Real News Articles about TVI Express: tviexpress.com reps arrested in South Africa, China, India, Indonesia

(Updated 08-JAN-2012)

TVI Express, an international scam, is recruiting members all across the globe, and now boasts 1 million members, mainly in third-world countries like India, China, Indonesia, Vietnam, Philippines, and so on, where most are not actively researching on the Internet.

If they had done proper research, they would have found some of the following news items on the Internet. In fact, there are NO POSITIVE COVERAGE OF TVI EXPRESS by a neutral third party.

The following news excerpts will likely send TVI Express uplines into shock. If you are a current TVI Express member, and are sensitive to your pride, stop reading now, unless you wish to be brutally honest to yourself. For everybody else, you are reading overwhelming evidence of an international scam, whose members are lying, cheating, and scamming their way across the globe, recruiting thousands of victims everyday into the scam, and here's the proof: news articles from around the globe condemning this scam.

Furthermore, TVI Express members cannot explain these news, they are posting irrelevant defense, such as "you should join any way and see for yourself". See the comments at the end for actual examples.

These news items came from legitimate news sources from all across the globe...

• United States of America
• Australia
• China
• Botswana
• Swaziland
• South Africa
• Lesotho
• Indonesia
• India
• Tajikistan
• Georgia
• Spain
• Vietnam
• Hungary
• and more

Together, they paint a picture that no TVI Express member can actually explain. Thus, TVI Express members out recruiting often tell you to IGNORE NEWSPAPERS AND INTERNET. They are TRYING TO BRAINWASH YOU into full compliance. This is called "information control", one of the 4 pillars of cult indoctrination. They call it "avoiding negativity" and claim it is "motivation". It is not. It is attempting to warp your sense of right and wrong. (Read about why "avoiding negativity is a VERY bad idea, as it makes you reckless.")

TVI Express members are known to lie. In September 2010, Indonesian head of TVI Express 'branch office' actually told an Indonesian newspaper that TVI Express is NOT multi-level marketing, even though the company says very specifically on its own website that it is!

Any way, let's go onto some news... That will make you VERY unpopular among TVI Express members.

(And these are actual news links to real news sources, not a review. See for yourself.)

ABC2 of Maryland's consumer report highlighted TVI Express as a scam spreading in Maryland (US East Coast). Local Better Business Bureau classified TVI Express as possible pyramid scheme.

Angie Barnett with the Better Business Bureau says beware, "You continue to see telltale signs of concern about this business." The business is TVI Express or Travel Ventures International, a company that's currently recruiting Marylanders to join their team through online presentations sent by emails.

-- http://www.abc2news.com/dpp/money/consumer/scam_alerts/be-wary-of-%27work-from-home%27-offers

CLICK ON THE LINK ABOVE FOR A VIDEO REPORT or just read the text.

TVI Express is everywhere, even in Australia, and there it has just met its match in the name of ACCC, the Australian consumer protection agency. They have successfully obtained Australian Federal Court injunction against a trio of TVI Express distributors from practicing their scam upon the public. WAToday reports:

A scheme in which participants pay $330 and receive commissions for recruiting others has been banned by the Federal Court.

Three people behind TVI Express, which has held a series of seminars in Perth and plans to hold another on Wednesday, have been ordered to stop promoting the company's wares, which the consumer watchdog claims is a pyramid scheme.

The scheme works by participants paying about $330 to join. For that, they receive a "travel voucher" and commission payments for getting others to join.

-- cited from http://www.watoday.com.au/wa-news/pyramid-scheme-banned-20100517-v7r1.html

$330 is in Australian dollars, which is $275 in US dollars + fees

UPDATE: Please scroll to the end for the latest update: Australian Federal Court have ruled that TVI Express is indeed a pyramid scheme and the three are convicted fraudsters.

One of the TVI Express promoters in Australia, "Teddi" Jutsen, violated court injunction, which frozen her bank account except for "living expenses".

TEDDI Jutsen is now facing contempt of court charges -- on top of allegations that she is behind TVI Express, which the ACCC claims is a pyramid selling scheme.

The ACCC began contempt proceedings after a bank account belonging to Jutsen was emptied of $40,000.

http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/indepth/alleged-tvi-express-promoter-now-accused-of-contempt-of-court/story-e6frewq9-1225892205412

TVI Express first recruited in India, and Sikkim was heavily recruited for members. The local police was so suspicious, it investigated, and TVI Express decided to issue refund instead of facing more investigation. Voice of Sikkim reports:

A business networking or popularly referred as a Chain business in Sikkim since few years is reflecting their true color by ditching depositor’s money by all possible greedy policies and promises. One after another several such companies were whipped down to dust by Sikkim Police hard interrogations previously. Series of scandals busts though people do not stop falling in the wrong hands of such illicit companies. Spiral propaganda unleashes in one such company’s functioning, the company which was found operating within Sikkim without any concern from government. On 14 February , a company called Travel Ventures International (TVI) Express called on a depositors meet at Gangtok in some hotel. The company authority having failed to convince the depositors over the maturity of their amount a Sikkim Police reinforced into a heated situation. It was learnt that six thousand people were being putting their amount into a company’s tank in lieu he or she would get a best returns from sowed amount. Total of Rs 7.92 Cr was reported pumped in a company by the depositors from the various parts of Sikkim and outside. When company could not deliver a fruitful decision regarding the maturity and returns, the depositors pulled their legs to the Police intervention.

-- cited from http://voiceofsikkim.com/2010/03/15/tvi-express-promises-to-refund-the-deposits/  (article no longer available on website)

HGTI, the Sikkim tourism board, called for action against fake tourism organizations fleecing the locals, and TVI [Express] was specifically mentioned.

