JMPD exposes fake job scam
People who are actively seeking employment are advised to verify job posts before applying and to never pay money to anyone in exchange for a job.
The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) has issued a warning to job seekers after a fraudulent recruitment advertisement claiming to offer Traffic Assistant training posts began circulating on social media platforms.
The fake advertisement, titled “JMPD Circular 2026: JMPD Traffic Assistants Training Posts 2026”, has been shared widely on platforms such as TikTok and WhatsApp. It claims that applications are open for traffic assistant training positions in Gauteng with a closing date of June 12, offering a monthly stipend of R5 500 and directing applicants to apply through a WhatsApp number or a social media link.
JMPD spokesperson Superintendent Xolani Fihla said the advertisement is completely fraudulent and does not originate from the department.
“The JMPD has not issued any such circular, and there are currently no open vacancies or training intakes for Traffic Assistants. We urge members of the public, particularly vulnerable job seekers, to exercise extreme caution and verify recruitment information through official channels,” said Fihla.
According to the department, legitimate vacancies are advertised only through the official City of Johannesburg website, and applications are processed exclusively through the city’s official online recruitment portal.
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Fihla warned that neither the JMPD nor the City of Johannesburg would ever ask applicants to apply through WhatsApp, send messages to mobile numbers, or pay any fees to secure employment opportunities.
“Any request for money should immediately raise suspicion,” he said.
The JMPD advised residents to be wary of recruitment advertisements shared on social media platforms, random job websites or those requiring applicants to communicate through personal cellphone numbers, WhatsApp messages or generic public email addresses.
Job seekers who encounter the fraudulent advertisement or who have been approached by individuals claiming to represent JMPD Human Resources are encouraged not to share personal information or documentation.
The department has urged the public to report suspected recruitment scams to the City of Johannesburg Anti-Fraud Hotline at 0800 002 58 or 0800 203 712 or to open a case at their nearest police station.
Fihla confirmed that the JMPD is working with law enforcement authorities to identify and prosecute those responsible for the scam exploiting desperate job seekers.
