Richards Bay police warn of bogus cop scam

One year later and Richards Bay SAPS continues to warn members of the public to be aware of a fraudster posing as a policeman and extorting funds from unsuspecting businesses.

The modus operandi of the conman posing as a law enforcement official is to contact businesses seeking monetary donations for feeding schemes or other charity projects.

Richards Bay SAPS spokesperson, Lt Colonel Debbie Ferreira said there are numerous cases that have been opened where the suspect has asked individuals to send donations via cash sends.

”Scams are on the rise and this is one of many that victims report on a daily basis,” said Ferreira.

”We urge members of the public to not send any payment so as to not fall victim to this scam.

“While some victims have reported that the caller ID apps identified the number as from a ‘Captain Ben Govender’, it is in fact false.”

The perpetrator has also offered businesses firearms for sale, and members of the public have been warned against engaging in any of these illegal activities.

It is believed the perpetrator contacts businesses telephonically and requests them to send cash via instant money.

Ferreira said the police will never request funds or donations in this manner, and members of the public are warned not to send any money using these methods.