Land Transport Authority acting chief executive Aptinko Vaurasi said permits acquired outside an LTA office would not be recognised by public road officials.

“Buyers beware.  You cannot purchase or process taxi, minibus, or any other public service vehicle permit unless it takes place at an LTA office over the counter,” Mr Vaurasi said.

“Outside of this, no transaction involving LTA will be accepted.”

Mr Vaurasi was alluding to an increase in fraudulent transactions by those posing as LTA executives who were offering taxi or other permits in exchange for cash.

“The fraudulent charges have been as high as $17,000, and people have paid big money for nothing,” he said.

“The Authority is receiving on average six complaints per week.

“These transactions often take place on the telephone where the unsuspecting buyer is charged a certain amount of cash for a permit – often through a money transfer service or in a bank account.”

Mr Vaurasi reminded the public that LTA would not accept, process or attend to any request for a PSV permit application because all PSV permits excluding Rental and Hire have been frozen since 2011.

“We urge the public to contact the Police or FICAC if anyone promises you an LTA permit outside of an LTA office,” he said.

“Those found guilty of this type of fraudulent activity will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.”