Five suspects have been arrested for allegedly extorting almost R100,000 from two victims who have businesses at a mine in Ermelo, Mpumalanga.
Provincial police spokesperson, Captain Magonseni Nkosi, said the extortion was done over a period of five months.
“According to information, one victim lost more than R30,000 to allow him to operate in a mine. The complaint was victimised for two months, from July to August 2024.
“When the suspects demanded more money, the victim decided to report the matter to the police on Tuesday, October 15,” said Nkosi.
Nkosi added that the second victim was forced to pay more than R55,000 as protection fee.
“His ordeal continued for five months from May until October 2024 when he also decided to report the matter to the police on Tuesday.
“The victims decided to report to the police as they could no longer afford the money and they faced threats from the suspects,” Nkosi added.
Nkosi said the victims made an arrangement with the suspects and they agreed to meet in Breyten for negotiations.
During the meeting, the victims were held hostage and police acted swiftly and went to the area where they were held.
“Four suspects were arrested on the spot. Preliminary investigation led police to the mine, whereby the fifth suspect was also arrested,” Nkosi added.
The suspects are expected to appear in the Ermelo Magistrate’s Court on Thursday on charges of extortion.
IOL News