Police have arrested the alleged mastermind behind the murder of Democratic Alliance (DA) councillor candidate Sinovuyo Miranda Dyokwe, more than a month after she was gunned down in Dunoon, Cape Town.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the South African Police Service (SAPS) said: “The diligent investigation by Western Cape Serious Violent Crime Investigation (SVCI) detectives into the murder of DA councillor candidate Ms Sinovuyo Miranda Dyokwe has culminated in the arrest of the alleged mastermind behind her killing.”
The 37-year-old suspect was arrested in Parklands on Saturday during a joint intelligence-driven operation by Provincial SVCI detectives and the SAPS Special Task Force after allegedly evading arrest.
Police said detectives acted on information received from members of the public regarding the suspect’s whereabouts and that he has been positively linked to the murder through the ongoing investigation.
According to SAPS, “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.”
Investigators further allege that on 20 June 2026, while returning home after participating in voter registration activities in Dunoon, Dyokwe was allegedly followed before two armed suspects fatally shot her.
During the operation, police seized the vehicle allegedly used in the commission of the offence, as well as seven mobile phones, which will form part of the ongoing investigation.
The suspect is expected to appear in the Cape Town Magistrate’s Court on Monday on charges of murder and extortion.
Police said the investigation remains ongoing and that further arrests are expected as detectives continue to pursue all those involved in the case.
Western Cape Acting Provincial Commissioner Major General Luyanda Damoyi commended the investigating team and all members involved in the operation for their dedication and perseverance.
