Students scammed and shattered: The Shocking news behind fake Siyanda Bakgatla Mine job offers
Mathipa Phishego
In a deeply concerning incident, several South African students looking to kickstart their careers have fallen victim to a sophisticated job scam using the name of Siyanda Bakgatla Platinum Mine (SBPM). The scam not only cost them financially, but also emotionally, as many believed they were on the brink of gaining valuable employment or internship opportunities.
Image: Ekurhuleni News on Facebook
Caption: Scammed job seekers stranded in Thabazimbi, North West at Moruleng Mall
It all began when fraudulent individuals posed as SBPM recruiters on social media platforms and job sites, advertising lucrative job opportunities ranging from internships to entry-level positions. These fake recruiters often engaged their targets quickly, offering them what seemed like a legitimate pathway to a promising career.
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However, the catch came soon after initial contact applicants were told they needed to pay upfront fees for things like medical tests, registration, or background checks. Desperate for employment and encouraged by the apparent authenticity of the offer, many students transferred money—some even borrowing from family or using their limited savings.
Once the payments were made, the scammers vanished without a trace, leaving students disillusioned and financially burdened.
Siyanda Bakgatla Platinum Mine has since issued public warnings, making it clear that the mine does not charge any fees during its recruitment process. All legitimate job opportunities are posted on official platforms or communicated through verified HR channels. Victims and suspicious cases should be reported via SBPM’s toll-free hotline 0800 335 055 or email siyandaplatinum@tip-offs.com.
SBPM reaffirmed their commitment to moral and open hiring processes in a statement, expressing worry over the exploitation of young people who are already at risk. With a few guidelines to follow, such never paying for a job, this occurrence serves as a clear warning that job seekers, especially students, need to remain careful.
In order to process applications or run background checks, legitimate employers won’t demand payment. Always apply via reputable employment agencies or the company’s official website.
Keep an eye out for warning indicators such as generic email addresses with Gmail or Yahoo, bad spelling in employment advertisements, and pressure to make hasty payments. Trust your gut and report suspicious activity if something seems strange. Inform local authorities about it or use tip-off methods.
