Police Fatally Shoot Suspect in Eastern Cape Extortion Probe
Teachers Targeted for Protection Fees
A man linked to an alleged extortion ring targeting teachers has been killed in a police shootout near Ngqeleni in the Eastern Cape. The operation stemmed from an investigation into demands for monthly “protection fees” made against educators.
Shootout Erupts Near Ngqeleni
Authorities intercepted a 30-year-old suspect, believed to be involved in extorting teachers, around 2 PM on Saturday in the Canzibe area. The suspect was travelling with a passenger when police instructed the vehicle to stop. According to police, the suspect immediately opened fire.
Police returned fire in self-defense, resulting in the suspect’s death. No officers were injured in the confrontation. Brigadier **Nobuntu Gantana**, a police spokesperson, confirmed the incident, stating that the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (Ipid) will conduct a thorough investigation into the shooting as per standard procedure.
A 9mm firearm and ammunition were recovered at the scene. The unharmed passenger has been taken into custody for further questioning as investigations continue.
Teachers Report Threats
The investigation was initiated after teachers at Dalibhunga Senior Secondary School in Ngqeleni filed a complaint on July 26th. They reported receiving a threatening note demanding a monthly protection fee of R1,000 per teacher from an alleged extortion group.
Provincial police commissioner Major General **Thandiswa Kupiso** condemned the alleged crimes, calling them “an attack on our education system and community stability.”
The organized crime unit is actively pursuing additional suspects. Police are urging community members to provide any information that could lead to further arrests in this escalating case. “We are treating this threat with the utmost urgency,” **Kupiso** added.
This incident highlights a concerning trend; in South Africa, cases of extortion impacting essential workers are a persistent challenge, with reports of similar schemes targeting various professions across the country.