The HGTI today convened an emergency meeting of its board of directors under the Chairmanship of Sri S.K. Bardewa and strongly condemned the activities of the fake tourism organisation like TVI [Express] which have been operating in Sikkim for the last one year without any registration or licence etc. but fleecing our local people. The HGTI has resolved to send an official note to TAAS (attachment ) on the role of TVI and the use of effectiveness of local protection Act

-- cited from http://voiceofsikkim.com/2010/03/16/extortion-by-the-fake-agencies-a-major-concern-for-sikkim-industries-and-reputation-in-globe-hgti/ (article no longer available on website)

China always heavily crack down on suspected pyramid schemes, and require all network marketing firms to register with the direct selling bureau. TVI Express failed to do so, as they simply do not care about law compliance. As a result, its members are hunted in multiple cities, and one is sentenced to one year in prison.

NOTE: The following is a bilingual translation. If you want to see the original, go here: http://www.zhixiaowang.info/show.php-contentid=10857.htm Feel free to run it through Google Translate or such.

天上真能掉馅饼吗？
Will food drop out of the sky?

警惕“英国TVI 旅游快车”传销陷阱
Warning about "TVI Express" pyramid scheme trap

洞头新闻网　2009-10-28 10:36:03　
DongTow Newsnet

本网讯（通讯员 王静静 郭杰成）
Reported by Jingjing Wong, JieChen Guo, reporters for this agency

只要交271美金注册一个账号，成为TVI会员即可获得7天6夜住宿五星级酒店的假期、免费返程机票以及在线参加打折旅游活动，可能获得 15000美元的回报。天上真的能掉馅饼吗？
Just pay 271 USD, register an account, become TVI Express member, and get 7-day 6-night accommodation at 5-star hotel, free return ticket, and online participation of discount travel activities, and you can get $15000 USD in return. Will food really fall out of the sky?

近日，洞头警方迅速出击，一举摧毁了以蒋某、陈某为首的“英国TVI旅游快车”网络在我县的传销组织，用事实告诫投机者，“馅饼”只是一件美丽的外衣，掩 盖的是诈骗钱财的传销活动。
Recently, Dongtow Police have speedily investigated and broke open a pyramid scheme organization in this area, headed by Jiang and Chen, called TVI Express. The facts will warn those who are desperate for money: the promised huge reward is just a pretty overcoat, hiding the fraud known as pyramid scheme.

8月31日，经侦大队接到群众报警，称有人以可享受免费旅游、介绍新会员可获可观经济收入为诱饵，骗他购买了“英国TVI旅游快车”旅游卡，入会时上交的 数千元入会费打了水漂。
August 31st (2009), out investigation unit received a tip from a citizen, that he was tricked into buying TVI Express membership, in order to enjoy free travel, and to earn additional reward by recruiting. The several thousand Yuan he had paid for membership is gone.

接警后，公安部门立即展开侦察，经过1个月的调查摸底，一个打着“英国TVI旅游快车”旗号的网络传销组织渐渐浮出水面。
After the report, Ministry of Public Security started the investigation, and over the period of more than a month, have gradually revealed this Internet-based pyramid scheme organization called TVI Express.

经查，今年5—7月期间，犯罪嫌疑人陈某经上家蒋某介绍，在购买“英国TVI旅游快车”卡后，参加了“英国TVI旅游快车”活动。
Investigation revealed that during may through July (2009), suspect Chen was introduced to TVI Express by a Mr. Jiang, and joined the organization.

随后，陈某以购买旅游卡免费到外国旅游，并可获取最高奖金15000美金的超高额回报为幌子，介绍曾某、吴某等人入会，并要求其发展下线，以提升自己的级 别获取奖金。
Later, Chen, using the bait of "buy travel card for free trips to foreign countries, earn up to 15000 USD super high reward" to introduce Jeng, Woo, and many other individuals to the fraud, and told each to develop even more downlines in order to raise his own level, to qualify for more rewards.

至案发时，陈某拥有的会员号下发展的下线，共计有404个会员号，人数近70人，层次达到三层以上，涉案金额达80余万元。
As the conclusion of the investigation, Chen has total of 404 downlines registered, involving actually 70 people, and up to three boards. Money amount involved is in excess of 800000 Yuan.

现犯罪嫌疑人陈某和蒋某已分别涉嫌组织、领导传销活动罪被警方执行逮捕和刑事拘留。目前，案件正在进一步审理中。
Suspect Chen and Jiang have been arrested for organizing and leading illegal pyramid scheme, and have been charged and held by Public Security. The investigation is still ongoing. 

And this is but one of several stories reported by Chinese press on a multi-province sweep of illegal marketing practices, i.e. pyramid schemes.Total count now, dozens arrested, 6 convicted, 3 sent to jail (the other 3 got huge fines).

Hungary authorities found two companies to be suspected of operating a pyramid scheme, and one of them is TVI Express:

Hungarian financial market watchdog PSZAF has reported two businesses to the proper authorities on suspicion of operating pyramid or Ponzi schemes, PSZAF spokesman Istvan Binder told MTI on Friday.

PSZAF reported TVI Expressz for promising potential clients who pay a one-time USD 250 membership fee a free 7-day stay for two at a 3- to 5-star hotel any place in the world. It also reported Canadian Diamond Traders for promising clients who pay USD 120 and bring the company two more clients the possibility of earning a weekly USD 2,300.

Both companies are outside of PSZAF's jurisdiction, which is why it reported them, Mr Binder said. The proper authorities will have to determine whether the companies are operating pyramid or Ponzi schemes, he added.

