Over 100 Victims Targeted in Mauritius by Fraudulent The Voice Audition Scam

A group of victims is expected to file a formal complaint at Line Barracks this Wednesday, 28 January, following an alleged online scam involving fraudulent auditions for the hit international talent show The Voice.

Approximately 100 people are believed to have been targeted by the scheme, which lured aspiring performers through social media advertisements. The scam involved requests for registration fees and ticket sales for a phantom event that never materialised.

The Audition Trap

The deception reportedly began in November 2025. One victim, a 25-year-old singer identified as Lulu, described how she was “seduced” by the prospect of participating in the American-originated franchise.

The process was conducted entirely online via WhatsApp. Lulu was instructed to pay Rs 1,000 via a mobile app as an audition fee and submit a video demo of her singing.

Escalating Costs

The financial demands quickly escalated. Organisers allegedly pressured participants to purchase audience tickets for family and friends. Lulu reportedly bought six tickets for her relatives, with prices ranging from:

• Diamond: MUR 4,000
• Gold: MUR 2,500
• Silver: MUR 1,800
• Bronze: MUR 1,000

Venue and Media Denials

The legitimacy of the event collapsed after the J&J Auditorium—the supposed venue for the auditions—issued a formal statement confirming that no such booking had ever been made.

Furthermore, the Défi Media Group has moved to distance itself from the controversy.

The media giant’s logo was used without permission on promotional materials alongside two other outlets.

A spokesperson for Défi Media Group stated they have no link to the auditions and are reserving the right to take legal action for the fraudulent use of their intellectual property.

Vanishing Organisers

Suspicions were heightened when a parent of one candidate visited the alleged organiser’s offices, only to find the premises had been deserted since December.

In an email sent to victims, the company cited “internal issues,” claiming an employee had stolen funds and diverted participant money.

While the company promised refunds within one to two weeks, they also reportedly told victims to seek reimbursement directly from the individuals who processed their mobile payments.

The disgruntled group now seeks police intervention to recover their losses and hold the organisers accountable.

Source: Defi Media