Unscrupulous felon masquerading as a legitimate labour inspector trying to solicit bribes
The Department of Labour has leant of some illicit workings of an individual impersonating a legitimate labour inspector. This bogus inspector visits workplaces to conduct illegal inspections and thereafter issue employers with illegitimate inspection reports and contravention notices.
Unsuspecting employers are coerced and intimidated by this deceitful individual into believing that they are to face the music and the full might of the law if they do not accede to his demands.
“This person called me and demanded that I deposit money into his bank account and buy him some groceries for him not to pursue me any further on the finding of his inspection”, alleged one of the employers who nearly became one of this crook’s victims.
Though he may be using different names, this villain introduced himself to two farmers already as Jerry and claims to be based at Reddesburg Post Office, Xhariep district of the Free State province.
All employers are therefore warned of this disturbing trend of these bogus labour inspectors mushrooming and therefore, in one way or the other, end up souring the working relationship between the Department of Labour, employers and employees in various sectors of our economy.
“We would like to urge all employers and employees to be wary of this individual and report him to relevant authorities should they suspect any form of misdemeanor at play. Labour inspectors always carry their identity cards and should be able to produce those prior the inspection,” warned Nomfundo Douw-Jack, Acting Chief Director: Provincial Operations at the Department of Labour.
The department assures both employers together with their employees that we are hot on the heels of this criminal and will ensure that he is brought to book.
Enquiries:
Josial Ramokoena
Provincial spokesperson: Free State
Cell: 083 292 4018
Email: josial.ramokoena@labour.gov.za