-- cited from http://www.realdeal.hu/20100316/two-companies-suspected-of-operating-pyramid-schemes

A different report from Hungary says locals were recruited and local authorities are pursuing fraud charges.

http://translate.google.com/translate?js=y&prev=_t&hl=en&ie=UTF-8&layout=1&eotf=1&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.turizmusonline.hu%2Fcikk%2Forok_slager_a_piramisjatek__nyomoz_a_rendorseg_%2Findex.php&sl=hu&tl=en&act=url

The weekly newspaper Mallorca Zeitung in Spanish island of Mallorca ran an article on TVI Express, detailing how people were scammed out of several hundred Euros each. It is in German, so you'll have to go with the translated link here:

http://translate.google.com/translate?js=y&prev=_t&hl=en&ie=UTF-8&layout=1&eotf=1&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.mallorcazeitung.es%2Flokales%2F2010%2F02%2F25%2Fneues-schneeballsystem-mallorca-reichtum-alle%2F16738.html&sl=de&tl=en

But here are some excerpts:

Lufthansa, Avis, and Marriott, however, have taken legal steps for TVI [Express] falsely advertises with them as partners. Their logo appears on [TVI Express] company presentations, along with other reputable companies in travel and tourism. Lufthansa, along with its sister company, SwissAir, had previously tried to warn TVI [Express], according to a spokesman. "Unfortunately it was not possible to get hold of the company, since letters were returned as undeliverable."

...

The problem in the system: it only runs when new members are recruited, who are willing to pay the admission fee. When this source of money dries up, the whole system breaks up, and most get nothing. Those who participated from the beginning, at the top of the hierarchy, get more, presumably just the founders.

A local swindled up to 2000 locals by promising them cheap travels through TVI Express. Local prosecutors are investigating.

"...investigation revealed that Muhammad Khujand posing as an international tourist company «TVI Express» collected money from people, promising to arrange a cheap guided tour. According to a source in the network alleged fraudster caught about 2 thousand people, each of whom paid Mukhammadieva $270."

http://translate.google.com/translate?js=y&prev=_t&hl=en&ie=UTF-8&layout=1&eotf=1&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.avesta.tj%2Findex.php%3Fnewsid%3D5440&sl=ru&tl=en

A local ex-General used his power of influence to recruit former subordinates into TVI Express, essentially inciting them to violate local anti-corruption laws.

As an international company recruited TVI Express, Major-General 'shipped' former subordinates on the money ...

Major-General stock, the former Head of Department of Defense communications RK Orynbekov Mubarak travels to the troops and with his companions, trying to agitate the military to become full members "pyramid scheme". To succeed in the international tourism business, the officers and contract soldiers must first pass the general $ 300. Some are "pecked" at the generals and the bait willingly parted with a substantial sum ...

http://translate.google.com/translate?hl=en&sl=ru&tl=en&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.megapolis.kz%2Fshow_article.php%3Fart_id%3D15182

2010英国TVI旅游快车 专骗老人

2010 UK TVI Express Cheats Elderly

2010-10-15 14:32:27

来源：《楚天金报》文/高秉 source: Chu-Tien Jin News / Gau Bing
编辑:皓景旅行网 （崔皓景）editor: Hao Jing Travel Network (Cui Haojing)

楚天金报宜昌西陵公安分局昨日通报，打掉一个打着“英国TVI旅游快车公司”幌子，进行非法网络传销活动的犯罪团伙，涉嫌组织领导非法网络传销的刘某已被检方批准逮捕。

Chu-Tien Jin New Yichang Xiling Public Security Bureau yesterday reported that they have destroyed a group flying the banner of "UK TVI Express" pretext, conduct illegal pyramid scheme selling activitiesm, criminal gang, the suspected group leader of this illegal pyramid scheme, Ms. Liu, has been issued a warrant for his arrest.

去年10月23日，西陵公安分局接一市民报案称，其受人邀约参加了“英国TVI旅游快车”电子商务活动，可缴纳了相关费用却得不到允诺的服务，遂疑被 骗，要求警方查处。该局经侦中队意识到其中隐藏着重要的网络传销线索，遂制定出“循序渐进、扎实取证、擒贼擒王”的侦查方案。

Last year (2009), 23-October, Xiling Public Security Bureau received a citizen report that he was invited to join a "TVI Express" e-commerce seminar, paid various joining fees, but did not received promised benefits, and believe he was defrauded, and wish police invetigation. The local Bureau, after investigation, realized in this complaint is a serious clue leading to a major pyramid scheme, thus formulated a plan: follow the link, gather the evidence, grab the leader.

今年8月26日，西陵警方将涉嫌组织、领导“英国TVI旅游快车”所谓新型电子商务活动的犯罪嫌疑人刘某抓获，刘某对其非法传销行为供认不讳。近日，经宜昌市西陵区人民检察院批准，刘某被逮捕。

This year (2010) 26-AUGUST, Xiling Police detained the suspected organizer and leader of this so-called new e-commerce opportunity "TVI Express", Ms. Liu. Ms. Liu quickly confessed to running a pyramid scheme, holding nothing back. Recently, through prosecutor's office of Yichung City, Xiling Region, arrest warrant was issued for Ms. Liu and she had been taken into custody.

经查，从去年4月起，刘某(化名：刘璐，女，39岁，汉族，宜昌人)通过林某(男，27岁，浙江人，现在逃)介绍，刘某出资1897元加入了“英国 TVI旅游快车公司”的网络传销组织。

According to investigation, since April 2009, Ms. Liu (alias: Lu Liu, female, 39 years old, ethnic Han, citizen of Yichan), through Mr. Lin (male, 27 yeas old, citizen of Zhejiang, fugitive) as a sponsor, paid 1897 (RMB) and joined TVI Express pyramid scheme organization.

随后，刘某在宜昌市华强大厦603号等地狂拉人头，以1897元购买旅游卡注册成“英国TVI旅游快车”会员后，可 免费入住国内线路五星级宾馆七天六夜和享受全球旅游打折优惠，推荐、发展下线可获取500元美金返还和最高奖金15000元美金奖作饵，使自己在两个月内从一般会员发展成金卡会员，累计发展下线会员达658个，非法获利近6万余元。

Later, Ms. Liu was heavily promoting the pyramid scheme in Yichan City Huachiang Building #603, promising that just pay $1897 (RMB) for travel card (membership) and register to become member of "TVI Express', can get free accommodation in domestic 5-star hotels for 7-day 6-night and enjoy global travel discount benefits. If you sponsor and develop downlines you can earn 500 and up to 15000 USD as bait, quickly gotten herself in just over two months up to "gold level" associate, with 658 downlines, with illegal profit of over 6 million RMB.

