CAPE TOWN – A Gauteng man who allegedly made threats against President Cyril Ramaphosa and other high-profile individuals is set to appear in the Cape Town Magistrate’s Court on Monday. The case has sparked widespread concern over the use of digital platforms to intimidate public officials and private citizens alike.
The Gauteng man t was arrested on Friday in Germiston, Gauteng, by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, also known as the Hawks. His arrest follows a case that was opened earlier in May after threatening messages were reportedly circulated.
According to Hawks spokesperson Brigadier Thandi Mbambo, the Gauteng man is accused of sending a voice note containing explicit threats to a Cape Town-based CEO. The same message allegedly referenced President Ramaphosa and included threatening language aimed at several other individuals.
“The Gauteng man is also alleged to have sent multiple threatening messages targeting the complainant, her family, and the Executive Mayor of Cape Town,” said Mbambo.
The voice message was forwarded to authorities, prompting the Hawks’ Cape Town-based Crimes Against the State (CATS) team to launch an urgent investigation. Within days, investigators were able to trace the origin of the messages and identify the suspect. He was taken into custody in Gauteng without incident.
The Gauteng man currently faces charges of intimidation, a serious offense under South African law that can carry a significant prison sentence depending on the circumstances and the individuals targeted. Intimidation charges are commonly brought when a person threatens another with harm or incites fear in a way that disrupts public order or personal safety.
While the initial charge is intimidation, legal experts suggest that further charges could be brought depending on the content of the messages, especially given that the threats targeted national and municipal leaders.
Gauteng Man arrested for threatening Ramaphosa, others to face charges in WC court
“Threats of this nature are not taken lightly, especially when directed at the President and other public figures. The intention behind the messages and the potential for incitement will be key factors in determining additional charges,” said legal analyst Themba Zulu.
The case has brought renewed attention to the broader issue of digital threats and cyber harassment in South Africa. Law enforcement officials have expressed concern about the increasing use of platforms like WhatsApp, voice messaging apps, and social media to spread intimidation and incite fear.
“Online threats can have real-world consequences,” said Brigadier Mbambo. “The Hawks treat these kinds of cases with the utmost seriousness. Our duty is to ensure that no individual, regardless of their status, lives in fear because of someone else’s threats.”
Public officials, including President Ramaphosa, have previously been the subject of threats, often during times of political unrest or in the lead-up to major events. This case, however, stands out due to the specific nature of the threats and the swift action taken by authorities to investigate and apprehend the suspect.
The Gauteng man is expected to be transported under guard to Cape Town, where he will appear in court. During the court proceedings, prosecutors are likely to outline the severity of the charges and request that the suspect remain in custody while investigations continue.
Investigators are also examining whether the suspect had any known affiliations with extremist groups or acted independently. Authorities are reviewing all digital communications connected to the case, including voice notes, texts, and social media interactions.
Security will be tight at the Cape Town Magistrate’s Court, given the high-profile nature of the individuals mentioned in the threats. Members of the public are encouraged to remain calm and allow the legal process to unfold.
Government officials have responded to the arrest by reinforcing their commitment to the safety of public servants and citizens. The Department of Justice has emphasized that any threats against elected officials will be pursued with full legal force.
As the investigation continues, the case serves as a strong reminder of the legal consequences of issuing threats—whether verbal, written, or digital. The Gauteng man’s court appearance marks the beginning of what could become a significant legal test of how South Africa addresses threats against public officials in the digital age.
Source- EWN