Soldiers not the solution to ‘protection fee’ mafia, says Holomisa

Bantu Holomisa, Deputy Minister of Defence, says soldier intervention is not the answer to a “protection fee” syndicate that has led to the closure of several businesses in Mthatha, Eastern Cape.

In Mthatha and other regions of the province, a disturbing trend of extortion through “protection fees” is affecting local businesses and vulnerable individuals. This form of extortion — where businesses, particularly those owned by foreign nationals, are forced to pay for dubious protection services — has led to some businesses being closed due to alleged intimidation and threats from criminal syndicates.

The Mthatha Ophthalmology Medical Practice announced its permanent closure last week. “The premature and permanent closure of the practice is due to hostile criminal activities that have threatened my life and well-being,” the practice management said.

“The problem of protection costs is already there in Mthatha and other areas in the Eastern Cape and in SA in general.” Holomisa said he briefed the new police minister Senzo Mchunu in the lekgotla cabinet “about the situation in Gqeberha and Mthatha. He went to the Eastern Cape and was accompanied by the premier (Oscar) Mabuyane who visited hotspots.