Over the past few months, multiple reports surfaced of individuals posing as municipal workers from the water department. The scammers allegedly delivered fraudulent notices to homeowners, claiming their water services would be disconnected due to unpaid fees. The notices instructed residents to contact a fake representative via a provided phone number to meet on site, where unsuspecting victims could be coerced into paying money electronically or in cash on the spot to stop them from disconnecting the water.
Today, a vigilant homeowner and Marshall Security client in the Sunningdale area who was aware of the scam contacted the suspect, and upon his arrival at the property, the homeowner immediately alerted Marshall Security. Multiple Armed Response Officers and members of our Special Operations Team arrived on the scene and apprehended the suspect.
Durban North SAPS and eThekwini Municipality Officials were both contacted and arrived shortly afterward. The homeowner officially opened a fraud case with the SAPS. The eThekwini Municipality Officials who attended confirmed the suspect is not an eThekwini Municipality Official and will assist SAPS in further investigating the suspect and emphasising community awareness.
This incident underscores the importance of community vigilance and rapid reporting. Our officers are always on the lookout, ready to intervene and protect residents from fraud and criminal activity.
We urge all residents to verify municipal officials at the point of contact and never make payments without confirmation from official channels.
Marshall Security urges members of the public that should you have fallen victim to any scam with the same modus operandi to please report the matter to the SAPS soonest.
Marshall Security continues to work closely with local authorities and municipal departments to ensure criminals are held accountable and communities remain safe. Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activity immediately and to stay informed about common scams targeting homes and properties.
