New water scam hits Paulshof
PAULSHOF - Residents of Paulshof have been subjected to a new water scam.
According to reports, individuals posing as City of Joburg officials explain to residents that an outstanding amount is owed on their water accounts, and threaten to disconnect the water supply unless payment is made immediately.
One resident said she first suspected the ‘official’ who arrived in an unmarked car when he backed down after she phoned her husband. Although her account was fully paid, the resident, who wishes to remain unnamed, gave the ‘official’ R300 to return the next day, which he failed to do. She received no answer on the telephone number that the man provided.
Nearby, the water supply to the entire Central Square complex was disconnected. According to trustee Garth Stuart, an individual bearing a notice of termination, on which an account number and amount were handwritten, disconnected and locked the water supply. The man left his contact details, promising to collect the money and restore the water.
After communicating with Johannesburg Water to confirm that the complex’s account was not in arrears, and no notice of termination had been issued, residents cut the locks left by the scam artist. The man has not returned.
Karolynn van Vuuren, of Paulshof Residents’ and Ratepayers’ Association, advised residents to treat any request for immediate payment with suspicion.
“Our recommendation is to double check everything with the knowledge that Johannesburg Water will not just cut off your water – the first step is to issue a letter notifying you that your account is in arrears with a grace of seven days,” said Van Vuuren, adding that requests for a photograph will usually deter suspicious ‘officials’.
Spokesperson Millicent Kabwe said Johannesburg Water was not aware of this scam. Kabwe specified that officials work in teams of four, and can be recognised by company-branded vehicles and work suits. When in doubt, residents should ask officials to present an identity card bearing the City of Joburg and Johannesburg Water logos.
“We are also appealing to residents not to present any employee with money on site. It is illegal and should be reported should anyone solicit this activity,” Kabwe added.
