NLC warns bidders over alleged fraudster promising tender contracts for payment
Prospective suppliers were reportedly asked to make upfront payments ranging from R3,000 to R8,000.
South Africa.- The National Lotteries Commission (NLC) has warned bidders about an alleged tender scam involving an individual who claims to be able to secure NLC contracts in exchange for upfront payments.
According to the Commission, the individual identifies himself as Steven Baloi and uses the telephone number 076 106 1097 to contact bidders and offer assistance in securing NLC tenders in exchange for payment. The regulator said prospective suppliers have allegedly been asked to pay between R3,000 (US8) and R8,000 (US1) in exchange for promises of securing contracts.
The alleged scam is linked to the catering tender, RFQ/2026/008/009, which sought to appoint a panel of caterers to provide food, beverages and related catering services for NLC meetings, conferences, workshops and other events.
The Commission stressed that bidders are not required to pay individuals to secure NLC contracts and urged them to reject any demands for money in exchange for a guaranteed award. It added that no individual has the authority to guarantee the award of an NLC contract.
The NLC advised anyone contacted by Steven Baloi or the number 076 106 1097 to retain relevant evidence, including messages and other communications, and report the matter through its official fraud-reporting channels.
The regulator concluded its alert by reiterating that its tenders are not for sale and that legitimate bidders should not pay individuals who claim they can secure NLC contracts.
