Fiji Ministry Warns Schools of Fake Japanese Official Scam

Fiji's Ministry of Education is alerting schools to a scam targeting educational institutions. An individual has been falsely representing themselves as an official from the Embassy of Japan, demanding cash and school documents from schools.

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Under no circumstances should money be handed over to individuals claiming to represent organisations without proper verification.

The ministry reported that the scam first occurred at Bureiwai School in April, followed by Seaqaqa Central College last month. The imposter introduced themselves as a coordinator and requested money for processing fees. Additionally, the suspect has been conducting unauthorized consultations, charging schools for transport, meals, and services.

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He says that under no circumstances should money be handed over to individuals claiming to represent organisations without proper verification.

Education Minister Aseri Radrodro has instructed all school heads to exercise extreme caution. He emphasized the importance of verifying the identity of anyone claiming to represent development partners like JICA or the Japanese Embassy before sharing any information or making payments. Radrodro urged schools to remain vigilant and report any suspicious encounters to the Divisional Education Office and the police without delay for immediate investigation.

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The Minister adds that any such incidents must be reported without delay to the respective Divisional Education Office and police for immediate investigation.