The Cape Town Muslim community has been left deeply unsettled following a bomb threat directed at the historic Al-Azhar Mosque in District Six. The incident, now under active investigation, has raised grave concerns about the safety of worshippers and what some are calling a growing campaign to suppress pro-Palestinian solidarity.
According to police, the alarming threat was received via a cellphone message.
Western Cape police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg confirmed details of the case:
“Cape Town Central registered an intimidation case for investigation following an incident on Sunday, 4 May 2025, in which a message was sent via cellular telephone about a bomb threat. The circumstances surrounding the incident are under investigation, and no arrests have been made.”
Speaking on behalf of the Al-Azhar Mosque, executive committee member Baadier Gamieldien revealed the chilling nature of the message, which allegedly included not only a bomb warning but also threats to kill worshippers.
Gamieldien underscored the mosque’s commitment to the safety of its congregants:
“It goes without saying that the safety of all Musalees [those who perform the Salah prayer] is our top priority. We, therefore, urge everyone, including those attending other Masaajied, to be extra vigilant and stay aware of your surroundings.”
His remarks reflect a rising sense of caution across Muslim communities in the Western Cape, with other mosques also advised to heighten security and awareness.
The Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC) in Cape Town was quick to denounce the threat. Usuf Chikte, coordinator for the PSC, expressed alarm at what he described as a deliberate attempt to stifle voices standing in support of Palestine amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
“These acts form part of a disturbing trend aimed at intimidating and silencing those who stand in solidarity with the Palestinian people and speak out against the ongoing genocide in Gaza.”
Chikte called upon law enforcement and government bodies to respond decisively. He urged various agencies to take swift action to protect communities and safeguard the sanctity of places of worship:
“We call on the South African Police Service (SAPS), including the Provincial Commissioner and the Provincial Disaster Risk Management units, as well as the City of Cape Town’s municipal police, to take urgent steps to protect communities and investigate the matter thoroughly.”
While investigations continue and no arrests have yet been made, the message from both mosque leadership and solidarity groups is clear: vigilance and unity are paramount during these unsettling times.
The incident has sparked renewed discourse about the safety of religious spaces, the freedom to express solidarity with international causes, and the resilience of Cape Town’s Muslim community in the face of intimidation.
As authorities work to unravel the details behind the threat, many in the community remain hopeful that justice will be served and that houses of worship will continue to remain sanctuaries of peace and faith.
