In March 2023, an unsettling situation unfolded when Elrico Kaizer Kasper, a 38-year-old man, posted a message on his social media page alleging that ‘some people’ were plotting to assassinate President Cyril Ramaphosa.
The post mentioned that the supposed assassination attempt would occur during the President’s visit to De Aar for the Human Rights Day celebrations.
The alarming nature of this message prompted an immediate and coordinated response from the Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation team in conjunction with Crime Intelligence.
The authorities swiftly mobilized to address the potential threat to national security. The Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation team, known for their proficiency in handling high-stakes situations, worked alongside Crime Intelligence to locate Kasper.
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Their prompt actions underscored the importance of rapid response mechanisms in mitigating possible threats to public figures and national stability.
Kasper was soon tracked down and apprehended for questioning. During the interrogation, he confessed that his social media post was a product of frustration stemming from his unemployment.
This admission revealed a deeper layer to the incident, highlighting how personal grievances can sometimes manifest in harmful ways, especially when amplified through social media.
Following his arrest, Elrico Kaizer Kasper faced a series of court appearances culminating in a sentencing by the De Aar Regional Court.
The prosecution team, alongside the Hawks, was lauded for its dedication and thorough approach to the case. Major General Steven Mabuela, the Directorate’s provincial head, expressed his appreciation for the team’s relentless pursuit of justice.
He highlighted the case as a critical example of the legal consequences associated with cyber fraud and the spread of false information via social media platforms.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the importance of the sentencing as a deterrent.
The NPA’s spokesperson underscored that the five-year sentence handed down to Kasper serves as a stark warning to others who might engage in similar deceptive activities. By holding Kasper accountable, the legal system aims to dissuade individuals from exploiting digital platforms for fraudulent purposes.
