A 46-year-old man has been arrested in Cape Town for allegedly sending threatening messages targeting Western Cape Premier Alan Winde, including a threat to shoot the person who received the messages.
The suspect was arrested in the early hours of Friday, November 13, 2026, following an investigation by Western Cape police into intimidating text messages allegedly sent last month.
Police spokesperson Colonel Andrè Traut said the investigation began after a complainant received threatening messages on October 17, 2026.
“The messages allegedly contained threats directed at the Premier, as well as a direct threat to shoot the complainant,” Traut said.
Suspect tracked down in Kensington
According to Traut, detectives from the Provincial Murder and Robbery Unit, working alongside Crime Intelligence, followed several investigative leads to establish the suspect’s identity and whereabouts.
Police subsequently obtained a warrant for his arrest after gathering and analysing information linked to the alleged threats.
“The suspect was arrested at approximately 03:30 on Friday, 13 November 2026, at a premises in Kensington, Cape Town. A cellular telephone believed to have been used in the commission of the offence was seized,” Traut said.
The seized cellphone is believed to be linked to the alleged threatening messages.
Suspect faces intimidation and cybercrime charges
Traut confirmed that the suspect is expected to appear in the Cape Town Magistrates’ Court on Friday, where he will face charges relating to intimidation and alleged contraventions of the Cybercrimes Act, 19 of 2020.
Police have not disclosed the suspect’s identity or the relationship between the complainant and the Premier.
The circumstances surrounding the alleged threats remain the subject of the police investigation.
Traut said police would not tolerate threats against individuals or public representatives.
“Western Cape police take threats and intimidation seriously, particularly where they are intended to undermine the safety of individuals or public representatives. Such conduct will be investigated and dealt with through the appropriate legal processes,” he said.
IOL News
Wendy Dondolo
iol.co.za