MPUMALANGA – As the year begins, numerous recruitment schemes are targeting those aspiring to become police officers.
On January 14, 2025, Major General Nico Gerber, head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) in Mpumalanga, issued a stern warning to community members about fraudulent job advertisements claiming to offer employment opportunities within the South African Police Service (SAPS).
This warning follows numerous complaints received about scammers posing as SAPS personnel.
According to Gerber, these criminals contact unsuspecting individuals, promising them positions in the SAPS in exchange for financial compensation.
“Members of the public should remember that no legitimate organisation, including SAPS, will contact you out of the blue with job offers if you haven’t applied for a position,” said Gerber. “It should immediately raise suspicion if the caller demands financial benefits during the conversation.”
Gerber also pointed out that scammers often target individuals who have previously participated in police selection processes, exploiting their hopes by soliciting bribes in exchange for false promises of employment.
He urged community members to refrain from sharing personal or financial information with unknown individuals claiming to represent SAPS.
To verify any employment-related communication, members of the public are encouraged to consult the official SAPS website, where all legitimate job postings and application procedures are listed.
He emphasised that SAPS or any government department will never require payment in return for employment opportunities.
The Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation Unit is actively investigating these scams and working to identify and apprehend the perpetrators.
“The Hawks in Mpumalanga urge all residents to report any suspicious activities or fake job offers to SAPS immediately,” concluded Major General Gerber.
Community members are reminded to stay vigilant and protect themselves from falling victim to this growing scam. To report incidents or seek verification, contact your nearest police station or visit the official SAPS website.
