Durban – KwaZulu-Natal police have dismantled an extortion syndicate, arresting three suspects — two alleged kingpins operating in Eshowe and Durban.
Police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda reported that officers from the provincial organised crime unit, supported by tactical response teams from Empangeni and Durban and other law enforcement agencies, carried out an arrest warrant at a house in Ntumeni, Eshowe.
“When police arrived at the residence, they found two security guards and one of them was found in possession of a firearm whose serial number had been filed off. He was duly arrested for being in possession of a prohibited firearm.
“Inside the house, police arrested a 42-year-old suspected extortionist. An undisclosed amount of money was found in the house and was seized. Three vehicles, also believed to be the proceeds of crime, were seized, and the Asset Forfeiture Unit has begun the process of preparation of preservation orders,” Netshiunda said.
In a simultaneous Durban operation, a 40-year-old man was arrested with a licensed firearm and ammunition for testing.
The suspects allegedly extorted money from student residence owners and businesses, especially foreign-owned ones. They are due to appear in the Durban Magistrate’s Court on 29 September 2025.
The article also notes a separate July incident where two Johannesburg Metro Police officers were arrested for extortion and corruption after a public complaint prompted a swift probe.
Follow African Insider on Facebook, X and Instagram
Picture: Pexels
For more African news, visit Africaninsider.com
Compiled by Betha Madhomu
