Number of victims in Hong Kong pyramid-like scheme almost doubles as losses hit HK$12 million
Many of the victims are domestic helpers, many from Indonesia, with some taking related firms to the Small Claims Tribunal
The number of victims of an alleged pyramid-like scheme revealed by the South China Morning Post continues to rise, with losses now totalling HK$12 million.
This comes as several victims are taking the case to court and a man who was sued by a former business partner denies he was involved in the scheme.
According to a police spokesman, 291 people filed complaints from March 27 to December 6. The spokesman said two suspects, who were arrested in March, had been released on bail and have to report back in February.
Holly Allan, director of Helpers for Domestic Helpers, an organisation that has supported some of the victims, said two domestic workers had filed a claim against Mezzo Holdings Limited and Mezzo Holdings INC in the Small Claims Tribunal.
“It is difficult for most of them to file a claim because they are employed and are unable to go out during the week to attend court. They are not allowed legal representation at the Small Claims Tribunal,” Allan said. She added that victims were also considering filing claims in the District Court.