War on Cheque Fraud: Botswana’s Banks and Government Wage Battle Against Criminal Syndicates

Botswana’s Banking Sector on High Alert Against Government Cheque Fraud

The Bank of Botswana has issued a warning to the public regarding a surge in cheque fraud cases involving Government cheques. Criminal syndicates have been intercepting these cheques and forging them by altering payee details and inflating the payable amounts.

• Central bank discloses rise in cheque fraud involving Government cheques
• Criminal syndicates forge cheques and deposit them using fake identity documents
• Best efforts of internal control procedures thwarted

Public Urged to Remain Vigilant

With the increasing cases of cheque fraud, the public is urged to exercise caution when dealing with large-value cheques presented for encashment or deposit. Citizens should inspect cheques closely for any possible alterations in payees’ details and amounts payable.

• Examine cheques carefully for alterations in payees’ details and amounts payable
• Report suspicious alterations to the nearest police station or Directorate on Corruption and Economic Crime
• Encouraging public cooperation in apprehending criminals

Law Enforcement and Botswana’s Financial Institutions Working Together

Law enforcement agencies are collaborating closely with the Bank of Botswana and commercial banks to capture the perpetrators of these fraudulent activities. This partnership aims to minimize the impact of cheque fraud on Botswana’s economy and maintain public trust in the banking sector.

For further information, please contact:

Chepete Chepete Public Relations Officer (267) 360 6580

(April 20, 2005)