The operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have arrested a couple over their involvement in job racketeering in Akwa Ibom State.

The NSCDC Commandant in Akwa Ibom State, Eluyemi Eluwade, disclosed this while briefing newsmen at the command’s headquarters in Uyo, the state capital, on Sunday, July 28, 2024.

Eluwade said the couple, 46-year-old Joseph Ufot and his 27-year-old wife, Blessing Ezekiel were arrested along IBB Avenue in Uyo on July 22.

He said the suspects, who were apprehended following complaints from members of the public, defrauded many people using fake job advertisements as bait.

“They collect N4,800 from each of their victims. They have defrauded thousands of people with the promise of giving them jobs; they even gave appointment letters to them,” Eluwade stated.

The NSCDC official disclosed that the couple also used a fake UNICEF-sponsored non-governmental organisation, Child Support Foundation, to collect money from families.

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“They have registered no fewer than 7,000 children after collecting N1,000 for each to benefit from a non-existent children grant,” he added.

Eluwade stated that it was wrong to collect money from unsuspecting members of the public with promises of employment that were not available.

He urged job seekers to be wary of employment racketeers whose interest was only to defraud people.

“Always verify your information, don’t be deceived by anyone. Your hard-earned money should be used meaningfully,” the NSCDC Commandant said.

Eluwade added that the couple would be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.

The Star