据警方介绍，此案涉及人员多、涉案金额大，受害人多为60岁以上的老人，其中，很多受害者在刘某等人的蛊惑下，被骗走毕生积蓄，系“宜昌网络传销第一案”。

Based on police information, this case has huge amount of victims and huge amount of money involved. Most victims are elderly, over 60. Many victims, entranced by Ms. Liu's scam, were swindled out of their life savings, and is currently the most devastating pyramid scheme thus far in Yichan city.

目前，警方对此案正在审理中。

Currently police is still processing the case.

-- original URL: http://blog.ce.cn/html/74/426474-670373.html

Procedure to claim Hotel Voucher from TVI Express cannot be proceeded Siska Lea - Reader's Voice

Jakarta - In May 2010 I join TVI express with some of my friends. It is a company that claims itself to be a web based Joint Venture Travel company.

As a reward I was given hotel voucher (which was initially promoted to be usable freely worldwide ... wow ...). The story begins when I was intending to redeem the voucher. Here is the chronology:

On October 12 I was planning to redeem the hotel voucher for 4 days 3 night in Singapore. However, the process cannot be proceeded as there was no fund (I thought that it can be paid using Visa/MasterCard/PayPay like Agoda). It was clear later on that I had to deposit a sum of money to Ms Goenawan banking account (rumors said that she is the top dog of TVI but she was not brave enough to pick up my call).

On the 13th I deposit the money and it was registered by October 18. By the time I resume the redemption procedure the only thing happen was "There was no such hotel". Hmm ... strange. Out of curiosity I tried again with different account.

As it turns out, using a different account with no fund at all returns 40 different hotels to choose from for the same date. Weird huh (hmm .. I did not dare to accuse them. I am afraid it will be just like the "Ms Prita" case [NOTE: Prita refers to a patient named "Prita" who was misdiagnosed http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prita_Mulyasari and the hospital try to silence her with a libel suit).

A screen capture from the my booking screen can be seen at: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=81220&id=1019906214&saved

Siska Lea Taman Kopo Bandung
siska_lea_kumalasari@yahoo.co.id 08122083159

Original URL: http://us.suarapembaca.detik.com/read/2010/10/19/134547/1468780/283/proses-me-redeem-voucher-hotel-dari-tvi-express-tidak-bisa-lanjut?882205470

BANK OF NAMIBIA WARNS PUBLIC ABOUT TWO SCAMS: HOLIDAYS AND CASH, AND TVI EXPRESS

The Bank of Namibia has become aware of two networks/schemes known as Holidays and Cash (H&C) and TVI Express that are operating in Namibia in violation of the law.

The activities of the above resemble those of selling and marketing pyramid schemes as defined in section 1 of the Banking Institutions Act, (Act No. 2 of 1998) in terms of receiving funds from the public.

In a statement issued in Windhoek on Friday, the Bank of Namibia warns the public about the dangers of investing or participating in these particular schemes and other schemes of a similar nature.

“Furthermore, the Bank of Namibia would also like to caution all promoters of H&C and TVI Express, including persons who attempt to recruit others, either by word-of-mouth or via spamming email messages to join these schemes, anywhere in Namibia, to stop such practices immediately.

“After the Bank of Namibia scrutinised the business models of both H&C and TVI Express against the relevant provisions of the Act, the Bank of Namibia concluded that the business operations of the two above-noted schemes place substantial emphasis on recruitment of participants to these schemes. In this respect, the schemes offer lucrative incentives to the participants, calculated primarily on the basis of the number of participants or members they recruited into the schemes. It is evident that these recruitment-based incentives serve as a bait to attract potential participants into joining the schemes, with the prospect of making easy money by recruiting others.

“Furthermore in the whole, selling of purported products or services is a small component of the business models in the two schemes and therefore designed to defraud members of the public.

“Given the above, these business models contravene the provisions of the Act when subjected to the definition of ‘receiving funds from the public’ and are therefore considered illegal. The Bank of Namibia therefore appeals to each and every law-abiding citizen of this country to refrain from participating in any activities of H&C and TVI Express,” says Ndangi Katoma, head of corporate communication of the Bank of Namibia.

The Bank of Namibia further requests the public to report such activities to the bank through the Banking Supervision Department at 283 5040 or email: romeo.nel@bon.com.na or Corporate Communications Division.

Original URL: http://www.republikein.com.na/die-mark/bon-warns-public.115812.php

Bank of Namibia is the national bank, equivalent to the American "Federal Reserve Bank".

In fact, Bank of Namibia in August 2011 reissued the statement, finding that TVI Express fraudsters are STILL in the country, and will be going after them if they don't stop cheating people.

WINDHOEK – Bank of Namibia maintains its position that the popular Travel Venture International (TVI) Express is a pyramid scheme, and would be forced to go after those engaged in the scheme, since it contravenes Namibian banking laws.

Original URL: http://www.newera.com.na/article.php?articleid=40124&title=BoN%20warns%20against%20TVI

Central Bank to investigate

MBABANE – The Central Bank of Swaziland says it will investigate the TVI Express because it actually operates like the defunct Diamond Africa.

Martin Dlamini, the Governor said, he had not heard of TVI and would definitely instruct his team to launch an investigation.

The difficulty to get hold of TVI Express is that it does not have a permanent office. Their members are everywhere across the country. A majority of them are in South Africa.Dlamini wanted to send his team to its office tomorrow because pyramid schemes were different. He said others posed as sellers of products when, as a matter of fact, they were pure pyramid schemes.

"The Diamond Africa was doing the same thing, purporting to be selling diamonds and asking people to join at a fee. It looks like they are doing the same, if they do like that, it’s a criminal offence and we will facilitate their arrest very soon," said the governor of the Central Bank of Swaziland.

