Orrin Singh28 October 2024 | 14:20

SAPS launches hotline to crack down on extortion cases

Extortion cases have spread to various sectors of the economy, in what initially began as crimes plaguing the construction industry.

SAPS launches hotline to crack down on extortion cases

Picture: @SAPoliceService/X

JOHANNESBURG - Police have launched a national hotline for the public to report extortion cases to law enforcement.

Extortion cases have spread to various sectors of the economy, in what initially began as crimes plaguing the construction industry.

The announcement was made on Monday afternoon during a media briefing in Pretoria by the police's top brass.

The public was urged to report extortion cases to the police using a new national hotline.

The National Police Commissioner, Fannie Masemola, said the new hotline launch seeks to bring extortion cases under control.

“The number is 0800 911 011. You can on this line report extortion cases, you can choose to be anonymous. We will follow any leads that will be given.”

He cautioned the public from providing false info.

“If we find that you are intentionally wanting to mislead us, you will be held accountable for the cost associated with our investigation.”

He said extortion cases vary from the construction sector to protection fees from small businesses.