City warns against fake health officials again trying to scam business owners

29 August 2023

The modus operandi is not new, but could leave unsuspecting business owners out of pocket. The City therefore urges everyone to arm themselves with the necessary information to avoid falling victim to the scammers.

In the past few weeks, the City has become aware that persons are again trying to defraud business premises by posing as health officials and indicating that they can issue health related approvals for a fee.

City Health reminds not only the business community, but the public at large, that no official is permitted to accept payment directly from clients and any applications that do require payment should only occur at a City cash office or via an electronic funds transfer into the City's bank account – details of which are available on the City's website.

In addition, no City employee can request any rewards, gifts, favours and/or hospitality and do not have a general right to accept any rewards, gifts or favours.

'If anyone comes to your premises to conduct an inspection, it is always advised to check their credentials, but specifically if that individual requests direct payment or some other kind of favour or reward for services rendered. We also urge business owners and staff to familiarise themselves with the relevant legislation and requirements to operate their businesses, as well as the officials at their nearest Environmental Health office. This will go a long way in reducing the risk of falling victim to scammers. When in doubt, call your local Environmental Health office – it is better to be safe, than sorry,' said Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Patricia Van der Ross.

Shop owners are again reminded that all health officials employed by the City carry identity cards with their photograph, designation and office location, as well as details of the various health-related legislation that the employee has been officially delegated to enforce.     

Certificates of Acceptability issued by City Health are on paper where the City logo has been specifically imprinted onto holographic foil to reduce the potential for the fraudulent issue of this document

To find details of your local Environmental Health office, visit the City's website at https://www.capetown.gov.za/Departments/City%20Health%20Department

Owners of premises who are concerned that persons may be fraudulently representing themselves as City Health officials or that the documentation issued to them may be fraudulent, are encouraged to engage City Health at Verify.COA@capetown.gov.za.  

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Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office