The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has identified 20 additional rogue suppliers who have allegedly accepted payments without delivering goods or services, or have provided defective items, Cape {town} Etc reports.
The recent reports highlight a worrying trend where these suppliers have disappeared from their known addresses and, in some cases, have even shut down their websites, leaving consumers vulnerable and without redress.
The NCC has received numerous complaints from consumers who report being unable to contact these suppliers, depicting a prevailing sense of frustration and helplessness.
Many consumers are finding it increasingly difficult to obtain refunds or replacements, as these suppliers remain unresponsive.
Efforts by the NCC to reach out for dialogue have proven futile, suggesting a deliberate attempt by these suppliers to evade their legal responsibilities.
This phenomenon comes on the heels of the NCC’s ongoing campaign to ensure consumer protection under the framework of the Consumer Protection Act (CPA).
This legislation aims to safeguard consumers against ‘unconscionable, unfair, unreasonable, unjust, or improper trade descriptions,’ and it demands that suppliers provide clear communication channels for customer engagement.
In instances where suppliers appear to have ceased operation or never existed at all, the NCC’s ability to mediate and facilitate resolution becomes severely hindered.
The Commission has responded to the increasing number of complaints by appointing tracing agents tasked with locating these elusive suppliers. It is hoped that these efforts will not only track down the suppliers but also reinforce the CPA’s mandate to hold negligent businesses accountable.
Consumers are strongly encouraged to exercise extreme caution when engaging in transactions, particularly with unfamiliar suppliers.
For those suppliers who believe they have been wrongly listed by the NCC, there is an open invitation to contact the Commission directly for clarification and potential removal from the list.
Compiled by Sibuliso Duba
First published on Cape Town Etc
Also see: Reasons why conscious consumerism is the key to a sustainable future
