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Morongwa ( Community Newspaper ), Vryburg (2026)

13/01/2026

SCHWEIZER COURT SENTENCES MURDER ACCUSED FOR IMMIGRATION OFFENCE

SCHWEIZER-RENEKE — The Schweizer-Reneke Regional Court has sentenced Simon Likuwa to twelve months' direct imprisonment for contravening the Immigration Act, while he continues to face a separate murder charge linked to the death of his then girlfriend, Kedisaletse Audrey Ditire.

Likuwa was convicted after the court found that he had been living in South Africa illegally for more than 10 years. Evidence presented during the proceedings revealed that his official documentation had expired over a decade ago and that he failed to regularise his status, remaining in the country unlawfully.

At the time of sentencing, Likuwa was facing two matters before the court — the immigration offence and the murder of 52-year-old Ditire, a case that has gripped the Ipelegeng community since last year.

Ditire was reported missing in May while working on a farm in Avondster, outside Schweizer-Reneke. Her disappearance sparked an intensive police investigation that stretched over several months. In August, Likuwa allegedly led police to a shallow grave where decomposed human remains were discovered. Subsequent DNA analysis confirmed the remains to be those of Ditire.

She was laid to rest in November at her home in Ipelegeng township, bringing a measure of closure to her family, although the circumstances surrounding her death remain the subject of ongoing court proceedings.

While the murder case is still before the courts, the Ditire family has welcomed the conclusion of the immigration matter. Family spokesperson Lesego Ditire described the sentence as a small but significant step towards justice.

"As a family, we are relieved that at least one matter has been concluded. It does not bring Kedisaletse back, but it shows that the law is taking its course. We hope the same commitment will be shown when the murder case resumes," said Ditire.

The Regional Court has postponed the murder trial to 02 March to allow for finalisation of outstanding investigations. Likuwa will remain in custody until his next court appearance.

The case has attracted widespread attention in Schweizer-Reneke and surrounding areas, with many community members closely following developments, particularly amid ongoing concerns about gender-based violence and the pace of justice in serious crimes.

13/01/2026

STOLEN DITHAKWANENG CATTLE FOUND IN KURUMAN

KURUMAN – A 43-year-old man was arrested in Kuruman on Monday, 12 January 2026, after he was found in possession of three Bonsmara cattle that were allegedly stolen from Dithakwaneng Village in the North West Province.

Police in Kuruman acted on intelligence indicating that the suspect was travelling to Kuruman to sell the cattle to one of the town’s well-known livestock traders. Acting on this information, officers intercepted the suspect and questioned him about the ownership of the animals.

According to police, the suspect failed to provide a satisfactory explanation for being in possession of the cattle, prompting members to confiscate the animals. Further investigations led to the rightful owner, who later positively identified the cattle through their unique brand markings. The animals were subsequently returned to him.

The suspect has been charged with failure to give a satisfactory account of stock or produce. His vehicle was also seized after it was allegedly used in the commission of the crime.

The Acting District Commissioner for the John Taolo Gaetsewe District, Brigadier Kenneth Baloyi, praised the police members for their swift and decisive action.

“Stock theft remains a serious concern for rural communities, and the recovery of these animals is a direct result of effective intelligence-driven policing and dedication by our members,” said Brigadier Baloyi.

Police investigations continue, and the suspect is expected to appear in court soon.

12/01/2026

Action-SA’s Masego Kodisang Sworn in as New North West MPL

MAHIKENG - The North West Provincial Legislature has welcomed a new member, Hon. Masego Dorcas Kodisang, who was officially sworn in following the resignation of Hon. Kwena Mangope. Kodisang represents Action South Africa (Action-SA) in the provincial legislature.

The appointment comes after Action-SA nominated Kodisang to fill the casual vacancy left by Mangope. In line with Section 107 of the Constitution, Kodisang took the oath of office, pledging faithfulness to the Republic and obedience to the Constitution.

Kodisang brings a strong background in public service to the legislature. She holds a B.A. Honours in Business Management and previously served as a PR Councillor at Moretele Local Municipality. She also chaired the Municipal Public Accounts Committee from 2021, demonstrating experience in governance and oversight.

North West Legislature Speaker Dr. Desbo Mohono expressed optimism about Kodisang’s contribution to the legislature. “We welcome her as our Member who will assist with the work of the legislature, including within our Committees’ work and overall performance of the institution in the 7th Provincial Legislature,” said Dr. Mohono.

Kodisang’s swearing-in strengthens the legislature’s capacity to carry out its three key mandates: oversight, lawmaking, and public participation.

09/01/2026

FAMILY CONFIRMS PASSING OF BISHOP DANIEL MATEBESI

MAHIKENG - The family of Bishop Daniel Matebesi has confirmed his passing, describing his death as a profound loss to both religious and social communities across the North West Province.

In a family statement released on Friday afternoon, 9 January 2026, the family said Bishop Matebesi died after a short illness on the 09th of January 2026 at around 05h00 in the morning at his home in Mahikeng. They noted that his passing "has left a void in the social and religious communities around the North-West province."

