The Police have been asked for comment on matters that have been raised as public concerns, regarding issues relating to people responding to advertisements, that offer various forms of astrological and psychic services.
It is not the role of the Police to suggest to people whether they should or should not consult an astrologer, but following information revealed as a result of publicity, there is an obligation or duty for the Police to suggest that caution should be exercised by people, considering consulting a person advertising any such services, says a Police news release.
It is recognised that astrology is commonly accepted in many societies, with certain cultures such as people of Indian ethnicity, having stronger beliefs than others.
Providing an astrological chart at an acceptable rate, may be regarded by practitioners and persons using such services, as a normal business practice. Any person using such services should first compare the rates charged by various individuals, and be wary of being victimised by an unscrupulous individuals who may seek to exploit a person, by preying on weaknesses through making predictions or actions, that induce a person to make several visits and hand over sums of money, through concerns or fears, or hopes that may never materialize.
There have been numerous cases over the years of people being scammed or fleeced of considerable sums of money by persons offering a variety of services, particularly as bogus trades people. The elderly have been especially vulnerable. Usually a con artist will prey on the needs of the victim, and will not have the experience, skills or qualifications to perform the service advertised. An extortionate amount will be charged for the service with payment demanded upfront, before anything is commenced. Frequently the service will be only partially completed if at all, and the tradesperson or con artist will then disappear.
Whilst there may be some differences between trade services, questionable investment schemes and astrological type services, anyone contemplating using such services, should first ask themselves the following questions:
• How long has this person been operating in New Zealand?
• How long will this person be in New Zealand?
• Does this person move around different countries offering similar services?
• Does this person belong to a business group?
• Is this person a New Zealand resident?
• Is this person only operating out of a temporary office or address?
• Is this person in New Zealand on a visitor's permit and working illegally?
• Is this person registered with Inland Revenue?
• If this person is only in New Zealand temporarily, what person or persons are behind the scenes providing support?
• If there are persons behind the scenes offering support, are they likely to be genuine, or possibly of a dubious nature involved in supporting a network of questionable activities?
• Does this person have the skills, experience, knowledge and qualifications claimed in the advertisement?
• What independent and bonafide person or persons can act as referees to substantiate the claims made by the person advertising the services?
• What will be the cost of the consultation, is it excessive?
• What will be the exact nature of the consultation, will there be anything occurring that might make me feel uncomfortable, such as a black magic or other practice?
• Will it be a safe place to visit for the consultation?
• Am I required to pay before or after the consultation?
• If I am not satisfied with the consultation, will my money be returned?
It would be prudent to make enquiries, or discuss the above questions with the person offering the service, before agreeing to a consultation. If the person is evasive or you are not satisfied with the answers, it would be sensible not to make an appointment.
The public should be aware that under section 16 of the Summary Offences Act 1981, that it is an offence to act for reward with intent to deceive, by acting as a spiritualistic medium, or exercising any powers of telepathy, clairvoyance, or similar powers, or fraudulently using any device in exercise of such powers. This offence carries a $1000 fine.
A dispute over the amount charged for services is a civil matter, unless money has been obtained by fraud. If a person believes that a criminal offence has been committed, the advice of Police can be sought.