In Nelson Mandela Bay, criminal syndicates are demanding protection fees from businesses and individuals, creating no-go zones amid underreporting to police. Victims face threats to their livelihoods and safety, while law enforcement admits challenges in addressing the issue. Recent court cases and crime statistics highlight the growing problem.
Extortion syndicates in Nelson Mandela Bay, also known as Gqeberha, are exploiting vulnerabilities to demand payments from businesses and residents. A notable case involves a 61-year-old man who, after a personal encounter at a guesthouse in February 2022, was contacted by someone posing as Warrant Officer Makwena. The caller alleged the man's involvement in a rape and counterfeit money scheme, demanding R10,000 to keep it secret. Over eight months, the victim paid R390,500 to an FNB bank account and R355,050 via transfers to 15 cellphone numbers, totaling over R700,000.
The scheme involved a fake 'judge' demanding further payments. The victim reported the matter, leading Sergeant Dumisani Ntshanyana to trace the bank account to Mulalo Portia Tshitambo, an accountant in Pretoria. Tshitambo, facing charges of extortion, fraud, corruption, and defeating justice, attempted to bribe the officer with R30,000 during a sting operation in Gqeberha. Her trial continues at the Specialised Commercial Crime Court.
Businesses face similar pressures. Two scrap metal traders, targeted since 2023, initially paid R58,000 monthly to avoid violence, employing a syndicate member for oversight. Internal syndicate killings led to renegotiations, now at R35,000 monthly, plus R30,000 for private security. They avoid police reports fearing retaliation through police connections.
Small enterprises in Walmer Township and e-hail drivers in areas like New Brighton and Kwazakhele pay varying fees, from R100 daily passes to thousands monthly, to access no-go zones controlled by gangs.
In third-quarter crime statistics for 2025/26, acting police minister Firoz Cachalia noted extortion's underreporting, as it falls outside standard categories. National commissioner General Fannie Masemola mentioned special operations in the Eastern Cape, but victims doubt their effectiveness, viewing payments as a business cost.
