The Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI) wishes to alert the general public, especially members of the business community, to a series of fraudulent activities involving individuals impersonating senior officials of the Ministry.

Criminal elements have been calling business owners, particularly within the Lebanese community, falsely claiming that the Acting Minister of Commerce and Industry, Madam Scholastica Nyenkan-Nimley, is requesting a meeting with them. These imposters are using this deception to extort money from unsuspecting individuals.

The Ministry strongly condemns these acts of extortion and wishes to inform the public that no such requests for meetings have been made by the Acting Minister. The imposters involved in these activities has been identified as using the following number: 0887395022, confirmed by MoCI to be associated with Katrina Niaree.

We urge business owners and the general public to disregard any calls or messages from this number or from individuals making similar claims. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry conducts its official business through proper channels, and all legitimate engagements are communicated via official correspondence.

The MoCI has engaged law enforcement authorities, and the police to investigate, identify and prosecute those responsible for these fraudulent activities. We encourage anyone who has been contacted by these imposters to report the matter to the nearest police station or contact the Ministry for further guidance.

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry remains committed to protecting the integrity of its operations and ensuring a safe and conducive environment for business. We will not tolerate any attempts to tarnish the image of the Ministry or exploit members of the business community.

For any further inquiries or to report suspicious activities, please contact the Ministry of Commerce and Industry directly through its official channels.