The Tshwane metro has cautioned residents to be on high alert following the circulation of fraudulent information related to Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) job opportunities.

According to MMC for Community and Social Development Services, Palesa Modise, individuals are falsely posing as metro representatives and directing residents to collect EPWP application forms from an alleged Soulbent Project Office in Saulsville.

“The city strongly condemns the circulation of false and misleading information currently being shared within communities regarding the distribution of EPWP application forms,” said Modise.

She emphasised that the information being shared is completely unauthorised and forms part of a scam targeting vulnerable residents seeking employment opportunities.

“The city categorically states that this information is fraudulent and unauthorised,” she said.

Modise further raised concern about the misuse of the EPWP programme for personal or political gain, warning that such actions undermine a system designed to uplift communities through fair and transparent processes.

She also condemned the misuse of the EPWP programme for personal, political, or campaign-related agendas.

“EPWP is a public employment initiative intended to benefit qualifying residents through a fair, transparent and lawful process,” she added.

“Residents are reminded that all EPWP processes are handled exclusively by the city’s official EPWP Unit based at Sammy Marks Square municipal offices in the Pretoria CBD.”

According to Modise, external offices, organisations or individuals are permitted to distribute or facilitate applications.

She reiterated that EPWP application forms are issued free of charge and that no payments are required at any stage of the process.

“Any person requesting money in exchange for job opportunities is engaging in fraudulent activity.”

Residents who encounter suspicious activity are urged to report it to their nearest police station or directly to the metro.

Modise said the municipality remains committed to protecting residents and ensuring that opportunities meant for community upliftment are not exploited.

“The city reaffirms its commitment to transparency, fairness and the protection of all residents against exploitation,” she said.

Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and verify information through official metro channels before taking any action.

However, Soulbent project manager Luka Mashudu Makhado has denied the allegations, maintaining that the initiative is legitimate and aimed at assisting residents.

He said he obtained the forms from Sammy Marks Square and is helping community members complete them at no cost.

“I think this is just someone trying to tarnish our name because even today (April 28) we fetched about 100 forms to give to the people,” he said.

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