Unscrupulous tour operators siphon 2.7tri/-

THE government has released a “List of Shame,” identifying several dishonest tour operators accused of using fraudulent payment cards for government transactions, siphoning over 1 million US dollars (about 2.7tri/-).

The Ministry of Finance has sent a letter to the Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (TATO), reporting that some Tanzanian tour operators have been involved in making payments with stolen cards.

In the letter, dated September 4, 2024, and referenced MG.233/261/01’A’, Permanent Secretary Dr Natu Mwamba highlighted that these operators have conducted transactions totalling over 1 million US dollars (about 2.7tri/-).

Dr Mwamba expressed concern that the fraudulent actions jeopardise efforts to promote tourism and streamline government payments.

She warned that if such practices persist, they could damage the tourism industry’s reputation and negatively impact the country’s economy.

Additionally, misuse of stolen payment cards could prompt international financial institutions to reconsider their relationships with Tanzanian banks, potentially reducing investment and hindering economic growth.

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