NamPol warns of further scams
The Namibian Police (NamPol) has again warned Namibians to be vigilant with regard to scams.In a media statement, the police said that they have been inundated with an increasing number of complaints by members of the public who have fallen victim to scams after being engaged telephonically by strangers and being defrauded.
"It is reported that scammers use different approaches to convince victims. In one of the most recent incidents, a woman was allegedly called by a person who identified himself as a police officer requesting money to be transferred through an electronic bank transaction in exchange for the release of her husband from police custody. During investigations it was established that her husband was not in police custody and that the "officer" is not employed by the force."
Regarding this incident, the police said that no officer is authorised to receive money for the release of a suspect from custody.
The police warned that criminals' modus operandi may change from time to time, and may not be similar to the above. “Do not entertain telephonic conversations with strangers and be alert at all times. In the event of the caller claiming to be a police officer, contact NamPol's public relations division at 061 209 3470 or 3286 or any police station or officer for confirmation,” the statement said.
Another way in which people are defrauded is when a scammer calls the victim and claims to have accidentally deposited money into the victim's account, and demand that the money be sent back by e-wallet, easy wallet, blue wallet or any other electronic funds transfer method.
Nampol has repeatedly warned citizens on how to handle their banking details:
• Do not entertain or engage in business transactions with strangers - telephonically or in person.
• Do not react immediately to claims of the arrest of a loved one by a police officer. Always verify as some may be bogus officers.
• Do not share your bank details and especially your PIN with anyone.
• Do not keep your PIN on your mobile devices or places that are easily accessible by others.
• Do not send money to a stranger even if they claim to have mistakenly sent it to you. Tell the stranger to report the matter to the bank for the funds to be reversed.