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Notice Archive

SCAM ALERT – Fraudulent SMS Notices & Disconnection Threats

George Municipality warns residents, account holders, and job seekers to remain vigilant against scammers impersonating municipal officials. Residents are currently receiving fraudulent SMS messages stating that their municipal account is in arrears and that they have 14 days to make payment to avoid disconnection. These messages provide a so-called “Fake Account Number” or alternative reference number and instruct residents to make payment into private or unknown bank accounts. George Municipality does not send SMS messages with alternative or “Fake Account Numbers” for payment, does not demand payment via SMS, WhatsApp or phone, and does not disconnect electricity meters or water supply for accounts in arrears.

Residents should also remain aware that other scam tactics continue to circulate. These fraudsters:

 Claim to be “Heads of Disconnections” or Finance officials.

  • • Threaten immediate electricity or water disconnections unless instant payments are made.
    • Contact residents via SMS, WhatsApp or phone, instructing payments into private accounts.
    • Demand money for EPWP or other job opportunities, including job interviews.

 Important to note:

 The Municipality never demands instant payment via WhatsApp, SMS or phone.

  • • The Municipality will 𝗡𝗘𝗩𝗘𝗥 request payments via e-wallet or any informal payment method.
    • The Municipality does not send SMS messages with alternative or “Fake Account Numbers” for payment.
    • The Municipality does not charge money for job interviews or employment.
    • Officials will not visit your property to block/unblock prepaid meters or collect payments.
    • Bank account details for the Municipality are reflected on your official municipal statement. No other bank details are valid for George Municipality.
    • If you receive any suspicious calls, SMS messages, or requests for payment or personal information related to municipal accounts, please report the matter immediately to the South African Police Service (SAPS) and/or via the Municipal Fraud Hotline 0860 044 044.

 For Assistance, please contact:

Account access or billing (Monday to Friday, 07:45 – 16:30)
044 801 9111 or accounts@george.gov.za (please quote your municipal account number).

Human Resources: 044 801 9367 | recruitment@george.gov.za

 Stay alert. Verify before you pay. Report suspicious activity immediately! George Municipality – Working together to protect our community.

GM Emergency Contact: One page- Every important number!

When an emergency happens, every second counts. George Municipality has compiled the most important emergency, municipal and essential service contact numbers into one convenient guide, making it easier for residents and visitors to get the right help quickly.

Whether you need to report a municipal fault, call for emergency assistance or access other essential services, the right number is always within reach.

Save it to your phone, print a copy for your home or workplace, and keep it where everyone can find it. Being prepared today can make all the difference tomorrow!

Public Notice: Collaborative Emergency Response Exercise at Voëlklip

Issued George Municipality, 23 July 2026

George Municipality would like to inform residents, visitors and members of the public that a collaborative emergency response exercise will take place at Voëlklip on Thursday, 23 July 2026. The exercise is being conducted as a planned training and coordination activity to test emergency response procedures, improve inter-agency cooperation, and strengthen readiness between participating emergency services.

The exercise will involve the following organisations:
• George Fire Department and Disaster Services
• SAPS Search and Rescue / Dive Unit
• Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Rescue
• Forensic Pathology Services (FPS) – Special Operations Rescue Team (SORT)
• EDR Rescue

Members of the public are requested to take note that this is a planned exercise and not an actual rescue operation. Emergency vehicles, personnel and rescue equipment may be visible in the area as part of the training activities.George Municipality appreciates the public’s cooperation and support as emergency services continue to prepare for effective responses to incidents and emergencies.

Residents are encouraged to save the following emergency contact numbers and make use of the appropriate contact channels when reporting emergencies.

EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS
GEORGE
Toll-Free Disaster Management (24/07) 0800 424 477
Fire Emergencies (24/7) 044 801 6311
After Hours 044 801 6300

UNIONDALE & HAARLEM
Uniondale/Haarlem Emergency Only 044 801 9189
Uniondale/Haarlem After Hours 044 801 6300