Criminals threaten Gift of Givers in flood-hit Mthatha

HUMANITARIAN aid organisation Gift of the Givers says one of its relief teams was threatened by criminals while they were distributing water in the OR Tambo District Municipality in Mthatha, where nearly 100 people were killed during the recent floods in the Eastern Cape.

- NICOLA DANIELS

The team was providing water to flood-hit areas on Saturday when criminals directed them to stop what they were doing and accused the aid workers of interfering with their business.

In a statement, the municipality said extortion was not only a crime but 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. This municipality has consistently spoken out against the growing scourge of extortion across the district. Today, we do so again, not only to defend our partners but to defend what is right.

“We have reported this matter to the relevant law enforcement authorities for urgent investigation, and we will provide all necessary support to ensure that those responsible are held to account.