Construction mafia erodes foundations laid for SA’s economic revival

Mafia-style criminal networks continue to destabilise the construction industry through intimidation and threats of death.

Specialist private investigator Mike Bolhuis has much to say about the construction mafia. He says the syndicates began to make their presence felt in South Africa in 2013. “They employ a range of strategies, from extortion and threats to disrupting labour and engaging in sabotage. These people seek control over construction sites, leaving many companies in a precarious position.”

“For the first time in a while, the construction industry in South Africa has some healthy prospects for the medium term – but this will largely depend on the government’s ability to create a conducive environment for the industry, including curbing the disruptions caused by the ‘construction mafia’.”

He says the landlords of the construction sites are forced to employ anyone proposed by the consortium. “If they do not, they are threatened with a complete halt of all activities and forced to close.” “In recent revelations, a former enforcer for the mafia has shed light on the inner workings of this underworld, exposing the challenges faced by construction companies as they navigate the treacherous terrain of resisting extortion and intimidation.”According to the JCPS cluster, various threats that negatively impact the economy have been identified. Specific interventions have been taken ‘to ensure a safe and secure environment, conducive to social and economic stability and growth’.

Bolhuis agrees, saying a concerted effort to secure the foundations of South Africa's construction sector is needed.

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