City Power contractor officials arrested for fraud
Two officials, who attempted to solicit a bribe of R2000 from a resident in Auckland Park, were arrested on Friday by the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD).
The two officials are from an independent contractor whom provides electricity disconnection services to City Power.
They are detained at the Brixton Police Station and will appear in the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court on tomorrow.
It is alleged that the two officials approached the resident on Friday morning and informed him that his municipal account was in arrears and that they were there to disconnect electricity supply to the property.
They further indicated that if he gives them an amount of R2000 his electricity would not be disconnected. They suggested that the resident go to Campus Square shopping centre to withdraw the money. The resident then informed the City’s Group Forensic and Investigation Services (GFIS) team which set up a sting operation together with JMPD.
When they arrived at Campus Square one of the officials who escorted the resident to the ATM refused to take the money at the centre because of CCTV cameras and told the resident to go back home and they will come and collect it there. The resident had R500 with him, which was collected by the two officials from the contractor. JMPD and GFIS pounced on the two officials as they were driving off from the resident’s property.
I am disturbed that this is becoming a trend in Johannesburg. We will not hesitate in terminating the services of contractors who are found to be involved in illegal activities.
Upon searching the two officials it was found that they didn’t have any job card for the property. I would like to commend the resident who refused to be part of any corrupt activity and reported the matter to our team which acted swiftly to deal with the matter.
Corruption has no place in this administration and we will work tirelessly, and in collaboration with institutions such as the Hawks, Saps, JMPD to ensure that it is eradicated and that residents of Johannesburg receive the quality services they deserve. I would also like to encourage people to report any fraud and corruption activities through our 24-hour tip-off hotline 0800 002 587 or visit the GFIS offices situated at 48 Ameshoff Street in Braamfontein.
Cllr Herman Mashaba
Executive Mayor
City of Joburg
For further information contact:
Lucky Sindane
Director: Strategic Stakeholder Management
Group Forensic and Investigation Services
Cell: 065 865 0696
Email: LuckySi@joburg.org.za
