The Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security in Namibia has issued a public warning against scammers impersonating ministry officials. These individuals make fraudulent telephone calls to members of the public, including foreign nationals, promising to expedite the processing and issuance of official documents in exchange for money. The warning was issued on October 30 and signed by the ministry's executive director, Nghidinua Daniel.
According to the ministry, the scammers falsely present themselves as employees and solicit payments from unsuspecting members of the public. They target people seeking immigration and other government services, promising to facilitate or speed up the processing of national documents, work permits, citizenship applications, and permanent residence permits. The individuals demand payments directly from their targets under false pretences, claiming to have the ability to influence the processing and issuance of official documents.
The ministry described the individuals as unscrupulous and warned the public against believing claims that certain people have special connections within the institution that allow them to expedite official processes. The ministry strongly cautions the public that such individuals are engaging in fraudulent activities and must not be trusted. The warning specifically highlights the vulnerability of foreign nationals seeking immigration-related services.
The ministry emphasised that all its official services must be accessed through recognised service channels and that payments should only be made through authorised payment channels. Members of the public are urged not to make payments to anyone claiming to have special connections or the ability to speed up the processing or issuance of official documents in exchange for money.
The ministry also cautioned the public against sharing personal information with unverified individuals, warning that doing so could expose them to further fraudulent activities. The warning comes as the festive season approaches, with the ministry urging members of the public to remain vigilant and exercise caution to avoid falling victim to scams.
The ministry encouraged the public to work together to protect themselves and their communities against fraud, warning people not to give scammers an opportunity to exploit them. Members of the public who require assistance, clarification or information regarding the ministry's products and services have been advised to contact its Public Relations Desk on 081 951 0064 or 081 951 0724 for verification and guidance.
Those who encounter suspected fraudulent activities have been urged to report the incidents immediately through the ministry's toll-free number, 081 143 6265. The ministry's warning aims to prevent members of the public from falling victim to scams, particularly foreign nationals who may be more vulnerable to such fraudulent activities.
Key points
- The Namibian Ministry of Home Affairs warns of scammers targeting foreign nationals with promises of fast-tracking documents for a fee.
- The scammers impersonate ministry officials, soliciting payments from unsuspecting members of the public.
- The ministry urges the public to remain vigilant, access official services through recognised channels, and report suspected fraudulent activities.
