SWM urges nation to watch out for imposters

The Surinamese Water Company (SWM) has asked the authorities to launch an investigation into robbers who pretend that they are SWM employees. The SWM is warning citizens on social media to be on the look-out for people who pretend that they are SWM workers and who commit robberies. Marlon Oosterling, director at the SWM, pointed out that the company will get to the bottom of this. Reports indicate that the imposters/ robbers drive around in certain neighborhoods before knocking on somebody’s door and claiming that they have to check some things on behalf of the SWM. Once they have gained access to the house, they rob the residents. The SWM has issued a press release, urging its clients to remain cautious and to never allow strangers access to their homes even if they claim that they are SWM workers. The director explained that in most cases the SWM workers do not need to enter the home for maintenance work. “They only need to have access to the meter that is located in the yard. That department only works during the daytime. Workers from the Inspection Department are the only SWM workers who need to enter the house to check the installation that is indoors even at night.” The director explained that there are a few ways for people to check if they are actually talking to a real SWM worker. The SWM workers wear uniforms with the company’s logo and they also have badge with their picture, name and personnel number. The vehicle that they drive also has the logo of the company on the front doors. If customers have doubts about the identity of the SWM workers, they can always contact the company at 404266,” said Oosterling. Police Chief Inder Jangbahadoer told Times of Suriname that so far nobody in Paramaribo has reported being robbed by SWM imposters. He did, however, urge the nation to take the information that is being spread on social media seriously and to remain alert. He also urged people to write down the license plate number of the vehicle of people who show up on their doorstep pretending/ claiming to be SWM workers. “If you are not sure call 115 and the police will rush to the scene to investigate the situation. Do not just open the door for strangers but always demand to see a ID card or badge.”