A disturbing incident has shaken South Africa’s legal system after a handwritten death threat was discovered on the desk of an individual involved in the high-profile Mbenenge case. The note, which read “One bullet is waiting for you” and warned, “Come season three, you will be destroyed” , was found at the Capital Hotel, where tribunal proceedings were scheduled for May 5, 2025. The recipient, whose identity remains confidential, immediately reported the threat to authorities, prompting the South African Police Service (SAPS) to initiate an investigation.
The discovery has sparked widespread condemnation, with officials labeling the act a “blatant attempt to undermine justice.” While no arrests have been made, the incident highlights ongoing vulnerabilities in safeguarding whistleblowers and court personnel. Civil society groups have called for stronger protections, citing similar cases of intimidation, such as a 2023 incident where a witness in Mpumalanga faced threats after testifying against local officials.
Public reaction has been swift, with critics emphasizing the need for systemic reforms to ensure judicial integrity. The episode underscores the risks faced by those engaging with South Africa’s legal processes, particularly in high-stakes cases.
As SAPS intensifies its probe, the case serves as a stark reminder of the fragile balance between accountability and intimidation in the pursuit of justice.
