‘Mastermind’ behind DA candidate’s execution finally arrested after month-long manhunt

Cape Town – Police have arrested the alleged mastermind behind the murder of Democratic Alliance (DA) candidate councillor Sinovuyo Miranda Dyokwe, marking a major breakthrough in the investigation into her killing last month.

The 37-year-old suspect was arrested during a joint intelligence-driven operation by Western Cape Serious Violent Crime Investigation (SVCI) detectives and the SAPS Special Task Force in Parklands on Saturday, 25 July.

According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), the suspect had allegedly been evading arrest before detectives tracked him down following information received from members of the public.

“The diligent investigation by Western Cape Serious Violent Crime Investigation (SVCI) detectives into the murder of DA candidate councillor, Ms Sinovuyo Miranda Dyokwe, has culminated in the arrest of the alleged mastermind behind her killing,” SAPS said in a statement.

Police said the suspect had been “positively linked to the murder through the ongoing investigation.”

Preliminary investigations indicate that Dyokwe had allegedly been the target of an extortion racket before her death.

“Preliminary investigations indicate that the deceased had allegedly been subjected to extortion and was reportedly forced to pay protection money. It is further alleged that after she refused to continue making these payments, threats were made against her,” the statement said.

Investigators further allege that on Friday, 20 June 2026, Dyokwe was returning home after participating in voter registration activities in Dunoon when she was followed and ambushed.

“The investigation further revealed that on Friday, 20 June 2026, while returning home after participating in voter registration activities in Dunoon, she was allegedly followed before two armed suspects fatally shot her,” SAPS said.

Ongoing investigation

During Saturday’s operation, police seized a vehicle allegedly used in the commission of the murder, as well as seven cellular phones that will form part of the ongoing investigation.

The suspect is expected to appear in the Cape Town Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 27 July, on charges of murder and extortion.

Police said the investigation is continuing and warned that more arrests are likely.

“The investigation remains ongoing, and further arrests are expected as detectives continue to pursue all those involved in this matter,” SAPS said.

Western Cape Acting Provincial Commissioner Major General Luyanda Damoyi praised the investigating team and officers involved in the operation for their “dedication and perseverance”.