The community of Mthatha West in the Eastern Cape is still grappling with fear. This after the passing of the alleged extortionist who died in a shootout with the police in Mthatha on Wednesday.
Sakhumzi Mareke was alleged to have been the mastermind behind the protection fee or extortion in the Mthatha West area.
Police say he and his two bodyguards confronted the police after they conducted a disruptive operation at his home. He then followed them inside the police base where the shootout took place.
Businesses and schools have closed because of extortion.
The latest victim, Efata School for the Blind and Deaf. It is alleged that the extortionists approached the school principal, demanding a R50 000 protection fee. A day later, a construction vehicle on site was set alight forcing the closure of the school.
