DSS reveals new fraud pattern targeted at officials, agency CEOs

The Department of State Services has alerted the public to a new
pattern of fraud targeted at heads of public institutions.

It explained that its investigations indicated that the
fraudsters used names of the supervising authorities of the Chief
Executive Officers to extort or fleece the CEOs of huge sums of
money.

“Believing that these fraudsters actually act on behalf of
highly placed government functionaries, the victims are deceived to
part with their valuables including money,” the DSS spokesman,
Peter Afunanya, said in a statement in Abuja on Wednesday.

In other instances, he added, heads of agencies were made to
feel that there were incriminating materials against them for which
they must pay or be arrested by security agencies.

Afunanya stated that the fraudsters were also targeting those
seeking new appointments or renewal of term.

He said, “Those also targeted are persons seeking new
appointments or renewal of term. It is envisaged that the act may
be at its peak during this transition period when prospective
appointees are jostling for positions.”

“This notice, therefore, serves as an early warning to possible
victims who are hereby advised to be wary of the antics of these
merchants. Also, they are enjoined to promptly report to security
agencies when approached by suspected fraudulent persons desirous
of using names of high ranking public officials to defraud them,”
the agency stated.

The service said it would continue to partner with relevant
stakeholders to apprehend the fraudsters as well as ensure the
security and integrity of the nation.

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