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Five individuals, aged 39-57, have been arrested and charged with extortion in Mthatha. They allegedly demanded a “protection fee” from blind and deaf residents of the Efata complex, threatening to take their homes by force if unpaid. The accused appeared in court on July 16 and were remanded in custody, with a formal bail application scheduled for July 23.
Residents, who have lived in the complex for over 30 years, reported being intimidated and threatened by the suspects, who also sold sites on the property and built houses without permission. Despite obtaining a protection order, the residents continued to face harassment and demands for rent.
The National Council for the Blind has pledged to support the community in their pursuit of justice, condemning the exploitation of vulnerable members of society. The investigation is ongoing, with police urging anyone with information to come forward.
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