Bishop Matebesi was widely respected for his leadership and his role in bringing people together through faith. According to the family, his leadership skills and role of uniting people through the word of God has played a major role in promoting moral regeneration in the North-West province.

He was also known for using media as a tool for ministry. The family stated that he "meticulously used the broadcasting space as a platform to advocate, teach and spread the word of God," particularly through his work on Motsweding FM, where he served as a preacher for four years.

Beyond the pulpit and the airwaves, Bishop Matebesi was deeply involved in community work. The family described him as a social activist who played a prominent role in communities, intervening and mitigating challenges that affected ordinary people on the ground.

His service extended across several key organisations. The family confirmed that Bishop Matebesi served with distinction as President of the South African Ministers Fraternal (SAMIFRA) for 18 years, President of the South African Christian Ministers Council (SACMIC) for six years, a member of the RSA State President Interfaith Forum, Patron of the GBV Forum, and District Chairperson of the Moral Regeneration Movement in Ngaka Modiri Molema District.

Details regarding the memorial service and funeral arrangements have not yet been finalised. The family said that details on the memorial service and funeral will be communicated in due course.

They also expressed gratitude for the support received, saying they "appreciate messages of support and comfort which have been expressed from all quarters since the announcement on the passing-on of Bishop Daniel Matebesi."

09/01/2026

FIVE PEOPLE ARRESTED FOR DEALING IN DRUGS

SCHWEIZER-RENEKE – Police operations against drug-related crime in the Mamusa Local Municipality have led to the arrest of five suspects in Schweizer-Reneke and Ipelegeng over the past few days.

Three suspects, aged between 29 and 42, were arrested on Tuesday, 6 January 2026, in Schweizer-Reneke following information received by police that was swiftly operationalised. Two of the suspects were apprehended during the morning at Delport Street and Buiten Street, while the third was arrested later in the afternoon at Schweizer Street.

During these arrests, police seized substances suspected to be crystal m**h and mandrax with an estimated combined street value exceeding R50 000. The arrests form part of ongoing efforts to curb drug dealing and related criminal activities in the area.

The three suspects appeared before the Schweizer-Reneke Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, 8 January 2026, where their cases were postponed. Griffiths Masopi Edigile (29) had his case postponed to 14 January 2026 for a bail application. Nnambi Alloyseus Okokwa (42) will return to court on 15 January 2026 to allow time to secure legal representation and for a possible bail application. Patrick Nkuta (29) is also expected back in court on 15 January 2026 for a bail application. All three suspects remain in police custody.

In a related development, police carried out further operations in the early hours of Thursday, 8 January 2026, at around 06h00, in Ipelegeng Extension 14. Two additional suspects were arrested in connection with drug-related offences. Details surrounding their court appearances are expected to be released as investigations continue.

09/01/2026

[BREAKING NEWS] Reports coming in indicate that Bishop Daniel Matebesi has passed away at his residence in the early hours of Friday.

He was a widely respected religious leader and a well-known voice to audiences across the North West, largely through his radio work. Bishop Matebesi co-presented a Sunday spiritual programme on Motsweding FM, offering teachings centred on faith, prayer, and moral values.

This story is still developing.

09/01/2026

VRYBURG - Football trials hosted by James Mothibi Sports Academy are currently underway at Colridge Stadium in Vryburg. Football enthusiasts from across the district have gathered to showcase their talent, all hoping to catch the eye of scouts and secure a place in professional football structures.

The James Mothibi Sports Academy says the trials are aimed at identifying and recruiting young players with potential, creating pathways for them into professional football and long-term development opportunities.

08/01/2026

TRIALS OFFER YOUNG PLAYERS PATHWAY TO PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALL

VRYBURG - Aspiring young footballers in the North West Province will have an opportunity to showcase their talent when the James Mothibi Sports Academy hosts open trials in Vryburg this week.

The trials are scheduled for Friday, 09 January 2026, at Coldridge Stadium, with registration starting at 07:30 and kick-off at 09:30. The initiative targets players across several age groups, including U13, U15, U17, U19 and U21.

According to the organisers, the trials aim to identify promising talent that can be developed through the academy’s structured football programme. Selected players may also gain exposure to professional DDC (Diski Development Challenge) teams, offering a pathway into higher levels of competitive football.

Participants are required to bring their own playing kit and a water bottle, while a registration fee of R120 applies.

The James Mothibi Sports Academy is known for its focus on youth development and providing opportunities for players from local communities to advance their football careers.

For more information, interested players and parents can contact +27 71 771 9134.

08/01/2026

BABOON SPOTTED ROAMING BLOEMHOF STREETS

BLOEMHOF - Residents of the small agricultural town of Bloemhof in South Africa's North West Province have been placed on high alert following sightings of a lone baboon wandering through urban areas.

