Ministry: Beware Of Scammers

Beware of scammers and so-called “con artists” who are promising up to $9000 in Tropical Cyclone Sarai relief assistance, by paying a processing fee.
This is a hoax, the Ministry of Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation warns.
The ministry’s permanent secretary, Jennifer Poole, has warned that there are no such funds and the Social Welfare Department does not charge a processing fee.
“Be warned, there were people going around in communities impersonating welfare officers, claiming that Government, through the ministry, was issuing funds for Christmas and New Year spending to the amount of $1000,” Ms Poole said.
“Lately, these persons are promising that funds to the amount of $9000 will be provided for Tropical Cyclone Sarai Relief,” Ms Poole said.
“However, in order for recipients to receive these assistance, they will have to pay a fee of $90 to $150 for the processing of their application.
“Do not accommodate any individual approaching you with such information. If it happens, you must demand for a Ministry identification card and report the matter to the nearest Police or welfare office, if they do not produce one,” Ms Poole said.
The Police have also been alerted about the matter.
Edited by Naisa Koroi
Feedback: shalveen.chand@fijisun.com.fj