VANUATU: Understanding Financial Crime and How to Report It
The Vanuatu Police Force has a dedicated fraud unit that deals with various types of fraudulent activities that occur in the country. Fraud is a serious issue that can cause financial loss and damage to individuals, businesses, and communities.
What is Fraud?
Fraud can take many forms, including:
- Theft
- Misappropriation
- Obtaining money by false pretences
- Money laundering
The fraud unit investigates these crimes and works to bring perpetrators to justice.
The Fraud Unit
The fraud unit is based at the Vila Police Station and is ready to help anyone who has fallen victim to fraud or is suspicious of a fraudulent activity. If you have any information that may aid in the investigation or prevention of crime, please call your local police post using the numbers listed on our Contact Us page.
Common Scams
In Vanuatu, many people are targeted by fraudsters who claim to be representatives of big companies and promise them large sums of money. The fraud unit deals with these cases and works to bring criminals to justice.
Some examples of fraudulent activities that the fraud unit investigates include:
- Obtaining money by false pretences
- Theft
- Misappropriation
- Forgery
Other types of financial crime that are also investigated include:
- Obtaining credit fraudulently
- Making false statements as a promoter
- Making false accounting
- Uttering forged documents
- Possessing property suspected of being proceeds of crime
Staying Safe
The police advise the general public to be vigilant and respect other people’s property and money. Before giving someone your money or property, make sure you have checked their information and are satisfied that they are who they claim to be.
If you need help identifying someone you suspect is involved in fraud, contact the fraud unit for assistance.
Additional Tips
- Be cautious when dealing with strangers who promise large sums of money.
- Verify the identity of anyone claiming to represent a company or organization.
- Do not give out personal information or financial details to unknown individuals.
- When buying or selling property, ensure that you have proper documentation and follow a good process.
Reporting Fraud
If you suspect fraud or have been a victim of fraud, report it to your local police post. The fraud unit is dedicated to investigating these crimes and bringing perpetrators to justice. Remember, reporting fraud can help prevent further financial loss and damage to individuals, businesses, and communities.
Contact Us
To report fraud or for more information on the fraud unit, please call your local police post using the numbers listed on our Contact Us page.