The City of Cape Town has warned local business owners about repeated bouts of scams in which individuals pose as health officials in an attempt to defraud them.
‘The modus operandi is not new, but could leave unsuspecting business owners out of pocket. The City therefore urges everyone to arm themselves with the necessary information to avoid falling victim to the scammers,’ the City said.
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Over the past few weeks, the City said suspects tried to scam businesses out of money by posing as health officials and indicating they could issue health-related approvals for a fee.
The City emphasised that no official is allowed to accept payment directly from clients.
Any applications that do require payment should only occur at a City cash office or via electronic funds transfers into the City’s bank account, details of which are available on the City’s website.
In addition to direct payments, officials are prohibited from requesting or accepting any form of reward, favour, or gift for their services.
‘If anyone comes to your premises to conduct an inspection, it is always advised to check their credentials, but specifically if that individual requests direct payment or some other kind of favour or reward for services rendered,’ said Mayco Member for Community Services and Health Patricia van der Ross.
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All health officials employed by the City carry identity cards with their photograph, designation and office location, as well as details of the various health-related legislation that the employee has been officially delegated to enforce.
Van der Ross urges business owners and their staff to familiarise themselves with the officials at their nearest Environmental Health Office, as well as with the relevant legislation and requirements under which they are authorised to operate their businesses.
Moreover, Certificates of Acceptability issued by City Health are printed on paper with a unique City logo imprinted onto holographic foil to prevent forgery.
‘This will go a long way in reducing the risk of falling victim to scammers. When in doubt, call your local Environmental Health office – it is better to be safe than sorry.’
For more information or to verify credentials, business owners can visit the City’s website or email [email protected].
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