impersonating Officials on social media
ZAINAB
JUNAID
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has warned the public to be cautious of the criminal activities of fraudsters disguising as appointed auctioneers or impersonating customs officers just to defraud innocent citizens in relation to auction sales by the NCS.
In
a statement signed by the National Public Relations Officer for the Service, Abdullahi
Maiwada, the public should guide against the escalating activities of fraudulent entities preying on
unsuspecting individuals through social media platforms, falsely claiming
association with the NCS for purposes of auctions or recruitment.
He said
public trust is being exploited with the act of impersonating high-ranking officials
within the Service to promote fictitious auctions and sham recruitment drives.
To him, auction
of seized goods are never conducted via any social media platform. Any such
claims on social media should be treated as fraudulent and promptly reported
and for all seized/ overtime Cargoes, there are laid down Standard Operating
Procedure(SOP) for their disposal in line with NCS Act 2023.
His words, “Recent
events have brought to our attention a surge in scams orchestrated by deceitful
individuals impersonating high-ranking officials within the NCS. These
fraudulent tactics exploit the public's trust, promoting fictitious auctions
and sham recruitment drives purportedly endorsed by our service.
“ All
seized/overtime goods have laid down Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for
disposal in line with the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023. While these items
might be in our custody, NCS officials are only authorized to conduct auctions
or recruitment with the requisite legal backing in line with our processes and
procedures.
“The NCS
unequivocally asserts that auctions of seized goods are never conducted via any
social media platform. Any such claims on social media should be treated as
fraudulent and promptly reported.”
The
statement read further that, “For accurate and updated details about the
Nigeria Customs Service and its operations, we strongly encourage the public to
verify information exclusively through the official NCS website,
www.customs.gov.ng. Additionally, you can reach out to our help desk line at
+2347037891156. Our official social media handles, listed below, also serve as
reliable sources of information. These channels are committed to providing
accurate and authenticated updates on our service and activities.
“Individuals
are advised to visit any Customs formation nationwide and meet with the Public
Relations Officers (PROs) to verify any financial commitments related to seized
goods or recruitment before proceeding.
“Our commitment remains unwavering in
protecting the public from fraudulent activities. We implore everyone to
exercise vigilance and prudence when approached with offers or announcements
regarding Customs auctions or recruitment. Any suspicious activities should be
reported to the nearest Customs office or through our official communication
channels for immediate assistance.”
