Geluksdal – “We took their car keys because we knew they would try to run away,” says Duduzile Mpembe (30).
The residents claim the men, who were not wearing tags, threaten to cut off their electricity supply if they do not give them a bribe.
“They have been here many times before, not the same men but they use the same car.
“They produce a letter, with the metro’s letterhead, saying we owe money and we have seven days to pay it.”
Many of the residents claim, out of desperation, they have given different men money and their electricity was not cut off.
Nora Kodisa (58) says the electricity issues in the area have given her many sleepless nights.
“My meter has been blocked about three times.
And when I go to the CCC, they tell me I owe too much on rent.”
When he attempted to calm the mob down, Peter Maluleke from the EMPD advised them to lay a formal complaint against the men at the nearest police station.
“Allow the law to take its course.
“Just don’t harm these people because you will bring trouble upon yourself,” he says.
Themba Gadebe, spokesperson for Ekurhuleni Municipality, says the metro’s finance department issues cut-off notices before services are terminated.
“Customers are urged not to make any payments to individuals,” he explains.
Gadebe emphasises, “Municipal workers travel in marked vehicles and officials visiting residents’ homes should always produce their municipal identification card.”
Customers are at liberty, he adds, to contact their nearest CCC to verify the identification of the officials before allowing anyone access onto their property.
