Costa Rica’s Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Institute (IAFA) is warning people not to fall for scam artists asking for money in the organization’s name.
“IAFA is alerting the population about some people or organizations, without scruples and with bad intentions, that are abusing the good will of the people to solicit money, conduct raffles and sell things in our name,” a press release states.
Marlin Villalobos, secretary to IAFA Director Giselle Amador, said there have been at least two cases in which people have gone door-to-door illegitimately asking for donations.
IAFA is funded by the government with assets seized from drug dealers and money launderers, and does not conduct private fundraising operations. Its mission is to develop and coordinate drug prevention, treatment and rehabilitation programs.
Officials recommend people file police reports if they’ve already been victimized by fake IAFA con artists. Call IAFA at 2224-6122 for more information.
–Nick Wilkinson
