Local news

WhatsApp scam alert in the city

City of uMhlathuze residents urged to be vigilant amid ongoing business scam

Potential victims are asked to be alert to an active WhatsApp scammer targeting businesses and individuals by fraudulently using the name of a reputable business.

In particular, he has been using the name and vehicle photos of Lees Towing Services in Empangeni to defraud victims from as far as Ballito and Pietermaritzburg.

He calls under the pretence of knowing your business and where it is located, trying to sell anything from canopies to boats, tyres, spares and vehicles.

He insists on instant payment into an account, and the money is immediately withdrawn at an ATM. Meanwhile, he continually changes sim cards.

A case has been opened (OB 16/2/2026) at the Empangeni Police Station. Anyone who encounters a suspected scam attempt is welcome to contact Mona Pillay at Lees Breakdown on 035 7870031.

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Dave Savides

With 35 years of reporting under his belt, Dave is the veteran newshound of the Zululand Observer. He is an award-winning journalist covering sport and hard news stories, which he achieved not only while a ZO journalist, but also during his tenure as editor-in-chief. Having only recently stepped out of the ‘hot seat’, Dave is now consultant editor but continues chasing hard-hitting stories in his quest to bring news of value to our community of which he is an integral figure.
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