Meanwhile, Sifiso Mahlalela, the senior agent, had assured the prospective members that the Central Bank of Swaziland would definitely permit them to operate because TVI has a global licence.

The governor said there was nothing like a global licence, all international companies operating in the country have local licences for doing business in Swaziland.

Cited from http://www.times.co.sz/News/23415.html

Muslim Council on Aceh, Indonesia, declared TVI Express a "money game" (i.e. scam) and thus, haram "unclean" for followers of Islam.

"Consultative Council of Ulama (MPU) Aceh forbid/proscribe activities known as the Money Game (MG) and Multi-level marketing (MLM) TVI Express."

Translation available here through Google

Local authorities launched investigation, and local "distributors" quit earlier in the month.

The pyramid scheme, Travel Ventures International Express (TVI Express), which took South Africa by storm in the past few months has disappeared, leaving those who invested in it high and dry.

The Department of Trade and Industry said yesterday it had opened a police case against TVI Express “for operating a prohibited Pyramid Promotional Scheme”.

“This matter was reported to SAPS Commercial Crime Unit in Durban in September for further investigation and prosecution,” said Trade and Industry spokesperson Sidwell Medupe.

“We received information about TVI Express and after thorough analysis it was found that it is perpetuating a prohibited Pyramid Promotional Scheme.”

-- cited from http://www.thenewage.co.za/6866-1007-53-Scam_goes_belly_up

South African Reserve Bank (SARB) announced formal investigation into TVI Express, and South African Police spokesman called it a "genuine scam".

The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) is investigating the rampant Travel Ventures International Express get rich quick scheme which promises to make millionaires of everyone who joins. Run and promoted by high-profile black socialites such as top DJ Alex Mthiyane of the popular Igagasi 99.5 FM radio station, it has thousands of would-be millionaires attending its presentations in KZN and the Eastern Cape.

...

SARB has confirmed that it was investigating whether the scheme was collecting money from the public illegally.

...

Meanwhile, provincial police spokesperson Col Vincent Mdunge yesterday declared TVI Express a “genuine scam”. “We are going to get to the bottom of it.”

cited from http://www.thenewage.co.za/14436-1010-53-SARB_investigating_alleged_Ponzi_scheme

http://www.observer.co.za/article/locals-lose-thousands-pyramid-scheme-busted

Business owners and married couple, Mr Irvin Shirindzi (28) and his wife Glenda (25) were released on R3 000 bail each following a brief appearance on charges of money laundering in the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court on Monday.

Their appearance follows after their business, known as TVI Express was raided by the Police last Thursday following a joint investigation by the Hawks, Limpopo Organised Crime, Limpopo Crime Intelligence and Limpopo Commercial Unit.

TVI Express is seemingly marketing a scheme to clients that has already been declared a pyramid scheme and illegal in South Africa.

South African Reserve Bank, which had only announced investigations into TVI Express in two provinces, was surprised to hear from victims from all over South Africa. Therefore, it is expanding investigation to all South Africa, bringing in another lawfirm to handle the investigation. That lawfirm in turn has hired one of the premier Forensic Accounting firms in South Africa, determined to track down as many victims as possible to bring the TVI Express scammers to justice.

New Age News of South Africa reports:

The South African Reserve Bank (Sarb) has broadened the net beyond KZN and the Eastern Cape in its investigations into the Travel Ventures International Express (TVI Express) “pyramid scheme”.

The Sarb probe initially focusing on the two provinces, has gained momentum with the appointment of well-known law firm Bowman Gilfillan Attorneys to lead the investigation.

TVI Express is a get-rich-quick scheme that promises to make people instant millionaires. But in its recent meetings, many investors complained of losing large amounts they had invested, including pensions and money borrowed from banks.

...
The New Age has also learnt that the legal firm has in turn mandated forensic investigators Thabani Zulu & Co Forensic Accounting Services, to assist them.

Cited from http://www.thenewage.co.za/16342-1010-53-Pyramid_probe_goes_big

India Times reports that police, after complaints by victims, raided the TVI Express office in Hara House, JAT Street, Bangalore, India, and arrested two principals for defrauding the public. Police are questioning them to determine number of victims and scope of the crime.

TVI Express is a scam in India

Mohammed Nayeem and Ramiz Ashraf Vani, both from Baramulla in Jammu & Kashmir, opened a travel agency called Travels Venture International Express (TVI Express) at Hara House Building in JAT Street off Hosur Road about two years ago. Through their company website, they offered customers annual holiday packages abroad for just Rs 15,500.

CCB found they'd cheated people to the tune of Rs 2 crore. "We're questioning them to find the volume of business across India. We're going through their hard disk and online transactions," an investigating officer said.

The scam came to light when the duo tried to fob off customers with excuses. Once they enrolled a member, they set new conditions of eligibility for accommodation," police claimed.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bangalore/2-held-for-taking-many-for-a-ride/articleshow/9241742.cms

Following executive finding was published by BKPM. It basically determined that PT TVI Express Indonesia is operating as multi-level without license, is not operating as a business it claims to be engaged in, and is in violation of the law, and have 30 days to comply.

TVI Express spread throughout Asian countries in 2010. At the time, local newspapers have covered it and found it to be unlicensed MLM, which is illegal. Some claim they are a travel agency, but have no travel license either. On July 22nd, 2011, State Bank of Vietnam formally ordered all branches to cooperate with local authorities to stamp out "travel membership scam", and number one on their list is "TVI Express". Members have laying low.

In other words, TVI Express is illegal in Vietnam.

Following is Google translated excerpts from the article (minor formatting have been changed):

Travel - Money: Capital mobilization against the law

Friday, 07/22/2011 22:19

State Bank will coordinate with the police to take measures to prevent this type of service "has just travel money"

As How the employee information, today, in many provinces, such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Dong Thap ... there are some individuals and organizations use the Internet attract more people to pay commission to the participate as members of both clubs have travel money. This form of raising capital without interest, to be carried out through various forms of bonuses, high commissions ... in order to entice entice more people to participate. Through the capture of information, the authorities said the operation may cause risks to participants.

