![](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2017/03/scam_32166.jpg)
If you suspect someone is posing as an environmental health practitioner, formerly known as health inspectors, you might not be far off.
The City of Johannesburg’s Environmental Health Directorate would like to warn the public against people posing as Environmental Health Practitioners.
Nkosinathi Nkabinde, spokesperson for the City, said the impostors are issuing fraudulent business licenses, permits and Certificates of Acceptability to business owners, and charging them for these services.
“Please note that the issuing of a Certificate of Acceptability is free of charge. No rewards must be made for services rendered as that might be considered as a bribe. A criminal case will be opened [with the police] against any client and official for acts of fraud and corruption,” he said.
For business licenses and permits, there are stipulated tariffs and the only costs involved and payable are those that have been approved by council. Health Permits are issued in accordance with the Public Health bylaws, Nkabinde said.
Remember, all City of Johannesburg’s Environmental Health Practitioners have official identification cards that they must produce at all times when conducting an inspection.
Details: For more information on Environmental Health issues, call 011 407 6494 / 6545.
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