SOWETO, June 13 – In yet another alarming incident, Nigerian nationals were apprehended today by the vigilant community of Mapetla, Soweto. The individuals were allegedly engaged in the distribution of final notices adorned with a counterfeit municipality logo to unsuspecting residents. Furthermore, it has been revealed that they were also capturing images of houses during their operations.
This disconcerting revelation has shed light on a larger scheme orchestrated by these Nigerian nationals to seize properties in Soweto. Operating under the guise of City of Johannesburg (CoJ) municipality officials, these individuals have reportedly been active in the area for several years. However, their recent shift in focus towards kasi townships like Soweto has garnered significant attention and concern.
The syndicates behind these fraudulent activities have specifically targeted elderly residents, particularly those residing in predominantly white neighborhoods. Having successfully hijacked properties in such areas, they have now extended their reach to Soweto, exploiting the vulnerabilities of unsuspecting individuals.
On the afternoon of June 13, the Nigerian suspects were caught in the act as they traversed Soweto, distributing counterfeit final notices. Community members, who had been alerted to their presence, promptly intercepted their activities and demanded an explanation regarding their origins. As suspicions were confirmed, it became evident that the individuals were engaging in fraudulent practices. Consequently, the community members swiftly handed them over to the South African Police Service (SAPS) at the scene.
Local residents expressed their outrage and concern over the brazen attempts to deceive and manipulate the community. Many elderly individuals, who had fallen victim to these scams in the past, voiced their distress, emphasizing the urgent need for heightened awareness and vigilance within the community.
Authorities are now working diligently to investigate the extent of the syndicate’s operations in Soweto and determine the identities of all individuals involved. The swift response from the community in apprehending the suspects serves as a testament to the collective determination to protect their homes and preserve the safety and integrity of their neighborhood.
Speaking on behalf of the community, Soweto resident and community leader, Mr. Thabo Mokoena, condemned the actions of these fraudulent individuals, stating, “We will not tolerate such criminal activities in our community. We stand united in safeguarding our homes and ensuring that justice is served.”
This incident has prompted local authorities to urge residents to remain cautious and skeptical of individuals claiming to represent the CoJ municipality or any other official institution. They have advised residents to verify the authenticity of such communications by contacting the relevant authorities directly.
Furthermore, the incident underscores the importance of community involvement in maintaining the security of neighborhoods. Through active participation and vigilance, residents can play a vital role in deterring and apprehending those who seek to exploit their trust.
As investigations unfold, it is hoped that swift and appropriate action will be taken against those found guilty of these fraudulent activities. In the meantime, Soweto residents are encouraged to remain vigilant, report any suspicious activities to the authorities, and support one another in safeguarding their homes and community against such scams.
Nigerian nationals are on a mission to hijack Soweto houses. Apparently these Jollof guys, who were caught by the community, have been going around Soweto pretending to be CoJ municipality officials, giving final notices to unsuspecting residents and taking pictures of houses. pic.twitter.com/e3fooemzaa
— THE TRUTH PANTHER (@TheTruthPanther) June 13, 2023
