DSS Alerts On Executive Scam By Swindlers
BY CIXTOR BUORO, ABUJA – The Department of State Services (DSS) has alerted heads of public institutions of a new pattern of fraud targeted at them.
The DSS in a statement by its Public Relations Officer, Mr. Peter Afunanya said that investigations carried out revealed that fraudsters now use names of the supervising authorities of the Chief Executive Officers to extort or fleece them (the CEOs) of huge sums of money.
Afunanya explained that the Chief Executives believing that the fraudsters actually act on behalf of highly placed government functionaries, are deceived to part with their valuables including money.
The spokesman of the DSS further said that in other instances, heads of agencies are made to feel that there are incriminating materials against them for which they must pay or be arrested by security agencies.
He further said; “Those also targeted are persons seeking new appointments or renewal of terms. It is envisaged that the act may be at its peak during this transition period when prospective appointees are jostling for positions.”
The DSS said this alert should serve as an early warning to possible victims who are advised to be wary of the antics of these merchants and therefore enjoined them to promptly report to security agencies, when approached by suspected fraudulent persons desirous of using names of high ranking public officials to defraud them.
“On the part of the Service, it will continue to partner with relevant stakeholders to apprehend the fraudsters as well as ensure the security and integrity of the nation,” Afunanya said.
