I got *another* of those west African scams via e-mail today… that's three in about four days. I love 'em – they're the funniest criminal activity in the world. Yet the amazing thing is people fall for them. Honestly – would you respond if a complete stranger asked for your bank account details so he could put $28m in it?
Here it is:
Dear sir,
First, I must solicit your strictest confidence in this transaction,this is by virtue of it's nature as being utterly confidential and top secret.
Study this portion carefully and advice categorically, if you will be able to handle, as I might not want to be exposed of the information considering the source and reputation of my name.
I am the Director of project and the newly appointed chairman, contract reviewing committee(CRC) of the Federal ministry of Works and Housing (FMW&H) in Lagos, Nigeria. I have just been given the mandate to run as the senetoral aspirant from my senetorial district. I am going to win the election if I can buy my opponent out of the race since they are not too strong enough, I need a very strong financial base to be able to achieve this hence I am seeking your assistance to enable me transfer the sum of US $17,000,000.00 into your account for mutual benefits.
Sincerely I must reveal the source of the money to you though I may not disclose the strategy of the transfer until you have assured me of your support. This money came about as a result of a contract executed on behalf of my Ministry, the (Federal Ministry of Works and Housing). This contract was officially assigned to be awarded and executed by two foreign contractors at the tune of US$80,500,000.00, but in the course of our negotiation, we bargained with only one foreign contractor, a Bulgarian firm which now executed the contract at the cost of US $63,500,000.00. Thus leaving the remaining US$17M to our (members of the CRP ) benefits unknown to the contractor and any other person in my Ministry. This contract has been satisfactorily executed and inspected as the Bulgarian firm is presently securing his payment from my Ministry. It is however to this effect that I seek your maximum assistance and approval to present your company name alongside with the Bulgarian contractor as the second foreign contractor to enable me transfer the difference(SU$17M) into your account for further investment depending on your advice.
On actualization of the transaction, the funds will be shared thus:
1. 30% of the money go to you for acting as the beneficiary of the funds.
2. 10% for reimbursement to both parties for incidental expenses that may be incurred in the course of the transaction for insurance, phone bills, documentation etc.
3. 60%to me.All logistics are in place and all modalities worked out for the smooth actualization of the transaction within fourteen working days of commencement after receiving the following information by fax: Your company's name, address, phone/fax numbers and the activities of your company.
The above information will enable me make application and lodge claims to concerned Ministries in favour of your company or name and it is pertinent to state here that this deal is entirely based on trust and the fear of God.
If you are able to handle this, feel free to reach at kokot@rediffmail.com or patkoni@indiatimes.com for a perfect understanding of the transaction. Also note that you stand to benefit a lot by way of getting contracts from the Federal Government of Nigeria if you assist me to get this fund which I hope to use for the election campaign. Also note that a lot of foreigners have started giving assistance to cadidates that will feature in the next election for what they stand to gain later. This is an opportunity for you and I will advise that you grab it.
Thanks in anticipation of your positive response.
Yours faithfully
Dr Patrick Kosoni