Police Impersonation Scam Targeting Gauteng Businesses

What’s Going On?

Police in Gauteng have issued a warning after discovering that criminals are using the identity of a real SAPS captain to trick accommodation businesses. The officer’s photo was taken from official sites, edited, and then shared under fake names and a made‑up police number.

How the Scam Works

Fake Booking Request

The fraudsters call guest houses, lodges, or similar places and claim they are booking rooms for a group of six police officers. They say the officers will arrive late and need an out‑of‑hours check‑in.

Demand for Airtime or Vouchers

After the “booking” is made, the scammers ask the business to buy airtime (or vouchers) and load it onto a mobile phone, saying it’s needed for police work. They promise to refund the money once the officers sign in.

Why This Is a Fraud

SAPS Rules

According to SAPS regulations, officers are never allowed to demand airtime, vouchers, or any payment from civilians or businesses for official duties.

No Legitimate Process Requires Up‑Front Payment

Real police bookings do not involve advance purchases of airtime or similar items. Any request for such payment is a clear sign of a scam.

What Business Owners Should Do

Stay Skeptical

If you receive a call or message claiming to be from SAPS and asking for money, airtime, or vouchers, treat it as suspicious.

Verify Independently

Do not rely on photos or documents sent electronically—they can be easily altered. Instead, call the nearest police station or use official SAPS contact numbers to confirm the booking.

Do Not Send Money or Airtime

Never purchase airtime, vouchers, or make any financial transfer based on a phone request, no matter how urgent or high‑ranking the caller sounds.

Report Immediately

If you think you’ve been targeted, report the incident to your local police station or call the SAPS Crime Stop line at 08600 10111.

Staying Safe Online and Over the Phone

Check the Source

Always verify who you’re talking to before sharing any information or making a transaction.

Use Official Channels

For any police‑related matter, use the SAPS website, official social media pages, or known phone numbers.

Educate Staff

Make sure everyone who handles bookings knows the red flags and the correct steps to take if something feels off.

Conclusion

The scam using a fake police captain’s identity is a reminder that criminals can easily manipulate photos and pretend to be authority figures. Gauteng businesses, especially those offering accommodation, should stay alert, verify any unusual requests through official channels, and never send money or airtime based on a phone call alone. By staying cautious and reporting suspicious activity, you can help stop these fraudsters in their tracks.