Download
LAFAYETTE, CA — The Lafayette Police Department wants the community to be aware of a recent scam targeting Chinese and Chinese-American residents.
According to Lafayette police, unidentified Mandarin-speaking callers are phoning Chinese and Chinese-Americans in the United States and identifying themselves as the “Chinese Police.”
“They typically claim that you (the person they are speaking to), or a close family member, will be arrested by Chinese police agents in the US if all their money is not wired to them,” police said. “This scam is sometimes very elaborate, involving additional people, to appear more legitimate.”
Lafayette police said, however, that Chinese police do not have the authority or ability to send their officers to the United States to arrest people.
Police said residents who are concerned and/or believe there may be some truth to a call they receive demanding their money should call the department’s 24-hour dispatch line at 925-284-5010 and ask to consult with an on-duty officer.
“If someone visits your home relating to money demands, or you are otherwise in fear of your safety, call 911 immediately,” Lafayette PD said.