The Fiji Police MPaisa Task Force has charged two individuals for allegedly committing fraud to gain financial advantage.
In the first incident, a 35-year-old woman from Namara, Labasa, is accused of obtaining $320 from a member of the public on March 16, 2024, using the Mpaisa platform. Investigations revealed that the victim believed she was sending money to a family friend who had requested financial assistance. However, upon verifying with the friend, the victim discovered that no such request had been made, leading her to file a report with the police.
In a separate case, a 20-year-old man from Nabekavu, Labasa, is charged with dishonestly acquiring $200. The victim reportedly sent the amount in response to a Facebook advertisement for a phone on May 15, 2024. The accused allegedly withdrew the funds and ceased all communication with the victim.
Both individuals are scheduled to appear in the Labasa Magistrates Court today.