Faizel Patel – 13/12/2019
Travel operator and New Heights Travel owner Fazila Malek has denied allegations of defrauding Muslims saying they need to be patient as she has made alternative arrangements to pay back the money she owes to them.
Malek has come under severe pressure following widespread claims where it emerged that she allegedly owes at least two and a half million Rand in loans and fees to Muslims who have booked with her travel agency.
It’s alleged that New Heights failed to refund customers who had booked and paid for Umrah packages including repaying loans afforded to her by individuals during last year’s hajj.
On Thursday, Muhammad Mayet who was allegedly defrauded by Malek told Radio Islam, she owes money to at least thirty people.
Speaking to Radio Islam, following the story published on Thursday, Malek says she will refund clients their money.
“We have made alternative arrangements to do the refunds. I have been in continuous contact with each hajji. I’ve sent them an e-mail, I’ve been on the phone, like Mr Mayet said ‘she’s never taking calls, she’s ducking’ false accusations.”
Malek says she fulfilled her obligation of ensuring Mu’tamireen who paid for Umrah have embarked on their journey.
“A lot of people left in October, lots left last week. Last night people left with those that did not go in September. I ensured that they were ready for it and I let them proceed with it. I gave them an option for October, they went. A lot went and came back as well.”
Malek has not provided a date of when she would pay back the refunds saying that some monies have been tied up in the hotels in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and that she’s making arrangements to get the funds back.
Listen to the interview with Fazila Malek
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