Sergeant Heinreich Bester of Boksburg North SAPS warns the public about an online scam, where money is extorted from people, in which his photo has been used for the past three years.

The scammer sends WhatsApp messages to targets, pretending to be a police officer by using a photo of Bester in his SAPS uniform as the profile picture, and states a case of sexual harassment (for example) has been opened against them.

The fraudster claims to be officer John Smith of the Boschkop SAPS and goes on to demand money to be able to help the victim ‘get out of the mess’.

It appears the person is sending these types of messages to many people in the hopes that somebody will take the bait.

According to Bester, the scam started about three years ago.

He explains the photograph of him that is being used was taken for a company that donated to the police station and the station’s spokesperson at the time was aware of it.

It is believed that the person sending the messages got hold of the photo online or on social media.

Bester says the scam has had a negative effect on him and his family.

“It has made my life hell. Some people believe I am the one sending those messages. Even some of my colleagues started treating me differently.

“However, these messages are not coming from me although my photo is being used. It is still unclear if more than one person is using my photo,” he says.

A suspect was recently arrested in connection with the scam and investigations continue. More information about the arrest and investigation cannot be divulged at this stage.

He urges anyone who receive such messages to contact the police immediately.

Contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or the Boksburg North SAPS on 011 960 0100 or 071 675 6986.