The arrest of a suspect, expected to appear in the Philippi Magistrate’s Court for a bail hearing on Thursday, has intensified calls for justice and tougher action against stone-throwing and smash-and-grab attacks along Jakes Gerwel Drive, where beloved pastor Anthea Wilkinson was fatally injured last month.
Western Cape police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Frederick van Wyk confirmed that an adult male was arrested and appeared in court on Thursday, 5 November 2026.
"Be advised that an adult male was arrested. He appeared in the Philippi Magistrates court on Thursday 05 November 2026 for the mentioned charge," Van Wyk said.
The suspect is expected to return to court on Thursday, 12 November, for his bail hearing.
Police have not provided further details about the accused or confirmed whether he can be directly linked to Wilkinson's murder.
Petition urges victims to report attacks
The development comes amid a community petition titled "Keep Him Behind Bars – End the Stone-Throwing Terror on Jakes Gerwel Drive", which urges victims of similar attacks to come forward and assist police investigations.
According to the petition, a suspect was allegedly spotted attempting to smash vehicle windows before being pursued and found hiding in nearby bushes.
However, those behind the petition acknowledged that they could not confirm whether the individual was responsible for the attack that claimed Wilkinson's life.
The petition appeals to motorists who have experienced stone-throwing or smash-and-grab attacks along Jakes Gerwel Drive and near the Samora Machel traffic lights to report these incidents and assist in identifying possible perpetrators.
"For far too long, motorists on Jakes Gerwel Drive and at the Samora traffic robots have been targeted by stone-throwing and smash-and-grab attacks. These crimes have left countless people injured, traumatised, and robbed," the petition reads.
Organisers believe that victims who never opened criminal cases could hold valuable information that may assist police investigations.
The petition also contains allegations about the suspect's immigration status and previous conduct, which have not been independently verified or confirmed by police.
Wilkinson, 53, who had served as a pastor at Jesus Celebration International (JCI) for more than 25 years, was travelling home after preaching at the church's Bonteheuwel branch on Sunday, 11 October, when the vehicle she was travelling in came under attack.
Pastor’s death renews safety concerns
The 55-year-old driver heard a loud bang near the passenger-side window shortly after turning into Jakes Gerwel Road from the R300.
She discovered Wilkinson bleeding from the head and unconscious before rushing to Philippi police station for assistance.
Wilkinson was subsequently taken to hospital, where she later succumbed to her injuries, leaving behind her husband, Pastor Winston, their two children and a devastated congregation.
In an emotional tribute, JCI leader Dr J Swartz expressed the profound grief felt throughout the church.
"Her passing leaves a tremendous emptiness in our hearts and in this ministry. But her labour, her sacrifice, her faith and her legacy will not be forgotten."
Wilkinson's death has renewed concerns about the safety of motorists travelling along busy Cape Town routes, particularly at intersections where vehicles are forced to slow down or stop.
Police appeal for information
The petition calls for stronger action against those responsible for attacks on motorists and encourages victims to formally report previous incidents to police.
Following the attack on Wilkinson, Samora Machel police registered cases of murder, malicious damage to property and common assault.
Police have urged motorists to conceal valuables, remain vigilant at intersections and leave sufficient space between vehicles to provide an escape route if threatened.
Anyone with information that could assist police investigations is urged to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111.