Marti Will
-
A pastor and his wife have received direct imprisonment for animal cruelty and child sexual abuse in a groundbreaking Free State case marking South Africa’s first custodial sentence for domestic animal cruelty.
-
Free State police have welcomed the sentence handed down by the Welkom Regional Court against Mzinkwe Leonard Binda (48), who was sentenced to life imprisonment on Tuesday, 2 June.
-
The SAPS Lejweleputswa District conducted two Child Protection Week outreach programmes across the district between 29 and 31 May 2026, partnering with community organisations, faith-based groups and government departments to promote child safety and awareness.
-
More than half of police precincts in the Lejweleputswa district recorded lower crime rates in the past year, according to the latest South African Police Service (SAPS) statistics. Twelve of the district’s 21 precincts reported fewer crimes between April 2025 and March 2026 compared to the previous year, while five recorded increases and four remained…
-
Die Ysbeer-swemseisoen het begin, met ses byeenkomste wat beplan is vir die Vrystaat en Wes-Kaap tussen 27 Junie en 25 Julie.
-
Over 850 learners at Welkom High School participated in a school safety program on May 27, 2026, as part of Child Protection Week. The initiative, involving local police and wellness professionals, addressed issues like drug abuse, gangsterism, and gender-based violence. It emphasized promoting responsible behavior and enhancing school safety through collaboration.
-
The Wesselsbron SAPS Social Crime Prevention unit, in partnership with various stakeholders, hosted a father-son dialogue on May 28, 2026, during Child Protection Week. The event encouraged discussions on community issues, promoting mentorship and social responsibility among young males. Recommendations included strengthening parental guidance and enhancing engagement through various programs.
-
The Democratic Alliance in Lejweleputswa District Municipality will enhance oversight following the appointment of new Executive Mayor, Phindiwe Maseko, amid financial mismanagement and governance issues. The ANC’s intervention in struggling municipalities has intensified scrutiny, as significant portions of the budget are allocated to salaries, hindering service delivery.
-
The 2026 Polar Bear cold-water swimming season features six events in the Free State and Western Cape from June 27 to July 25. Highlights include swims at Willem Pretorius Nature Reserve and an inaugural swim at Groot Brak. Funds raised will benefit SARZA and a local old-age home.










