ERMELO – Residents in the Msukaligwa area are being warned about a scammer posing as a municipal official and threatening electricity disconnections in an attempt to obtain fraudulent payments.

The individual, identifying himself as “Darrick Smith”, is reportedly contacting residents via WhatsApp from the number +27 63 573 4217, claiming to be the “Head of Disconnection” for Msukaligwa Municipality.

According to messages circulating in the community, the scammer tells residents their properties are at risk of having electricity disconnected due to alleged outstanding municipal payments.

The individual then attempts to pressure victims into transferring money into what is believed to be a fraudulent account.

Residents have been urged not to make any payments to the individual and to ignore the messages.

Municipal officials have stressed that Msukaligwa Municipality does not collect outstanding payments via WhatsApp or request payments to unofficial accounts.

Community members are encouraged to remain vigilant and to warn neighbours, family members and colleagues about the scam to prevent anyone from becoming a victim.

Anyone who receives such messages is advised not to engage with the sender, not to share personal information, and not to make any payments.

Residents are also encouraged to report suspicious messages and block the number to prevent further contact.

Sharing information about scams like these is one of the most effective ways to protect residents and prevent criminals from targeting vulnerable members of the public.