Scammer boyfriend putting my life in danger

Dear Pastor,

I am 17 years old and my boyfriend is 18. I am still going to school, but I am doing the sixth-form programme.

To be honest with you, at this age I shouldn't be living in fear for my life. I don't know how else to get this off my mind, but my boyfriend got involved in something that has put my life at risk.

From ever since we were in high school, he was always talking about "chopping the line" and his words have come to fruition. He didn't tell me what he was doing with his life because he knew I was against it, but his friends took it upon themselves and told me about what he was doing. So I called him the same day to ask him about it, and he said he's doing it and the sweets will benefit both of us. But, Pastor, I don't want any of that money, so I told him that I won't stay with him if that's what he is going to do with his life. I tried persuading him to try going to HEART/NSTA Trust because my sister works there, and she would let him get through. After the argument, we didn't talk for a while.

I usually reach home late in the evenings, because it takes three taxis for me to get home. Recently, I was on my way home and one of his friends decided to question me about him, saying that he's telling everyone that I was the one who showed him the game because my family is big in the scamming thing. That's not true. My mother worked hard for everything she has and my father is in a really good job.

When it comes to that business, people will kill you, and witchcraft is involved in it. From that day I have been staying inside, because the boys who are always on the road are questioning me about how my boyfriend is getting bigger 'food' than them. It started to spiral out of control, because they are telling me about how they are going to find my body in the gutter or I will just disappear, and not even the police will be able to find me. While all these things are happening, my boyfriend still hasn't contacted me.

I just wanted to get this off my chest and ask if you can give me some advice, please.

Initials Withheld

Dear Writer,

Although you did not tell us to withhold your initials, we are doing so to try to protect you.

The threats you are receiving should not be taken lightly, because if indeed these guys who are threatening you are involved in scamming, and they truly believe that they were not fairly treated, they may go after your boyfriend. If they are unable to locate him, they may try to hurt you. So I repeat, their threats should not be taken lightly. This matter should be reported to the police; and they should be able to protect you and tell you what to do.

You are 17 years old. You have not said anything about your parents. But your parents should know about this matter. You have tried to encourage your boyfriend to go to HEART/NSTA Trust for training. He has refused to do so. Instead, he told you that his involvement in scamming will benefit both of you. You are right to tell him that you do not want any of the money he has got out of scamming. He has put your life in danger, and you never know what his silly friends may do to you, because they may believe that you are indeed benefiting from the scamming.

I know that you might feel scared in reporting this matter to the police, but I am sure that that is the correct thing to do. I suggest that you talk to a senior officer. Do not talk to any young cop. After you have spoken to the police, I would like to hear from you again. My prayers are with you. Do n't be afraid to do what is right.

Pastor