The Midrand police were recently called out to Anashe Guesthouse in President Park to quell the chaos that erupted after residents were called to taste alcohol.
This occurred on September 22, after, according to the residents, they were contacted by an apparent European firm called Phahama Consulting.
The resident’s task was to consume a glass of alcohol and explain how they felt, then return for the second session and drink another glass before receiving R200.
The residents, who the majority are from Allandale, Kaalfontein, Kananaa, Ebony Park, and Mayibuye, said the difficulty began when they were informed they would receive their R200 after a second session, the date of which they did not know.
“Yes, we all drank one glass each, and they promised us R200 in exchange,” claimed resident Thandi Molato. “It is not our fault that we did not complete the second session which we did not know about. All we want is our money. It’s all right if it’s only half.”
Residents were recruited by ostensibly business personnel who paid a visit to their area a few days before the sample day.
“They recruited us, saying we are going to taste wines and advertise that; in return we will get R200, and because we are desperate for work and money we came here,” added Molato.
Melusi Montshe, another resident, said, “This thing from the beginning showed that it was not legit, but we came because we wanted money. We did wonder what this individual or corporation would benefit from giving us money in addition to drinks.”
After a couple of hours of residents picketing at the premises without showing any signs of leaving without money, personnel from the company arrived and stated that the persons who recruited the residents would contact them for a second taste.
The locals, on the other hand, demanded at least half of the guaranteed sum.
They were overjoyed when they received half of the R100 apiece. The Midrand police members who attended the scene urged residents to be wary about what they sign up for.
The Midrand Reporter contacted district police spokesperson Captain Jeff Phora on September 24, to inquire about an opened case. Despite several follow-up attempts by the publication, Phora has not yet responded to confirm if a case has been opened.
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