The Rivers State Police Command has cautioned women against the practice of collecting transport fare from men without showing up for agreed meetings, warning that such conduct constitutes a criminal offence.
The warning was issued following a viral video circulating on social media, where the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, addressed the matter.
Speaking in the video on Wednesday, Iringe-Koko said: “Why will you collect money from a man without going to see him? It is an offence, a punishable offence.”
She explained that the act falls under the category of obtaining money under false pretence, otherwise referred to as “419,” which is punishable under Nigerian law.
“It is obtaining money under false pretence. 419,” she stressed, warning that offenders could be reported, arrested, and prosecuted if complaints were lodged with the police.
According to her, the Command has received reports of such practices becoming frequent, with victims often reluctant to pursue the cases legally.
She therefore urged the public to desist from deceitful financial transactions and to maintain honesty in their dealings with others.
Iringe-Koko further emphasised that the police remained committed to enforcing the law against any form of fraud or dishonest practice.
She called on citizens to report cases of such offences promptly, assuring that the police would take appropriate legal action to address them.
The spokesperson concluded by encouraging the public to respect the rights of others, noting that integrity and accountability remain essential to societal peace and order.
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