By BAKANG MOKOTO
28 October 2026 – The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in Gauteng, has withdrawn the assault and extortion charges against Ismael Dawood after considering representations submitted on his behalf and reviewing the available evidence. The charges arose from an alleged incident in December 2023, when Dawood and the complainant allegedly met in Hillbrow, Johannesburg.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Gauteng, Magaboke Mohlatlole said it was alleged that Dawood assaulted the complainant and demanded money from him. Mohlatlole said the review included information that the complainant had allegedly involved other people in investment schemes that did not exist, leading to demands for repayment.
“The office found that the available evidence did not support the extortion charge and was insufficient to sustain the assault charge. The representations were therefore successful, and the charges have been withdrawn. The NPA remains committed to making prosecutorial decisions based on the evidence, the merits of each case and the applicable law.
“Every matter is assessed independently and objectively, in the interests of justice. The NPA reiterates its commitment to upholding the rule of law and carrying out its mandate without fear, favour or prejudice,” he said.
