Fraud Alert: INTERAID

U.S. Embassy Kampala wishes to alert the public to a recurring fraud scheme, which seeks to exploit local non-governmental organizations (NGOs).  This fraud, often perpetuated in the name of a fictitious U.S. government agency, “Interaid,” or “Interaid Department, promises to connect local NGOs to donor organizations in the United States.   It is possible that they may use a fictitious identification card affiliating them with the US mission or aid organizations.

There is no “Interaid Department” within the United States Government, and any contact with this or any similar organization claiming to represent the U.S. Government should be reported immediately to the Ugandan Police Force’s Criminal Investigation Division.  Questions regarding the authenticity of such an organization can be referred to the Embassy’s Public Affairs Section.

A number of NGOs have reportedly fallen victim to this fraud in recent months, and the majority of those were contacted directly by representatives of “Interaid.”  In at least one instance, however, a website was established to attract victims.  In both examples, the “Interaid” representatives told the NGOs that their particular group was eligible to receive thousands of dollars in aid from the United States, usually in the form of blankets, bibles, vehicles, or office equipment.  The NGOs were then asked to advance money for customs fees, shipping fees, or storage fees.  Needless to say, that money was stolen.

At no time will an aid organization from the US mission ask you for money in exchange for goods or services.  Be very suspicious of perpetrators conducting their business in the streets, restaurants, or even in front of the US mission.

This fraud activity appears to be recurrent, with several different groups of perpetrators having committed similar crimes over recent months.

The US Embassy encourages any Ugandan who encounters people making such claims to contact the Ugandan Police Force/Criminal Investigation Division’s Deputy Director at 041-232-359 or 0712 667705 or the Kampala office of the Criminal Investigation Division at 041-341-942 or 0712-667795.