The City of Johannesburg’s Department of Human Settlements is sounding the alarm over a growing scam where fraudsters are using the face and name of MMC Mlungisi Mabaso to sell RDP houses to unsuspecting residents.
According to reports, scammers are creating fake social media accounts and ID documents featuring Mabaso’s likeness, promising vulnerable individuals expedited RDP housing allocations in exchange for cash payments ranging from R3,000 to R25,000.
“We urge residents to be cautious and not fall prey to these scams,” said Mabaso.
“No individual has the authority to bypass the City’s legal housing allocation procedures. Anyone advertising themselves as a facilitator of housing allocations on social media is a fraudster.”
The department emphasizes that RDP houses are allocated free of charge to qualifying beneficiaries, and applications can only be processed through official channels.
To verify authenticity, residents are advised to contact the National Department of Human Settlements directly at 0800 146 873 or visit their local municipal offices.
Red Flags to Watch Out For:
– Unsolicited offers of RDP houses or land
– Requests for payment to expedite housing allocations.
-Fake social media accounts impersonating government officials.
-Counterfeit documents with official logos and signatures.
Report suspicious activities to the authorities and protect yourself from these scams .
Sub-Editor: Matlala Kgaugelo
