With the festive season approaching, many domestic employees will receive their bonuses.
Employers are urged to not pay their staff in cash.
“The risks involved with carrying large amounts of cash are high. Criminals see domestic staff carrying cash as an easy target. We’ve heard of incidences where domestic staff have been accosted and robbed just after being paid in cash, or drawing cash from an ATM,” said Mr Theunis Kotze, from a well known security service provider.
He said in some of these cases, the individual’s entire month’s salary was stolen.
“Besides the cash being stolen, the safety of the staff member is also at risk. It’s just not worth it,” he said.
He advised employers to use the numerous options in terms of bank accounts, retail store cash transfers and and other similar options.
“Look for alternatives to cash payouts wherever possible,”said Mr Kotze.
He also urged employers to speak to their domestic staff about the dangers of drawing large cash amounts from an ATM.
“Criminals watch ATMs and target individuals drawing large amounts. They then follow them and wait for an opportunity to make their move. This can be in an isolated area or even in a crowded space. If they want the cash they will take it.
“Stokvel payouts are also an area of concern. Annually, members of a stokvel receive a large payout, depending on the stokvel of course. Criminals are aware of this, whether this is through inside information or not, and will target the recipient shortly after the meeting,” he said.
“Employers, speak to your staff about alternatives to a stokvel cash payout and suggest that a second person accompanies them if they have to receive the payment in cash.
“Urge them to go straight to a bank and deposit the money after they receive it. Let’s all work towards making this an incident-free festive season,” said Mr Kotze.
