KIGALI - The next time you purchase an MTN airtime voucher, load your phone before letting the vendor go.

This is the advice from Mobile phone service provider, MTN, following the increasing number of fake vouchers on the market.

According to Norman Munyampundu, MTN’s Customer Relations Manager, some vendors silver-coat used cards and resell them to exploit unsuspecting customers.

"We have some thieves who write their own voucher numbers on already used cards and coat them again for resale. The problem is common in Kigali and Gisenyi,” Munyampundu said.

He noted that MTN first experienced the problem two years ago but quickly stopped it after five ring leaders and several vendors were arrested.

Fifteen suspects have since been arrested in connection with the fake vouchers.

Munyampundu said they are working closely with the Police to apprehend the culprits.

Such a crime is punishable by a maximum five –year sentence, Police spokesperson, Theos Badege, said.

Munyamundu advises MTN subscribers to load their airtime and verify their validity in the presence of the sellers.

The other safe alternative is buying from MTN shops and authorised dealers.

Ends