Residents of Somerset West have recently become the target of electricity scammers who pose as City officials. These scammers solicit payments from unsuspecting residents for electricity-related matters. It is important for residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behavior or requests to the City and the South African Police Service (SAPS).
The Scam
The fraudsters pretend to be City officials and inform residents that they need to pay a fee to stay connected to the grid or address other electricity-related concerns. These payments can range from R500 to more. The City states that no such payments should be made to individuals and that legitimate municipal bills or account payments are to be made directly to the City via online options or at their customer offices and walk-in centers.
Stay Safe
Councillor Beverley van Reenen, the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Energy, emphasizes the importance of being cautious and alert to new scam attempts. She adds that the City is collaborating with the SAPS to ensure that the criminals responsible are brought to justice.
Residents should take note that when work is being carried out in their neighborhood, municipal workers and City contractors carry a work order number specific to that home and a City-issued identification card. It is crucial to request these documents from the official before allowing them onto your property. If they fail to produce the requested work order number or City-issued identification card, do not grant them access to your home.
Verify Identity
There are ways for the public to verify whether visitors to their home are indeed employed by the City. These include calling the Call Centre at 0860 103 089 to confirm if work is being carried out in their area or informing the official that entry will only be allowed once the Call Centre has verified their identity.
Report Suspicious Behavior
In the event of encountering suspicious behavior, residents should report it to the City’s law enforcement agencies or the City’s Fraud Hotline at 0800 323 130. Alternatively, they can reach out to the South African Police Service (SAPS).
By staying vigilant, informed, and proactive, residents of Somerset West can protect themselves from these electricity scammers and help bring the criminals to justice. Remember, it is always better to be cautious and verify the identity of anyone claiming to be a City official before allowing them access to your property.
