The Prime Minister’s Office warns the public about a fake grant scheme using forged documents and urges caution against scams.
The Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (OPMC) has issued a public warning about a fraudulent grant scheme being circulated under the name National Community Support Initiative (NCSI).
According to a statement released on Friday, the scheme falsely claims that the Government is providing individual grant payments. The OPMC clarified that the document associated with this fake initiative uses the name and a forged signature of Prime Minister Hon. Jeremiah Manele, along with misused government logos and letterhead, in an attempt to appear legitimate.
“The Prime Minister has no knowledge of, nor any connection to, this so-called initiative. No such program exists within the Government’s development agenda,” the OPMC confirmed.
The public is advised to be vigilant and to look out for common signs of scams. These include unsolicited financial offers that often require payment of a registration or processing fee upfront. Fraudsters frequently use official titles, forged signatures, and national emblems to appear credible and may pressure individuals to act quickly or discreetly. Some victims are also asked to provide personal or banking information.
Authorities stress that legitimate government programs are always announced through official and trusted channels.
Anyone who encounters suspicious offers is urged to seek advice from the Central Bank of Solomon Islands (CBSI) or the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF), including its Cyber Crime Unit, to verify whether a program or communication is genuine.
The OPMC reiterated its commitment to transparency and accountability, and urged citizens to stay informed and cautious to avoid falling victim to fraudulent schemes.
Source: OPMC Press Secretariat
