Consumers are also being reminded to be wary of individuals on social media and also those going around offering business opportunities.

This was the statement issued by the Consumer Council of Fiji chief executive officer, Seema Shandil, after various complaints were received against local online businesses who were allegedly failing to supply ordered goods, despite receiving full payments.

Ms Shandil stated that the council was further stressing that businesses have an obligation to deliver products and services which consumers have paid for and failure to do so was not only unethical, but illegal.

On example is a Lautoka woman, Tokasa Suguturaga, has raised her concern on social media after she claimed sending a deposit of $250 through Mpaisa to purchase a whale’s tooth, (Tabua) which she said costs $350.

Ms Suguturaga claimed that she had sent the money on the 7th of this month to a salesperson who advertised the item on the iTaukei buy and sell business page.

She claimed that after she sent the money, her receiver switched off her phone and also deleted her Facebook account.

Seema Shandil – Consumer Council of Fiji, Chief Executive Officer.

Ms Shandil reminded all consumers to be wary of individuals on social media and also those going around offering business opportunities and other get rich quick schemes.

Consumers facing similar issues are encouraged to call the Consumer Council of Fiji on the national toll-free number 155 or lodge a complaint using the Consumer Council of Fiji mobile app.

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