Beware of bogus cops, municipal workers

Some residents recently raised concerns about being unable to determine if police officers, municipal workers and contractors who flag them down are legitimate or not.

Over the past year, the EXPRESS and its sister newspaper the NEWS, reported on several crimes involving what was believed to be bogus cops and municipal workers.

In February last year, it was reported that two elderly women in Observatory were raped by men believed to be bogus meter readers.

The men also ransacked the house before fleeing.

In November last year, a Kensington resident said he was allegedly hijacked, kidnapped and robbed by people impersonating police officers.

Although residents at a recent Kensington Crime Forum meeting were warned to be aware of bogus cops, some were worried about being stopped by real police officers in unmarked vehicles. They said they were worried about their safety, not knowing if the police officers were legitimate or not, but at the same time about the repercussions if the officers were real.

Sergeant Patrick Tefu, from the Jeppe SAPS, told the public they should drive to the nearest police or fuel station.

“It is best to drive to one of these places for safety. Beware of private vehicles, because some people in these vehicles are bogus cops. If you cannot stop at a police or fuel station, find another safe place to stop,” he said.

He said if people are unsure about the legitimacy of the police officers, they should call 10111 immediately.

“You must tell the operator that you do not trust the person trying to stop you so that they can help you. You should put your hazard lights on and drive slowly,” he said.

He also urged people to confirm the details of municipal workers from City Power and Joburg Water, for example, before they enter properties.

Mr Sol Masolo, from City Power, previously stated that pamphlets are distributed to announce all project type activities by the entity.

He said these pamphlets provide information regarding the requirements for positive contractor identification and uniforms of these people.

Ms Millicent Kabwe, from Joburg Water, previously stated that authentic employees will go out in teams and will have identity cards, drive Joburg Water branded vehicles and wear the company’s uniforms.

Residents were advised to inform the relevant security agencies, the SAPS or the nearest Johannesburg depot if they are approached by unidentified or suspicious people.

@JoziReporter