The Rivers State Police have warned women against collecting money for transport from men and failing to attend arranged meetings, calling it a punishable crime.
The warning came after reports of the practice circulating online, prompting authorities to address it publicly.
Rivers Police spokesperson, Grace Iringe-Koko, in a video posted on Twitter, said the act amounts to obtaining money under false pretence, which is a criminal offence under Nigerian law.
She explained that anyone found guilty could face arrest and prosecution if victims report the matter to the police.
Authorities are urging the public to avoid deceitful financial transactions and warned that failing to meet obligations after collecting money could lead to legal consequences.
She said complaints from victims will be taken seriously, and investigations will follow to ensure offenders are held accountable.
She said: “Why will you collect money from man without going to see him. It is an offence, a punishable offence.
“It is obtaining money under false pretence. 419.”
