A gang of robbers posing as Buffalo City Metro (BCM) municipal employees are trying to gain entry into homes, warned BCM and SAPS yesterday.
In a joint statement, BCM and the provincial police said information had been received that the thieves were operating in a group.
The group was reportedly going around the Bhisho area, claiming to have been sent by the municipality to fix or replace leaking pipes.
Provincial police spokeswoman Colonel Sibongile Soci said when homeowners questioned their story further, they run away.
“When they get inside they rob the owner of their personal belongings including plasma televisions and music systems. ”
“Residents are urged to be alert at all times and ensure that whoever is left at the house, such as domestic workers, are informed about this.
“When you are not sure, you can immediately call the police or verify with the municipality,” said Soci.
BCM spokesman Keith Ngesi said BCM visits to the homes of “consumers” (residents) were mostly prompted by calls made by residents to BCM which would provide the complainant with a reference number.
“If anyone comes unannounced, that person is not sent by the municipality. If we had any programme like that it would be clearly communicated to the residents and whoever is sent out to assist will have clear identification,” said Ngesi.
Ngesi said BCM employees were instructed to accept public requests to produce their employee cards which they carry with them.
The card displays personal details, such as an identity number.
Fake BCM employees try to rob homes
In a joint statement, BCM and the provincial police said information had been received that the thieves were operating in a group.
The group was reportedly going around the Bhisho area, claiming to have been sent by the municipality to fix or replace leaking pipes.
Provincial police spokeswoman Colonel Sibongile Soci said when homeowners questioned their story further, they run away.
“When they get inside they rob the owner of their personal belongings including plasma televisions and music systems. ”
“Residents are urged to be alert at all times and ensure that whoever is left at the house, such as domestic workers, are informed about this.
“When you are not sure, you can immediately call the police or verify with the municipality,” said Soci.
BCM spokesman Keith Ngesi said BCM visits to the homes of “consumers” (residents) were mostly prompted by calls made by residents to BCM which would provide the complainant with a reference number.
“If anyone comes unannounced, that person is not sent by the municipality. If we had any programme like that it would be clearly communicated to the residents and whoever is sent out to assist will have clear identification,” said Ngesi.
Ngesi said BCM employees were instructed to accept public requests to produce their employee cards which they carry with them.
The card displays personal details, such as an identity number.
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