The Department of Correctional Services’ (DCS) Barberton Management Area (BMA) has warned the public against fraudsters who promise non-existent jobs and learnership opportunities in this department.

According to the BMA’s spokesperson, Opheliah Motloutsi, the fraudsters use various social media platforms and operate in Barberton, Mbombela and surrounding areas in the Ehlanzeni District Municipality.

“We have noted with dismay a number of faceless fraudsters who have been robbing innocent and unsuspecting job seekers by promising non-existent jobs and learnership opportunities in the DCS. Their tactic is simple: they will call and instruct you to travel to the vicinity of a correctional facility and provide various means to transfer money. The department is appealing to the public to be vigilant and join forces with law enforcement agencies against these bogus advertisements and other related illegal and criminal acts. Do not fall prey to these scammers. There are no shortcuts, and no agents are employed by the DCS for recruitment purposes,” she said.

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“The department reiterates that applying for jobs in the DCS and in the public sector is free, and anyone asking for money is breaking the law. The legislation compels anyone with information on a corrupt and fraudulent activity or transaction, to immediately report the matter to the nearby police station or any DCS offices and centres.”

Motloutsi advised the public to verify vacancies by visiting the DCS and the Department of Public Services Administration’s official governmental websites, calling the DCS call centre on 086 000 0327 or sending an email to enquiry.complaints@dcs.gov.za.