The Salvation Army in the KwaZulu/ Natal has warned the public to be on the lookout for five young men fraudulently claiming to represent the organisation.
“The young men, who have obtained uniforms of the well-known church, are piggy-backing on its good name by pocketing donations made to The Salvation Army,”  said public relations secretary, Major Carin Holmes.
“Anyone collecting on our behalf must have a permit issued by us, and their tins must be locked. It is extremely annoying and distressing when people use our good name and the good work that we do for their own benefit.”
The Salvation Army Madadeni Corps has been receiving donations from Shoprite/Checkers and Kentucky Fried Chicken in Newcastle, and using these to feed old people and poor children.
The modus operandi of the gang is to visit these outlets, claiming they are there to collect food and donations on behalf of The Salvation Army. They then disappear with their booty. Major Naomi Malinga, commanding officer of the corps, says she fears that the young men may use their uniforms to hoodwink other people. The youngsters are known to the corps, having previously stayed at the Musawenkosi home for boys at Madadeni and were supposedly worshipping with The Salvation Army corps.
A case has been opened at the police station.
If you are aware of any suspicious activity, please contact your local police station or Major Malinga on 034-982-3113.