The Fiji Police Force’s Mpaisa Taskforce has made two significant arrests this week, charging individuals in separate cases of financial deception.

In the first case, a 23-year-old woman from Rakiraki is accused of fraudulently obtaining $336 from a member of the public via the Mpaisa platform on January 31, 2023. Investigations revealed that she received the funds, which were mistakenly transferred to her account, and subsequently withdrew the money, knowing she was not entitled to it. This incident was reported to the Valelevu Police Station, and she is currently in custody awaiting her appearance in the Sigatoka Magistrate Court today.

In a separate incident, a 44-year-old caregiver from Dreketi Feeder Road in Lautoka faces similar charges for obtaining $250 from another individual, also through the Mpaisa platform. It has been uncovered that she created a Facebook account impersonating her husband, who is a DJ and provides live streaming services. She allegedly received funds for services advertised on Facebook without her husband’s consent or knowledge. This matter was reported to the Nabua Police Station, and the caregiver is also in custody, scheduled for a hearing in Lautoka Magistrate Court today.

These cases highlight ongoing issues of financial fraud in Fiji, emphasizing the importance of vigilance when dealing with online transactions and inter-personal financial exchanges. As the police continue their crackdown, it is hoped that such enforcement will raise awareness and deter future fraudulent activities.

Summary: The Fiji Police Mpaisa Taskforce has charged two women in separate financial fraud cases involving the Mpaisa platform. One woman is accused of stealing $336 from a transaction, while another allegedly misused her husband’s identity to collect $250 through deceptive Facebook advertisements. Both cases demonstrate the risks associated with digital financial interactions and the police’s ongoing efforts to combat such crimes.