The MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) in KwaZulu-Natal, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has raised the alarm over a scam operation preying on amakhosi under the guise of departmental support.
According to Cogta, a fraudster using the cellphone number 069 389 1155 has been posing as a representative of MEC Buthelezi. The imposter allegedly promises upgrades to traditional courts and then demands bribes from unsuspecting leaders.
Buthelezi condemned the scam as “unacceptable and criminal,” warning traditional leaders and the public not to fall victim to such deceit.
“It is unacceptable that criminals are exploiting the name of the Department and the trust of our traditional leaders for personal gain. We are working closely with law enforcement to ensure the perpetrators are brought to book,” he said.
The Department has urged anyone contacted by the scammer to report the matter immediately to the South African Police Service (SAPS) and to open a criminal case.
Cogta also stressed that no official will ever demand money or favours in exchange for services or development projects.
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