Scammer Wanted ! Help Us Find This Scammer
Summary: A community member reports a scam targeting jobseekers and those looking for learnerships. The individual, reportedly calling himself "Joy" and operating in the 📍 Alexandra area, allegedly asks victims to pay a cash fee (R500) for “document processing” and then disappears when victims wait for contracts or confirmation. We are sharing this to raise awareness and help others avoid falling victim.
How the reported scam works (what to watch for)
- Initial approach in groups: The person joins job/learnership WhatsApp or Facebook groups, builds trust by messaging members, and offers to assist with placements.
- Upfront cash request: Victims are asked to hand over R500 for “documents” or “processing” before any official paperwork is provided.
- Arranged meet-up near public landmarks: Meetings are arranged in central areas (victim reported being taken near the Carlton Centre area in Johannesburg).
- False promise/exit tactic: The suspect leads victims into a building, then leaves via an alternate entrance while victims wait — taking the cash and disappearing.
- Photo evidence may exist: In this case, the victim shared that someone had taken a photo of them walking together prior to the incident — this may help with police reports and community alerts.
Practical safety steps — immediate actions
- Do not hand over cash up front: Legitimate employers and training providers will not ask for cash in hand for “placement” or “documents.”
- Request official documentation: Ask for an official company email address, a signed offer/placement letter, and a phone number you can verify independently.
- Verify the opportunity: Contact the company directly using contact information from the company’s official website (not the contact details provided by the individual).
- Bring a friend and stay in public spaces: If you must attend a meeting, bring someone, take note of exact locations, and avoid being directed to isolated entrances.
- Gather evidence: Keep screenshots, chat logs, photos, receipts, and the time/location of the meeting. These will help investigators.
How to report this incident
If you or someone you know has been targeted or scammed, please report it immediately. We recommend:
- Report to SAPS (South African Police Service) — go to your nearest police station and open a case. Provide screenshots, photos, and any witness details.
- Submit a report to our community form: Click the button below and fill out the details.)
- Share in community groups: Post alerts to local WhatsApp groups and community pages to warn others — include only factual, verified details.
What information to include in a report
When reporting to police or submitting to the community form, include as many of the following as possible:
- Exact date, time and precise location of the meeting
- All names used by the suspect (e.g., the name they gave you)
- Phone numbers and any alternate contact details
- Chat screenshots and timestamps
- Photographs of the suspect (if you have them) — if posting publicly, consider blurring faces for privacy while sharing identifying clothing/vehicle details
- Amount of money paid and proof of payment (if any)
- Names and contact details of any witnesses
Community safety tips & prevention
- Never pay cash up front for a job or learnership placement.
- Vet opportunities: Cross-check advertised roles against official company sites and trusted job portals.
- Use official channels: Apply via company careers pages or recognised training providers, not individuals met on social media.
- Teach others: Share this post with family, friends, WhatsApp groups and community pages to protect more people.
Note: This post is a community alert based on a victim’s report. The details are presented as reported and have not been independently verified by Okuhle Youth Hub. We encourage everyone to exercise caution and report suspicious behaviour to the authorities.
Need help? If you were affected and want assistance drafting a report or evidence checklist, reply to this post or contact Okuhle Youth Hub directly. We will help you prepare the information to file with SAPS or to submit through the community form.
#ScamAlert #JobScam #LearnershipFraud #Alexandra #OkuhleYouthHub #ProtectOurYouth
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