Community members have been warned about a scam artist who has been operating in Athlone collecting on behalf of the South African National Zakah Fund (SANZAF). The con artist, who goes under the alias of Shamielah Booysen, has been targeting unsuspecting residents in Bridgetown, Silvertown, Parktown and Bonteheuwel.

SANZAF said it was alerted when five community members contacted their Bridgetown branch on separate occasions to inform the Zakah organisaion that a woman had contacted them, claiming to be a SANZAF representative.

In all the instances, the victims were asked to provide their SASSA card number as well as their ID number. In some cases, the woman alleged that she was compiling a list of pensioners for SANZAF and that the person would receive a food parcel from SANZAF if they provided these details.

Those victims who gave the scam artist the requested information found that their pension had been withdrawn without their consent or prior knowledge.

SANZAF’s Acting Administrator in the Western Cape, Abdurazaaq Razaaq, expressed his concern regarding the scam: “SANZAF is saddened by the fact that this scam artist is targeting some of the most vulnerable members of our society –pensioners. We wish to inform the public that SANZAF does not do door-to-door collections and will also never ask people for their SASSA card details or ID number telephonically or during a home visit. SANZAF also does not request or accept money in exchange for food parcels or other services.”

He urged anyone who has more information about the scam artist to contact SANZAF’S Bridgetown office on 021 638 0965.

SANZAF Western Cape Chairperson Moulana Hassim Cassiem said the organisation viewed this scam in a very serious light.

“We seek to empower and assist the elderly and other vulnerable members of our society. This scam therefore goes against the very essence of the work we do.”

The organisation has also advised all victims to report the incidents to the police. VOC