I need to verify these documents are valid.
I have a friend, in africa, not kenya but it was not listed, that has given my power of attorney and is sending me 10.5 million dollars to my account. I have rquested and recieved his late fathers death certificate, document showing he left his money to the son, transfer of funds to me, and a couple others. I have spoken with his attorney with very bad english and he assures me this is all leagal and is very much this mans money. I want to verify the documents are valid but cant find anyone in the US to do it. He wants me to go in business with him and said he will give me 15% to send the funds to my account. I just want to make sure this is legal but everyone runs from it. I have done extensive research on my own and so far everything he said proves to be valid. Who in abidjan, cote d'ivoire can I call or e-mail for assistance?
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: I need to verify these documents are valid.
This is the classic African bank transfer scam -- it's been around for decades, but the Internet has given it a whole new audience. The goal is to obtain your bank account number and transfer authorization, by which the scammers will empty your account rather than transferring any millions of $$ into it. A variant involves currency allegedly shipped to some third country (usually Canada or a European country), where it is held in a customs bonded warehouse, to which substantial fees have to be paid to obtain the release of the currency. The dupe fronts these costs, only to find that the currency has been contaminated by some kind of ink or dye that has to be removed (at a significant additional cost).
I had a lot of fun stringing one of these guys along for several months, and might even have the old messages if you're curious.
Bottom line: the U.S. is putting considerable diplomatic pressure on African countries, particularly Nigeria, to put a stop to these activities. Various government agencies have published advisories against the scame. However, new victims are being taken every day.
Best wishes,
LDWG
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