The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) remains committed to combating criminal activities that threaten the safety and integrity of our commercial environments. This commitment was underscored during the recent meeting with the Minister of Police, where proactive strategies were discussed to address issues such as extortion linked to construction mafias.
On the morning of Monday, 09 September 2024, JMPD CCTV Reaction officers responded swiftly to reports of alleged extortion occurring at a construction site for a Total Garage located at the intersection of Simmonds and Thorpe Streets in Marshalltown. It was reported that certain individuals, identified as part of a construction mafia, had allegedly demanded R1000 daily from construction workers and had been obstructing access to the site.
The suspects also interfered with the construction process by parking a grey Mercedes Benz at the entrance, consequently preventing legitimate workers from entering the site.
Furthermore, the suspects insisted that only their preferred workers from Ward 124 be employed. This claim was disputed by the property owner, who denied any prior agreement with the suspects regarding employment.
Prompt action by JMPD officers led to the arrest of four male suspects, who were charged with extortion, intimidation and public violence. They were detained at Johannesburg Central police station where a case docket has been opened for investigation. The vehicle used in the commission of the crime was seized and booked in at the SAPS vehicle pound.
We would like to reassure the public that the City of Johannesburg is fully committed to eradicating the influence of such criminal groups and maintaining a safe environment for all businesses and construction projects in our city. Our decisive action today illustrates that we will not tolerate any form of extortion or intimidation.
As we move forward, the JMPD will continue to collaborate with other law enforcement agencies and stakeholders to put an end to these unlawful activities and foster a safer Johannesburg for everyone. We urge the public to report any similar incidents to the police and to cooperate with officers as we strive to protect our communities.
