EDITORIAL THOUGHT LEADERSHIP
2017 and the phenomenon has since spread to Gauteng. Their demands are straightforward: surrender 30 % of a contract’ s value or face disruption, sabotage, and threats to life.
In the security sector, extortion often masquerades as legitimate business. Private security companies, many registered with the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority( PSiRA), approach businesses like service stations with offers of protection. This often occurs soon after the business experiences mysterious“ incidents.” These incidents may be orchestrated to create a need, after which the same company offers a solution.
South Africa’ s mining industry faces significant extortion challenges. Illegal mining syndicates known as zama zamas occupy both abandoned and active sites, engaging in violence, sabotage, and forced payment demands. Community protests, even those driven by legitimate grievances, are occasionally exploited by criminals to pressure companies into offering jobs or concessions.
Worryingly, mines are also a source of illegal explosives used in extortion-related sabotage, linking it to broader organised crime networks.
Most importantly, victims should be encouraged to report crimes even after complying with demands. In South Africa, compliance with extortion does carry legal ramifications, but SAPS continues to recommend reporting such cases. Mitigating factors are taken into account, and the sooner a report is filed, the greater the likelihood that these factors will work in the victim’ s favour. Even if the victim has complied with the extortionist’ s demand for some time, SAPS urges them to come forward, as transparency and collective action are critical to dismantling the syndicates involved.
The following hotlines can be used to report extortion:
• National Extortion Hotline: 0800 911 011
• PSI Reporting Line( Petroleum Related Incidents): 079 548 6235
Victims should also report directly to the SAPS.
Extortion in South Africa is a complex and growing crisis infiltrating multiple sectors and exploiting businesses’ vulnerabilities with increasing sophistication. By understanding its mechanisms, recognising early warning signs, and fostering a culture of reporting, businesses and communities can take meaningful steps towards resilience. ■
Small businesses, particularly spaza shops run by foreign nationals, are also frequent targets. In cities like Gqeberha, criminal gangs demand protection payments of up to R3 000 per month. Non-payment can lead to robbery, arson – even murder.
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A path forward
Addressing extortion in South Africa requires a coordinated response rooted in both prevention and enforcement. Awareness and education are crucial. Businesses must learn to identify early signs of coercion such as unsolicited offers of help, sudden threats following minor incidents, or informal demands framed as community upliftment.
When reporting incidents, documentation is key. Victims should record conversations, keep evidence of financial transactions, and ensure statements are made formally and certified. Legal support should be sought early, and the involvement of specialised police units such as the Extortion Investigation Task Team( EITT) is strongly recommended.
44 SA PROFILE www. saprofilemagazine. co. za