Ramaphosa supports Cape Town police in tackling extortionists

President Cyril Ramaphosa welcomed the arrest of four alleged extortionists in Cape Town last week, Cape Town etc. defeated.

Also read: Four dead, four injured in Cape Town police shooting

On Thursday, eight alleged extortionists were on their way to commit a mass shooting in Milnerton when they were confronted by a South African Police Service (SAPS) Western Cape Task Team.

A shootout ensued, killing four of the eight suspects. Officers found firearms at the scene.

Police spokesperson Brigadier Novela Potelwa said the wanted men were spotted in a Quantum taxi. “The injured suspects, all from Cape Town, are aged 23, 30, 34 and 38 and are under police guard at a medical facility.”

Cape Town {city} Etc discount: Looking for things to do in the city for half the price? Get exclusive offers here.

We are now waging war against those who extort money. “We are waging war on the construction mafia. We are waging war on gangsters. We are going to deal with you now and make sure you are brought to justice,” Ramaphosa said.

‘The gangsters are tearing our communities apart and it is costing lives. Businesses are being forced to pay protection fees and are being besieged by criminals who are destroying their businesses. We are here to show you that we are aware of your concerns and that we are taking them seriously.

“The South African Police Service is at the forefront of the fight against crime. It is making progress in reclaiming our streets from criminals. Last year… we launched Operation Shanela, which brings together various law enforcement agencies to deal effectively with crime,” he added.

Ramaphosa said this during the signing ceremony of a cooperation agreement to combat crime Friday in Cape Town.

While the agreement does not lead to the transfer of police powers, authorities say it will improve security and increase support for police services in the metropolis.

Watch:

I want to call on each of you to join with the national and provincial government, the SAPS and the City of Cape Town to help us free our communities from those who cause violence, discord and criminality.

https://t.co/DP30Xv4O6N

— Cyril Ramaphosa 🇿🇦 (@CyrilRamaphosa) August 30, 2024