The South African Police Service (SAPS) has intensified its efforts to address the growing threat of extortion and gang violence in Mthatha, Eastern Cape, by deploying additional specialised units.
- SAPS deploys multidisciplinary teams to combat extortion and gang violence in Mthatha.
- Local businesses are being forced to close due to threats and extortion demands.
- Community involvement is crucial to the success of ongoing police efforts, SAPS says.
SAPS deploys extra capacity to deal with ‘protection fees’ in Mthatha
In response to the escalating incidents of extortion, SAPS has deployed multidisciplinary teams to Mthatha and other parts of the Eastern Cape.
These teams, led by senior officers from SAPS National Headquarters, include detectives from the Organised Crime and Serious and Violent Crime units, operatives from the National Intervention Unit (NIU), and Crime Intelligence officers.
The deployment was announced by National Commissioner General Fannie Masemola on Tuesday, who emphasised that these efforts are part of a broader strategy to prevent, combat, and investigate gang violence and extortion.
Mthatha has witnessed a troubling rise in extortion cases, particularly through so-called “protection fees” demanded by criminal syndicates.
This practice has forced some local businesses, especially those owned by foreigners, to close due to intimidation and threats.
Last week, the Mthatha Ophthalmology Medical Practice permanently shut down, citing hostile criminal activities as the reason.
“The office’s premature and permanent closure is due to hostile criminal activities that have threatened my life and wellbeing,” the practice’s management stated.
How police are responding to extortion in Mthatha
SAPS has made it clear that tackling extortion in Mthatha is a top priority.
General Masemola has urged the community to cooperate by reporting incidents of extortion and identifying the perpetrators.
He stated:
“For us to pin down these extortionists, we need witnesses… We urge the community’s cooperation in this regard.”
The SAPS also plans to increase its capacity to register more cases and ensure effective takedowns.
Key facts about extortion in South Africa
Extortion is a growing problem across South Africa, with particularly high levels reported in the Western and Eastern Cape.
According to recent data, 722 extortionists have been arrested nationwide over the past five years, with 52 of them found guilty and collectively sentenced to over 89 years in prison.
The issue has been exacerbated by the rise of so-called “construction mafias,” particularly in the Western Cape, where well-known figures like Ralph Stanfield face multiple charges related to extortion.
In the Western Cape, authorities have made significant inroads against the extortion problem, particularly within the construction industry.
Stanfield, a notorious gang leader, along with his wife and fourteen others, face 32 charges related to the Prevention of Organised Crime Act, including extortion fees.