Following numerous reports from people who have lost money to scammers under the pretence they are law enforcement agents, the Otjozondjupa police are cautioning the public to refrain from giving banking details over the phone. 

Inspector Maureen Mbeha said the police received several reports of scamming in the areas of Maroelaboom and Tsumkwe constituency about individuals impersonating police officers.  

She said this has been happening since June.  

Mbeha said the scammers would call the charge office and pretend to be members of the special branch, looking for details of registered cases.  

“Thereafter, the scammers will call the complainant, pretending to be private investigators of the said case. They then demand money or lie to the complainant to provide banking details for an apparent refund – and once this is done, an app will be created upon which money will be withdrawn from the complainant’s account,” explained Mbeha. 

In June, she said, a certain man impersonated himself as constable Martin Hausiku.

  “The same happened on Saturday in Grootfontein, whereby a scammer, who identified himself as chief inspector Martin Josef Nekundi, also called the charge office, allegedly from Otjiwarongo, and was provided with details. Shortly after that, a 57-year-old male complainant was scammed of N$5 300, as well as a female victim with N$200,” added the police inspector. 

Mbeha further reiterated that the public should ignore telephonic instructions, as the police comes to complainants or invite them to offices for further statements when there is a need, instead of phone calls. 

- osimasiku@nepc.com.na