The Youth Employment Agency (YEA) has issued an urgent warning to the public over a fraudulent recruitment scheme targeting applicants of its ongoing Community Police Assistants and Fire Service Assistants modules.

In an official statement dated 14 July 2025, the agency revealed that scammers are circulating fake messages demanding payments — particularly a GH¢500 “processing fee” — to secure placement in these modules. YEA has categorically denied any involvement in such demands, stressing that its recruitment process is entirely free.

“YEA does not charge any fees at any stage of its recruitment process. Any demand for payment, including the widely reported GH¢500 scam, is false and should be ignored,” the statement read.

The agency further clarified that it does not communicate with applicants through private phone numbers. All official information is shared exclusively through its website, www.yea.gov.gh, and other verified agency channels.

YEA has urged the public to remain vigilant and to disregard any unofficial advertisements or unsolicited messages that promise job placements for a fee.

The agency advised anyone who encounters suspicious activity to report it immediately to the nearest YEA regional or district office for further action.

Reaffirming its commitment to transparency and fairness, YEA assured the public that stringent measures have been implemented to safeguard the integrity of its operations. The agency also emphasised that individuals found engaging in such fraudulent activities will face legal consequences.

“We remain committed to protecting the integrity of our operations and ensuring that offenders are identified and punished in accordance with the law,” the statement concluded.

The YEA’s recruitment drives have consistently attracted large numbers of applicants nationwide, making them prime targets for scammers seeking to exploit job seekers’ hopes.