The Fiji Police Force’s Mpaisa Taskforce has recently charged two women in separate financial fraud cases involving the Mpaisa platform. A 23-year-old woman from Rakiraki faces accusations of unlawfully obtaining $336 from a member of the public on January 31, 2023. The victim reported that the funds were mistakenly transferred to her account, which she withdrew despite not being entitled to them. Following the incident, she was arrested and is now in police custody, scheduled to appear in the Sigatoka Magistrate Court today.

In an unrelated incident, a 44-year-old caregiver from Dreketi Feeder Road, Lautoka, has also been charged with similar offenses. It is alleged that she fraudulently acquired $250 through the Mpaisa platform last January. Reports indicate that she created a Facebook account impersonating her husband, a DJ providing live streaming services, and collected payments for services that were never delivered. This fraudulent activity came to light when the matter was reported to the Nabua Police Station, leading to her arrest. She is, too, in custody and will appear in the Lautoka Magistrate Court today.

These cases bring to the forefront the issue of financial fraud associated with digital transactions, particularly involving online platforms like Mpaisa. The Fiji Police continue to emphasize the importance of public vigilance to safeguard against such deceptive practices. As these legal actions unfold, they reflect a commitment to protecting the community from financial exploitation and highlight the growing need for awareness in our digital interactions.

In summary, the proactive approach by the Fiji Police reinforces the message of vigilance in online financial dealings, fostering hope that increased awareness and reporting can reduce the instances of such fraud.