Fake astrologers and healers are increasingly targeting individuals in Fiji, scamming them out of large amounts of money and leaving them with emotional and financial distress. The Consumer Council of Fiji has reported numerous incidents of fraudulent spiritual guides who promise to resolve personal and financial issues in exchange for hefty payments—often devoid of any substantiated results.
One particularly troubling case involved an astrologer who preyed on a family’s fears, successfully convincing them to pay over $10,000. This manipulation not only caused significant emotional distress but also disrupted a family wedding, leaving those involved feeling fractured and uncertain about the future.
Seema Shandil, the CEO of the Consumer Council, condemned these deceptive practices, highlighting that the harm caused extends beyond mere monetary loss; it erodes trust and damages relationships. She urged the public to approach decisions more rationally, considering factual information rather than falling for superstitions.
In a recent investigation, the Council exposed one such fraudster who, despite being misled by false information during a mysterious call, continued to lure victims with alarming predictions and monetary demands—specifically, charging $12,000 for alleged “special treatment.”
To combat this growing issue, the Consumer Council plans to pursue legal action against these fraudsters and has encouraged victims to report their experiences to the authorities. Individuals affected by such scams are invited to reach out via the Council’s toll-free helpline at 155 or through their email.
Moving forward, it is crucial for individuals in Fiji to remain vigilant, conduct thorough research, and seek evidence of legitimacy before engaging with any spiritual or healing services. The Council’s commitment to addressing these fraudulent practices reflects a hopeful stance towards recovery and prevention for potential victims in the future.
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