The Eastern Cape Hawks rolled out a three-day Kidnapping and Extortion Awareness campaign in Gqeberha. According to the Hawks spokesperson, Warrant Officer Ndiphiwe Mhlakuvana, the first visit was in Korsten in Gqeberha, the second visit was in KwaZakhele next to the Police Station, and the third was in Kariega.
Speaking to PE Express, Mhlakuvana said that the Hawks have identified the prime hotspots for kidnapping and extortion, and the aforementioned areas are among those hotspots. “Our aim was to engage all business owners to sensitise them on the scourge of kidnapping, additionally providing tips as to what they can do to protect themselves should they be in that unfortunate situation and where they could report such cases.”
Sharing about the mandate of the Hawks, Mhlakuvana said the Hawks’ line of work includes priority violent crimes, where linkages are established in more than one province, illegal manufacturing, national or international trafficking in firearms, ammunition and explosives including importation and exportation by an organised criminal group, as well as criminality in the control of legal firearm stocks by the legal owners of those stocks.
Additionally, “The theft and/or robbery of firearms and/or explosives from state-controlled armouries/storage facilities. As well as murder of police officials of any department, all cash-in-transit robberies and illegal trafficking of firearms and/or explosives both transnationally and nationally by organised crime networks.”
Regarding extortion, Mhlakuvana said it is an act of obtaining something, such as money, through force, threats or intimidation. It involves coercive tactics to compel someone to give up valuables or engage in actions against their will.
Mhlakuvana added, “This initiative is aimed at discouraging criminals from their operations. We have identified the areas that are problematic prior to the campaigns and have found that Kariega, Gqeberha CBD, Korsten and KwaZakhele are among the prime kidnapping hotspots in Gqeberha, where foreign nationals and South Africans are affected.”
“We had a similar campaign last year in Gqeberha, where we saw a decrease in criminal activities. We hope that will be the case again this time.”
Mhlakuvana said that there are two Hawks operational units situated in Gqeberha, namely the Serious Organised Crime Investigation offices, located in Newton Park, Shirley Street, and the Serious Commercial Crime Investigation and Corruption situated at the Specialised Commercial Crimes Court in North End.
He added, “If you witness a kidnapping, take note of all the details: of the vehicle and occupants, do not intervene directly, and call law enforcement.”
“If you are a victim of extortion, compliance may not guarantee your safety and can perpetuate the cycle. When confronted with a dangerous situation, pretend to be getting along with them and report the incident immediately after the ordeal. Document everything and inform a trusted individual by sharing the situation with close friends or family,” Mhlakuvana said.
In a previously published article, Mhlakuvana shared tips that residents and business owners should know to avoid being kidnapped:
Be vigilant and aware: Pay attention to your surroundings, especially in crowded or unfamiliar places.
Avoid isolated areas: Stay away from deserted streets, parks, or buildings, particularly at night and even during the day.
Trust your instincts: If you feel uneasy or uncomfortable in a situation, leave it.
Communication: Inform a friend or family member about your plans and share your location, especially when travelling.
