eThekwini warns residents against scammers acting as officials
The City has encouraged residents of Durban to be on the lookout for scammers and fraudsters posing as municipal officials or contractors.
RESIDENTS have been warned by the eThekwini Municipality to be wary of scammers and fraudsters who purport to be municipal officials or contractors.
The City said that this illegal activity is done in an attempt to defraud customers, particularly those who have outstanding municipal accounts.
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According to City spokesperson Senzelwe Mzila, these individuals may approach residents with copies of municipal statements, fake disconnection notices, or promises to reduce or cancel municipal debt in exchange for payment. He said that residents were urged not to engage with such individuals.
“Customers who owe the municipality and wish to make a payment arrangement are reminded that arrangements can only be made at the City’s Sizakalala Customer Care Centere or designated Municipal Offices such as the Florence Mkhize building.
“No arrangement made outside of these official channels will be recognised,” he said.
Mzila warned that under no circumstances may municipal official or contractor accept money or cash from a customer and that all payments must be made into the municipality’s verified bank accounts or at pay points within the City’s Sizakala Customer Care Centres.
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For comprehensive details regarding approved payment methods, banking details, and online payment facilities, he advised residents to visit the municipality’s website.
Mzila called on residents to ensure the verification of their account balances, payment arrangements, and any notices received at their nearest Sizakala Customer Care Centre and that anyone claiming to represent the municipality must produce official identification, and residents may confirm this with the City before engaging further.
“Suspicious conduct, attempted fraud, or extortion should be reported immediately to the South African Police Service or the City Integrity and Investigations Directorate toll-free hotline on 0800 20 20 20 or via email at ombuds@durban.gov.za.
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