The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) is advising the public on the alleged First Home and First Land Grant scam occurring in some parts of the Western Division.

It has been found that some members of the public were being made to believe that they would be able to secure the First Home And First Land Grant up to $30,000 through a private individual posing as an agent contracted to the Ministry of Housing and Community Development.

An investigation was launched by FICAC into which a 26-year-old male posing as one Kissna Kumar on Facebook, was arrested during the course of the investigation.

Investigations by FICAC revealed that certain amount of money as his “fees” had been paid by unsuspecting members of the public to the perpetrator of this alleged scam.

However the commission believes that there may be more victims. Members of the public who may have fallen victim to this scam or have been scammed by anyone in a similar way are urged to contact FICAC and lodge their complaint.

They are also advised to provide any and all documentation and/or receipts as evidence, which would greatly assist with investigations. Members of the public are strongly advised that the Ministry of Housing and Community Development do not accept direct applications for the First Home And First Land Grant Scheme which was announced in the 2021–2022 National Budget.

Applications for the First Home And First Land Grant Scheme do not incur any service fees or charges and are to be submitted through a commercial bank, Housing Authority of Fiji, Ministry of Lands and Mineral Resources or the iTaukei Land Trust Board.

Moreover, anyone who is approached by an individual who alleges that he/she is able to secure the First Home And First Land Grant up to $30,000 are advised to call and report them to FICAC immediately on 1322.

Members of the public are advised to contact the Ministry of Housing and Community Development on 330 9918 for any verifications regarding the First Home And First Land Grant Scheme.

For further queries, please call the FICAC toll-free line on 1322.

Feedback:  jyotip@fijisun.com.fj