Construction mafia bust in Joburg inner city

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Construction mafia allegedly involved in extortion were bust by Johannesburg Metro police on Monday.

The 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.

According to JMPD spokesperson Superintendent Xolani Fihla, 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.

He also said they 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,” he explained.

Fihla reassured 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.

He highlighted that their decisive action today illustrates that they will not tolerate any form of extortion or intimidation.

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He added; “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.”