Gift of the Givers staff threatened by Eastern Cape 'water mafia'
The Minister of Police, Senzo Mchunu has condemned the threats and intimidation directed at humanitarian organisation Gift of the Givers while delivering lifesaving assistance to flood-affected communities in Mthatha, Eastern Cape.
Inclement weather conditions that had been forecast wreaked havoc in parts of the Eastern Cape last week. As a result, hundreds of people were displaced as they had to be evacuated from their flooded homes, while water and electricity infrastructure were also damaged. At least 90 people have been confirmed dead.
According to the police, it is alleged that members of a so-called 'water mafia' reportedly linked to service providers contracted by the OR Tambo District Municipality, threatened Gift of the Givers staff as they distributed clean drinking water to residents impacted by the recent floods.
In condemning the incident, Mchunu said police will not tolerate any attempt to intimidate or obstruct those who are working tirelessly to save lives and bring relief to people.
Mchunu said the Gift of the Givers has consistently been a source of hope and dignity to South Africans in their 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 SAPS will ensure the safety of all humanitarian workers in the area, and hold those responsible fully accountable under the law. We have also been made aware of individuals who go to the homes of those who lost their lives due to these floods, with a view to committing acts of theft from these homes. Police have been deployed to ensure the safety of the property of the deceased.'
In response, the OR Tambo District Municipality in the Eastern Cape said it is appalled and deeply disturbed by the threats directed towards officials of the Gift of the Givers Foundation.
'We wish to state without fear that extortion is a crime and it is a moral betrayal of the highest order, especially when directed at those extending a hand to the helpless. To prey on a crisis is to turn pain into profit. It is merciless, and it will not be tolerated,' the municipality said.
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