THREE suspects have been arrested for allegedly committing housing fraud in the City of Joburg.
Member of the Mayoral Committee for Housing in the city, Councillor Mlungisi Mabaso told Daily Sun the suspects are accused of creating fake social media accounts in his name to solicit money from unsuspecting people in need of houses by promising to give them RDP houses.
He said the three suspects were arrested in Limpopo, where they were found in possession of the fake posters with his face on them.
“The suspects allegedly registered a fraudulent cellphone number that was used to extort money from unsuspecting citizens. The main suspect was arrested over the weekend, a week after police nabbed his two alleged accomplices,” said Mabaso.
He said they’re expected to appear in the Hillbrow Magistrates Court soon.
Mabaso opened a case against the men in July last year after becoming aware of the use of his official details in this scam.
“The arrests are a breakthrough in the fight against fraud and corruption and they send a strong message to those who are defrauding people that they will feel the full might of the law,” said Mabaso.
He emphasised that government houses were not for sale and if one had applied for a house, there was an allocation process to be followed.
“I urge residents to be patient until it is their turn,” he said.
Members of the public are urged to report to the police any person or official who demands money in exchange for a house.
