Benoni Labour Department warns of fake inspector targeting businesses
A source from one of the targeted businesses described the impersonator as a well-built African man of average height, with brown eyes, who sounds very knowledgeable on labour practice, was “dressed like an official would be” and was wearing an ID card.
An impersonator claiming to be an inspector from the Benoni Labour Department is allegedly conning local business owners out of money after visiting the businesses and handing out spot fines for violations.
Benoni Labour Department deputy director of labour centre operations Raj Reddy and team leader of inspectors Kallie Nel brought the matter to the attention of the City Times this week, saying two businesses, one in Great North Road and the other in Pretoria Road, were recently conned out of R22 000 collectively
ALSO READ:
Suspects who tied up a couple at retirement village at large
Reddy pointed out the following:
• Employers, especially in the hospitality, food and beverage sector, are being targeted as the bogus inspector seems very knowledgeable on labour laws and regulations pertaining to the food and beverage industry,” said Reddy.
• The bogus inspector visits and serves a notice to an employer and demands a spot fine (bribe) if any labour legislation appears flouted.
• He then tries to find any issue of non-compliance and threatens the employer with arrest if they do not comply.
• The fraudster then makes a phoney phone call to the SAPS and requests the police to arrest the employer.
• The employer feels threatened and is exploited by the fraudster to pay a spot fine (bribe).
• Amounts of between R2 000 and R20 000 have been paid by employers who are seen to be easy prey.
• Once the bribe has been paid the bogus inspector then issues a compliance letter to the employer.
• So far it seems there is only one fraudster operating in the area but we cannot be for sure if there is only one or a syndicate operating.
Recommendations made by Reddy:
• Under no circumstances must any fines or bribes be paid.
• All Department of Labour inspectors must produce their identity cards. Do not entertain any inspector without positive identification.
• Employers are advised to please verify any inspector’s details by contacting the Department of Labour (national, provincial or local office) if they find anything suspicious with the inspector’s card.
• If threatened please contact your local SAPS office or security company for assistance.
• We are not sure at this stage if the fraudster is armed or not, so please do not confront him or her but rather co-operate until he or she leaves the premises. If possible try and contact the SAPS or back up security discreetly for assistance.
Features of an official Benoni Labour Department ID card:
- Labour Department logo
- Initials and surname of official
- Official’s photo on the card
- Card is as big as a standard credit card
*The headline of this report has been amended. Initially, it wrongly stated “Bogus inspector from Benoni Labour Department targeting businesses”. This may have created the impression that the impersonator was involved with the labour department. The City Times confirms that the bogus inspector is in no way affiliated with the department.
Follow us on these platforms:
Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.
For news straight to your phone invite us:
WhatsApp: 079 431 1217
Instagram: benonicitytimes.co.za
For more #hyperlocal news at your fingertips, visit Boksburg Advertiser, Springs Advertiser, Brakpan Herald, African Reporter and Kathorus Mail.
