By BAKANG MOKOTO
25 May 2025-Three men from Victoria West aged between 35 and 60 were arrested for extortion on Thursday. It is alleged that on 19 May 2025, the complainant was approached by the three suspects at a construction site at Gama Sub-station, near Victoria West.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Merapelo Pilane said the suspects allegedly introduced themselves as representatives of a committee from Victoria West and demanded for the removal of current appointed sub-contractors. Pilane said the contractor was also instructed to only employ candidates of their choice.
“The three men continued to threaten the complainant with violence, should he not adhere to their demands. The incident was reported to the police and an extortion case was registered and handed over to the Northern Cape SAPS Provincial Organized Crime Investigation Unit for further investigation.
“The investigations led to the arrests of the suspects, who are expected to appear in the Victoria West Magistrates Court soon. Extortion is deemed as a serious crime, which impacts the economy of the Northern Cape,” he said.
Pilane further said the police encourage the public to report any suspicious criminal activities via the MYSAPS App or the Crime Stop number 08600 10111. He added that, all information reported will be treated confidentially.
The Guardian 