THE eThekwini Municipality is warning residents about individuals impersonating municipal officials and soliciting money in exchange for employment opportunities, debt reduction on municipal accounts, or other municipal services.

Reports indicate that fraudsters are using the names of municipal officials to gain trust and deceive residents.

The municipality said in a statement no official is authorised to request or accept payment for employment, debt arrangements, or any municipal service.

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“Soliciting or offering money in exchange for employment is a criminal offence, and offenders will face the full might of the law,” the municipality said in a statement.

Director of the City Integrity and Investigations Directorate (CIID), Jimmy Ngcobo, confirmed that investigations are ongoing.

“We urge members of the public not to make any payments to individuals promising jobs or account write‑offs. Anyone who has been approached, or who has fallen victim to this scam, should report the matter to the CIID and the South African Police Service,” said Ngcobo.

Municipal vacancies are advertised exclusively on the City’s official website: www.durban.gov.za/page/jobs. No fee is charged to apply.

Ngcobo added that customer queries, including account and payment arrangements, are handled through the municipality’s Sizakala Centres. Residents are encouraged to visit their nearest centre for assistance.

How to report fraud to eThekwini Municipality

Fraud and corruption can be reported anonymously to the CIID on the toll‑free hotline: 0800 20 20 20 or email: ombuds@durban.gov.za

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