Watch out for phony City staff, warn cops

Criminals are posing as municipal employees to steal from homes in the Kraaifontein area, warn police.

Two house robberies and five thefts linked to the phony City staff were reported to Kraaifontein detectives in the past three months, says Kraaifontein police spokeswoman Warrant Officer Louise Strydom.

The perpetrators wore City reflector jackets with fake ID badges and entered homes by claiming they were there to check water meters, plug points and electricity boxes, among other things.

Mayoral committee member for energy Beverley van Reenen said real City staff should have a work order number specific to the home and a City-issued identification card.

Residents could call 0860 103 089 to verify an employee's identity before admitting them, she said.

The police are asking anyone who has had contact with the phony City staff to call Kraaifontein detective branch at 021 980 5560 or 10111.