In a statement that has stirred massive conversation both online and offline, the Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the Rivers State Police Command has issued a stern warning to individuals—particularly women—who accept transport money from men without the intention of meeting them.
Speaking during a radio interview on Tuesday morning, the PPRO declared:
“Accepting transport money from a man without seeing him in person is a punishable offence that could land you in jail. That is fraud, and under the law, it can be treated as obtaining under false pretence.”
The comment appears to target a growing trend on social media, where some individuals boast about receiving "T-fare" (transport fare) from admirers or romantic interests — only to ghost them afterwards.
While often dismissed as "just cruise" by online users, the Rivers State Police are warning that such actions could have legal consequences, especially if there’s clear evidence of intent to deceive.
“Once money changes hands based on a verbal agreement or expectation, and you had no plan of honoring that agreement, it becomes an issue of intent. That’s where the law can come in,” the PPRO added.
The statement has since gone viral, sparking heated debate across social media platforms.
Supporters of the police position say the warning is timely and necessary to protect people from manipulation and emotional exploitation.
“It’s simple — don’t collect money if you know you’re not showing up. That’s 419 behavior,” one user wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
Critics, however, argue that the police are overreaching and ignoring deeper issues of economic hardship, gender power dynamics, and personal boundaries.
“This is not what the police should be focusing on. There are bigger crimes in Rivers State than transport fare drama,” another user tweeted.
Some legal practitioners have backed the PPRO’s statement, saying "obtaining under false pretence" is clearly outlined in Nigeria’s Criminal Code (Section 419) — and while most people associate it with internet fraud or scams, it can apply to everyday situations.
“If you collect money under false pretence, knowing full well you have no intention of fulfilling your end of the deal, that’s a prosecutable offence,” said Barr. Ifeoma Okeke, a Port Harcourt-based lawyer.
The Rivers State Police Command has advised the public — especially young people — to be honest in their interactions and avoid actions that could lead to criminal charges, even if they appear trivial.
“This is not a joke. If someone makes an official complaint and presents chat records or transaction details, the police can act on it,” the PPRO concluded.
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