The police force stated this in a statement released on Sunday, August 6, by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi.
According to the statement, the Nigeria Police Force urged Nigerians to follow “standardised protocol” as regards vehicle auction deals.
The PPRO said, “The Nigeria Police Force wishes to issue a vital advisory to safeguard the public against the recent surge in deceptive vehicle auction scams and people impersonating senior officers to dupe unsuspecting Nigerians.”
The statement pointed out that the NPF has received complaints from the public where fraudulent people who falsely pose as representatives of the NPF ” have sought financial contributions.”
It said, “Citizens have reported incidents where individuals, falsely posing as representatives of the police authority, have sought financial contributions under the guise of imminent vehicle auctions and favours, including contracts from the NPF.
“We wish to emphasize that the NPF adheres strictly to a standardized protocol for conducting legitimate vehicle auctions, contracts, and legitimate deals, in line with the provisions of extant laws. Specifically, let it be clear that the IGP as an individual doesn’t approve or sell property, especially cars, on public auctions,” the statement cautioned.
“Every auction must follow due process as enshrined in the Nigeria Police Act, 2020. It, therefore, is imperative for all residents to exercise caution and refrain from parting with their funds in response to such unauthorized solicitations. We urge everyone to independently verify any information related to police activities, particularly vehicle auctions, through official communication channels,” the NPF advised.
Adejobi urged the public to make inquiries from the NPF.
“The NPF-verified platforms include the official email address at [email protected], @PoliceNG on social media platforms. By remaining vigilant and consulting verified sources, the public can thwart potential scams and protect their financial well-being,” he added.
