ETHEKWINI Municipality is issuing a warning to customers regarding a recent spate of fraudulent activities involving individuals impersonating municipal employees. The City’s Electricity Unit has received reports of attempts to extort money from residents, with perpetrators claiming to represent the Unit.
According to the eThekwini Municipality spokesperson, Gugu Sisilana, it has come to their attention that customers are contacted and told that their municipal accounts are in arrears. She said that the impersonators threatened disconnection of services unless immediate payment was made, thereby attempting to coerce residents into providing financial information or making payments directly to them.
“The City is actively investigating these cases in collaboration with the South African Police Service (SAPS) with a commitment to protecting residents from fraud and a determination to identify how these criminals are acquiring sensitive customer information.”
“Customers are reminded that legitimate municipal employees will never demand immediate payment over the phone or threaten disconnection without prior notice. Residents are encouraged to verify any claims made by individuals purporting to be municipal workers and to remain vigilant against potential scams,” she added.
Residents who receive suspicious calls are urged to report these incidents immediately to the City’s Integrity and Investigations Unit at 0800 20 20 20 or via email at ombuds@durban.gov.za.
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