ANC Councillor Arrested In Extortion Case

The South African Police Service’s anti-gang unit has arrested three individuals, including a 46-year-old ANC councillor, Mpho Andrew Hlongwane, on charges of alleged extortion.

The incident occurred in Wolmaransstad on a Wednesday, where Hlongwane, along with his accomplices Oratile Mafulako (19) and Mosimanegape Donald Sejeso (25), were taken into custody.

The Allegations

The allegations against Hlongwane are serious and highlight an unsettling trend of extortion within the construction industry. According to police spokesperson Colonel Adéle Myburgh, a businessman who was awarded a contract to build a supermarket in the area fell victim to extortion tactics that had begun in June 2024.

After seeking employment assistance from the local councillor, the contractor faced threats and demands for payment in exchange for safety and the uninterrupted progress of his project.

Legal Consequences and Future Proceedings

Following their arrest, all three suspects have appeared before the Wolmaransstad Magistrates’ Court, where they were granted bail of R1000 each. They are scheduled to return to court on December 13th.

The situation reflects a broader issue, as Lieutenant General Sello Kwena lamented the ongoing problem of extortion in the province, particularly the coercive tactics employed against contractors, which often involve threats or intimidation.