By Kadijatu Bangura, Daily Scope
Freetown, April 19, 2026 The Freetown City Council has warned of a fraudulent registration scheme targeting market women in the capital, with impostors demanding payment to enroll them in the Heat Index Insurance Project.
In a statement issued Saturday, the council said it received multiple reports of individuals moving through markets and falsely claiming to register traders while illegally collecting money. The FCC stressed that enrollment in the Heat Index Insurance Project is free and requires no payment at any stage.
The official registration, supported by AB Entheos Ltd., is underway for women selling perishable goods in designated markets across Freetown. Covered locations include Dove Cut, Hagan Street, Bombay, Congo, Salad Ground, Lumley, Allen Town, Portee, Calaba Town, Approved School, Low-Cost, and Shell markets. Council teams conducting the exercise carry proper identification and authorization.
The FCC urged traders and residents not to share personal details or hand over cash to anyone claiming to represent the council without verified credentials. “Any attempt to exploit market women and other vulnerable groups under false pretenses is unlawful, undermines public trust, and will not be tolerated,” the statement said.
The council confirmed it is working with relevant authorities to investigate the reports and hold those responsible accountable. Members of the public are encouraged to report suspicious activity to the nearest police station or directly to the Freetown City Council.
The FCC reaffirmed its commitment to protecting residents and to providing accurate, timely information on the Heat Index Insurance Project and other initiatives supporting Freetown traders.
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