenical leadership were widely respected and sought after, not only by his congregation, but by leaders across South African society.

“We once again convey our deepest condolences to the Bantu Church of Christ. You have lost a devoted shepherd whose vision and dedication shaped the lives of many families and communities. May Bishop Bolana’s soul rest in eternal peace,” the Deputy President said. –SAnews.gov.za

 

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