In something that sounds like a Sopranos storyline, bars on Long Street are claiming that a ‘security extortion racket’ is being run and they are powerless to stop it.

The claims have come to light following the tragic stabbing of Joe Louis Kazadi Kanyona, the Beerhouse doorman who died Saturday night. It is believed the murder could have something to do with the racket being run by the Moroccans. Here’s EWN with more:

John Davidson, who owns Bob’s Bar, claims if he doesn’t pay up, he and his staff are not safe.

“The point is we still pay a fee every month and of course I object to it. Someone comes to see you on the 1st of every month and you pay. Back in the day, I had my windows broken. I had people come in, a bit like we were having a beer day but not as severe and they make you want to pay.”

Yep, that does sound like an extortion racket to me. Dodgy characters paying unannounced visits, windows being broken, I can’t say dealing with characters like that fill most bar owners with anything but fear.

Good luck guys, just don’t pass those extra costs on to us consumers please.

[source:ewn]