The Lekwa-Teemane Local Municipality issued an urgent public notice today, warning that the animal has been spotted roaming within the town limits and may pose a potential danger to locals.

"At this stage, there are no immediate means available to safely contain or engage the baboon," the statement read. "Relevant authorities are making efforts to address the situation."

Residents are strongly advised to remain vigilant, avoid any approach or interaction with the animal, and keep children and pets indoors whenever possible until the situation is resolved. Further updates will be provided as developments occur.

While no injuries have been reported in this case, authorities emphasize caution, as baboons can become aggressive if cornered or provoked.

04/01/2026

FREAK THUNDERSTORM HITS HUHUDI - ONE CHILD DEAD

HUHUDI - A severe thunderstorm swept through Huhudi shortly after midday on Sunday, leaving destruction in its wake and claiming the life of a child.

Residents reported sudden heavy rain, strong winds, and lightning that caused extensive damage. Several homes experienced flooding as water entered living areas, while falling trees disrupted roads and power lines, leaving much of the town without electricity.

The storm also caused significant traffic disruptions, as streets were flooded and debris blocked key routes.

Tragically, one child lost their life during the storm.
North West Police Spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Sam Tselanyane, said the child was caught in fast-moving water during the storm and later died.

Residents have taken to social media to share images and videos showing the extent of the damage. In one widely shared video, floodwaters can be seen inundating Mompati Mall, where workers were observed sweeping water out of the shopping centre.

04/01/2026

HOMECOMING CELEBRATIONS MARK SUCCESSFUL INITIATION SEASON ACROSS NORTH WEST

TAUNG — The North West province was alive with colour, song and tradition on Saturday, 03 January 2026, as families and communities gathered across the province to celebrate the return of initiates from initiation schools.

The homecoming celebrations marked the end of an initiation season that began in late November and early December 2025, when young men from different parts of the province were taken to initiation schools as part of a long-standing cultural rite of passage into manhood.

Despite challenges that marred the season — including the reported deaths of three initiates in Klerksdorp and Mahikeng, as well as the shutdown of several illegal initiation schools by provincial authorities — the majority of legally registered schools recorded successful outcomes, with initiates returning home safely.

One of the notable celebrations took place at the Charlmans residence in Taung Extension 5, where Tshepang and Tshepiso Charlmans were warmly welcomed home after spending a month at initiation school. The celebration drew relatives, community members and dignitaries, turning the homestead into a vibrant space of song, dance and cultural pride.

The homecoming was marked by a rich fusion of Setswana and Xhosa traditions, reflecting the cultural backgrounds of both parents. Elders from both families came together to formally receive the young men, symbolising unity and shared responsibility in shaping their journey into adulthood.

Tshepang and Tshepiso are among many initiates who successfully completed the month-long initiation process, which aims to prepare young men to become responsible, disciplined and respectful members of society.

Speaking during the celebrations, initiation school principal Steven Mushi said his school received 118 initiates at the end of November 2025, and all returned safely to graduate on Saturday. Mushi described the outcome as a testament to doing things "the right way".

"We are intentional about breaking the stereotype that initiation schools are money-making schemes," said Mushi. "What we do is not for profit. Our focus is on discipline, cultural education and shaping these young men into respectful individuals who will positively contribute to their communities."

He added that the core purpose of initiation is to instil values, responsibility and cultural understanding, rather than exploitation.

Among those in attendance at the Charlmans homecoming were Dr Bengeza and the North West MEC for Agriculture, Madoda Sambatha.

As the welcoming of initiates ended on Saturday, the 2025/26 initiation season stands as a reminder of both the importance of safeguarding cultural traditions and the responsibility to protect young lives through lawful and ethical practices.

03/01/2026

MAN DIES AFTER BEING MAULED BY PIT BULLS

VRYBURG - A 39-year-old man has succumbed to his injuries after allegedly being attacked by two pit bull dogs in Vryburg, North West.

The incident reportedly occurred on Thursday, 1 January 2026. According to North West SAPS spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Sam Tselanyane, police received a report of an inquest from a local hospital.

“Upon arrival at the hospital, police were directed to a surgical ward where a man was found lying on a bed with no signs of life,” said Lt. Col. Tselanyane.

The deceased had sustained multiple wounds and scratches to his hands and legs, allegedly as a result of being bitten by pit bull dogs. Emergency Medical Rescue Services (EMRS) transported him to hospital at approximately 02:30 on Thursday morning. He later passed away on Friday evening, 2 January 2026.

The circumstances surrounding the incident are currently under investigation.

Preliminary investigations have revealed that this was not the first incident involving the dogs at the same property. It is alleged that the dogs had previously attacked other tenants, and a related case is expected to be heard at the local Magistrate’s Court in February.

Following consultations with the dog owner, the two pit bulls were euthanised on Saturday, 3 January 2026.

No arrests have been made at this stage. Police have opened an inquest docket and investigations are ongoing.
(picture for illustration purposes)

Morongwa ( Community Newspaper )

13/01/2026

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