Stellenbosch – A South African Police Service (SAPS) constable is among four suspects arrested in connection with an alleged extortion ring targeting more than 50 Somali and Ethiopian business owners in Stellenbosch and Khayamandi.
The constable, who is from Nyanga, was arrested alongside his father and brother during a takedown operation in Bellville on Sunday evening, 16 August 2026.
A Somali businessman, who allegedly collected extortion payments on behalf of the group, was also arrested.
The operation was led by provincial serious violent crime detectives, with support from Crime Intelligence, the Drone Unit, the National Prosecuting Authority, City of Cape Town security officials and the Financial Intelligence Centre.
SAPS said the suspects allegedly demanded money from local businesses and used the Somali businessman to collect specified amounts on stipulated dates.
“It is alleged that the suspects extorted money from over 50 Somali and Ethiopian businessmen in the Khayamandi and Stellenbosch area,” SAPS said.
“With the assistance of the Somalian businessman who is believed to have collected the specified amounts of money on stipulated dates within a month on behalf of the suspects, the alleged extortionists would receive substantial amounts of cash regularly.”
During the operation, police seized R120,000 in cash, four vehicles estimated to be worth R3 million and several firearms.
The arrests follow a project investigation into extortion in the area that has been running for two years.
SAPS said the investigation was gaining momentum and that further arrests were expected.
The four suspects, aged 23, 27, 47 and 53, are expected to appear in the Bellville Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 18 August, facing charges relating to extortion, money laundering and contraventions of the Prevention of Organised Crime Act.
Western Cape SAPS management commended the various law-enforcement agencies involved in the operation.
The police also urged members of the public to report extortion-related crimes through the national extortion hotline on 0800 31 4444.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
