Parliament Questions Mobile Money Fraud Surge as Minister Bah Outlines New Measures

Speaker of Parliament Rt. Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas has expressed concern over the rising incidence of mobile money fraud in Sierra Leone, questioning why fraudsters appear to be increasingly using the Orange network to carry out scams.

Speaking during Parliament’s sitting on 4 August 2026, the Speaker called on the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Technology to explain the situation and outline measures to address the growing threat.

Responding, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Technology Salima Bah acknowledged that cyber-enabled financial fraud is increasing, with criminals impersonating government officials, Members of Parliament, and other public figures through fake WhatsApp accounts and social media profiles. She said scammers use tactics such as fake job offers, fraudulent investment schemes, phishing links, false customer care services, and fake emergency requests to deceive victims.

The Minister said the Government’s response focuses on public education, stronger consumer protection, and enhanced investigations and enforcement. She added that the Ministry, working with the National Communications Authority (NaTCA), the National Cyber Security Coordinating Centre, and mobile network operators, has intensified nationwide public awareness campaigns through various media platforms and community outreach.

During the debate, Leader of the Opposition Hon. Abdul Kargbo, Majority Leader Hon. Matthew Nyuma, and Opposition Whip Hon. Abdul Karim Kamara all called for stronger measures to combat fraud, improve accountability among service providers, and strengthen the security of mobile money services.

Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Communications, Innovation and Technology Hon. Boston Munda said the Committee had completed a nationwide oversight exercise on telecommunications services and would soon present its findings to Parliament. NaTCA Director General Amara Briwa also informed lawmakers that the Authority is preparing for another phase of SIM card registration, conducting network quality assessments, and working with law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute cyber-related offences.

Parliament subsequently resolved to mandate its Committee on Communications, Innovation and Technology to further investigate the growing incidence of mobile money fraud and submit a detailed report to the House within one month.