Warning prevention

Bank (NH) State of Vietnam has written request the State Bank branch in Dong Thap province (unit had to reflect this situation the State Bank) in collaboration with the authorities to investigate, clear signs of violation, taking advantage of the Internet draws people to contribute money illegally. NH State provides notice to the units and individuals within and outside the banking sector to actively prevent known.

Back to the Company for TVI Express (units are mentioned in the song "Losing money because of travel multi-level model" Nguoi Lao Dong newspaper on the day number 7-7-2011), Vietnamese Phan Thi Thu, General Secretary of Association Protecting consumer interests City, said: The company has "disappeared" in both Hanoi and HCMC. Planning - Investment and Taxation Hanoi guide complainants (Hoang Oanh) to court but the fact the company was "getting away" to the actions difficult. The Protection of consumer rights has also written HCMC People's Committee of Ho Chi Minh City and send a couple of State management agencies in the area informed about the case, thanks to government intervention.

http://nld.com.vn/2011072210199977p0c1014/du-lich-kiem-tien-huy-dong-von-trai-luat.htm

And in another article from Vietnam...

MLM Scam Trap, "International tourism"

22/07/2011 16:53:14

With attractive gimmicks "just traveling, just make money" with the bonus of up to $ 500, $ 10,000 and the opportunity to receive the reward of great value such as cars, villas, yachts, Private jet (?), causes many people in HCMC (Ho Chi Minh City) and neighboring provinces fall into trap. The "members" of "international tourist train TVI Express" (TVI Express) are very frustrated because they have been scammed big amounts ...

...

Lawyer Nguyen Van Hau - vice-chairman of Lawyers Ho Chi Minh said, according to Decree 110/2005/ND-CP of the Government's multi-level sales, the TVI Express requirements 275 USD per member violations of law. This Decree also specifies requirements prohibit people who want to participate must pay, or pay any fee in the form of courses, training courses, seminars, social activities or other similar activities to be right to participate in multi-level sales network, except for material purchase.

On the other hand, the behavior of TVI also competition law violations and are considered illegal multi-level sales; According to Decree No. 51/2010/ND - CP dated 14/5/2010 on the bill of sale, supply services, the voucher bill is set by the seller and the sales to billing.Therefore, the behavior of TVI billing will be handled for administrative violations, a fine of 5 million to 20 million for failing to bill the sales value of more than 200,000 payment to the purchase, and to invoice the buyer.
...

http://www.cand.com.vn/vi-VN/kinhte/2011/7/152968.cand

Following news was carried by TribunNews of Indonesia:

Blamed Money Games, Stop Business TVI Express in Indonesia

Tribunnews.com - Monday, July 25, 2011 21:33 AM

TRIBUNNEWS.COM, JAKARTA - Indonesian Democracy Defenders Team (defense team) asked the Chairman TVI Express Indonesia to stop its business activities so as not to harm consumers Indonesia and public trust in government and other business like.

"The defense team looked at TVI Global Express has been rejected in many countries such as Australia, U.S., China, and there's even a prison. Disapproved also in India, Spain, Hungary, Africa and the other for violating local laws and business identified as pyramid schemes or money games . And therefore we do not want TVI Express Indonesia to do a similar business that would harm consumers and the good name of the State, "writes Peter Celestine coordinator of the defense team in Tribunnews.com release received on Monday (7/25/2011).

Peter Celestine call, TVI Express never explain openly to the public about the legality of his company under the laws of Indonesia. "For example there is a letter Direct Sales Business License (SIUPL) issued by BKPM if TVI Express Indonesia is a Multilevel Marketing company. But as far as we know this company was never registered as a member APLI," continued Peter.

http://www.tribunnews.com/2011/07/25/dituding-money-games-hentikan-bisnis-tvi-express-di-indonesia (in Indonesian, use Google translate)

On August 3, 2011, BKPM have revoked business license of PT TVI Express Indonesia, and is reviewing one of the previous permits granted for it to receive "foreign investments".

The government is processing the reports of illegal direct sales activities by PT Travel Ventures International (TVI Express)."Now the Capital Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM) is reviewing the investment permits granted to TVI Express corporate travel," said Director of Business Development, Ministry of Commerce, Jimmy Bella, Wednesday, August 3, 2011.

...

Finally, the Ministry of Commerce sent a letter to the Department of Commerce to revoke the Business License Jakarta PT TVI Express."Now SIUP issued at the Trade Office of DKI Jakarta has been revoked," he said.

http://www.tempointeraktif.com/hg/bisnis/2011/08/03/brk,20110803-349833,id.html

http://medan.jurnas.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=62992:beli-rp20-juta-dapat-rp90-juta-mlm-kelabui-ratusan-nasabah&catid=25:inimedan&Itemid=53

Police secure the TVI Express offices are suspected of committing fraud with the mode of MLM (Multi Level Marketing). The company has managed to fool hundreds of customers are tempted to multiply the money due within three months. Now the police have also sealed off by police lines at the company located in Padang Green Housing Complex Block A 15 Km 14 Jalan Binjai it.

From Times of South Africa:

Worldwide probe into R1bn scheme

BONGANI MTHETHWA | 07 August, 2011 03:00

A high-flying 27-year-old Indian tycoon is behind an alleged pyramid scheme that the Reserve Bank and state-appointed forensic auditors say has amassed over R1-billion in just two years.

And, according to government investigators in the US, UK and China, Tarun Trikha's company, Travel Ventures International (TVI) Express, is worth at least $2-billion (R13.8-billion) worldwide.Trikha lives in New Delhi and built his "billion-dollar success story" in just two years. He travels to over a dozen countries a month in his private jet punting his scheme. He claims to have recruited more than a million members globally.According to local auditors, investors are required to pay a minimum "membership fee" of R2700. Then they receive a "travel voucher" - which is worth virtually nothing in some instances - and the opportunity to receive commission for recruiting other investors.

