The City of Cape Town has been informed about a group of people in the Wynberg area soliciting donations on the basis that they have been recently retrenched from the City’s Solid Waste Department due to social distancing requirements.

Residents are advised that no Solid Waste staff have been retrenched recently, and none due to social distancing requirements. Solid waste management, including refuse collection, is an essential service that has continued throughout the national lockdown period. Residents should please keep this in mind if they are approached.

‘It’s unacceptable that individuals want to mislead the public for their own gain. It’s important that the public be aware of such scams and we encourage them to remember the tips provided (below) to prevent being duped,’ said Mayoral Committee Member for Urban Waste Management, Alderman Grant Twigg.

Tips for residents:

• Always verify the official’s City-issued identification card (and work order number when the City is working in the area)

• The ID card must display the City logo, the name and surname of the staff member or mandated contractor, and must contain an embedded photo of the staff member or mandated contractor

• If unsure, call the City Call Centre on 0860 103 089

• Report suspicious behaviour to the City’s law enforcement agencies or to the South African Police Service (SAPS)

Members of the public can verify whether visitors to their home are employed by the City by:

• phoning the Call Centre on 0860 103 089 to confirm whether work is being carried out in their area

• informing the official that they will allow them entry only once the Call Centre has verified their identity

Source: City Of Cape Town