Police deployed to Philippi primary school being targeted by extortionists

CAPE TOWN - Police have been deployed to a Philippi primary school that's being targeted by extortionists.

Teachers and children are fearful as staff members in particular are being targeted by criminals demanding protection money.

Philippi East police are following up on alleged extortion at the Zanemfundo Primary School.

Visibility has been increased and teachers are being escorted by officers before and after school.

Former secretary of the Philippi East community policing forum and current street committee chairperson, Thandiso Xokoza, believes the extortionists are from outside the community.

"We don't really know who they are because most of them, they are being sent to different areas. They take people from this area and send them to another area to do this kind of job."

The police's investigation is still underway and there've been no arrests.