Department warns employers of bogus inspector

© Steve Woods – 123RF.com

It is alleged that the man, a former employee of the department in the North West, visits workplaces, promising employers that he can get rid of their non-compliance problems for a fee.

The man reportedly visited an employer in Bloemfontein in the Free State recently and offered his unscrupulous services. The employer called the authorities as he suspected foul play. The police arrived just after the man left the premises.

The department says it is hot on the heels of this alleged fraudster and will ensure that he is brought to book.

"We do not want some criminal elements such as this to end up souring the working relations between the Department of Labour, employers and employees in various sectors of our economy.

"We want all parties involved to play a role to better the working conditions for the benefit of both employers and their employees," said Marsha Bronkhorst, Chief Director: Provincial Operations in the Free State.

The department also urged all employers and employees to be on the lookout for the man and others with similar tactics and report them to the relevant authorities should they suspect any form of misdemeanor.

Labour inspectors always carry their valid identity cards and should be able to produce these prior to the inspection.