Fake Facebook Account Targets PMO Chief of Staff Rakesh Bhuckory
Rakesh Bhuckory has filed a complaint with the CCID after a fraudulent Facebook account used his name and title of Chief of Staff at the Prime Minister's Office.
A senior official at the heart of Mauritius's government has become the latest victim of online impersonation, filing a formal complaint after a fake Facebook account was created using his identity and official title.
Rakesh Bhuckory, who holds the position of Chief of Staff at the Prime Minister's Office (PMO), lodged his complaint with the Cybercrime Division of the Criminal Investigation Department, known in Mauritius as the CCID. The fraudulent account was using his name alongside his official government title, raising concerns about potential misuse to deceive members of the public or spread disinformation.
The CCID is the specialist unit within the Mauritius Police Force responsible for investigating crimes involving technology, digital fraud and cybercrime. Cases involving fake social media profiles, online scams and identity theft fall under its remit.
The Chief of Staff at the PMO is a key administrative role within the Prime Minister's Office, responsible for coordinating operations and supporting the smooth functioning of government at the highest level. The use of such a title on a fraudulent account could mislead citizens into believing they are communicating with an official government representative.
Online impersonation of public figures and government officials has become an increasingly common problem in Mauritius, as in many countries. Fake accounts are typically used to solicit money, spread false information, or manipulate public opinion by exploiting the credibility of a well-known name or title.
In Mauritius, creating a false online profile with the intent to deceive can be prosecuted under the Information and Communication Technologies Act and related cybercrime legislation, which carry penalties including fines and imprisonment.
What this means: If you encounter a Facebook account or any social media profile claiming to be Rakesh Bhuckory or referencing the title of Chief of Staff at the PMO, treat it with caution. The matter is now under active investigation by the CCID. Members of the public who believe they have interacted with or been misled by the fake account are encouraged to report it both to Facebook directly and to the Mauritian authorities.
Source: Le Defi Media
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CCID in Mauritius?β
The CCID, or Cybercrime Division of the Criminal Investigation Department, is the specialist unit of the Mauritius Police Force that investigates digital and technology-related crimes, including online fraud, identity theft and fake social media accounts.
What is the role of the Chief of Staff at the Prime Minister's Office in Mauritius?β
The Chief of Staff at the PMO is a senior administrative position responsible for coordinating the internal operations of the Prime Minister's Office and supporting government functions at the highest level in Mauritius.
Is online impersonation a criminal offence in Mauritius?β
Yes. Creating a fake profile to impersonate another person with intent to deceive can be prosecuted under the Information and Communication Technologies Act in Mauritius, and may result in fines or imprisonment depending on the severity of the offence.
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