‘Jobs for cash’ scam unravels

A conman posing as an HR manager at Big 5 Hlabisa Municipality has been attempting to sell jobs for security guard roles.

Big 5 Hlabisa Mayor Comfort Khumalo said the scammer has been ‘recruiting’ security guards for the municipality – demanding a ‘cold drink’ of R4 000 for a speedy application.

The HR office investigated the matter and managed to track down the conman.

“The scammer insisted they have already filled 16 positions and are looking for four security officers to take up these positions urgently,” said Khumalo.

“The victim said he had not paid any money yet as he was still fundraising for it.

“Unfortunately, the scammer can sound very convincing to the vulnerable public.”

He said they understand the ‘dire need for jobs’, but urged people to be cautious.

Municipal jobs, Khumalo explained, are advertised formally in the newspapers. Nobody is telephoned privately to come for interviews, and no payment is ever required.

No charges were laid against the alleged perpetrator as his victim had not paid over any funds.

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