Cape Town – The police have opened an inquiry after contractors working along the Central Line near Bonteheuwel were chased off site, allegedly by extortionist gangsters.
SAPS spokesperson FC van Wyk said the police held a meeting with Passenger Rail Agency of SA (Prasa) and ward councillor Angus McKenzie regarding the intimidation and extortion that took place on Monday.
McKenzie said a decision was taken to temporarily halt operations along the line, to ensure the workers’ safety.
Van Wyk said the contractor did not want to open a case, however, investigations continued.
“This office confirms that SAPS together with Prasa and a local councillor had a meeting this morning (Tuesday) regarding the intimidation and extortion.
“The Prasa team indicated that all work will be upheld until they have structures in place.
“A follow-up meeting will then take place.
“SAPS Bishop Lavis opened up an inquiry regarding the intimidation yesterday as the contractor didn't want to open a case. Investigations continue,” Van Wyk said.
McKenzie added that a detailed updated security plan will be put in place.
“This morning (Tuesday) I met with PRASA and SAPS officials regarding the incident that took place yesterday on the Central Line.
“On Monday morning workers were stopped from working and chased off site by extortionist gangsters.
“Today, to ensure the safety of staff and the surrounding communities a decision was taken to halt operations. This step was taken not to appease gangsters and extortionists but to make sure that those staff members are safe.
“Over the next few hours a detailed updated security plan will be put in place, this plan will then be agreed upon by all including SAPS and work will restart later this week.
“We will not be held ransom by gangsters, nor will we allow gangsters to assume control of our projects and communities. This is not how we will operate and this is most certainly not what will be accepted.
“The Central Line will be rebuilt, unemployed will be employed and opportunities will become accessible and nothing and no one will stop this,” McKenzie said.
Cape Times