Home of Jan Kempdorp whistleblower petrol bombed

The police are investigating a case of attempted murder after the home of a whistleblower from Jan Kempdorp was allegedly petrol bombed, although no arrests have been made yet. 

The incident took place on New Year's eve while James Ntema and his girlfriend were asleep in  their bedroom at around 1.30am. 

Ntema said the the petrol bombs that were manufactured from empty beer and alcohol bottles, were hurled through the window. 

"I sent the children to sleep with family members on December 30. The explosion damaged the wall and various items inside my house. By the grace of God, I survived without physical injury. CCTV footage captured a suspect fleeing from the scene. Two home-made petrol bombs and a brick was found on the scene." 

Ntema believed that the threats were orchestrated in an attempt to prevent him from exposing corruption and service delivery failures at Phokwane municipality.

"For years, I have been vocal in exposing corruption and maladministration, in my personal capacity as a community activist and through various political platforms, I have approached several Chapter 9 Institutions including the Public Protector, the South African Human Rights Commission and the Auditor General to raise concerns about the widespread corruption crippling our municipality." 

Ntema added that he had recently escalated three matters relating to corruption, fraud, financial mismanagement and misconduct at Phokwane municipality to the Hawks and the Special Investigating Unit (SIU).

"It is my firm belief that these efforts aimed at uncovering wrongdoing and restoring accountability,  triggered the violent attack on my life," he said.

He indicated that he remained "resolute and unshaken" and would continue to fight for the truth, transparency and justice for the people of Phokwane.

"Two courageous community members from Valspan have independently provided critical information to the SIU for investigation. I urge the community to support everyone who is brave enough to stand up against corruption. Residents, leaders and organisations must unite and report wrongdoing. Those who steal from the community must be held accountable."

Northern Cape SAPS spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Litabe stated that an attempted murder docket was registered at Jan Kempdorp SAPS after an alleged attack at a house on December 31 2025.

"Reportedly, a 42 year old man was sleeping at his house with his girlfriend at approximately 1:30am when he was allegedly awakened by a brick that broke a window. This was followed by a home-made petrol bomb that was thrown into the house. The police were notified immediately, and a case of attempted murder was opened." 

He confirmed that no injuries or fatalities were reported.

"No suspect has been arrested yet, and the investigation continues"  Litabe said.