The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) is warning the public about the re-emergence of an impostor posing as the chief electoral officer, Sy Mamabolo.
The commission first became aware of the impostor in October 2022 and issued a public alert and reported to the matter to police for investigation. Indications from the South African Police Service are that investigations are still continuing.
The activities of the imposter receded in December 2022 but have now resurfaced since the weekend.
The impostor uses the cellphone number 084 577 9791. The impostor appears very active on WhatsApp wherein he or she is conversing with unsuspecting professional contacts and acquaintances of the chief electoral officer.
The WhatsApp account linked to the 084 577 9791 bears the photographs of Mamabolo, which are easily accessible from news sites and publications on the Internet.
Members of the public are encouraged to contact the police should they encounter anyone claiming to be the chief electoral officer, and to contact the commission to verify any information.