Title: “300 Swazis Cry Foul as Pocket Money Pyramid Scheme Founder Vanishes with Their Savings”

Overview

• A pyramid scheme, named Pocket Money, has allegedly swindled over 300 Swazis out of their savings
• The founder, a teacher based at Lusoti Primary School, has vanished without a trace
• Members, who joined in good faith, are now left reeling from financial losses and emotional turmoil

Scheme’s Operations

• Incepted on September 24, 2022
• Offered various subscription levels (bronze, silver, gold, and platinum)
• Subscription prices ranged from E275 to undefined
• Members were promised their investment back along with additional earnings
• The scheme’s success depended on members reinvesting their earnings

##members’ experiences

• Victims joined the scheme in good faith, attracted by quick returns
• Payments stopped, and calls to the founder went unanswered
• Some members received just one payment before disappearance

Financial Implications

• Estimated funds collected could reach tens of thousands of dollars

Institutional Response

• Head teacher, Miss Shongwe, confirmed the founder had left the school
• No further information about the founder’s whereabouts
• Attempts to contact the founder proved unsuccessful

Law Enforcement’s Warning

• Swaziland’s Chief Police Information and Communication Officer, Superintendent Phindile Vilakati, cautioned against falling for pyramid schemes during the festive season

Impact on Scheme Members

• Members face uncertain future with financial losses and emotional distress
• The realization that their money may never be seen again