​A Joburg Water official has been apprehended by Yeoville community members and brought to face the full might of the law through a citizen arrest for extorting monies from them.

It is alleged that the official (who was carrying appointment cards with different SAP numbers) visited a property in Yeoville and tried to solicit R2000 from the resident in order to not have their water supply to the property disconnected.

The community members then apprehended the suspect and contacted the City’s Group Forensic and Investigation Service (GFIS) unit and the South African Police Service (SAPS).

It is alleged that the official has been operating in the area and collecting money from residents for years.  More residents who paid bribes to the official have come forward.

He appeared in the Hillbrow Magistrate’s Court to face charges of fraud and extortion.

I would like to thank the community of Yeoville for refusing to be part of any corrupt activity and for arresting the suspect.

Corruption has no place in this administration and we will continue to work in collaboration with law enforcement institutions such as the Hawks and Saps in efforts to root out crime from our streets.

I would also like to encourage people to report any fraud and corruption activities through our 24hour tipoff 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 Service

Cell: 065 865 0696

Email: LuckySi@joburg.org.za