‘It wasn’t me’

A South African man accused of ‘funding ISIS’ has denied claims that he was behind the recent Sandton terror. The US Embassy warned that the plush region of Johannesburg could be subject to an attack over the past weekend.

Thankfully, it passed without incident. Whether that’s because of an increased police and security presence remains to be seen. Now, with the dust somewhat settled, attention has turned towards finding the person(s) behind the panic-stirring threats.

Who is Farhad Hoomer?


Alas, one prominent suspect has rejected accusations that he is the so-called ‘mastermind’. Farhad Hoomer, who was charged with terrorism offences back in 2018, says that the authorities ‘must not use his name’ in these discussions.

In July, US officials designated Hoomer and three others as ‘ISIS organisers and/or facilitators.

Hoomer, who appeared in court after the Verulam Mosque attack four years ago in Durban (South Africa), had his case struck off the roll in 2020. Now situated in Morocco, he told the Sunday Tribune that those alleging he is involved in the Sandton episode are barking up the wrong tree.

“I want the South African government to be on high alert. If anything happens, they must arrest the people and find out where they are from and what they are up to. I don’t want to come back to South Africa and have problems knowing they are using my name.”

“I don’t know the reason for their questioning because they wanted to know where I was and about my business interests in Morocco. My phone has been tapped since 2018 and all my movements are known.

Oga, once a terrorist, always a terrorist! They never repent... never

Jeez

Major events in Johannesburg had high police visibility over the weekend such as the Soweto derby, international rugby match and gay pride.

Yep