A colleague shared a story about his friend’s recent encounter with an individual who claimed to be associated with the LG Service Centre in Apapa.
The victim, in search of an LG technician to fix a malfunctioning LG Direct Drive 7.5Kg Washing Machine owned by his Boss, performed a Google search on May 2, 2023.
The first link he clicked on was https://www.africabizinfo.com/NG/lg-service-centre-0813-692-6683, which led him to call the provided number.
The person on the other end suggested communicating through WhatsApp to share graphical details about the problem and facilitate better assistance.
The victim agreed and conveyed the machine’s issue after contacting someone using the washing machine at home, ensuring the technician would be informed about the necessary spare parts.
The scammer then asked for the location address and two contact numbers to coordinate the visit. Furthermore, the fraudster demanded a Home Service Fee of N9,000 naira before sending a technician. Once the payment was confirmed, they promised to issue a job card and mobilize the technician.
Initially, the victim didn’t verify the account details and promptly forwarded them to his Boss, who made the payment on May 4, 2023, around noon.
Throughout their conversation, the scammer identified himself as Eric Wade from LG Service Centre in Apapa.
However, after the N9,000 naira was paid and the bank receipt sent, the fraudster concocted a new story. He claimed that an additional N15,000 naira was required for a drain pump before the technician could proceed.
This sudden demand raised concerns for the victim, who felt uncomfortable presenting such a situation to his Boss.
The initial agreement was to pay N9,000 naira for home service, ensuring the technician’s arrival. Mr. Eric Wade insisted that no one would be dispatched unless an extra N15,000 naira was paid, even suggesting that he would advise management to refund the money.
Only then did the victim noticed that the account name on the bank receipt was Eric Wade’s, not LG’s. Realizing this, he requested a refund, deeming it unreasonable to ask his Boss for more money for a replacement part when the technician hadn’t even assessed the machine yet.
From that point on, Eric Wade began avoiding the victim and eventually blocked his numbers. In the end, the victim returned the N9,000 naira to his Boss and sought the assistance of another technician who successfully resolved the problem.
The victim also attempted to contact FOUANI (LG) for assistance, but as of now, there has been no response.
Scammers details:
Bank Account Details
Bank: Zenith
Ac Name: ERIC WADE
Ac No.: 2377198100
Telephone numbers:
0813 692 6683
0706 096 9148
Source: Nairaland / me123456
