Police deployed to protect Philippi primary school from extortionists

Police have been deployed to Zanemfundo Primary School in Philippi East following reports that criminals are targeting teachers and demanding protection money. The ongoing extortion threats have left both teachers and students fearful, forcing authorities to increase security measures at the school.

Extortion Threats Cause Fear Among Teachers and Students

Extortion has become a growing problem in Cape Town’s townships, with criminals demanding “protection fees” from businesses, public transport operators, and now, even schools.

At Zanemfundo Primary School, staff members have reportedly been the main targets, receiving threats from criminals demanding money in exchange for their safety. This has caused widespread fear among teachers, students, and parents, as the safety of those at the school is now at risk.

In response, the Philippi East police have launched an investigation into the matter and have increased their presence in and around the school.

Increased Police Visibility and Protection Measures

Authorities have heightened security at the school, with police officers now escorting teachers before and after school hours. This is meant to prevent further intimidation and ensure the safety of both teachers and learners.

While these security measures provide temporary relief, the long-term solution to combating extortion in the area remains unclear.

Extortionists Believed to Be Outsiders

Community leaders believe that the extortionists are not from Philippi itself, but rather criminals sent from other areas to carry out these threats.

Thandiso Xokoza, former secretary of the Philippi East Community Policing Forum and current street committee chairperson, expressed concerns about the origins of these criminals.

“We don’t really know who they are because most of them are being sent to different areas. They take people from this area and send them to another area to do this kind of job.”

This method of moving criminals across different locations makes it difficult for police to track and arrest those responsible.

Extortion in Schools: A Growing Concern

The targeting of schools for extortion is a worrying trend. Schools are meant to be safe spaces for learning, but criminal elements are now turning them into zones of fear and intimidation.

Teachers, who already face numerous challenges in under-resourced schools, now have to fear for their safety as they go to work.

This situation raises serious concerns about the protection of educators and learners in high-crime areas.

No Arrests Yet, Investigation Continues

Despite the increased police presence and ongoing investigation, no arrests have been made yet in connection with the extortion threats at Zanemfundo Primary School.

The Philippi East police have urged the community to come forward with any information that could help identify the criminals responsible.

Until arrests are made and those responsible are held accountable, teachers and students at the school remain vulnerable.

Call for Government Action

Community members and education officials have called on the government to take stronger action against extortion. There are growing demands for:

• Stronger police enforcement to crack down on extortion syndicates.
• Better security measures in and around schools.
• Community policing initiatives to help residents report criminal activities safely.

Conclusion

The extortion crisis in Philippi East has now spread to schools, putting teachers and children at risk. While police have been deployed to protect Zanemfundo Primary School, the criminals behind these threats remain at large.

Unless stronger action is taken, schools in high-crime areas could become new targets for extortion syndicates, placing more educators and students in danger.