KADIRS Warns Kaduna Residents Against Fraudulent Tax Collectors and Fake Documents

The Kaduna State Internal Revenue Service (KADIRS) has issued a stern warning to residents, urging them to be cautious of fraudulent individuals and groups posing as legitimate tax collectors.

The agency raised the alarm over the growing number of impostors operating in strategic areas of the state, deceiving unsuspecting citizens into paying taxes, levies, and fines to unauthorised persons.

Speaking at a news conference held on Friday in Kaduna, the Executive Chairman of KADIRS, Mr Jerry Adams, expressed concern over the illegal activities of these fraudulent tax collectors.

According to Adams, the agency had been alerted to the operations of certain individuals and organised groups falsely claiming to be authorised by KADIRS to collect taxes on behalf of the state government.

“These criminals,” Adams noted, “have formed a coordinated network to deceive law-abiding citizens, exploiting the lack of awareness among some residents regarding official tax collection procedures.”

The chairman stressed that these individuals are not in any way affiliated with KADIRS and are using deceit to commit financial fraud.

### No Third-Party Agents Authorised to Collect Taxes

In his address, Mr Adams emphasised that the Kaduna State Internal Revenue Service had not authorised any third-party individuals or groups to collect taxes, levies, or fines on its behalf.

The agency’s tax collection process is conducted through clearly designated official channels, and any deviation from these procedures should be treated with suspicion.

Adams reiterated that KADIRS operates only through official tax officers who possess proper identification, uniforms, and authorisation.

He encouraged residents to verify the identity of any person claiming to represent the service before making any tax payments.

“It is essential for residents to know that if anyone approaches them for tax collection without the appropriate documentation or official identification, such persons should be reported immediately,” he stated.

The KADIRS boss disclosed that investigations had revealed the existence of a well-coordinated cartel that had been operating across Kaduna, exploiting citizens and tarnishing the reputation of the state’s revenue collection system.

These criminals use various tactics, including falsifying documents, impersonating government officials, and coercing residents into making fraudulent payments.

Their activities undermine not only the state’s revenue generation but also public trust in the government’s ability to provide essential services.

Adams assured the public that KADIRS was fully committed to rooting out this menace. “We have already begun the process of apprehending individuals involved in these criminal activities,” he said.

Several arrests have been made, and investigations are ongoing to ensure that the entire network of fraudsters is dismantled.

In addition to fraudulent tax collectors, Adams also drew attention to another troubling development—the proliferation of fake vehicle number plates and tax clearance certificates.

These forged documents, often in circulation with the collusion of corrupt individuals within KADIRS, have become a growing problem in Kaduna.

The chairman condemned these actions, stating that they not only defraud the state but also erode the public’s trust in the integrity of the service.

“This criminal activity has far-reaching consequences,” Adams explained. “Not only does it rob the state of vital revenue needed for development projects, but it also jeopardises the trust that the good people of Kaduna State have placed in our institution.”

He further warned that any staff found to be complicit in these fraudulent activities would face severe disciplinary action, including dismissal and possible prosecution.

In light of the growing threat posed by fraudulent tax collectors and fake documents, Adams called on all residents of Kaduna to remain vigilant and cooperate with the authorities in identifying and reporting any suspicious activities.

He advised citizens to be cautious when dealing with anyone claiming to represent KADIRS and to request proper identification and documentation before engaging in any financial transactions related to taxes or levies.

Residents were also urged to report any suspicious individuals or groups to the relevant authorities. KADIRS has provided hotlines and a complaint mechanism to enable the public to report cases of fraud or impersonation.

By working together with the public, the agency hopes to clamp down on these fraudulent activities and restore confidence in the state’s tax collection system.

Mr Adams concluded his address by reaffirming KADIRS’ commitment to eradicating fraud and ensuring transparency in the tax collection process.

The agency, he said, is taking stringent measures to strengthen internal controls and improve oversight of its staff to prevent further incidents of fraud.

Disciplinary actions are already being taken against any KADIRS personnel found to be involved in illegal activities.

“We will continue to work diligently to protect the interests of the state and its residents.

This is not just about collecting revenue; it’s about ensuring that the people of Kaduna benefit from an efficient and trustworthy tax system that supports the growth and development of our state,” Adams concluded.

The warning from KADIRS serves as a timely reminder for the people of Kaduna to stay alert to potential scams and fraud. As the state intensifies efforts to improve its tax system and hold perpetrators accountable, the cooperation of the public is crucial.

With a commitment to transparency and accountability, KADIRS is determined to restore trust in the tax collection process and ensure that revenue generated from taxes is used for the benefit of all Kaduna residents.