TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Financial Services Authority's (OJK) anti-investment fraud task force has shut down seven more unlicensed fund-collecting businesses. The companies are suspected of offering illegal investment products that may harm the public's finances.

The seven companies are PT Crown Indonesia Makmur, Number One Community, PT Royal Sugar Company, PT Kovesindo, PT Finex Gold Berjangka, PT Trima Sarana Pratama (CPRO-Indonesia), and Talk Fusion.

"We have been monitoring the companies' activities," the task force's chief and OJK's director for investigation policy and support Tongam L. Tobing said in a written statement Thursday, February 23.

Tongam said the regulator has summoned the companies, but five out them, Crown Indonesia Makmur, Number One Community, Royal Sugar Company, Kovesindo, and Finex Gold Berjangka, did not appear. Meanwhile, CPRO-Indonesia and Talk Fusion came to the OJK building and were being cooperative, he said.

"We are giving them a chance to get the proper license in compliance with regulations by the Trade Ministry and the Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM)," Tongam said.

Tongam added that based on law, the seven companies must cease their business activities. He appealed to the public not to put their money in those companies.

Tongam also reminded people not to invest in companies that have no license for the businesses they conduct. Customers, he said, must be sure that fund or investment managers are registered with the OJK before depositing money to them.

"If anyone finds investment offers that are suspicious, they can consult with or report it to the OJK," Tongam said.

GHOIDA RAHMAH