Homa Bay — Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has issued an alert over online scammers impersonating her to swindle money from the public.

Homa Bay County Government Spokesperson Rachel Ogutu said that the scammers were running social media accounts under Governor Wanga's name and use them to entice the public to enroll into a fake credit scheme.

Ogutu said that it was discovered that the syndicate operates two Facebook accounts with the Governor's name. "As a way of hoodwinking residents to fall into their traps, the conmen have formed two Facebook accounts namely Gladys Atis Wanga and Gladys Atis," she said.

In the social media platforms, the conmen purport to be managers of a financial institution run by Governor Wanga to offer loans and savings.

They tell gullible residents to pay various fees which include Sh850 for registration, Sh1,850 for insurance, Sh1,250 for stamp duty amongst other charges to qualify for a loan of Sh100,000.

Ogutu who spoke to the press on behalf of the Governor said they have reported the matter at Homa Bay Police Station. She said they have received complaints from a number of county residents who lost their money through the scam.

One of the residents identified as Irene Atieno was defrauded of Sh10, 500. Ogutu said that police had identified two men who are running the Facebook accounts.

"The two men have been identified and the matter is already with police who have taken action." Ogutu said.

The Spox told residents to be wary of such conmen since Governor Wanga does not run any loans scheme.

"Let Homa Bay residents know that the Governor does not run a financial institution for lending people money. Residents should be careful not to be swindled by the masqueraders," Ogutu said.