Messages started circulating on Whatsapp about an alleged suspect vehicle.
The incident that took place on Wednesday, May 22 was of municipal workers taking photos in Tasbet Park.
A lookout message was sent from Witbank SAPS to be alert and report the vehicle if spotted.
This led to the occupants of the Toyota Corolla being detained by members from Witbank SAPS and they were taken to the station.
The vehicle was searched and all occupants were identified as contract workers for the Emalahleni Local Municipality.
They have been warned to use branded vehicles and clear identification.
Municipal Manager Sizwe Mayisela has appealed to residents not to attack officials contracted by Emalahleni Local Municipality to conduct asset verification.
“It has come to my attention that these officials are mistaken for people who scout houses which they plan to rob. They are doing an honest job, and we expect residents to allow them space to do what they are paid for. Their lives shouldn’t be endangered based on suspicions. They have identification cards and a letter from the municipality confirming that they are legitimate,” said Mayisela.
The officials are required to take pictures of all municipal assets like road signs, streetlights, mini substations, water meters, kiosks, and roads.
“It might appear as if they are taking a picture of somebody’s house when they are actually taking a picture of a streetlight, please be patient with them because in actual fact they are not targeting anybody’s house,” concluded Mayisela.
