The Fiji Police Force’s MPaisa Taskforce has apprehended a couple from Labasa on charges of fraudulently obtaining funds through deceitful means. The duo, consisting of a 30-year-old businessman and his 27-year-old wife, were taken into custody recently and face multiple charges that include four counts of Unauthorized Access, four counts of Identity Theft, four counts of Obtaining Financial Advantage by Deception (OFABD), and one count of Proceeds of Crime (POC).
It is reported that the couple allegedly defrauded four victims of a total of $730.00 using the MPaisa platform between September 2023 and December 2024. Investigations reveal that the pair engaged in a scheme where they contacted high-profile individuals while illicitly accessing their Viber accounts. By posing as a Japanese car dealer, they claimed a mix-up regarding the phone number, even going as far as impersonating a police officer to convey potential surveillance concerns and requesting sensitive information.
The couple would use the obtained access to these accounts to solicit money from vulnerable contacts. The case came to light after complaints were lodged at the Totogo Police station. They are scheduled to appear in the Magistrates Court in Labasa today.
This incident sheds light on the ever-evolving landscape of online fraud and identity theft, highlighting the need for individuals to be vigilant about their personal information. As authorities take swift action against such deceitful practices, it emphasizes the importance of public awareness and protective measures available to safeguard against waves of similar scams.
In fostering community resilience against fraud, individuals can better secure their accounts, and law enforcement’s proactive approach can help create an environment of trust and safety. This case ultimately serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to remain informed and alert in an increasingly digital world.
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