Municipal contractors only doing their jobs
A lookout message was sent from Witbank SAPS to be alert and report the vehicle if spotted
Messages started circulating on Whatsapp about an alleged suspect vehicle.
The incident that took place on Wednesday, May 22 was of municipal workers taking photos in Tasbet Park.
A lookout message was sent from Witbank SAPS to be alert and report the vehicle if spotted.
This led to the occupants of the Toyota Corolla being detained by members from Witbank SAPS and they were taken to the station.
The vehicle was searched and all occupants were identified as contract workers for the Emalahleni Local Municipality.
They have been warned to use branded vehicles and clear identification.
Municipal Manager Sizwe Mayisela has appealed to residents not to attack officials contracted by Emalahleni Local Municipality to conduct asset verification.
“It has come to my attention that these officials are mistaken for people who scout houses which they plan to rob. They are doing an honest job, and we expect residents to allow them space to do what they are paid for. Their lives shouldn’t be endangered based on suspicions. They have identification cards and a letter from the municipality confirming that they are legitimate,” said Mayisela.
The officials are required to take pictures of all municipal assets like road signs, streetlights, mini substations, water meters, kiosks and roads.
“It might appear as if they are taking a picture of somebody’s house when they are actually taking a picture of a streetlight. Please be patient with them because in actual fact they are not targeting anybody’s house,” concluded Mayisela.
Concerns raised by the residents of eMalahleni included:
• I don’t understand this,we were told that this people they are stealing kids from schools this picture apparently was taken at Greendale they are working with a woman so confusing will not allow anyone in my house period
• So I ask you with tears in my eyes – who is legit and who isnt?? This is absolutely insane!!
• Unmarked car, fake ID and fake Municipal papers!! Who the hell is who???
• Hoe meer dae hoe meer skelms
• But they must work like professionals they don’t even greet they drive the cars slowly take pictures
• We live in fear in Witbank you can’t blame us
• U think all of us are born under a stone they take fotos n send it to their friends to go and rob at night
Mr Kingdom Mabuza, municipal spokesperson were contacted in this regard but no feedback have been received by time of going to print.
