The Ministry of Health has cautioned the public against a fraudulent scheme in which scammers are using the name of the Minister for Health, Mohamed Omary Mchengerwa, to solicit money under false pretences.
In a public notice issued on Friday, the ministry said individuals with malicious intent have been contacting members of the public while falsely claiming that the minister is organizing a wedding for his child and requesting financial contributions toward the alleged ceremony.
The ministry categorically dismissed the claims, stressing that Mchengerwa does not have a child who is currently getting married and has never authorised anyone to seek wedding donations on his behalf.
“The public should be aware that these claims are entirely false and are intended to defraud unsuspecting citizens,” the statement said.
According to the ministry, phone numbers linked to the scam have already been reported to the relevant authorities, and legal action is being taken against those involved.
A stern warning was also issued to anyone participating in or facilitating the scam, noting that such actions constitute a criminal offence.
The ministry urged leaders, institutions and members of the public to remain vigilant, ignore the fraudulent requests and report any similar incidents to law enforcement agencies.
The notice was issued by John Mapepele, Head of the Government Communications Unit at the Ministry of Health, on behalf of the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania.