Rise Bokone

23/06/2026

NORTH WEST POLICE WARN AGAINST LOOTING AHEAD OF PLANNED NATIONAL MARCH

MAHIKENG – North West Acting Provincial Commissioner, Major General Ryno Naidoo, has issued a strong warning against looting and other criminal activities ahead of the planned national march scheduled for 30 June 2026.

The warning follows an incident in Promosa and several extensions of Ikageng near Potchefstroom, where eight tuck shops were allegedly looted by a group of youngsters on Monday, 22 June.

According to police, a criminal case has been opened and investigations are underway.

Major General Naidoo condemned the incident, describing the looting as criminal conduct that would not be tolerated.

He said individuals who use public incidents as an opportunity to commit crimes such as looting, theft, malicious damage to property and public violence will face the full might of the law.

"The South African Police Service remains committed to maintaining law and order and ensuring the safety of all residents," he said.

Police have called on community members to work with law enforcement agencies by reporting suspicious or criminal activities through local police stations, the Crime Stop hotline or the MySAPS mobile application.

Meanwhile, North West Premier Lazarus Kagiso Mokgosi and Major General Naidoo are expected to brief the media on the province's state of readiness for the planned national march.

The briefing follows directives issued by President Cyril Ramaphosa and reinforced by the Minister of Police to ensure stability, public safety and law and order during the nationwide action planned for 30 June.

The media briefing will take place at the Provincial Disaster Management Centre in Mahikeng on Wednesday, 24 June 2026.

Authorities say preparations are underway to ensure that demonstrations remain peaceful and that residents, businesses and public infrastructure are protected.

23/06/2026

4th annual Way Up Local Awards preparations are in full swing. Be sure not get left behind.
Book your ticket now on: 060 357 8250

23/06/2026

Way Up Movement announces significant partnership with Platinum North West TV

The Way Up Movement is proud to officially announce Platinum North West TV as the Official Media Partner for the 4th Way Up Local Awards Ceremony 2026.

This partnership marks a significant milestone in our journey of celebrating local excellence, community impact, and outstanding talent across the North West Province.

Having Platinum North West TV on board means greater visibility for our nominees, sponsors, partners, performers, and award winners. Through their media coverage and broadcasting platforms, the inspiring stories of our local heroes will reach a wider audience, helping us showcase the incredible talent and achievements that exist within our communities.

As our Official Media Partner, Platinum North West TV will play a vital role in:
✅ Promoting the awards ceremony and its activities
✅ Highlighting nominees and category achievements
✅ Sharing event updates and exclusive content
✅ Expanding the reach and impact of the Way Up Local Awards brand
✅ Celebrating local success stories through professional media coverage
Together, we are committed to creating a platform that uplifts, inspires, and empowers communities by giving recognition where it is truly deserved.

We extend our sincere appreciation to Platinum North West TV for believing in our vision and joining us in making the 4th Way Up Local Awards Ceremony bigger, stronger, and more impactful than ever before.

📅 Event Date: 10 October 2026
📍 Venue: Multi-Purpose Centre, Schweizer-Reneke, North West

Way Up Movement — Celebrating Excellence. Inspiring Greatness. Empowering Communities

19/06/2026

N14 BETWEEN KURUMAN AND VRYBURG PARTIALLY REOPENED TO LIGHT VEHICLES

VRYBURG – The N14 national road between Kuruman and Vryburg has been partially reopened to light motor vehicles following its closure due to flooding.

The South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) announced that the road reopened on Friday, 19 June 2026, providing temporary relief to motorists and restoring limited access along the route.

According to SANRAL, a thin layer of water remains on sections of the road surface and motorists are urged to exercise extreme caution when travelling through the affected area. A temporary speed limit of 60 km/h has been implemented, with warning signs in place to alert drivers to the remaining water hazards.

The reopening currently applies only to light motor vehicles while technical assessments and material testing continue to determine the full extent of the flood damage and the necessary rehabilitation work.

SANRAL Provincial Head for North West, Mirriam Ramoba, said the restriction remains in place until investigations are completed and measures are developed to ensure the long-term safety and integrity of the route.

Heavy motor vehicles are still prohibited from using the road and are advised to continue using alternative routes via the N18, N12 and R31.

SANRAL warned that any unauthorised use of the road contrary to the restrictions in place would constitute a violation of traffic regulations.

