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Scammer posing as Chief of Fort McKay First Nation

Last Updated Jan 10, 2017 at 10:25 am MDT

A sign outside the Wood Buffalo RCMP Timberlea detachment.

The identity of Chief Jim Boucher of the Fort McKay First Nation is being used in a scam to solicit money.

Wood Buffalo RCMP are warning individuals that if you have received unsolicited communication from someone posing as Chief Boucher, or someone claiming to be his representative, you should assume that it is a scam.

The scammer contacts individuals or businesses posing as Chief Boucher, they make proposals to purchase land, acquire business ventures or involving bribes. The scammer then requests that the victim send money to assist in the completion of the transaction.

The amount of money requested has ranged from a few hundred dollars up to $10,000. Once the victim sends money, there is no further contact. These scams have take place over the phone, however scammers use many other mediums to solicit money.

“Fort McKay First Nation and the Fort McKay Group of Companies operates with professional advisors who conduct due diligence on all business proposals and transactions.  Chief Jim Boucher does not conduct any business on behalf of the First Nation or the Group of Companies, nor does the Chief engage in any outside or personal business ventures.  Chief Boucher is dedicated exclusively to being the Chief and fulfilling his leadership role within Fort McKay First Nation,” said Jauvonne Kitto with the Fort McKay First Nation.

If you have been victimized by a scam or received unsolicited communication that you suspect is a scam, it can be reported to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or visit www.antifraudcentre.ca.