THE Department of Labour says it is concerned about the growing incidents of bogus labour inspectors who impersonate legitimate officials of the Department and fleece unsuspecting employers of money. The department said on Thursday it has learnt of some illicit dealings of a few individuals impersonating legitimate labour inspectors.

These bogus inspectors visit workplaces to conduct illegal inspections and thereafter issue employers with illegitimate inspection reports and contravention notices. Unsuspecting employers are coerced and intimidated by the individuals into believing that they are to face the full might of the law if they do not accede to their demands.

“All employers are warned of this disturbing trend of these bogus labour inspectors mushrooming and therefore, in one way or the other, end up souring the working relationship between the Department of Labour, employers and employees in various sectors of our economy,” said the department.

Legitimate labour inspectors should always carry and be able to produce either the inspector’s card or their appointment certificates.

“However, because criminals are technologically savvy and can manufacture their own illegal identification cards, employers and employees are advised to call the Department of Labour to verify if the person works for the department. The numbers to call are 051 505 6231 / 051 505 6230 or one can email the department’s fraud line email at fraud@labour.gov.za or contact 0860 022 194.