At least 100000 South Africans have invested in the scheme.

Attorneys and forensic investigators appointed by the Reserve Bank said they were dumbfounded by the scale of the scheme.

Johannesburg lawyer John Kruger described the probe as "an enormous job".

"We ultimately need to interview every single one of the investors. It's going to take a while," he said.

The SA team of investigators are also being asked to determine whether TVI Express is operating in contravention of the Banks Act of 1990.

http://www.timeslive.co.za/world/2011/08/07/worldwide-probe-into-r1bn-scheme

Central Bank of Lesotho declares TVI Express a pyramid scheme and illegal, asks all participants to stop what they are doing and report the crime to local police and authorities:

http://www.centralbank.org.ls/news/TVI%20Express.htm

The Central Bank of Lesotho has become aware of a network/scheme known as TVI Express that is operating in Lesotho in violation of the law. The activities of this scheme resemble those of a selling and marketing pyramid schemes as defined in Section 2 of the Financial Institutions Act, 1999, in terms of receiving funds from the public.

The Central Bank of Lesotho would like to warn the public about the dangers of investing or participating in this particular scheme and other schemes of a similar nature. Furthermore, the Central Bank of Lesotho would also like to caution all promoters of TVI Express, including persons who attempt to recruit others, either by word-of-mouth or via spamming email messages to join these schemes, anywhere in Lesotho, to stop such practices immediately.

NOTE: This warning was repeated in November 2011, as apparently it did not stop the TVI Express fraudsters from operating.

http://sundayexpress.co.ls/?p=5591

Suara Karya Online of Indonesia reported that local consumer action group is cheering the decision by BKPM, the "Investment / Business Coordinating Ministry" of Indonesia, to outlaw PT TVI Express Indonesia, and to declare its foreign investment illegal as well. Victims are urged to report to police so the perpetrators can be brought to justice.

JAKARTA (AFP): The Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM) immediately freeze TVI Express business activity related to abuse of the business license.Indonesia Democracy Defenders Team (TPDI) welcomes and fully supports the firmness BKPM freezing step towards foreign investment company status (PMA) is.

TPDI Coordinator Peter Celestine, in Jakarta, Wednesday (21 / 9), said the freezing of all business activities of PT TVI Express business license based on the abuse which took effect on August 9, 2011....

To that end, the defense team appealed to people not to do business activity propagated TVI Express."To the consumer who feels aggrieved by TVI Express, then immediately report it to police so that action can be taken in accordance with applicable laws," said Peter.

Related to the same thing, the defense team, which represents the number of consumers who feel cheated of up to tens of billions of dollars, officials reported TVI Express to the Criminal Investigation Police Headquarters on Wednesday (21 / 9).

BKPM, the Indonesia business authority, has revoked all licenses regarding TVI Express in indonesia. Furthermore, it is considering criminal charges against this fraudulent companies. Following news is translated from TempoInteraktif:

TEMPO Interactive , Jakarta - The government officially revoke the licenses of foreign investment (PMA) belonging to the tourism bureau service company, PT TVI Express. "So the tourism business license (Trading License Travel Bureau) is also not true," said attorney Direct Selling Association of Indonesia (APLI), Ina Rachman, in Jakarta, Wednesday, September 27, 2011. Revocation of permit FDI refers to the Coordinating Board's decision letter Investment numbered 61/C/VIII/PMA/2011 on 24 August. "Revocation done because the business activity does not correspond with the permission of BKPM," said Director of Region II BKPM, Yuliot. According to Ina, BKPM also weighed the decision of the Task Force recommendations Handling Allegations Unlawful Actions in the Field of Community fund raising and investment management. Task Force believes, TVI Express has mismanaged the implementation of investment activities, which do not comply with the license he had. Actually TVI Express only licensed tourism trade in services, such as the sale of hotel and restaurant vouchers. But companies that conduct fundraising activities of the community and run a direct sales activities. Though they have not had a direct selling license. TVI Express Some victims, such as in Aceh and North Sumatra, had complained to police last July. Before, they deposit money to tens of million dollars per member with an appointment get a refund up to three times after three months. But the promise was never kept. APLI even considering to sue TVI participate. mode fraud under the guise of direct sales to make the image of a multi-level marketing people are not trusted anymore. "We willing to defend the good name of MLM, "said Chairman APLI Helmi Attamimi. Director of Inspection and Investigation Agency Investment and Capital Markets Financial Institutions awaiting follow-up particulars abuse BKPM permission TVI Express. "The case has come to our attention. It's already in the handling of Task Force that I lead, "Sardjito said when contacted by Tempo . Until last night, the owner of PT TVI Express,Goenarni Goenawan, not be reached for comment about the revocation of PMA and cases of alleged fraud committed company. The telephone call is not normally active. short messages sent Tempo also has not been reciprocated . EKA Utami APRILIA | BOBBY CHANDRA

http://www.tempointeraktif.com/hg/bisnis/2011/09/27/brk,20110927-358600,id.html

As reported by Bataviase, police in multiple Indonesian provinces are investigating TVI Express and considering criminal fraud charges against the "leaders".

