Foreign nationals, particularly those running small convenience shops known as spaza shops, are increasingly being targeted by extortion gangs in South Africa.

A recent court case in Cape Town involved a South African man, his two sons and a Somali accused of demanding protection fees from about 50 Ethiopian and Somali-owned stores.

Extortionists typically send letters demanding monthly payments. When business owners refuse, the groups may harass customers, rob the shops or escalate further. Immigrant-run businesses have also been affected by earlier xenophobic unrest, during which many shops were looted or forced to close.

Community leaders say foreign shop owners are often easier targets because they tend to be more fearful of reporting crimes. Victims frequently avoid the police due to concerns about retaliation and fears that some officers may pass information to the gangs.

Incidents linked to extortion have included shootings at spaza shops in the Western Cape. The province recorded a high number of such cases and related murders in recent months, alongside broader gang violence.

Authorities have acknowledged that extortion has grown rapidly in recent years. Officials note that the crime is underreported and that more effective responses are still needed to protect both local and foreign business owners.

Photo credit: Punch Newspaper