Police in Gauteng are sending out a warning to businesses, especially those with accommodation establishments, about a scam involving the fraudulent use of a police official’s identity.
The police official, who is a Captain in the South African Police Service (SAPS), is attached to the Tshwane District Office, serving as the Communication Coordinator.
The provincial police spokesperson, Captain Johan van Dyk, confirmed the officer’s identity is being misused.
“His photograph was unlawfully taken from official and media platforms, digitally altered, used as a profile picture, and circulated with different names and a fictitious force (persal) number,” van Dyk said.
Criminals are now using the police captain’s fraudulent details to deceive unsuspecting victims.
“The suspects contact guesthouses and make bookings purportedly on behalf of a group of six police officers. They claim that they will arrive late and request arrangements for after-hours check-in,” van Dyk said.
“Thereafter, the scammers manipulate the establishment by requesting that airtime be purchased and loaded onto a mobile device, allegedly for operational purposes, and will be reimbursed as soon as they book in,” van Dyk said.
Police management wishes to emphasise that this is a scam.
“Members of the public and business owners are strongly warned that SAPS officials may not, as per SAPS regulations, or will never request airtime, vouchers, or any form of payment from individuals or businesses,” van Dyk said.
He said no legitimate police booking will require upfront purchases or financial transactions of this nature.
“Any such request should be treated as fraudulent. Businesses are informed that they must not act on telephonic requests for payments, airtime, or vouchers, regardless of the caller’s claimed rank or urgency. If you feel uncomfortable with a booking from a SAPS member, verify the booking or request involving the SAPS through your nearest police station or official SAPS contact numbers,” van Dyk said.
He has urged businesses and members of the public to be cautious of individuals using police titles, especially when communication is only telephonic or via messaging platforms.
“Do not rely on photographs or documents sent electronically as proof of identity, as these can be manipulated. Immediately report any suspicious activity to SAPS. The public is urged to remain vigilant and report any incidents related to this scam,” van Dyk said.
Anyone with information or who may have been approached in this manner is encouraged to contact their nearest police station or call the SAPS Crime Stop number at 08600 10111.
IOL
Robin-Lee Francke
iol.co.za
