A chilling text sent to the Police Minister’s chief of staff during a parliamentary dinner has triggered a fresh forensic investigation, adding another layer of tension to the already high‑stakes security operation for the upcoming G20 summit. Picture Credits: Nando Caicedo
By Duncan Mnisi
Johannesburg, 20 Nov 2025 — Tensions are rising as South Africa prepares to host its first-ever G20 Summit on African soil, with a new security scare emerging just days before world leaders arrive.
A disturbing incident unfolded during a parliamentary supper, where a forensic investigator allegedly sent a threatening message to the chief of staff of Police Minister Nathi Mthethwa. The message — described by officials as “deeply concerning” — has sparked a fresh investigation amid already heightened security measures.
According to parliamentary sources, the message was sent from an official work device and warned of “serious consequences” if certain matters were pursued. Although the exact details remain confidential, its arrival in the Minister’s office has raised alarm across political and law-enforcement circles.
In response, Minister Mthethwa announced a “comprehensive forensic investigation” into the SAPS Service Termination Section to determine whether the threat is linked to fraud, corruption, or internal sabotage.
“We will get to the bottom of this rot, and anyone involved will be held accountable,” he said in Parliament.
With the G20 Summit only two days away, security agencies are under intense scrutiny. Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi stressed the importance of maintaining tight security, urging law enforcement to “ensure that the G20 Leaders’ Summit is held safely and without incident.”
The incident adds to a growing pattern of intimidation within the public sector. Recent research shows forensic investigators increasingly becoming targets of threats, harassment, and intimidation. The Special Investigating Unit has already introduced protective measures for personnel handling sensitive cases, underscoring the real risks faced by officials working on high-stakes investigations.
As South Africa enters the final stretch of its G20 preparations, the message has become a chilling reminder of the internal pressures facing the country’s justice and security institutions at a critical moment.
