Fake inspector bust trying to scam traders

A HEALTH inspector impersonator from Gordon’s Bay was arrested while trying to defraud a foreignowned shop in Strand.

The 41-year-old allegedly entered a store on main road in Strand on Tuesday, and presented the shopkeeper with a fake identity card, purported to be from the Health Department.

The suspect then allegedly told the owners there were a number of “non-compliance issues” in the store, and that if they didn’t pay him R3000 in cash, a fine of R25000 fine would be issued and he would have to close the shop for three months.

Police spokesperson FC van Wyk said according to reports, the suspect was found to be in possession of a false health inspector certificate.

“The appointment certificate contained his ID photo but a different name and surname. He was charged,” Van Wyk said.

He said investigations were continuing.

Mayoral committee member for community services, Zahid Badroodien, warned the public of health inspector impersonators and urged residents to be extra vigilant.

“All City of Cape Town Environmental Health practitioners will be carrying their City of Cape Town employee cards and their authority cards as well.

“The public should also take note that the City’s Health Department does not handle money and does not charge for any inspections, surveillance or advice given to businesses,” he said.

The incident comes after a Pietermaritzburg store was robbed and pensioners’ money taken last week by a group of armed men, dressed as health-care workers.

They made off with an undisclosed amount of money following the robbery at the Checkers supermarket at the Scottsville Mall.

The men pretended to be Covid-19 health inspectors.

It is believed the gang entered the mall wearing masks, face shields, gloves and white lab jackets, via the Alan Paton Avenue entrance.

Pensioners were still standing outside at the time of the robbery where no shots were fired and no injuries were reported.

They were asked to make use of other alternatives as the store was unable to make pension payouts on the day.