Emalahleni Local Municipality has issued a warning to service providers and members of the public following reports of an individual impersonating the municipality’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and demanding money in exchange for municipal tenders.
In a public notice issued on Tuesday, 10 November 2026, the municipality confirmed that it had received reports of an individual contacting service providers while falsely claiming to be the CFO.
According to the municipality, the individual allegedly requests payments from businesses in exchange for securing municipal tenders.
The municipality has distanced itself from these activities, warning that such requests are fraudulent.
It emphasised that all municipal procurement processes are conducted in accordance with established Supply Chain Management (SCM) procedures and applicable legislation.
No individual is authorised to request or demand money from service providers in exchange for awarding municipal tenders.
The municipality has urged businesses and residents to remain vigilant, particularly with the festive season approaching, when scammers may attempt to take advantage of the busy end-of-year period.
Service providers have been advised not to make payments in response to suspicious telephone calls or requests claiming to originate from municipal officials.
Anyone who suspects that they have been contacted by someone impersonating a municipal official, or who wishes to verify a suspicious request, is encouraged to contact Emalahleni Local Municipality directly on 047 878 2000.
The municipality has appealed to all stakeholders to exercise caution and report suspected fraudulent activities.
