Premier Alan Winde and Lead United Push Against Extortion Threat in W Cape

Western Cape Premier Alan Winde, in collaboration with Business Against Crime South Africa (BACSA), has called for a united front against the scourge of extortion, describing it as a “cancer” that is threatening economic growth, public safety, and the dignity of South Africa’s citizens. Speaking during his weekly digital safety briefing, Premier Winde was joined by Hubert Paulse, Chairperson of BACSA, as they emphasized the need for collaboration across government, business, and society to eliminate this growing threat.

Their discussion follows the Western Cape Government’s Multi-Sectoral Anti-Extortion Summit, which convened this week and brought together key stakeholders from the South African Police Service (SAPS), City of Cape Town (CoCT), various MECs, civil society organizations, and academic experts.

Extortion: A National Crisis with Local Impact

Premier Winde did not mince words in describing the gravity of the extortion epidemic, stating that it disrupts livelihoods, discourages investment, and increases fear among residents.

“Extortion hinders economic growth and job creation. It robs people of opportunities and their dignity,” he said.

Referring to extortion groups as “mafias,” Winde called for an integrated response:

“The only way we will eradicate these mafias is if we all work together. We cannot fight crime alone. We stand a better chance by sharing resources, intelligence, and resolve.”

BACSA: A Public-Private Crime-Fighting Force

Business Against Crime South Africa (BACSA), founded in 1996, plays a crucial intermediary role in bridging the efforts of the private sector and law enforcement agencies. Its mission is to make South Africa safer by deploying practical crime-prevention programmes and fostering strategic partnerships.

“When we work together, we do not just reduce crime – we restore hope. With hope comes confidence, and that attracts investment and creates jobs,” said Hubert Paulse, Chairperson of BACSA.

BACSA operates several national programmes addressing:

• Extortion and protection rackets

• Tourism safety

• Gender-based violence

• Infrastructure vandalism and theft

These focus areas underscore BACSA’s commitment to tackling not only violent crime but also economic sabotage and systemic threats to South Africa’s development.

Tech-Driven Intelligence for Law Enforcement

Paulse highlighted the importance of technology in countering sophisticated criminal networks, stating that BACSA’s intelligence-gathering tools are the "eyes and ears" of modern crime prevention.

“We are using our geographical footprint to bolster SAPS’ operational response capabilities. Technology enhances awareness and preparedness,” he explained.

Premier Winde echoed this sentiment, cautioning that criminal syndicates are already utilizing advanced tech, and the government must stay one step ahead.

Strengthening Grassroots Crime Prevention

In alignment with the Western Cape’s Whole-of-Society Approach, Premier Winde emphasized the pivotal role of Neighborhood Watches (NHWs) and Community Policing Forums (CPFs).

“Residents who form or join NHWs often know more about what’s happening in their communities than anyone else. Their collaboration with SAPS and municipal law enforcement is invaluable,” he stated.

Winde welcomed a recent proposal by Police Minister Senzo Mchunu to expand the authority of metro law enforcement agencies, calling it a “positive step forward” in the devolution of policing powers.

Condemning Violence and Applauding Quick Response

The Premier also addressed the recent spate of taxi-related violence in parts of Cape Town, expressing his deep concern and zero tolerance for such acts.

“It is intolerable that disputes are ‘negotiated’ through the barrel of a gun,” he said.

However, he praised the swift and coordinated response by SAPS, City law enforcement, and provincial traffic services, underscoring the effectiveness of multi-agency cooperation.

A Call to National Unity Against Crime

Both Winde and Paulse concluded with a rallying call for national unity in the fight against organized crime and extortion. Winde stressed that crime is not just a government problem but a societal one, requiring shared responsibility and sustained civic engagement.

“It doesn’t matter who you are—whether from national government, provincial departments, municipalities, or civil society—we must all be driven by the same mission: to build a safer, more prosperous South Africa,” Winde said.

The Western Cape’s Anti-Extortion Summit and this latest public discourse signal a growing coalition of the willing, determined to restore law and order, protect businesses, and return power to communities long oppressed by criminal enterprises.