Rivers Police Warn Against Collecting Transport Fare and Failing to Show Up, Say Act May Constitute Fraud

The Rivers State Police Command has issued a public warning against the practice of collecting transport fare under false pretences, describing it as a punishable offence under Nigerian law.

The warning was directed particularly at young women who allegedly accept money from men to cover transportation costs for meetings or visits and then deliberately fail to honour the arrangement. According to the police, such actions go beyond social misconduct and may amount to criminal behaviour.

The police explained that when a person knowingly collects money with no intention of fulfilling the agreed purpose, it can be classified as obtaining money by false pretense, an offense recognized under Nigerian criminal law.

They noted that while many people may view such incidents as minor relationship issues, the law treats them as financial deception if intent to defraud can be established.

The police stressed that complaints of this nature can be formally reported, investigated, and prosecuted if sufficient evidence is provided. They advised members of the public to conduct their personal and financial dealings honestly and to avoid actions that could expose them to legal consequences.

The statement has generated widespread public debate, with mixed reactions across social media. While some Nigerians support the warning as a deterrent against deceit, others have questioned its practicality and raised concerns about potential misuse or selective enforcement.

The Rivers State Police Command maintained that the warning is aimed at promoting integrity and accountability, reminding citizens that agreements involving money, no matter how informal, can carry legal implications when dishonesty is involved.