Joburg Water Employee Breaks Silence on Randpark Ridge Bribery Allegations

An accused Joburg Water employee, who allegedly accepted a R1,000 bribe from Randpark Ridge residents to perform his duties and then requested a cool drink for additional work, has denied the allegations. The employee, whose identity is known to Randburg Sun, who will only disclose it if the matter proceeds to court, stated that he had not worked in the area during the current year. However, shortly after speaking to the publication, the accused employee reportedly called resident Matthew Dyball and accused him and his wife of causing trouble. Despite not being informed about the accuser or how to contact them, Matthew felt compelled to report the incident while attempting to restore his electricity.

Matthew and his wife Debby were issued an erroneous R50,000 bill after a water pipe burst outside their home, subsequently repaired by a Joburg Water team as part of the standard procedure. Before commencing the job, the accused employee allegedly demanded a R1,000 payment, which the couple reluctantly paid, even though they knew the service should have been free, and they received no receipt. Their municipal account still contains the incorrect charge for the wasted water, and they are trying to have it reversed.

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During the nine days when the Dyballs had their electricity disconnected for refusing to pay the excessive fee, the same employee allegedly offered to replace their water meter to reverse the water usage value. However, he made this offer contingent upon receiving nothing more than a “can of coke.” Joburg Water spokesperson Nolwazi Dhlamini assured that the water utility would thoroughly investigate these allegations, emphasizing that residents should immediately report any instances of Johannesburg Water employees or contractors soliciting bribes. She urged residents to gather information such as names, contact numbers, vehicle registration numbers, and even photographs and report the incidents through various channels, including the Johannesburg Water Tip-Offs Anonymous Hotline. As of the time of publication, the Dyballs had yet to be contacted by Johannesburg Water, despite the assurance from the spokesperson.

Source: Accused Joburg Water employee speaks out about Randpark Ridge bribe

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Picture: Facebook / Johannesburg Water

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