‘Don’t be a money mule’! - FID says ‘helping out’ a friend could land you in jail

The Financial Investigations Division (FID) has yet again warned Jamaicans not to allow their bank accounts, identities, or businesses to be used to move funds on behalf of others, as this could lead to criminal charges under the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) and other anti-money laundering laws.

The warning follows the arrest and charge of three individuals in connection with a $96 million fraud scheme involving unauthorised Point of Sale (POS) transactions carried out between November and December 2022.

"Too many persons, some knowingly, others out of ignorance or misplaced trust, are allowing themselves to become money mules for fraudsters," said Keith Darien, the FID's principal director of financial crimes investigations.

"You may think you're just doing a favour, accepting a transfer, or helping a friend with a transaction. But when that money is tied to criminal conduct, you become a co-conspirator in a financial crime, and you will be held accountable under the law," he added.

Darien noted that the law doesn't excuse ignorance and wilful blindness.

"If you facilitate criminal property, you will be charged. Protect yourself. Protect your future. Don't be a money mule," he said.