INTERNATIONAL Fraud Awareness Week is commemorated from November 12 to 18. During this time, many organisations and security companies raise awareness on how to stay safe during the course of our daily activities, whether we are at home sleeping, going to work or just scrolling on our phones.
The eThekwini Municipality has issued a statement on the measures they are taking to curb fraud and illegal activities pertaining to fraud. The City said, “Fraud, corruption and maladministration-related issues will continue to be rigorously investigated by the eThekwini Municipality. And those found in the wrong will face disciplinary measures: arrest and/or dismissal,” said eThekwini mayor Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda during the International Fraud Awareness Conference.
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In commemoration of this week, the municipality will host a seminar at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre on November 29 to raise awareness of the impact of fraud on society.
“To achieve clean and good governance, we work with the private sector, civil society and other stakeholders to educate residents to be responsible and report any acts of fraud or corruption to the City Integrity and Investigations Unit.”
He said the municipality will join hundreds of organisations from around the world that are affiliated with the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) to commemorate International Fraud Awareness Week. ACFE is the world’s largest anti-fraud organisation and provider of anti-fraud training and education.
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In demonstrating that the City remains committed to rooting out fraud and corruption, Mayor Kaunda said several employees have been arrested or fired already.
The mayor said this at a time when the city is preparing for the holidays when a lot of fraudulent activities occur, when people lose their money at ATMs, suffer credit card fraud online and some are scammed by being promised jobs in the municipality if they ‘pay’ a certain amount.
eThekwini Municipality encourages residents to report incidents of unethical conduct and maladministration to the City Integrity and Investigations Unit. They can report anonymously on 0800 20 20 20 (toll-free), 031 311 4002 or email: Ombuds@durban.gov.za.
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