Public Works' Macpherson says he won't 'negotiate' with construction mafia

DURBAN - Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson says the construction mafia must not be mistaken for business forums.

The minister spoke at a media briefing in Durban on Monday, outlining plans to reclaim hijacked buildings in the city.

The briefing came after five men accused of intimidation and disturbance of a construction site appeared in court.

READ: Public Works Ministry calls on state to crack whip on construction mafia

The minister said the groups, known for extorting government projects would not be tolerated. 

"You know I get confused and frustrated when people say well, they are business forums and not construction mafia - these are people who walk around with AK-47s, they commit violence, murder and extortion."

He said business forums did not forcefully hijack construction sites.

"These are not business forums or community organisations, these are well-armed, well-resourced and intelligence-driven individuals that are terrorising the state and communities, and so I will not have any engagement, talk or negotiate with them."