| SAPS urges vigilance against rising incidents of extortion | |
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| Date Published | |
| 2026/03/25 | |
| Details | |
Media Statement FREE STATE - The Police wishes to address the growing concern regarding various forms of extortion affecting our communities. Extortion is a serious criminal offense where a perpetrator illegally obtains money, property, or services through intimidation, or threats of harm. While it may be confused with robbery, extortion is distinct because the victim often consents to the transfer of assets, though this consent is obtained strictly under fear. Let us start with this important fact. Every police official is required to produce their Appointment Certificate (ID card) upon request. If that member does not provide such, the member might not be a true police officer and that should be noted as a sign that you might be dealing with shady individuals. The public is warned to be on the lookout for the following criminal tactics when we look at extortion: Protection Fees: Demanding "tax" or fees for business operations or personal safety. Cyber Extortion: Threatening to lock digital data unless money is paid. Sextortion: A heinous form of blackmail where perpetrators threaten to distribute sexual images or demand sexual acts in exchange for keeping private information confidential. Transport Interference: It is a criminal offense for any person, who is not a law enforcement officer, to prevent an individual from using their preferred mode of transport. Eg, taxi drivers or owners do not have the powers to dictate on what mode of transport can a commuter use. The SAPS is aware of reports involving individuals demanding money to "bypass" an arrest. If you must be arrested let the officer arrest you so you can go through the necessary processes. Do not pay any amount to that police member, as you will also be held liable as the corruptee. Police do not accept "Spot Fines" or Bribes: An officer demanding money to avoid arrest is committing a crime. Members of the public are urged to report such incidents immediately to the nearest station, the Free State Anti-Corruption Unit Standby number 082 466 9045 or report the matter to the nearest police station. You can also call the National Extortion tollfree number 0800 911 011. We urge the public not to succumb to these threats. Paying extortionists only fuels the criminal cycle. If you are being threatened, please reach out to the SAPS Crime Stop hotline at 08600 10111 or drop an anonymous tip off on MySAPS App. Note on Safety: When dealing with extortionists, your physical safety is the priority. If you are being targeted, try to keep a record of the communication (screenshots or recordings) only if it is safe to do so. Ends
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