Fight against extortion and protect small businesses – EFF – POLITICS

EFF response to CIC draft resolution to combat racketeering and protect small businesses

6 September 2024

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) remain steadfast in their commitment to protecting the people of South Africa from the scourge of crime and criminal extortion that suffocates small businesses and destabilises communities. Commander-in-Chief (CIC) Julius Malema has tabled an important draft resolution in Parliament, which was introduced earlier today by EFF Member of Parliament (MP), Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi.

The draft resolution for the National Assembly aims to bring together various ministries and stakeholders through an ad hoc committee to counter the creeping rise of extortion gangs targeting small and informal businesses across the country.

The resolution recognises the widespread crime problem that affects every corner of our society. South Africa is under siege by criminals who not only target individuals and households, but now also prey on vulnerable small businesses. These criminals have built sophisticated networks and are extorting small business owners in townships, suburbs and even schools. This form of extortion, known as 'protection money', demands a percentage of business income in exchange for security, threatening lives and livelihoods.

We have seen the devastating impact of this crime in the Western Cape, where extortion gangs have led to the closure of businesses like Beerhouse and loss of lives in townships. This criminal phenomenon is rapidly spreading to other provinces, including the Eastern Cape, where schools are having to close because criminals are now extorting teachers. This has cost the construction industry alone over R40 billion. If this heinous crime continues unchecked, South Africans will no longer be able to do business freely or live without fear of prosecution.