The Mthatha-based Serious Organised Crime Investigation unit of the Hawks secured the conviction and sentencing of two men, Mthuthuzeli Sogoni (53) and Ncebenkosi Sikrenya (47), for contravening the Cybercrimes Act in Mthatha. Their conviction followed a viral WhatsApp video circulated on 26 May 2024 that threatened violence ahead of the 2024 general elections in the King Sabata Dalindyebo region.
What Happened
Sogoni and Sikrenya recorded and shared a video demanding that police release firearms seized from the Border Taxi Alliance (BATA) for ballistic testing. They warned that taxi operations would stop, motorists would travel “at their own risk,” and political activities would not continue in BATA-controlled areas. They also accused police of bias and claimed collusion with the rival Ncedo Taxi Association. Moreover, the video ended with a direct threat of violence on election day.
The message spread quickly and sparked chaos in Mthatha the next day. Protesters blocked major roads, hijacked trucks and turned them into barricades, and stoned police vehicles. In addition, several trucks were looted. The unrest crippled the local economy and forced officials to postpone special votes. Soon after the violence, the Hawks launched an intensive investigation.
Official Response
Hawks investigators arrested the two men on 30 May 2024. They charged them under the Cybercrimes Act and granted them R3 000 bail each while the case moved through court.
After several court appearances, both men pleaded guilty. The Mthatha Regional Court sentenced Sikrenya to a R6 000 fine or two years in prison, wholly suspended for three years. Sogoni received a R7 000 fine or two years in prison, also wholly suspended for three years.
A senior investigator said the sentence showed that “using digital platforms to incite violence carries real consequences.”
Community Impact
Residents and business owners welcomed the outcome. The 2024 unrest caused major damage, disrupted trade, and weakened confidence in election safety. Consequently, the conviction was expected to deter similar threats and rebuild trust in law-enforcement agencies.
