Customs Department issues alert about scammers who are impersonating Officers

In less than a week another agency is issuing an alert to members of the business community about scammers.

In its fraud alert, the Antigua and Barbuda Customs and Excise Division says it has received reports that persons, under the guise of customs officers, may be approaching unsuspecting members of the business community in an attempt to scam them out of sums of money.

According to the Customs Division, this matter is extremely serious and it is fully cooperating with the relevant authorities to ensure that the fraudulent and unscrupulous actions “are brought to a stop as soon as possible.”

Members of the public are therefore being advised that if they receive a phone call from anyone purporting to be a member of the Antigua and Barbuda Customs and Excise Division and is unsure about the claim, they should contact the Division on 268-462-0028 immediately for verification.

Those persons who believe that they might have been targeted or fallen victim to any such scheme, should immediately contact the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) to make a report.

Meanwhile, the Antigua and Barbuda Customs and Excise Division is reminding the public that it is an offence to impersonate any of its officers. This illegal act carries a maximum fine of $100,000 and/or imprisonment for not less than two years, if convicted.

The Division says it “is resolved to operate at the highest levels of professionalism and integrity as it remains steadfast in its overall mission to secure and serve, collect revenue, and protect our borders.”

It was last week Friday (October 7) that the police issued a similar alert after receiving reports from business owners that persons were using the moniker of prominent persons in society in order to obtain money and top ups.