Mbabane – The Royal Eswatini Police Service has reported a continuing rise in scams targeting elderly citizens, despite repeated warnings and public awareness campaigns. Officers have expressed concern over the growing use of #FacataScammers who exploit older individuals.
Police have urged the public to remain vigilant when handling money or sharing personal information. “Citizens MUST NOT entertain calls from people claiming to be bank employees or the #Police regarding account details or financial transactions,” the service stated. “These are common tactics used by scammers to deceive unsuspecting victims.”
Two cases of theft by false pretences were reported last week, both involving fraudulent manipulation of bank accounts. On January 22, 2026, at around 1500 hours, a 68-year-old man from Coates Valley lost E33 000 from his bank account after being tricked by an unknown individual while in Manzini.
In a separate incident, Siteki police are investigating a case reported by a 60-year-old man from Lubhuku. On January 7, 2026, at about 1200 hours, he was scammed out of E80 000 while at Lubhuku.
Police continue to advise residents, particularly the elderly, to verify the identity of anyone requesting financial information and to report suspicious activity immediately.
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