SANDF ready to intervene in EC extortion syndicates issue: Holomisa

Deputy Defence Minister Bantu Holomisa says he has met with Police Minister Senzo Mchunu and Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane to discuss the escalation of extortion in the province.

It is alleged that extortion syndicates in the Eastern Cape are demanding protection fees from businesses, schools and healthcare facilities.

Mabuyane told ministers in the security cluster the situation was getting out of hand, particularly on the wild coast which has major construction projects.

Holomisa says calls for the deployment of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) are premature but should there be a need, they are ready.

“The Premier is of the view that the military must get involved. Yesterday the Police Department released a statement to the effect that they are deploying detectives and police in the Eastern Cape. We are hoping that after they have satisfied themselves and gathered enough intelligence, they can approach the President.”

“It’s only the President that can instruct soldiers. So, if we are called upon to assist the police, the SANDF is ready anytime,” says Holomisa.

PODCAST | Below is the full interview with the Deputy Minister: