Renthia Kaimbi
The Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security has issued a public warning against individuals impersonating ministry officials and making fraudulent telephone calls to members of the public, including foreign nationals, promising to fast-track the processing and issuance of official documents in exchange for money.
In a public notice issued on 30 October and signed by the ministry’s executive director, Nghidinua Daniel, the ministry said it had become aware of individuals falsely presenting themselves as ministry employees to solicit payments from unsuspecting members of the public.
The scammers allegedly target people seeking immigration and other government services by promising to facilitate or speed up the processing of national documents, work permits, citizenship applications and permanent residence permits.
According to the notice, the individuals demand payments directly from their targets under false pretences, claiming to have the ability to influence the processing and issuance of official documents.
“The ministry of home affairs, immigration, safety and security (MHAISS) hereby cautions members of the public against individuals who impersonate ministry officials and make fraudulent telephone calls, falsely claiming to be employees of the ministry,” Daniel stated in the notice.
The ministry described the individuals as unscrupulous and warned the public against believing claims that certain people have special connections within the institution that allow them to expedite official processes.
“The ministry strongly cautions the public that such individuals are engaging in fraudulent activities and must not be trusted,” the notice reads.
It further urged members of the public not to make payments to anyone claiming to have special connections or the ability to speed up the processing or issuance of official documents in exchange for money.
The warning specifically highlights the vulnerability of foreign nationals seeking immigration-related services, who may be approached by individuals promising to assist with applications for work permits, citizenship and permanent residence.
The ministry emphasised that all its official services must be accessed through recognised service channels and that payments should only be made through authorised payment channels.
“Please be reminded that official ministry services should be accessed through the ministry’s recognised service channels, and any payments must be made only through authorised payment channels of the Ministry,” Daniel stated.
The ministry also cautioned the public against sharing personal information with unverified individuals, warning that doing so could expose them to further fraudulent activities.
“Do not pay scammers. Do not share your personal information with unverified individuals. Verify before you trust,” the notice states.
The warning comes as the festive season approaches, with the ministry urging members of the public to remain vigilant and exercise caution to avoid falling victim to scams.
“As the festive season approaches, the ministry calls on all members of the public to remain vigilant and exercise caution to avoid falling victim to these scams,” Daniel said.
The ministry further encouraged the public to work together to protect themselves and their communities against fraud, warning people not to give scammers an opportunity to exploit them.
“Stay alert, stay informed, and report suspicious activities without delay,” the executive director urged.
Members of the public who require assistance, clarification or information regarding the ministry’s products and services have been advised to contact its Public Relations Desk on 081 951 0064 or 081 951 0724 for verification and guidance.
Those who encounter suspected fraudulent activities have been urged to report the incidents immediately through the ministry’s toll-free number, 081 143 6265.
