JMPD Issues Warning on Fake Job Offers Circulating on WhatsApp
Johannesburg’s job market is brutally competitive, and scammers are cashing in on people’s desperation. The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) has issued a sharp warning about a fake recruitment scheme luring hopeful applicants with promises of metro police jobs.
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A Scam Preying on Desperation
On WhatsApp, a fraudster posing as “T Kuduza” circulates messages about a so-called “Last Chance Physical Assessment” at Ruimsig Athletics Stadium in Roodepoort. The bait? Pay a fee, and you get to skip tough stages of JMPD’s recruitment process.
The scam “menu” includes:
- R2,500 for a second shot at the wall jump test.
- R5,000 to skip straight to the psychological test.
- R7,000 for a shortcut to the interview stage.
This con targets candidates who have already applied to JMPD and worry they won’t make it past the demanding physical or psychological assessments.
JMPD: “We Will Never Ask You to Pay”
JMPD spokesperson Xolani Fihla wasted no time in condemning the scam.
“The JMPD would like to state categorically that this is a scam. The department will never ask for payment for recruitment, testing, or any aspect of the application process. All JMPD correspondence comes from official channels and will never request payment via Cash Send or eWallet,” Fihla stressed.
Fihla added that JMPD does run legitimate physical assessments — but they are always free of charge. Internal Affairs has launched an investigation to track the culprits and bring them to book.
Why Scams Like This Keep Working
Recruitment scams thrive in Gauteng because unemployment remains painfully high. Thousands rush to apply for every new opportunity, leaving them open to manipulation.
“Scammers know desperate job seekers will try anything,” explains a Johannesburg labour market analyst. “By attaching their lies to trusted institutions like the JMPD, they trick people into paying. Awareness of the real recruitment process is the best shield.”
JMPD insists that all official vacancies appear only on the City of Johannesburg website or verified government platforms. Any “job offer” that demands payment up front should be treated as a red flag.
How to Protect Yourself
- Verify before you act: Cross-check all job adverts on JMPD’s official site or call their HR office.
- Refuse to pay: No government department charges for recruitment.
- Report scams: If you’ve received a dodgy message, call Superintendent Bezuidenhout at 069 115 2153.
Why This Matters for Joburg Residents
Scams don’t just steal money — they damage trust between communities and the institutions meant to serve them. A JMPD badge represents stability, pride, and income for young people. When fraudsters exploit that hope, the fallout weakens both faith in the system and morale on the ground.
Fihla made it clear: “Our teams stand ready to serve Joburg, and that includes protecting residents from scammers. We urge everyone to spread the word so others don’t fall victim.”
Fighting Back as a Community
Residents are not powerless. Ward councillors, community groups, and NGOs can share verified job postings, especially in areas where WhatsApp scams spread fastest. Schools and youth centres can host workshops that teach young people how to spot fake recruiters.
Every act of vigilance counts. Every report weakens the grip of scammers.
Take Back Your Future – Stay Scam Smart
This Heritage Month, honour not only your roots but also ubuntu by looking out for your community.
Do this today:
- Share this warning with family, neighbours, and WhatsApp groups.
- Save JMPD’s Internal Affairs number (069 115 2153) now.
- Support community initiatives that link young people to real jobs.
- Report every scam, no matter how small.
Scammers thrive in silence. By speaking up, checking before you apply, and watching each other’s backs, Gauteng can shut them down.
Remember: a real job never begins with a fee. It begins with your skills, your effort, and a legitimate process.