TVI Express, 4th Floor STC Senayan, Jakarta

05 Oct 2011

Kepolisianbelum checkDirector LitamaPT TVI Express.JAKARTA - Freezing operation of the tourism bureau service company PT Travel Ventures International (TVI) Express relieve some circles. One was Peter Celestine. Team Coordinator Defenders of Democracy Indonesia is assessing business multilevel marketing (MLM) companies is contrary to common senseAccording to Peter, who developed TVI Express mode is quoting 2.6 million per member to enjoy the discount airline tickets and vouchers star hotels around the world. In fact, the facility was rejected by the promised five-star hotel.Worse, the payment by members are not accompanied by an official receipt or certificate of membership.TVI Express created the figure of a "successful" when becoming a member. They then dimin-ii ngkampanyekan testimonials of success through an event held at Steam TVI Express. "I was suddenly very rich beggar, so people interested in becoming a member by paying USD 2.6 million," said Peter told Tempo this week.The trouble menggunakanfasilitas yani hotel; offered had experienced member. Let's call her Lisa Nur-where. Entrepreneurs who are also officials in government agencies since October 2010 many times do the ordering process, a call. "He told Tempo when they travel to some time ago.Vice Chairman of the Direct Selling Association of Indonesia Koen Verheyen asserts, should the company partly responsible for the conduct of mem-ang harm other members. This is in accordance with the Consumer Protection Act. "There's a code of ethics in every company, there must be sanctions," he said.Authorities continue to monitor the investigation of cases of suspected fraud in some areas.Cash J TVI us are under investigation in Medan City Police, the Police Sector Sunggal, and Gorontalo Regional Police, "said Head of the Task Force on Handling Allegations of Unlawful Actions in the Field of Community fund raising, Sardjito, yesterday.Peter was impressed slow rate of motion apparatus. You see, there is allegedly one of his wives police officers involved in the company. "He became chief commissioner in TVI Express." However Goenarni hastily denied ffetrus signaled. "Not true. She's just ordinary members through my old friend."EJUUUIitfflUlimaCMMM

http://bataviase.co.id/node/825595

The case against TVI Team Oz finally came to a conclusion when Australian Federal Court convicted the three members of TVI Team Oz of running a pyramid scheme. Telegraph.com.au reports: ( http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/money/tvi-travel-offer-really-a-pyramid-scam-federal-court-finds/story-e6frezc0-1226209159301 )

The Federal Court has found Tina Aroha Brownlee (left), Lualhati "Teddi" Jutsen and David Graeme Scanlon promoted a pyramid selling scheme called TVI Express. This picture comes from the now-defunct TVI Team Oz website.

IF it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. That adage has been confirmed by the Federal Court in a judgment which finds a Sydney woman and two others flogging a supposed discount travel and accommodation deal were really running a pyramid-selling scam.

Justice John Nicholas also found Lualhati "Teddi" Jutsen, Tina Aroha Brownlee and David Graeme Scanlon -- as promoters of a scheme called TVI Express -- breached the sections of the Trade Practices Act relating misleading and deceptive conduct....

Following news was reported by UPEKS online (link is in Indonesia, following was auto-translated by Google )

http://www.ujungpandangekspres.com/index.php?option=read&newsid=77647

TUESDAY, 20-12-2011

TVI Express boss sentenced to Nine Months

Majene, Upeks - Majene District Court Judge sentenced nine months in prison to the leadership of TVI Expres Majene, Muhammad Lutfi on business fraud case TVI Express, Monday (19/12) yesterday. "The defendant, Muhammad Lutfi declared legally and convincingly guilty of committing fraud , "said presiding judge, Sofyan Parerungan, accompanied Fauziah SH, SH and Ahmad Husain, SH.judge declared the defendant guilty of committingcriminal fraud as stated Article 378 of the Criminal Code concerning fraud. Thingsto relieve the defendant because the defendant's polite, never punished and have dependents.On the verdict, counsel for the defendant Andi Shima, SH said he would think."We are given one week to take further action and study the copy of the decision," he said. While , the Public Prosecutor (Prosecutor) Muhammad Zubaer, SH after hearing the decision of the judges claimed to think about it."We can not take decisions, the results we will report to the chairman," said Zubaer.

A royal adviser and official in the Saudi Government, responsible for issuing rulings (known as "fatwa" in Shariah, or Islamic law), issued a press release stating that some TVI Express reps have falsely issued a fatwa using his name that made network marketing (MLM) legal, which is absolutely false. Issuing a fake fatwa is a very serious crime under Shariah law, and even worse as there already are existing fatwas outlawing MLM. Following was auto-translated by Google:

http://www.alazd.net/news.php?action=show&id=14933

27-01-1433 12:18 PM

Absolutely Sheikh Denies Fatwa "Against Him" Allows Network Marketing

Azad. Sami Monthly:: denied His Excellency Sheikh Dr. Abdullah bin Mohammed Al-Mutlaq - Advisor at the Royal Court, a member of Senior Scholars, a member of the Standing Committee for Academic Research and Issuing Fatwas - what has been trading in some of the Web sites of the advisory opinion of forged and attributed it allows network marketing, said Sheikh absolute a statement that the opinion adopted by the company working in the field of tourism called (TVI Express) and market their product on this fatwa is the signing of the compound and seal a fake is not related to Ma'aleh onion, pointing out that this fatwa is fabricated included a "passport to buy the products of this company in question and where the rule purchase of these products do not mind it not forbidden to the availability of terms of sale where the last thing said in the fatwa of fraud and lying. " said Sheikh absolute, according to Al-Riyadh newspaper that he did not say to one on this opinion, and that this speech was from a person not aware of procedures for the advisory opinion of the Committee Standing, in particular that the Standing Committee has issued a fatwa (no. 22 935) and the date (14 / March / 1425) included the prohibition of pyramid marketing or networking, and His Excellency within the signatories, saying that the reason for issuing the statement and clarification of grabbed some hands this opinion false false to eat people's wealth unlawfully statement of the right and the innocence of the edema and decisively to evil substance.

Will your TVI Express upline show you these news articles? Oh if s/he is brutally honest as well, and not if s/he ever wants to recruit another person into TVI Express. That is rather unlikely.

And this is not one or two critics. This is governments from ALL AROUND THE WORLD, on MULTIPLE CONTINENTS, with different laws, cultures, and traditions, all recognizing one inescapable truth:

TVI EXPRESS IS A SCAM, AND PEOPLE ARE GOING TO JAIL FOR IT

What should you do about TVI Express? My personal advice is to run as far away as you can, and warn all your other friends not to fall into the same trap.

But it's up to you.