QNET has condemned what it described as attempts to misuse its name, brand and business model in connection with reports of an alleged fraud operation in Kono District.

The company said it was aware of reports involving individuals described as suspected QNET operatives and foreign nationals reportedly under police protection. The allegations have not been independently established, and the identities and affiliations of those involved have not been disclosed.

QNET said it welcomed the intervention of the Sierra Leone Police and would cooperate with relevant authorities to help establish the facts and protect any affected individuals.

Company rejects employment and visa offers

In a statement, QNET said it does not offer overseas employment, job placements, visa processing, travel arrangements or guaranteed income opportunities.

The company said its legitimate operations are based on a product-focused direct selling model. Under that model, Independent Distributors promote and sell QNET products in line with company policies and its Code of Ethics.

QNET said individuals presenting the company as a provider of employment, overseas travel, visa arrangements or guaranteed financial opportunities would be acting contrary to its policies and without authorization to make those representations. It added that its compliance framework allows it to suspend or terminate members of its network when violations are established.

Cherif Sarr, QNET’s Regional General Manager for Central and West Africa, said the company was concerned by the reports.

“We are concerned by reports of individuals allegedly being lured through promises of overseas opportunities and subsequently requiring police protection. QNET has consistently maintained that employment, visa and travel offers are not part of our business model. We welcome the intervention of the Sierra Leone Police and remain committed to cooperating with the relevant authorities to establish the facts, support efforts to protect affected individuals and address any misuse or misrepresentation of the QNET name.”

Public warnings and cooperation

QNET said it has conducted a public education campaign in Sierra Leone called “QNET Against Scams.” The campaign has used television, radio, online news portals, social media, print media, billboards, SLABC, digital media crawlers and online advertising, according to the company.

The company encouraged members of the public to verify employment, travel, visa or financial opportunities presented in its name before making payments or sharing personal information.

QNET also said it remained available to provide information to distinguish legitimate operations from misuse of its name. It said it was prepared to engage authorities and other stakeholders in Sierra Leone on public education, information-sharing and fraud-prevention initiatives.

The company describes itself as an international lifestyle and wellness business using a direct selling model. It says its products include watches and jewellery, home care, wellness and personal care products, as well as holiday packages.

QNET has also said it maintains cooperation with law enforcement and other institutions in West Africa. In Ghana, it has a formal memorandum of understanding with the Economic and Organised Crime Office covering cooperation against schemes involving brand impersonation, fake job offers, illegal migration and human trafficking.

QNET provided a WhatsApp compliance hotline, +233 256 630 005, for reporting suspected misuse of its name.