Police warn of money laundering scam

Police are asking members of the public to ensure they don’t become involved in moving money for offenders based overseas.

A number of reports have been received by the Counties Manukau Police Financial Investigation Team from people who have been offered a job online or cold called. They are asked to receive a sum of money into their bank account and then transfer it through a money remitter such as Western Union to another person. A portion of the money can be kept aside as payment.

Detective Sergeant Dave Honiss says people may be involved in the scam unwittingly.

“There is no job aside from moving more money overseas. The people involved in this scam are assisting criminal activity and should not under any circumstances become involved."

“Knowingly getting involved in criminal activity and moving money in this way amounts to money laundering,” he says. “Turning a blind eye or not questioning what is happening could result in criminal charges, as well as having their bank accounts frozen.”

Police advise anyone who is contacted for “work” like this to ignore the request and block the emailer or caller, or to contact Police immediately.

ENDS

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