Refuse collection suspended in Nyanga following alleged extortion

Refuse collection services in Nyanga, Cape Town have unfortunately been suspended due to extortion attempts against Urban Waste Management workers. 

According to the City of Cape Town on Thursday, 28 September 2023, armed men approached the refuse collection crew and tried to extort them. 

REFUSE COLLECTION SUSPENDED IN NYANGA 

The City of Cape Town said a refuse collection crew was working in A Fenqe Street in Nyanga when they were approached by eight armed men. The men demanded a protection fee for the workers to have safe passage through the area, and robbed one staff member of his phone.

The City said its Urban Waste Management Directorate plans to re-engage with SAPS and the City’s Safety and Security Directorate to request their urgent assistance in dealing with this growing trend of extortion. 

This follows a similar incident in Philippi East recently which led to a temporary suspension of services in the area.

ALSO READ: Nyanga to Cape Town train service to officially launch on Tuesday

“We call on residents to please refrain from dumping uncollected waste, and to watch the media (including the City’s social media channels) for further updates about clearing existing backlogs in the area, or possible adjusted waste collection schedules.

“Counselling has been arranged for traumatised staff,” the municipality said.

LIGHTING TEAM WITHDRAWN IN EESTERIVIER

Earlier this month, the City of Cape Town Public Lighting teams including contractors were temporarily withdrawn in Eerste River following threats and attempts of extortion while carrying out a project. 

City staff and contractors were threatened with extortion and forced off site while on duty in Eerste River. Fortunately, there were no physical injuries. A case has also been opened at a police station in the area.

ALSO READ: City of Cape Town ready to deal with railway shacks

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