KZN Police Crack Down on Extortion Syndicate, Three Arrested

KZN Police Strike Against Local Extortion Ring

In a coordinated law enforcement operation, the KZN Organised Crime Unit has dismantled an extortion syndicate, arresting three suspects, including two alleged kingpins operating in Eshowe and Durban. The arrests mark a major breakthrough in the province’s fight against organised crime targeting businesses and student residences.

Colonel Robert Netshiunda, spokesperson for the provincial police, confirmed that the operation took place on Friday, with teams from Empangeni and Durban joining forces with other law enforcement agencies to execute a search and arrest warrant at a residence in Ntumeni, Eshowe.

Firearms, Cash, and Vehicles Seized

According to Netshiunda, police found two security guards at the Ntumeni residence, one of whom was in possession of a firearm with its serial number filed off, a clear violation of firearm laws. A 42-year-old suspected extortionist was arrested at the property, alongside an undisclosed sum of cash and three vehicles believed to be proceeds of criminal activity. The Asset Forfeiture Unit has since begun steps to secure preservation orders on the assets.

Simultaneously, a separate operation in Durban led to the arrest of a 40-year-old man found with a licensed firearm and ammunition, which will undergo ballistic testing. Authorities believe the group extorted money from student accommodation owners and businesses, with a particular focus on establishments run by foreign nationals.

The suspects are expected to appear before Durban Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 29 September 2025.

A Growing Pattern of Extortion

This latest operation follows a troubling trend of corruption and extortion targeting ordinary citizens. In July, two officers from the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department were arrested after a public complaint revealed attempts to extort money. That investigation, led by JMPD’s Internal Affairs Unit, underscored the persistence of such criminal activity across multiple provinces.

Social media users have applauded the KZN police for acting decisively, with many highlighting the danger posed to vulnerable business owners and students living in the areas targeted by the syndicate.

“This sends a clear message: extortion and corruption will not be tolerated,” one local resident tweeted, echoing a sentiment shared widely across Durban and Eshowe communities.

Community Relief and Ongoing Investigation

Netshiunda emphasized that the arrests are part of an ongoing crackdown on organised crime in KwaZulu-Natal. “Our commitment is to protect communities from criminals who prey on businesses and residents. This operation is one of many steps we are taking to restore public safety,” he said.

Authorities continue to investigate whether more individuals are linked to the syndicate, while ballistic and financial forensics are underway to strengthen the case against the arrested suspects.

For now, residents of Eshowe and Durban can take some solace in the swift action, but police caution that vigilance remains essential as investigations continue.

{Source: The Citizen}

Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram

For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com