A recent spike in reports of criminals posing as City of Cape Town officials has prompted the City to release a warning advising residents to familiarise themselves with what makes an official authentic.
It was brought to the City’s attention that a member of the public approached a resident and offered to tar their driveway. The imposter alleged to be a City official by using the name of a real official before offering to do the work for a fee of R3 500.
The fraudster made use of a printout of a City staff member’s details to identify themselves as ‘officials’, fooling the resident.
After being notified of the case, the City is conducting an investigation into whether the official mentioned was involved.
The complainant was asked to report the incident to the South African Police Service (SAPS), and the City has also offered to assist as required.
Residents are urged to take note of the following:
– City employees must be in possession of a City of Cape Town identity card with a staff number and photo
– City employees will produce official City of Cape Town letters that will always include the name of the department along with the City telephone numbers, which residents can call to verify the work to be undertaken
– City employees who are dispatched to undertake maintenance and repair work or inspections usually drive City of Cape Town-marked vehicles with CCT registration number plates
– If a resident is approached by a City of Cape Town contractor, they will always have an official job card which serves as a work permit from the City. Please ensure the job card includes the City of Cape Town’s latest logo.
* Incidents can be reported to the City’s call centre on 0860 103 089.
Picture: Pixabay
