“However, certain individuals … are using mafia-style tactics to hijack construction sites, demanding tenders from contractors and subcontractors on major infrastructure projects. This is impacting negatively on the implementation of construction projects and the economic growth of the country.
Zikalala said this was unacceptable and an affront to democracy.
Government has tasked the South African Police Service’s organised crime investigations detective services and serious organised crime unit within the directorate for priority crime investigations to urgently look into the matter. A national forum has been established to co-ordinate such cases.
Zikalala said reports from the police revealed that 682 cases are being investigated, with 702 arrests made.
“We welcome this progress as it will send a clear message that criminality will not be tolerated. According to the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organised Crime, the disruption and blockages of construction sites cost the economy more than R68bn before the pandemic in 186 projects.
“The state cannot afford to be weak and must have the ability and capability to address extortion by expanding its networks. No business must be complicit and carved into submission [by] these criminal acts. We must not make crime pay.”
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