Cape Town is facing a growing problem of extortion syndicates that are targeting city officials, contractors, and public services, including garbage collection and construction projects, with threats of violence and demands for protection money. The criminal networks are operating aggressively and are extending their reach into deprived communities and even governmental bodies. The city is responding with proposed measures in its annual Supply Chain Management Policy review, financial incentives for information leading to arrests, and an aggressive antiextortion initiative, but the fight continues to be a strenuous struggle.