The agency thanked road users, freight operators, local communities and other stakeholders for their patience and cooperation during the prolonged closure, while apologising for the inconvenience caused by the flooding and related travel disruptions.

SANRAL said it remains committed to restoring full access to the road as soon as it is safe to do so.

17/06/2026

The Dire family in Ipelegeng, near Schweizer-Reneke, is appealing to the public for assistance in locating their missing 24-year-old daughter, Ipeleng Dire.

According to her aunt, Flora Dire, Ipeleng was last seen on 19 March 2026 when she travelled to Pienaarsdorp, near Klerksdorp, to visit her boyfriend.

Flora said Ipeleng arrived safely at her boyfriend's residence. However, on 23 March, the boyfriend reportedly returned home from work to find the house locked and Ipeleng missing.

She has not been seen or heard from since.

The family further stated that the boyfriend reported her missing to the police on 24 March 2026.

Anyone with information regarding Ipeleng's whereabouts is urged to contact the nearest police station or the family on 0734947221.

[WATCH]

Note: Although the video was recorded in Nooitgedacht, Ipeleng resides in Ipelegeng.

16/06/2026

EIGHT-YEAR-OLD GIRL KILLED AFTER ALLEGED ATTACK BY UNCLE

KANANA – An eight-year-old girl has died after she was allegedly stabbed by her uncle during a tragic incident in Kanana near Orkney on Monday, 15 June 2026.

According to a police report, the incident unfolded at about 10h30 when the girl's mother was at home with her two children. Her younger brother allegedly stormed into the house, grabbed the child and locked himself inside a bathroom with her.

The mother and her son reportedly ran outside to seek help. A police patrol vehicle that was in the area was alerted and officers rushed to the scene.

Police said they heard the child screaming from inside the locked bathroom and forced entry. The injured girl managed to escape after officers broke down the door.

The suspect allegedly shut the bathroom door again. When police forced their way inside for a second time, they found the 23-year-old man with multiple stab wounds to his neck, chest and stomach.

He was declared dead at the scene.

The child was rushed to a local clinic with several stab wounds to her neck but later succumbed to her injuries.

Police have opened a murder case and an inquest. The motive for the incident remains unknown and investigations are continuing.

15/06/2026

JAZZ LEGEND ABDULLAH IBRAHIM DIES AT 91

South African jazz icon Abdullah Ibrahim has died at the age of 91 following a short illness in Germany.

The internationally acclaimed pianist, composer and bandleader, formerly known as Dollar Brand, passed away after a career spanning more than seven decades, during which he became one of the most influential figures in South African and global jazz.

Ibrahim's last major public performance was at the Cape Town International Jazz Festival in March 2026, where he captivated audiences with a memorable set in his hometown. The performance was widely celebrated as a fitting showcase of his enduring artistry and musical brilliance.

Born in Cape Town in 1934, Ibrahim rose to international prominence with his distinctive fusion of jazz and traditional South African musical influences. His compositions, including the celebrated anthem Mannenberg, became powerful symbols of hope and resistance during apartheid.

15/06/2026

MYA MARKS FIRST ANNIVERSARY WITH YOUTH DAY CELEBRATION

MIGDOL – Mamusa Youth in Action (MYA) will celebrate its first anniversary on 16 June 2026, coinciding with Youth Day commemorations, at the SASSA Hall in Migdol.

Founded a year ago by Dikeledi Kgasu, the organisation has focused on youth and child development initiatives across the Mamusa Local Municipality, working with various stakeholders to address social challenges and create opportunities for young people.

According to Kgasu, the event will serve as an opportunity to reflect on the organisation's journey, achievements and impact within local communities.

"The celebration is to reflect on what the organisation has done and how it has impacted the lives of youth and children in our communities across Mamusa Municipality," she said.

Kgasu acknowledged that the road has not always been easy but credited community support and sponsorship from SPAR Schweizer-Reneke for helping the organisation reach the milestone.

"The journey has not been easy, but we have achieved a lot through the support of the community and our sponsor, SPAR Schweizer. We are grateful for everyone who has contributed to our growth over the past year," she said.

The anniversary celebration will also honour the legacy of the 1976 youth who stood up against injustice during the Soweto Uprising.

"We will be celebrating and commemorating the youth of 1976 while reflecting on how we, as today's youth, have aligned ourselves with that legacy and how active and vocal we have been in fighting for the rights of young people," Kgasu added.

