Scam artists are offering fake financial investment opportunities, supposedly offered by Trade & Investment KwaZulu-Natal (TIKZN), to fleece would-be investors out of their hard-earned cash by offering huge returns in a matter of days.

Neville Matjie, the Chief Executive Officer of Trade & Investment KwaZulu-Natal, told the Courier in a statement that fraudsters are taking advantage of online and social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Instagram and Facebook during this volatile economic situation, and marketing fake financial investment opportunities under the name of TIKZN.

“They are using the current economic situation to perpetrate this kind of fraud. The public should be aware and guard against ‘Ponzi’ investment schemes such as this one.” He added that TIKZN does not require any form of payment for services rendered by the agency.

He further indicated that, “We empathise with the victims and we have encouraged them to report these matters urgently to the SAPS. TIKZN is also engaging with law enforcement officials to ensure that the culprits are brought to book so that we bring a speedy end to this type of crime. We further categorically state that this fraud is perpetrated by persons external to Trade & Investment KwaZulu-Natal and that this organisation does not partake in or promote any type of Ponzi / Pyramid scheme promising high investment returns

. Please do not fall into the trap of a ‘get rich quick’ scheme,” said Mr Matjie. “If anyone suspects foul play under our name / branding, they must not hesitate to call Angel Sibisi on 076-062-3779 / 076-468-6139 or email Angel@tikzn.co.za”

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