Note to Broadcasters: Please find the linked soundbite in English by Cheryl Philips MP.
The DA in the Rustenburg Local Municipality is concerned about the increased prevalence of intimidation and extortion of the construction industry by so-called business forums which are nothing but construction mafias.
We have been approached by construction companies who have fallen victim to these illegal mafia tactics trying to extort bribes as well as secure the employment of identified members. Companies who refuse are often the victim of vandalism, theft, and coordinated protest action, preventing the continuation of construction on building sites.
The DA urges all construction companies not to cave into these illegal activities. Paying bribes is a criminal offence and it only exacerbates the problem, encouraging this kind of criminal behaviour, which will continue to escalate.
Construction companies should not hesitate to approach the SAPS, to request additional police resources to first maintain a visible presence to prevent intimidation and protect property on building sites, and secondly, to adequately investigate cases for prosecution.
Unfortunately, construction companies should also take additional measures to protect workers and equipment. This should not be the case, however, in a society where the rule of law is maintained, and the police are effective if preventing and fighting crime.
The Minister of Police, Bheki Cele, has for two years now promised the establishment of a special task force to address extortion and intimidation in the construction industry. The DA has submitted a question to Minister Cele on whether or not these specialised task forces have been established, and if so, whether a task force has been established in North West.
These business forums have no legal standing and are usually politically motivated to ensure certain politically linked individuals gain benefit from this racketeering ring.
There is power in numbers. The DA has proposed that the Rustenburg construction industry jointly seek legal counsel and approach the courts seeking relief through restraining orders against these illegal organisations and identified individuals to prevent them from accessing construction sites or threatening and intimidating management and workers.
Should we fail to take a stand against this scourge of criminal activity, it will bring the construction industry to its knees, resulting in job losses, and negatively affecting the economic development this city so desperately needs.