Gqeberha – The South African Police Service (SAPS) has warned food suppliers and fast-food outlets in Gqeberha to exercise caution after fraudsters allegedly placed fake food orders using the name of a local police station.
In a statement, SAPS said at least two fraudulent food orders had been placed in the name of South African Police Service‘s Walmer police station, despite no such orders being authorised by officers stationed there.
Police said the incidents had prompted concerns that food businesses could suffer financial losses after preparing and delivering orders that were never requested by SAPS members.
“SAPS Walmer has been targeted by at least two fake food orders, which was never ordered by the members at the station,” the statement said.
The police urged restaurant owners, food suppliers and fast-food outlets to verify the authenticity of any order purportedly placed on behalf of SAPS before preparing or dispatching food.
“We wish to urge food outlets to first verify the validity of the order (by contacting the police station) before preparing and delivering any such food orders,” SAPS said.
The warning forms part of efforts to prevent businesses from becoming victims of fraud and to curb the misuse of the SAPS name by criminals.
Police have encouraged businesses in the food industry to remain vigilant and report suspicious orders or activity to the relevant authorities.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
