By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Minister of Police Senzo Mchunu has deployed police to protect humanitarian organisation Gift of the Givers while they were providing assistance to flood-affected communities in Mthatha, Eastern Cape.
Members of the Gift of the Givers were intimidated by a “water mafia” gang while distributing clean drinking water on Wednesday.
It’s understood that the group linked to a service provider contracted by the municipality are not happy with the work being done by the relief organisation.
Mchunu says officers are also safe guarding flooded homes that are now being targeted by criminals.
“The police will not tolerate any attempt to intimidate or obstruct those who are working tirelessly to save lives and bring relief to our people. Gift of the Givers has consistently been a source of hope and dignity to South Africans in the hour of need, any attack on them is an attack on the very principle of ubuntu.
“No individual or group will be allowed to profiteer off disaster or compromise the safety and well-being of our people.
“Law enforcement will act decisively.”
The devastating floods have claimed 90 lives to date and displaced hundreds of residents across the region.
The OR Tambo District Municipality acknowledged that extortion has become a growing problem across the district, with officials consistently speaking out against such criminal activities.
The municipality has reported the matter to law enforcement authorities for urgent investigation and pledged to provide full support to ensure accountability.
“This municipality has consistently spoken out against the growing scourge of extortion across the district,” the municipality said.
The municipality expressed gratitude to Gift of the Givers for their continued service to the community.
“To Gift of the Givers: we are deeply grateful. Your presence among us has been a balm to the broken. We stand with you. We fight beside you. And we will protect the ground on which you serve.”