Constable, prosecutor on bail for R1.6m extortion allegation

A police constable and a suspended prosecutor have been granted bail after being accused of extorting R1.6 million from a businessman detained in Pretoria.

The Pretoria Magistrate’s Court set bail at R5 000 each for Advocate Avinash Ramapararat, 45, and Constable Abdul Haig Shaik, 37, during their bail hearing on Wednesday. Both face charges of extortion.

Advocate Ramapararat was previously stationed at the Pretoria Specialised Commercial Crimes Unit but is currently suspended. Constable Shaik is assigned to Wierdabrug Police Station. The two are alleged to have demanded a large sum of money from a businessman in exchange for his release from custody.

The incident dates back to February 2024, when Shaik contacted the businessman regarding a theft and fraud case connected to Agynt Commodities. The case arose from a coal transaction dispute between the companies in 2023. Shaik allegedly instructed the businessman to come to the Wierdabrug Police Station, where he was immediately detained and placed in a holding cell.

While the businessman was in custody, both accused allegedly demanded R1.6 million to secure his release.

The complainant reportedly paid the amount and was subsequently released. National Prosecuting Authority regional spokesperson Lumka Mahanjana explained that months after the payment, the businessman sought updates on the case, only to be informed that the case number provided to him was unrelated to his matter.

Realising something was wrong, the businessman reported the alleged extortion to the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, commonly known as the Hawks. This prompted an investigation that resulted in the arrest of Ramapararat and Shaik on 25 July 2025.

The State did not oppose bail during the hearing, citing the accused’s cooperation with the investigation, verified addresses, and low flight risk. Both accused are also facing separate charges related to extortion and corruption in a different case at the Pretoria North Magistrate’s Court.

The Pretoria Magistrate’s Court has postponed the extortion case to 24 October 2025, awaiting a decision from the Director of Public Prosecutions. Meanwhile, the separate case involving the pair will return to court on 27 October 2025 for disclosure.

The National Prosecuting Authority reaffirmed its commitment to fighting corruption, especially within its own ranks. “Advocate Ramapararat was placed on suspension pending the outcome of internal disciplinary procedures,” Mahanjana said.

This case has drawn public attention due to the involvement of law enforcement officers in serious criminal conduct. It highlights ongoing concerns about corruption within institutions meant to uphold the law. The outcome of these proceedings will be closely watched as South Africa continues to address issues of integrity and accountability in its justice system.