Warning over Mhlathuze Water jobs-for-cash scam as ’woman loses R2 000’
|Published
Beware of con artists with fake job offers and promising guaranteed tenders within the Mhlathuze Water in exchange for cash in Richards Bay. File photo
DURBAN - Beware of con artists with fake job offers and promising guaranteed tenders within the Mhlathuze Water in exchange for cash in Richards Bay.
This is the warning after Mhlathuze Water received complaints from individuals and companies who had received calls from people claiming to be officials from the water utility’s Human Resources and Supply Chain Management departments.
The targets include an unnamed victim, who claimed to have already parted with R2 000 which was deposited into a conman’s account.
She said an anonymous caller had promised a position that had been advertised by Mhlathuze Water.
The scamster, the victim said, also coaxed her into referring him to other job seekers who would be willing to pay in return for jobs within the organisation.
In the second instance, the utility was alerted by companies and contractors who had received calls from people purporting to be from its Supply Chain Management Unit, who had asked that the contractors verify their central supplier database registration numbers and pay a sum of money in exchange for guaranteed contracts.
Mhlathuze Water spokesperson Siyabonga Maphumulo urged members of the public to always be on alert lest they become the next target.
“Mhlathuze Water has strict recruitment and acquisition policies which forbid the acceptance of cash for jobs or contracts. All our vacancies and tenders are advertised on our website, social media platforms and mainstream media,” said Maphumulo.
“We therefore warn job seekers and contractors to refrain from entertaining people who request cash for jobs and services, this is not a prerequisite to get a job or contractor opportunities within Mhlathuze Water,” he said.
“When in doubt, members of the public should enquire with Mhlathuze Water by calling 035 902 1000 or email communication@mhlathuze.co.za about the status of any advertised job opening or tender opportunity.”
THE MERCURY