The Gauteng Department of Human Settlements (GDHS) has noted with serious concern the circulation of fraudulent and unlawful letters being distributed to residents of Sebokeng.
These letters, which falsely reference the Department and unlawfully include the personal contact details of GDHS officials, are being used to intimidate and mislead members of the public with threats of eviction.
The Department distances itself entirely from these communications and reiterates that it has no knowledge of or affiliation with the individuals or entities responsible for distributing these notices.
The so-called project referenced in the notice to these communities is not recognized, approved, or supported by the Department, and any claims suggesting otherwise are false and misleading.
The public is strongly warned to remain vigilant and exercise caution. These actions are not only unlawful but designed to create panic and confusion in the community.
MEC Tasneem Motara stated, “I am pleading with our citizens to be cautious and verify all information they receive with their ward councillors.”
We confirm that the unauthorized use of the Department’s name and the publication of staff contact details constitute a serious violation of the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) and may place our officials at risk.
The Department has issued a formal cease and desist notice to those responsible, demanding the immediate retraction of all distributed materials and the removal of any references to GDHS
or its officials.
Members of the public are advised to:
• Disregard any eviction threats or instructions contained in unofficial letters or notices.
• Verify the authenticity of any communication claiming to be from the Department by contacting GDHS directly.
• Report any suspicious activity or fake notices to the South African Police Service (SAPS) or the Department.
• Avoid engaging with individuals or companies making unsolicited demands or false claims about housing projects.
• Visit any one of our customer support centres for assistance in applying for a subsidy or for further information.
The Gauteng Department of Human Settlements will take all necessary legal action to protect its name, staff, and the rights of affected communities.