As part of the programme, several guest speakers and achievers from different fields will share their experiences to inspire young people. Among those expected to address attendees are journalist Thabiso Moss, gospel artist Mvala MJ, professional footballer Pogiso Sanoka, entrepreneur and crochet specialist Giveness Mosepele, and educator Lesego Mogorosi of Mampho Secondary School.

Kgasu said the invited guests were selected because they represent success stories that young people can relate to.

"We want them to share their journeys, the challenges they faced and how they overcame them. We believe their stories will motivate and inspire our youth to pursue their goals despite obstacles," she said.

The event has also attracted several partners focused on youth empowerment and social development. The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) will encourage voter participation among young people, while the Department of Health and Imologa Community Projects will raise awareness about substance abuse and drug abuse.

In addition, Way Up Movement will engage with aspiring local musicians and provide guidance on building sustainable and professional careers in the music industry.

Organisers expect the event to bring together young people from across Mamusa for a day of reflection, empowerment, education and celebration as MYA marks its first year of service to the community.

14/06/2026

EIGHT HUHUDI SECONDARY LEARNERS HOSPITALISED AFTER SUSPECTED FOOD POISONING

GANYESA – Eight Grade 12 learners from Huhudi Secondary School were rushed to hospital after allegedly suffering food poisoning linked to snacks purchased from an outside tuckshop.

The incident occurred on the evening of Friday, 12 June 2026, during evening study classes at the school.

According to the North West Department of Education, the learners, all from Grade 12E, began experiencing symptoms including headaches, stomach cramps and dizziness after consuming snacks bought from a vendor outside the school during a break between 17:00 and 18:00.

Teachers on duty responded swiftly and transported the affected learners to the nearest clinic before they were transferred to a local hospital for further medical treatment and observation.

The Department confirmed that all eight learners were admitted to hospital. One learner, Mope Dikgakamatso, has since been discharged and returned to school, while the remaining learners continue to receive medical care.

The Department of Education has condemned the sale of food suspected to be unsafe and wished the affected learners a speedy recovery.

"The safety and wellbeing of our learners remain our top priority," the Department said in a statement.

An investigation has been launched in collaboration with the Department of Health to determine the cause of the incident. Authorities have already identified the source of the snacks and indicated that appropriate action will be taken to prevent similar incidents in future.

Parents and members of the school community have been urged to remain calm while investigations continue.

The Department has also reminded learners to avoid purchasing food from unregistered and unregulated vendors.

13/06/2026

FOUR ACCUSED GRANTED BAIL IN SCHWEIZER-RENEKE DRUG CASES

SCHWEIZER-RENEKE – Four of the eight men who have appeared before the Schweizer-Reneke Magistrate's Court on charges relating to the possession of and dealing in drugs in Schweizer-Reneke and Ipelegeng have been granted bail following court appearances this week.

The latest accused to secure their release are Nigerian nationals Jude Ikechukwu Ukeh (37) and Friday Emeka Nwebonyi (37), who were each granted R5,000 bail on Thursday.

The pair were arrested last week, Saturday night, during a Shanela 2 crime prevention operation in Schweizer-Reneke. Police allegedly discovered suspected crystal m**h hidden inside a vehicle during a stop-and-search operation, leading to their arrest.

Earlier in the week, South African national, Thato Innocent Lentswe (29) was granted R2,000 bail. Lentswe was arrested alongside Nigerian national Walter Akpugo (35) during a police operation conducted on Thursday, 4 June 2026.

Police allegedly recovered drugs suspected to be mandrax, dagga and crystal m**h, as well as dangerous weapons and pieces of copper cable, during a search at a property in Schweizer-Reneke.

Another accused, Sello Lekgetho, was granted R1,500 bail on Wednesday.

According to information, the four men form part of a group of eight accused who have appeared before court in separate but related drug cases between March and June this year. The arrests stem from ongoing investigations into alleged drug dealing activities in Schweizer-Reneke and Ipelegeng.

The remaining accused, including Nigerian nationals Aloysious Ukokwa and Israel Ugwazi, as well as Kgotla Ditira, are still awaiting the outcome of their bail applications. The State is opposing the bail of Akpugo.

All accused are expected to return to court on various dates throughout June and July.

Police investigations into the matters continue.