JMPD warns public of fake learnership advertisements circulating online

The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) has issued a strong warning to the public regarding a fake advertisement circulating on platforms such as TikTok and Facebook, which claims that applications for the 2026 Metro Police & Traffic Learnership Programme are currently open.

The department has categorically confirmed that the advertisement is fraudulent and did not originate from the City of Johannesburg or the JMPD.

In a statement on Tuesday the JMPD said there are currently no open vacancies within the department. While a recruitment process for posts was advertised last year, it was subsequently halted due to internal administrative processes.

The JMPD further emphasised that it does not use third-party websites with alternative domains, such as “.xyz” or certain “.co.za” platforms, nor does it use WhatsApp numbers to process applications. All legitimate vacancies are only published through the official City of Johannesburg website.

Members of the public have been urged to remain vigilant, as these scams are designed to mislead job seekers, potentially to extract money or steal personal information.

“The JMPD will never request any form of payment, including ‘processing fees’, during any recruitment process,” the department warned.

The public is also advised to ignore QR codes and suspicious links shared on social media posts. Verified opportunities are only available via the official website.